Teaching Me

Okay, um... no idea how I got the title and it is ElwoodGamma... that IS the correct order... -- I just got the final volume today and I got Lost Boys... so, yeah... I was INSPIRED!!! Enjoy!

Disclaimer: I do not own Zombie Powder. Tite Kubo does, along with Bleach and many others small one-shot mangas.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Teaching Me

Zombie Powder

Yaoi

by:

Ichigo Kurosawa

---

"Hey, have you seen Gamma today?"

Smith looked up at the young boy, Elwood, who seemed to be slightly nervous. "Yeah, he was getting ready to leave with Wolfina."

"WHAT!? WITHOUT ME!?" Smith smiled brightly, waving his gun around blankly. "Well, they're just going to the next town for another Ring of the Dead. He said they'd be back tonight." Elwood grumbled and crossed his arms, walking off with a 'Whatever...'.

Elwood didn't miss the man. Nope. Not in the least. He was just... bored? Yeah, that's it! He was just bored and Gamma provided entertainment...

That sounded so perverted.

But, Elwood wasn't like that, was he? Well, he did feel a pang of jealousy when he learned he went with Wolfina rather than himself. But he doubted Gamma was gay and Wolfina seemed like a perfect match for him. Elwood sighed. He was thinking too much on this. He flopped down onto his bed and stared at the ceiling, falling sleep to more than friendly thoughts of the supposed criminal, Akutabi Gamma.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

"Elwood, wake up."

Elwood halfway opened his eyes to the familiar voice, blinking. "G-Gamma?"

"No, Santa Claus."

Elwood said what came to mind. He thought he was still dreaming because there is no way Gamma would wake him up in such a calm manner.

"Do you know how beautiful you can be?"

Gamma blinked. Well, that was unexpected.

"Elwood, are you okay?"

This was definitely a dream. Gamma never asked him that.

"No... I'm sick."

Damn it, he was going to use this moment to his advantage. He saw the look on Gamma's face turn to that of slight worry and leaned over, reaching out his hand to check Elwood's temperature. But Elwood smirked and grabbed his wrist, pulling him closer until their lips clashed together. Gamma's eyes opened wide in shock, staring at Elwood's eyelids as they fluttered closed. He almost gasped when Elwood's tongue glided across his lower lip.

This wasn't right. One, this was Elwood and he was only thirteen and two, he was supposed to be the dominate one! But he felt his lips part anyway, Elwood's tongue darting in quickly to explore and memorize every inch of the hot cavern. Gamma caved in and wrapped his arms around Elwood's thin neck, two thin arms wrapping around his waist. Elwood pulled away, Gamma making a sound of protest before Elwood flipped him over onto his back, sitting atop his torso.

"Elwood... what're you... doing?"

Elwood smirked and rest his body flat against Gamma's, nibbling softly on his neck. "What I've wanted to do for a long time, Gamma-_kun_." Elwood bit down into Gamma's neck when he said 'kun', earning a delightful gasp. "No objections?" Elwood ran his tongue over the bite mark, lapping away the small amount of blood. "N-No..."

"Good."

Elwood placed his lips on Gamma's once more, Gamma eagerly kissing back this time. Elwood lifted Gamma off the bed slightly, quickly relieving him of his cloak and shirt. Elwood grinned and started to attack his chest, laying kisses and bites over the exposed area. Gamma become a puddle of moaning goo, and this made him wonder if Elwood was virgin or not. He was barely aware that Elwood was removing his pants and underwear, those evil lips wrapping around his left nipple and distracting him so.

"Gamma..." When had Elwood moved his head up to his face? Gamma didn't know, nor did he care; not with the way the boy lovingly pronounced his name or with his hot breath rolling over sensitive skin. His eyes popped open and he threw his head back, a moan spilling from his lips as he felt the boy's finger brush the tip of his member before gripping it firmly and pumping it slowly. "Ngah... E-Elwood..."

"Yes, Gamma-kun?"

Gamma hated that new-found smug tone Elwood used as he ran his tongue slowly over the tip of his member. Gamma gasped softly and arched his back, now forgetting both the question and his hatred as he felt Elwood's mouth wrap around his length. Gamma tried to buck into the hot, moist cavern but the boy chuckled and placed his hands on his hips to hold them down. Gamma felt unbearably close to his limit but the boy pulled his mouth away and slithered along Gamma body to get close enough to place a passionate kiss on his lip.

"You never answered, Gamma-kun." Elwood attacked his neck again, a few small bruises forming on his neck from previous events.

"Gah! Elwood... j-just fuck me a-already..."

Elwood smirked again and stuck three fingers infront of Gamma's mouth, groaning when he felt those lips wrap tightly around the three digits and his tongue swirling around them. Elwood pulled his fingers away with an odd 'pop!' and placed his lips on Gamma's again. Gamma groaned when he felt one finger slip inside him and gripped Elwood's shoulder tightly, wondering how the hell a thirteen year-old boy was topping! Especially with him. But that thought stopped when he felt a seconf finger slip in next to the other one.

Gamma squirmed oddly when he finally added that third finger but it turned into a gasp, a loud moan, and an arch of his back as he brushed something inside him that made him see white. Elwood smiled above him and placed a kiss on temple as he removed his fingers and replaced them with his own member. Gamma bit his lower lip and his grip on Elwood's shoulders tightened. "Relax, Gamma."

Gamma nodded and Elwood felt his muscles lax as he stopped for a moment, waiting for Gamma's signal. He chuckled when Gamma moved his hips forward, the signal Elwood could move. Elwood started out slow, but soon, all the noises Gamma was making was too much. He pulled out almost all the way before slamming back in, hitting that spot that made Gamma call out and clutch his shoulders helplessly. Elwood grinned almost evilly before repeating his actions, reaching out to grip Gamma's neglected member and pump it in time with his thrusts.

"Ngah... I'm... going to..." He stopped mid-sentence to call out Elwood's name loudly, back arched and body shuddering before he came. Elwood loved the sight and gave a few more thrusts before he himself came inside the older man. He rode out his orgasm before falling beside Gamma, wrapping his arms tightly around Gamma as he fell asleep. As he started to, he thought, 'I liked this dream. I really didn't want it to end.' He smiled, placing a kiss on Gamma's forehead before falling into a deep sleep.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Elwood groaned and opened one eye, mind still set on the blissful dream. He smiled and rolled onto his right side, bumping into something. Elwood blinked and looked up slightly to see the face of Gamma, rather peaceful in sleep. His eyes widened and he sat up quickly, turning to look at Gamma.

Gamma was, indeed, naked and covered in the bite marks and bruises Elwood had created. Wait...

Elwood had slept with Akutabi Gamma?

And he topped!?

Elwood blushed brightly when it dawned on him but he was pulled from his thoughts when two large arms wrapped around his stomach and a chin placed upon his head. "G'morning, Elwood."

Elwood tensed and Gamma laughed, moving his head to nuzzle his cheek. "Hey, no reason to be afraid or embarrased. I should be embarrased! I had a thirteen year-old boy top me!" Gamma laughed again, and Elwood decided he liked the more carefree laugh of Gamma. "Don't expect to always top, though."

"EH!?"

"I don't really believe in one night stands. So, until further notice... we are together..."

"... Is this your way of saying 'I love you'?"

"Mmm, yeah. Pretty much."

Before Elwood could reply, the door slammed open and Smith and Wolfina appeared in the door way.

"MORNIN'! How you do-?"

Wolfina stopped to stare at the picture: a naked Gamma hugging a naked Elwood rather possesively. She snickered and Smith smiled brightly. "I see you two had fun last night. Who topped?"

Smith wagged his finger. "It must've been Gamma. He hates being over shadowed."

Elwood glared. "SHUT UP!!!"

Gamma just scratched his finger boredly. "Actually, Elwood topped."

Wolfina blinked and turned to Elwood before giving him a one-armed hug. "Aww! Our little El-kun is growing up! Ne, Smith?"

Elwood growled before being taken by Gamma. "I'll be taking him. God knows we both need a shower and I don't fell like sharing." Elwood blushed before Gamma headed towards the bathroom, both Wolfina and Smith smiling like no tomorrow.

END!

End file.

Teaching Me by IchigoxKurosawa


Personal Jesus

He could feel it, that shaky arthritic feeling was creeping up along his arm again. The dryness was starting to touch along his skin. He couldn't have it. He wasn't going to let this body die on him.

The Phenixamin came in small shipments, sometimes only a few pills per package. Slowly, but surely, it was becoming less effective with each dose. The addition never stopped though.

He settled on the wooden floor of their hideout, ripping open the fresh box with little ceremony. It had arrived only minutes ago, their most recent shipment since two months ago. He needed this. His face, his body, everything was starting to grow imperfect.

His hands shook as he finally secured the thin plastic bag that held the smaller container. His drugs. How long had he waited? How long had he needed this fix? He tossed the bag aside as his small, childish hands grasped at the container.

There it was. There was his precious fix. The first pill went down with no problem, released from sweaty hands and swallowed without a drop of water beyond his spit.

The rush came fast and clean, his body reacting almost instantly to the potent mixture. He closed his eyes. He needed no religion. He only needed the small white capsules that gave him everything he wanted.

Those were his god and savior and with every one he swallowed, he whispered a little pray of thanks to them, his addiction satisfied once more.

End file.

Personal Jesus by Shini-Kender


Graveside Manner

He had buried her at sundown. It had seemed the right thing to do. He didn't want to leave her body there. What was left of it wasn't much worth looking at, anyways.

The dirt was moist, filling his nostrils with its warm, earthy smell as he finished the grave, shoveling the last few piles of dirt over the small box, a reminder of just how little was left of her when they were done.

He had done it all alone. None of the others had heard yet. They'd hate him, but he needed to get her out of sight. He needed to not see her body every time he walked into the small house.

"Tatena," he sighed, wiping away the sweat that threatened to overtake his brow and leak into his eyes. The dirt that was still on his hands made his eyes sting, but Gamma was almost a little happy that it did. Somehow, it made everything more real.

The rustling of grass behind him was a sign that he wasn't alone, a generosity on the part of the other man, who could be deathly silent when he wanted to be. Somehow the noise was a comfort to the quiet buzzing in his ears that had begun to ring steadily since the second she died.

"Smith," he said, softly.

"It's time to move on," the other man coaxed, "The others will be here soon. They'll want answers."

Gamma nodded, wiping his hands and hefting the shovel over his shoulder. "I'll answer them in the morning."

End file.

Graveside Manner by Shini-Kender


Unconsciously Conscious

Author's Note: 100-word drabble based on the scene in "Broken Heart, Broken Mask" where Victoria wakes up from her coma after being shot.

**UNCONSCIOUSLY CONSCIOUS**

"Zorro is only a part of our past now."

What did Diego mean? Whose past? Victoria felt even more disoriented than when she first woke up.

Why would Diego believe so adamantly that he knew what Zorro would say or think? It was as if he had spoken to the masked man while she had been unconscious, recuperating from the bullet wound she had received protecting Zorro's life.

Or was there another reason why Diego thought he could speak for Zorro? One that she didn't even want to consider, if only because she wanted it so badly to be true.

End file.

Unconsciously Conscious by pamz


The play

**One of my first scrabbles. Please review and tell me what I've done wrong, so I can do it better the next time.. Oh, and sorry for my bad English..**

**I'm just trying to keep zorro alive..**

**The play.**

Diego de la Vega rides, hidden beneath the mask of Zorro, back in his cave. He still felt the adrenaline of today's events rushing through his body. He dismounted Toronado, and changed his material mask for his invisible mask of _Diego, _the weak man.

The last few years, since he got back to Los Angeles, the world he was living in was a lie. Well, he didn't view it like a lie. He saw his last few years more like his masterpiece, his play, or a con. In Madrid he loved to be in a play, or he just pretended to be someone else. It gave him freedom. The freedom to choose who he was, to experience how others lived. Not to always be the rich don, son of an important caballero.

And now in Los Angeles his deceive, or play as Diego would say, has reached another level. Of course, he did it all for a higher purpose, justice. It wasn't right what the Alcalde has been doing, but Diego had to admit, he actually loved the way he 'composed' his life. And of course, sometimes he didn't like to deceive the ones he loved, but an actor has to stick to his role.

The role of Zorro was the most important role he was playing and perhaps more fun in short terms. But the role of Diego was more difficult, had more depth and Diego was actually proud of the character he had developed all these years.

But his play was maybe getting out of the hand. Five years have passed and still the play wasn't over. He was getting tired of playing, deceiving the people he loved. But he knew it wasn't the right time to quit. His story he created wasn't over, and Diego didn't know how long it would go on if he didn't put an end to it.

But how good Diego was in creating and playing his character, he wasn't that good at the story. He needed someone who told what there was going to happen, what he should do. Yes, he was spirited enough to start one, but he never knew how to end one.

But he couldn't play much longer. Every time when he played Zorro or Diego he wanted to show everyone the real Diego. He wanted to act like the real himself again. It has been 5 years, and he was starting to forget who he really was, how the real Diego would have reacted. If he didn't stop his play where he lived in, he would totally change and blend in the play.

But the purpose of the play wasn't accomplished. The whole reason why he started the play was to bring justice to the people of Los Angeles, but they were still far away from this goal.

So the show must go on..

End file.

The play by AmaClement


Alejandro's Rescue (Drabble)

Alejandro darted across the plaza to rescue the sergeant, only to be knocked down. The next thing he knew strong arms gathered around him, dragging, pushing him to safety.

A woman wailed for her son. Diego moved like lightning to collect the youngster, dodging bandits' horses like a matador.

Diego reunited the boy with his mother, and stood beside him again. His son hadn't raised a sweat. Close enough to hear Diego's heartbeat, Alejandro didn't hear the rapid beating of a panicked scholar. The steady, slow pulse was of a man used to such things every day.

End file.

Alejandro's Rescue (Drabble) by Paulsmum2001


1. Chapter 1

**Diego's Nightmare**

**Chapter 1**

Diego woke up in a cold sweat. His reoccurring nightmare was getting worse each night. He tried to go back to sleep, but he tossed and turned.

Later in the day Diego went to talk to the Padre about his scary and sleepless nights.

"It all starts with the alcalde leading me up to the gallows and announcing my wrong doings to the crowd gathered below. Then Mendoza puts the rope around my neck and tightens it. I feel my body falling, and as I hang there I see Victoria running up to me with tears in her eyes.

"Why didn't you tell me who you really were?" She yells and then begins to cry harder.

"I love you." I manage to whisper before all goes black.

"It sounds like it is time to share your secret with Victoria. She loves you and it shows every time you show up as your alter ego. I know you are trying to protect your family and Victoria, but in the end it only causes more pain when they find out when if it is too late." The Padre said quietly and patted Diego on the forearm lightly.

"I think you're right, I do need to tell them, but what if Victoria stops loving me once she finds out who I've been for the past 5 years?" Diego questioned the Padre and looked down at his shaking hands.

"She loves you for your bravery, heart, and most of all your commitment. All those traits and beliefs live in your heart no matter who you are at the time, Zorro or Diego." The Padre reassured Diego with a smile.

"Thank you for all your kind words and understanding. You have helped me find a part of myself that has been trying to break free for a long time. I will tell Victoria and my father tonight over dinner. For now, I need to go home and rest." Diego thanked the Padre with a warm but worried smile.

"Do not trouble yourself with worry my son, everything will turn out better than you think." The Padre said as Diego went to the door slowly.

"Thank you again, and I hope you are right about Victoria's feelings. I love her so much, I would be lost without her." Diego replied as he left the Padre standing on the porch. He mounted his mare, waved to the Padre, and rode home to rest up for his life changing evening.

When he arrived home, he sent a note to Victoria, inviting her to dinner. "Could you please take this note to Victoria. Wait for her reply and hurry back." He handed the note to Felipe.

Felipe nodded his head in understanding, and rushed out the front door.

Diego went to his room to think. He needed to tell Victoria and his father about his secret life, but he was not sure how tell them yet.

	2. Chapter 2

**Chapter 2**

Felipe came running into Diego's room about an hour later and handed Diego the folded note from Victoria. "Thank you Felipe. What did she say?" Diego asked as he opened the note carefully.

Felipe signed that she would join them for dinner, but was wondering about the important news you need to share with her.

"I am going to tell Victoria and my father about Zorro. I have been having nightmares about being caught by the alcalde and hung on the gallows." Diego's hands started to shake at the thought.

Felipe's eye's grew big and quickly signed his concern.

"I know Felipe, but I would rather they find out before the alcalde gets his wish." Diego gave Felipe a small worried smile. "Please let Maria know we will be having a guest joining us for dinner tonight." Diego asked Felipe and sat down at his desk in deep thought.

Felipe knew he wasn't going to change Diego's mind, and it worried him very much.

Felipe left Diego's room and finished his chores quickly before going out to the stables.

Diego left the hacienda a few hours later to pick up Victoria for dinner.

"Have you seen Diego?" Alejandro asked Felipe as he sat down at his desk to work on the books.

Felipe signed that Diego went to get Victoria for dinner.

"Victoria is joining us for dinner? Diego didn't tell me, does Maria know yet?" Alejandro asked with confusion.

"Yes, she knows." Felipe signed and smiled.

"Well then, I guess I better get ready for dinner." Alejandro stood up and left the room muttering to himself.

Felipe went to his room to clean up and change his clothes for dinner.

	3. Chapter 3

**Chapter 3**

Diego pulled up in front of the Tavern and jumped down from the wagon. Victoria was waiting for him behind the bar.

"You're early. Is something wrong?" She noticed how distracted he was when he walked in.

"Nothing is wrong, I have a lot on my mind at the moment." Diego offered her his arm and waited for her to loop her arm through his. He led her to the wagon and helped her sit down the wagon bench. He climbed up and sat down next to her and flicked the horse reins. They traveled in silence for a while, Victoria noticed Diego was still distracted and began to worry about him.

"Is something bothering you Diego? You have been very quiet." She asked with a worried tone.

"I need to show you something, and I hope you understand my reasons for hiding it." He replied in a lost and worried tone.

Victoria was not sure how to respond; she sat back and kept quiet. She noticed they were going toward a dirt path off to the right. " This is not the right road to the hacienda." She questioned him.

"We are going to the hacienda, just a part that I know about. You will understand when we get there." Diego replied quietly and kept his eyes forward.

They turned onto the dirt path and stopped next to a rock wall. Victoria was not sure how to react when Diego jumped out of the wagon and helped her down.

"Diego, why did we stop here?" She questioned him.

Her puzzled face made it clear to him that he would have a lot of explaining to do. He reached for her hand and when she took it cautiously he lead her over to the wooden panel on the ground. He stepped on it and the rock wall opened up. Victoria's face turned pale and shock was visible.

"Diego, where does this cave led too?" She sat down on a near by rock before she fell over.

"Follow me and you will find out where it leads." He waited for her to stand up and follow him.

They slowly walked into the cave, and Victoria knew she had been here before when she saw the desk.

"Diego, I have been here before. Does this mean you have kept your true feelings for me hidden, just like this cave?" She sat down in the chair slowly and leaned forward to keep from looking at Diego.

"Let me show you around, and I will explain everything to you." He helped her stand and led her around the cave. He watched her closely and waited for her reaction. She looked around in wonder, and touched the black silk outfit hanging on the rack.

"I should have seen it before. I was so blind, and now it all makes sense." She muttered to herself as she explored around the cave.

"Yes, you saw what I wanted you to see. I wanted to tell you, but it was just too risky. I also never intended to keep this double life going for so long." Diego walked over to stand behind her. He wrapped his arms around her small waist and whispered, "I'm sorry for deceiving you my love." He turned her around to face him and kissed her gently on her sweet lips. She responded with surprise, but quickly allowed him to deepen the long-awaited kiss as himself instead of Zorro.

"Do you forgive me?" Diego took a step back from her to keep himself from going any further than a kiss.

"Yes, I forgive you, but from now we need to be honest with each other." She smiled and took a step closer to him. She liked how his strong arms held her close. She relaxed and rested her head on his chest and listened to his heart beat faster each time she snuggled closer to him. His control was slipping, and he knew they needed to get inside for dinner. Oh, how he wanted to make her his, and only his, but he wanted to share that special moment with her after they were married.

"I love you Victoria." He kissed the top of her head and stepped back a few steps away from her.

"Did I do something wrong?" She looked worried and stepped toward closer to him.

"No, you didn't do anything wrong. I have waited for this moment for a long time, and now that it is here, I am finding it hard to control my emotions and deep passions I feel when I'm around you." Diego turned around and reached for a damp cloth to wipe his face.

"I have something to tell you also. I felt something special between us when you returned home from Spain. I would have mentioned it to you sooner, but Zorro showed up and captured my heart." Victoria looked at him closely and pulled him closer to her.

"I would have helped you and my father as myself, but then there would have been more trouble for my family. So I decided to create Zorro. Nobody knew who he was under the mask, so it made it harder for the Alcalde and his lancers to find him." Diego smiled at Victoria and continued, "I freed you and my father and it was then that I realized my alter ego could help all the people Los Angeles. Then I felt like I was able to express my true feelings for you when I was dressed as Zorro. As Diego, I wanted to show how much I cared for you, but by then you were in love with Zorro and not myself." Diego finished quietly and pulled Victoria closer to him.

"Well, you can show me now, I love you Diego." She stood up on her tip toes and kissed his lips softly. Diego felt her shiver with excitement and pulled her closer to deepen the kiss. Victoria's knee's grew weak and Diego pulled her up before she slipped to the floor.

"Victoria, we really should be getting to dinner, my father will be wondering where we've been." Diego stepped away from her out of breath. He helped her stand up until she calmed down and was able to stand on her own.

"Diego, can we come back here later?" Victoria smiled slyly at Diego.

"Yes we can, but only after we tell my father about Zorro's true identity." Diego replied and lead her out of the outside entrance to the cave.

	4. Chapter 4

**Chapter 4**

They both climbed up into the wagon and went around the hacienda so it would look like they were just arriving for dinner.

Alejandro was waiting outside and when he saw them coming up the road, he waved at them.

"It took you a while to get here. What delayed you?" He asked with concern.

"I helped Victoria with a few chores at the Tavern before we left." Diego smoothly lied to his father.

Victoria was surprised when Alejandro believed him.

"I am sure Victoria appreciated the help. Lets get inside and enjoy a special dinner. Maria made your favorite Diego." Alejandro smiled sweetly at Victoria and helped her down.

They went inside and sat down at the table just in time. Maria was putting a fresh bottle of wine on the table along with a tall vase of freshly picked roses.

Dinner was served a few minutes later. They ate quietly, enjoying each bite of chicken, rice, and fresh vegetables. Diego needed to tell his father about Zorro, but he wanted to wait until after dessert. Victoria watched Diego while he ate; he looked distracted and lost in thought. Alejandro noticed his son was acting strangely quiet.

After dessert, they went to sit in the library to enjoy a glass of wine and visit before Victoria went home. "Diego is something bothering you?" Alejandro asked his very quiet son.

"I need to tell you something father. I hope you understand my reasons for not sharing until now." Diego took a deep breath and looked his father.

"You can tell me anything Diego." Alejandro looked at Diego in confusion,

Diego sat down next to Victoria and reached for her hand. " Father, I have not been totally honest with you for the past five years. I have kept a secret from you and Victoria. Please understand that I only kept this secret to keep those close to me safe. I hope you understand and forgive me just as Victoria did when I told her." Diego started to shake with nervousness. Victoria patted his hand to reassure him.

Alejandro noticed their joined hands and began to wonder what was going on between them. " Diego, is there something going on between you and Victoria that I should know about?" Alejandro asked with a confused but small smile.

"That is also part of what we need to share with you father." Diego looked at Victoria and smiled.

"Alejandro, Diego and I are engaged to be married and have been for a while. It was only today that I learned who he really was." Victoria spoke with a shaky, and quiet tone.

"I thought you loved Zorro?" Alejandro questioned her.

"I still love him and we are getting married." She looked at Diego and smiled with so much love. "We are finally going to have the life we have waited for since he returned from Madrid." She finished slowly and squeezed Diego's hand tighter.

"Father, Victoria is telling you the truth." Diego replied when he noticed his father in deep thought. A look of surprise and shock covered his fathers face as the pieces fell into place. "Diego, when you came home from Spain, I saw how you looked at Victoria. Then Zorro showed up and gave her that same sparkle eyed look. I don't understand how I could not have seen the connection until now." Alejandro paused for a second. "Diego, you may have fooled me for the past five years, but now that I can see who you really are, it makes me proud son. You could have been hurt or worse yet, killed. You should have told me sooner. Even Zorro needs some fatherly advice." Alejandro's face grew bright with happiness and tears formed in the corners of his eyes.

Diego sat still as his father uncovered his secret. "You are the best father anyone could ask for, and it was your words that helped keep me alive and fighting for freedom. I didn't tell you because I wanted to protect you from harm, and in doing so, I had to deal with a lot of painful words from you and others around me. It was the only way I could help you and Victoria out of that filthy jail. Please forgive me, I didn't plan to ride as Zorro for this long, but the people of Los Angeles have been mistreated for far to long. I needed to do something about it before someone was hurt or wrongly punished." Diego replied with a renewed strength. His father was not angry with him, and sounded like he had already been forgiven for his deception.

"Diego, I love you, and I am so proud of all you've done for us, and the people of Los Angles, but there must be another way to protect them, without putting your own life in danger, every time there is trouble." Alejandro suggested.

" I appreciate your concern, and I have waited so long to hear that your are proud of me. I didn't want to disappoint you, but I needed to appear as two different people." Diego looked at his father with guilt. " I agree with you father, and there is another way to protect them. Will you help Zorro teach the people how to stand up for themselves when there is trouble? They need to learn how to work together when the Alcalde tries to enforce a new senseless tax upon them." Diego sat up straighter, and pulled Victoria closer to him. He waited for his fathers replay with growing hope.

"I would be honored to help you, Zorro, teach the people of Los Angles how to defend themselves went trouble is brewing." Alejandro replied with a huge smile filled with a touch of laughter.

"Thank you father, your help means so much to us." Diego and Victoria locked eyes, and the sparkle grew brighter between them, showing how deeply in love they truly were.

Alejandro cleared his throat to get their attention. Both Diego and Victoria jumped a little and blushed when they realized they were not alone. "Sorry father." Diego apologized and turned to sit straighter on the couch again. He still kept Victoria's hand tightly enclosed in his. Victoria was embarrassed and looked down at the floor.

"I can see that now is not the right time to ask questions. I understand why you hid your alter ego from me, and I will help Zorro retire, so he can enjoy a long and loving life with the women he loves. And sometime soon, I hope to have the sounds of Grandchildren filling this hacienda." Alejandro smiled at them and stood up slowly. He walked over and pulled them into a huge and tight hug.

"I am so proud of you Son." Alejandro whispered into Diego's ear.

"Welcome to the family." He whispered into Victoria's ear as he pulled her in for a hug.

	5. Chapter 5

**Chapter 5**

One month later Diego and Victoria were joined as one in holy matrimony. The entire pueblo, friends, and family witnessed the union of the two love birds. The celebration at the Tavern was joyful. Music, wine, and food were plentiful. By the end of the party, Diego and Victoria were ready to go home and share some time alone.

ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

Diego slept soundly that night, and the night mares never returned. He pulled Victoria closer to him and relaxed when he felt her hand rub over his stomach lightly and rest her head on his chest. He dozed off again and remembered the special feelings they shared with each other just a few hours before. He didn't care if they spent the whole day in bed, just as long as Victoria was by his side safe from harm. They were blessed with twins, both boys, one year after they married. And their daughter was born one year later. Alejandro was the happiest Grandfather in the pueblo.

ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

The people of Los Angles were standing up for themselves and the Alcalde was upset he hadn't caught Zorro. Zorro had only been seen a few times in the past month. Alejandro called a few of his friends to help teach the people how to defend and stand up for themselves when the Alcalde tried to mistreat them or impose a new tax that was not necessary.

Zorro retired, but made it clear that he was still watching, and would step in to help if the Alcalde started to turn back to his old habits.

Felipe started to help at the Tavern and used his hearing and sharp eyes to make sure the people were treated fairly. He wanted to tell Alejandro about his ability to hear, but enjoyed keeping a secret of his own.

End file.

Diego's Nightmare by jpaez


A Thing to Consider

This story is an old work - I believe I wrote it around the time I posted my other two Disney Zorro stories here. I put it on my website, which I had not maintained over the years. It is fortunate that I recovered the fic at all. So, cleaning up the fic a bit, I'm posting it mostly for my own backup, but it would make me happy if there is even one more person enjoying it.

As for the story itself, I did have Disney Zorro in mind, but I suppose it was broad enough that you could probably substitute your favorite TV (or perhaps even movie?) version of Zorro and it might just work. In any case, I have not watched Disney Zorro (or barely any Zorro at all) for many years, so our hero might be hopelessly out of character for all I know. ^^;;;;;

I mentioned it in the summary, but this is a first-person fic. It could serve as both a warning and an incentive to different people (of course, I am usually partial toward stories written in first-person).

Disclaimer: Probably doesn't really need one for this story, except for occasional references to a certain masked bandit. ;-) Oh, wait. And for his alter ego, and his father. That should just about cover it.

Author's Note: Although this story came about in a rather unexpected way, I admit to being partly inspired by a fantastic story called "Doubt" by MaryAnn T. Beverly (the story can be found on the web). However, please excuse my lack of knowledge in writing in this tone.

On to the fic...

* * *

**A Thing to Consider**

Why are there so much suffering in this world? I don't understand, and probably never will...

I often wake up late at night to the screaming voices of those in prison. They are expecting a miracle to save them. And I'm supposed to be that miracle. The thought haunts me, whenever I can't save someone. It stays with me, days and nights. I want to shout, to tell them, to shatter their hopes, that I'm no saint. I'm an ordinary human being, even too plain for my own liking. I bleed when someone, or something, pierced my skin. I fall when I slip. I have a temper, if crossed. I cry, when hurt. Most of all, I have my pride, even though I have done nothing to deserve it.

Given my qualifications, or lack thereof, for this "miracle" job, should I just give up then? Oh, I forgot to add that I'm definitely selfish. Why, I can't even share my secret "work" with my own father. I just keep reminiscing about it here. Someone might find this diary in the future, but as long as I live, no one else would be allowed to know the deep, dark secrets it contains.

Maybe the world would be better off without me messing around with it. Who am I trying to fool? My work is not noble. In fact, it is one that has me hanging my head in shame. Substantial money is offered for my capture. Innocent people get hurt far too many times, just because they are believed to have information of my whereabouts. If I still continue with my work, my family, my close friends, someone I really care for would eventually be in danger.

Yes, I will give up. I just can't deal with the pressure anymore. My father wants me to act more like a man than like a coward. I wince every time I hear that, but he is right. A coward I am, I can't let him know what I'm doing in my spare time besides reading a book or playing the guitar. Even if I can tell him, I have absolutely no idea how to explain my work. In fact, I can't admit even to myself what exactly has caused me to start my crusade, let alone describe its exact nature. Why, indeed. Restoring justice is not my, or any civilian's, job, nor I should even consider taking it upon myself to do it in the first place. No one benefits from my "interference," as some nameless official put it.

* * *

I am walking outside any definable time and space. It is the most unusual scene, but the scary thing is that I am not at all afraid. My feet are light; I feel like I could literally walk on air. The last thing I remember before finding myself here is my rather heated discussion with Father. Actually, he did all of the shouting, saying that I was too aloof to care for anything that had been going on around me. I have nothing but love and respect for my father, but this time, I felt the need to defend myself, although not with any intention of making him proud of me. How could I, when I have been nothing but a failure in his eyes? I just got tired of being yelled at, like anyone would.

However, I never got a chance to say anything to Father. In the heat of the argument, my father lost himself in his anger, forgetting that we were standing in the open view. A would-be robber, creeping up ever so silently behind us, raised the musket at my father. Instinctively, guided by no thought nor reason, I leapt forward, knocking the gun out of the robber's hand, but not before the cursed thing was fired. I fell facedown on the ground, feeling my blood, and my life, oozing out of my body. After that, everything became blank...

I snap out of my thought when I notice someone, cloaked from head to toe, materializes from nowhere and walks toward me. A guardian, I believe, from the way he dressed, hood pulled down, covering his entire face, which was something I have heard about life after death. If I have not been feeling miserable I might enjoy the fact that this person has the black cloak on. That black cloak does not seem much different from the black cape, something I, rather my alter ego, must be quite comfortable with, having worn it often.

"Ready for your trip?" he asked kindly. His voice was familiar, but at the moment I could not quite place where I had heard it before.

I simply nodded, not trusting myself to say anything more.

"Good. We will begin shortly." Then he looked curiously at me. "Don't you want to know where we will be going?"

Personally, as long as we were not heading toward a certain dark underworld, I couldn't care less. But, given the state of the affairs right then, it probably did not matter much if I had to go to hell. I have been a big disappointment to my father. I have managed to upset the peaceful way of the town with my "taking the laws into my own hands." I have killed, the fact that I always regret, even though those that died by my hands were tyrants. Tyrants, you say? Right, a little voice chided me, that's what you keep telling yourself; you just don't want to believe that you can't control yourself.

What's wrong with the fact that I can't control myself? I am no one special. I have flaws, serious flaws. I..

"..and the couple was safe, secured in the knowledge that their prayer would not go unanswered."

Huh? What was that? The soothing voice of the cloaked man did little to calm my nerves.

Noting my blank stare, he turned toward me. "You have not been paying attention, son," he accused, yet amusement was evident in his voice.

Now I became his son. Oh.. who was he anyway? He was not the friar I know. In fact, I was not even sure if he was a man of the robe.

"I was talking to you, yet you still haven't said anything. If I don't know any better, I would believe you were mute."

"I am not," I protested, a little too self-consciously. "You don't expect me to chat away while I am truly confused, do you?"

"Of course not. I just wanted to get you to open your mouth." He put his hand gently on my arm.

Ah.. That made senses. Yes, of course. So why did I feel stupid all of the sudden?

"All right, let me get this straight. Am I dead?"

The cloaked man was not fazed. In fact, he probably wondered why I had not asked that question earlier.

"Depends on how you look at it." He paced about, then stopped near the empty spot where I had first seen him appeared. "If being dead means your spirit leaves your body, I regret to inform you that you are. However, if it means that the legend you started will not be continued, think again."

"Legend?!" I cried, aghast. "You must be mistaken, Sir. I don't think there was anything I did that could even be considered legend!"

"Have you truly forgotten the masked adventurer, whose blade would never stop righting the wrong, who has sacrificed his happiness for the sake of others?"

What was the meaning of all this nonsense?! I just could not stand listening to all these lies. My fists were clenched unconsciously, and I would be tempted to use them had the scene not suddenly changed...

We are no longer in space, but in something that looks like a room, although I am sure it is not. A shadowy figure suddenly approaches us, and I have to hide my amazement when I realize who it is. It is him, my elusive alter ego, although looking from the outside, I have a hard time recognizing him. Apparently, he takes no notice of us and continues to ride on urgently, although I must confess that I don't remember the purpose of his ride on that particular occasion.

The answer to my question comes soon enough. As soon as "he" reaches the barracks and makes straight for the Sergeant's room, I dimly recall that it was the first time he ever rode. But still.. I

"He looks so different. I.. Is that really him?" I asked, knowing full well the answer, but refused to believe it.

"It is really him, or more accurately, you," the cloaked man returned just as I expected. "That was your first outing."

He doesn't have to state the obvious, but I didn't think I should say that to him. "I know. But why show me this? What do I need to know that I don't already know?"

But you just contradicted yourself! You didn't know anything, especially why your alter ego did his work.

"Oh my boy, when you do speak, you speak a lot!" he said teasingly. Then he became serious. "You just have to continue watching."

Looked like I could not get more information out of him for the time being, so I simply sat down, waiting for whatever vision would be thrown at me next.

Not so long, I see the face of the prisoner "he" has rescued. I can't even believe I would be saying this, but the man looks at him with undisguised admiration. I must be so dense not to notice this before.

But stubborn as I am, I shrug it off as a mere coincidence. No one can appreciate my "meddling." This man would later regret it that he ever trusted me with his life...

* * *

Do I shut my eyes from the happy, hopeful faces? Do I close my ears to their cries, their cheers?

A woman comes to him, all-smiling. And he grins, looking quite wicked, and accepts her thanks.

A man waves, gratitude clearly written on his face. And he waves back, with his customary two-finger salute.

A girl shyly approaches him, a flower in her delicate hand. And he just hugs her close, whispering his thanks in her ear.

A boy runs up eagerly to him. And he just scoops him up and swings him around, a playful smile on his lips.

The disturbing visions keep flashing across the "room." They are weird to me, these pictures of lies that torment my very soul. I know I don't deserve whatever honor people choose to bestow on me, so why do I feel so torn to betray them, to stop helping them? I don't think I did the right thing by beginning this "work," but yet.. I am not so sure of my decision to quit anymore.

No, I have been wrong. They are not pictures of lies. The only one lying is myself. I am wallowing in self-pity. I hate to be responsible. I hate to take credit for whatever greatness he does.

* * *

We were back, again, to the great empty space, as swiftly as we left it. My guide then asked abruptly:

"Still want to walk away, knowing that so many people depend on you?"

Oh.. how could he even utter those words? It's no use now! I'm no longer alive..

"Well, allow me to refresh your memory, Sir. YOU said that I am dead, so, like it or not, I am not in any position to help anyone now." If the sarcasm in my voice could be measured, it probably filled a basin.

The cloaked man didn't even flinch. "I can return you to your body."

"Why would you want to do that?!" I must be near hysterical. What he proposed to do defied all of the values I hold dear. Only evil spirits return to the land of the living.

Wait- I am afraid to be associated with evil spirits, when in fact I have sinned so much I am probably at least one of them, or even worse.

"You are needed, my son. Your courage and bravery are something rare and such a breath of fresh air. I can't see you feeling sorry for yourself, feeling worthless, or feeling like the world is coming to an end, just because you had no idea how much people love you, respect the fight you stand for, and admire the selfless sacrifice you make."

I blinked rapidly. It dawned on my poor, worn-out brain then that I was brought here just to see for myself what my alter ego meant to the people. But, sadly, I still don't understand what "he" means to myself.

"Why did you single me out? Surely, there must be some other who is more worthy of your consideration."

For the first time, my guide seemed to hesitate. Then he, apparently had collected himself, walked slowly toward me.

"It was a purely selfish reason that motivated me to bring you here." He proceeded to throw back the hood that concealed his identity.

I gasped. A familiar pair of kind and caring eyes stared back at me. I did not know. How could I not recognize his voice? The voice of my own father..

"How.." I was at a loss for words.

"I am not him, my son. I am merely his guardian spirit," he explained.

I should breathe a sigh of relief that my father is still alive and well, but something really bothered me.

"Does my father know about my "work," or will he find out?"

The guardian, who looked just like my father, laughed. "He loves you; why does anything else matter?" Before I could protest, he continued, "To be honest, I can't tell you. You have to figure that out on your own. But just know this, no secret in the world can be kept forever."

Oh.. he is my father, all right. I could not help but smiled at the similarity between the guardian and my father, the headed-strong old man who likes to treat me like a child.

All of the sudden I felt tired. Before I knew it, I was on the floor, fighting to keep my eyes open, but failed miserably. The last thing I saw before everything went black was the guardian, his hood replaced, standing at the far end of the space we occupied...

* * *

I opened my eyes to the scene not so different from what I am accustomed to. In fact, I realized that I had not been gone more than a few seconds from the plaza where I was shot. The whole thing I had experienced before meeting with the guardian had not been a dream, since I felt the warm blood from the wound. The only difference was that the bullet had barely grazed my side.

Seeing that my father, with color almost gone from his face, was too stunned to do anything, I simply got up and, catching the bandit by surprise, kicked him down. I then asked for the rope to bind the would-be robber from my father, who looked like his heart would stop beating. Luckily, the Sergeant and his men took care of the robber for us, and after a brief visit to the town doctor, my father and I returned home.

I sat still in the sala, thinking, when my father came in and sat down besides me.

"Are you all right, my son?" His voice was filled with concern.

I looked up and nodded, although I was still pretty much shaken, given all that I had learned.

"I.." he hesitated. I just stared at him. "I take that back, that you don't care for anything. I do not want you to die, my son. You are the only treasure your mother left for me."

I cracked a smile. "I don't want to die either."

Now that part about dying was over, Father made it his duty to inform me that I should not recklessly throw myself against a bandit. He even offered to help train me, if I ever want to put up a fight against anyone.

I just laughed aloud, relief flooded over me. You don't know it, my beloved father, but you have been my inspiration long before all our disagreements ever formed, and will continue to be. I could not have done it without you.

"But I must commend you, my son. Wherever did you learn to "fight" like you just did?"

I just shrugged noncommittally. Then, to my surprise, I noticed the unmistakably glow of pride he usually reserved for my alter ego.

He got up and, before I knew it, simply hugged me. "I love you, Son. You don't need to be a hero, just simply be my beloved son."

A faint smile was tugging itself at the corner of my lips. Despite what he said, my father still would not miss any opportunity to chastise me. But the guardian was right; anything else does not matter. The moment here with my father was the precious one that I should cherish.

I returned his hug, letting myself be embraced, be loved. "I love you too, Father."

My alter ego is still a long way from ending his commitment to the people, but now, at least I learn that I am not alone in my journey. Rewarded or not, as long as the cries for help can still be heard, my alter ego would not back down.

* * *

Author's End Note:

Thank you for reading my fic. :)

Back when I wrote the fic, I'd gotten feedback along the lines of 'it (the fic) has some resemblances to _A Christmas Carol'._ Having never watched nor read _A Christmas Carol_, I cannot confirm or deny that. I suppose I just wanted to say that if it seemed like I copied anything from _A Christmas Carol_ at all, I did not do it intentionally.

My tenses are wonky, I know. English is not my native language, but after having used it for more than half of my life, that should not be an excuse anymore. I guess I'll just have to keep writing more and hope my mistakes appear less.

End file.

A Thing to Consider by Scroll Keeper