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Tempus Vernum	By : FlayraDowitcher Category: +G to L > Hetalia: Axis Powers Views: 1527 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own Hetalia. I'm making no money off of this fic.

Chapter List
- 10
- 11
- 12
***Warnings: Language, hardcore yaoi, humor, angst

***Disclaimer: I do not own Hetalia. I am making no money off of this fic.

Chapter 11

The kiss went on for what seemed like hours before Gilbert broke away to take a breath. He barely had time to exhale before Ludwig's mouth was attached to his again. He wondered what had come over Ludwig to make him act like this so suddenly? Good thing he didn't take the medicine Kiku had given him yet! But with the amount of lust and force Ludwig was putting into the act Gilbert doubted that the human would care if he were conscience or not. This is what he wanted; for Ludwig to suddenly lose control and let out all those years of pent up sexual frustration. He was prepared for it. But Ludwig was technically new at this so Gilbert would have to guide him most of the way.

Wrestling his mouth away from Ludwig, Gilbert placed his hand over the other's lips to stop him. "Slow down, Ludwig. You don't need to suck my face off!" Gilbert laughed at Ludwig's annoyed expression.

"I wasn't." Ludwig answered from behind the pale hand.

"This is our first time, so we should take things slow. Right?" He lowered his hand.

Ludwig gave a sneer. "I take things slow every day!"

"Okay then!" Gilbert chuckled and flew out of his reach, flying higher to the ceiling. He grinned and asked, "Have you ever seen a naked fairy flying?"

Ludwig followed the well-sculpted body as it gliding through the air, pale wings buzzing and sparkling bright against the black ceiling. Gilbert was teasing him; not only that but was playing hard-to-get. Literally. His throat went dry as Gilbert began to run his fingers over that snow-white skin, letting little moans escape his throat. The pale fingers pinched pink nipples and traced the curve of his thigh; that same hand slipping closer to the hardening erection. Ludwig swallowed hard, blushed, and began to follow Gilbert's floating, seductive form along the ceiling. How he wished he could have wings right now, for if he did, then Gilbert would have to be taken on the ceiling. The fairy was doing this on purpose knowing how excited and passionate he was to finally have a taste of that milky body. He wanted it to be his hands exploring Gilbert! The white vixen was driving him mad!

"Get down from there!" Ludwig demanded.

Gilbert writhed along the ceiling, licking his dry lips. "I'll only come down if you're naked first! Those are my terms!"

Ludwig's hands went for his belt, but once they reached the buckle, both froze up. Oddly enough, Ludwig found that he was embarrassed to get undressed in front of Gilbert. At the temple they all had to bathe in the privacy of their own rooms. Being not naked in front of one another was just a rule that he had been following for many years. It was hard to break, even though his lower half was burning and aching with a growing erection. He glanced up at Gilbert who wore a confused and curious expression on his face. The fairy had no issue being naked in front of him, so why shouldn't he feel the same?

"What's the matter, Ludwig?" Gilbert asked, floating down to levitate in front of him. "Do you…not want to do this anymore?" He hoped that wasn't the reason.

"N-No, not at all. I do want to continue but…" he blushed darkly "My vows and strict code of discipline is…making undressing difficult."

Gilbert wanted to laugh at the silly notion, but knew that if he did then he might ruin this chance with Ludwig. The fact that Ludwig was embarrassed to be naked in front of him was adorable, and Gilbert couldn't resist giving him a kiss on the cheek. "Then let me do it for you." He winked at his human lover and, still levitating, bent at the waist to grasp the buckle. Ludwig's body shuddered under him and Gilbert looked up into blue eyes to see if there were any signs of fear or uncertainty. Ludwig's face was flushed, and Gilbert could see the battle of vows verses lust written across the hot face. Somehow, Gilbert felt his own lust begin to trickle down to simple, but pleasurable, wanton desire as his racing heart slowed its beating. He had been naked many, many times in front of others, but for some reason he was embarrassed in front of Ludwig! Gilbert blushed prettily and swallowed hard as his hands undid the buckle. He knew it had to be his heart feeding off of Ludwig's emotions. Since Ludwig was embarrassed so was he. To Gilbert, it felt like this was his first time all over again.

With the belt left to drop the floor, Ludwig's brown monk robe could be removed. Gilbert lowered his hands to grasp some of the woolen material and lift, but stopped at the other's waist for Ludwig's arms were glued to his sides. "Lift up your arms." Gilbert commanded in a whisper.

"I…I can't."

"Yes you can. It's only us here, Ludwig. Just you and me, no one else. I'm the only one who can see you naked." Saying that last sentence sent a shiver down his spine. Ludwig was virgin; one that was raised in a strict monastery with all this type of knowledge kept from them. HE didn't doubt Ludwig knew the basics, but he was absolutely certain that the monk knew of nothing else pertaining to the act. Knowing that he had to teach all this to him made Gilbert feel like a virgin himself. "It's okay to be shy, Ludwig. I'm…feeling pretty shy too." He lifted his eyes to Ludwig's.

"W-Why are you feeling shy? You are no stranger to this."

"I am a stranger to it…because it's with you. I feel differently when I'm with you."

"Why?"

Gilbert smiled and looked down at his chest where his heart began to glow with silver. He heard Ludwig's intake of breath. "It's my fairy heart. Remember, they are much different from that of a humans'. When a fairy is with someone they love and with whom they share a bond…their hearts begin to glow. Just like mine." He let his lips hover over Ludwig's. "It glows for you and only you."

"For only… me?" Ludwig stared at him.

"For only you." Gilbert let their lips touch. "I only act this way around you." He kissed him again. "Now lift up your arms…I want to see this human body that will belong only to me." He wiggled his white brows.

Ludwig slowly lifted his arms as the brown material was pulled up and over his head. Beneath the robes was another under robe only it was buttoned inside the legs. He continued to flush as Gilbert's wings buzzed while he lowered himself to begin working at the buttons. When each one was undone, Gilbert lifted it over his head so now he was completely undressed before the fairy. Ludwig's face felt like it was on fire as he stood naked in front of Gilbert who was looking him over carefully.

Gilbert let his eyes travel over Ludwig's body, noting the smooth, flawless skin and tight muscles. For someone who prayed and did simple house chores every day was well built as if all he ever did was heavy labor. Broad shoulders with strong collarbones, well-sculpted chest and abs and thick arms. Ludwig was built bigger and stronger than he was! And HE was the one who wielded a sword and fought in battles! It wasn't fair that Ludwig was bigger than him; and then his eyes traveled lower to stop at the engorged erection. A man such as Ludwig was being wasted in that damn temple! Gilbert thought to himself. He lifted pink eyes to blue, and saw the still embarrassed blush and frown of his human lover. But when Gilbert gave him a sheepish, slightly embarrassed smile, he saw that Ludwig returned the expression. Now they both wore matching embarrassed smiles even though the passion was still running high.

"What do we do now?" Ludwig asked. "I mean, I know WHAT we do but…how do we proceed from here?"

"Oh, there are lots of things we can do. Let's move to the bed first. It's always easier on the bed." Gilbert held out his hand and Ludwig grasped it as they made their way to the bed. He motioned for Ludwig to lie back on it, which the other did without a word. Gilbert moved to undo the tassels on the curtains, concealing them both within the silk walls of the bed. He joined his lover on the bed and lay down beside him, folding his wings behind his back. Now side-by-side, they turned their heads to meet the other's flushed face. "How do you feel now?"

"Still excited but it…feels a little odd." Ludwig answered him but his eyes were focused on the silver swirls of light above Gilbert's heart. It was so strange to him yet it brought him ease when he looked upon it. He wanted to touch it, so he rolled over onto his side and kept his hand above it. "May I feel it?"

"Go ahead."

Ludwig placed his hand over the silver light, feeling a comforting warmth kiss his palm and slivers of delight tickle in his veins. He moved his hand to instead rest his cheek upon it, hearing and feeling the steady rhythm of Gilbert's heart. In that instant he felt all of his stress and strains melt away. It made his body fall limp, but not before pressing himself up against the other. Gilbert's arm came to wrap around his waist and he felt the fairy's lips kiss the top of his head. He felt like he was in heaven. He felt warm, safe, and best of all, loved. No one was telling him this was wrong. No one was making him feel ashamed for enjoying the comforting arms of another. It was nice to be able to let go and let someone else be the strong one. But he could only be this way when he was with Gilbert and in the fairy's arms. Gilbert had been right all along; the rules of the human realm were non-existent here and what a relief that was. But they still needed to keep up appearances…and their relationship was still forbidden. Especially in THIS realm.

Gilbert was surprised by Ludwig's sudden change in personality when the man moved to cuddle against him. He wondered if Ludwig was beginning to feel and understand the meaning behind his fairy heart. Gilbert thought he should ask Ludwig what he felt but didn't want to disturb the peaceful moment. He smiled and wrapped his arm around Ludwig's waist, gently holding him as a lover would. He planted a kiss on top of that blonde hair. Ludwig was also new to anything intimate, so he may flip-flop from sweet and tender to rough and forceful. Gilbert would gladly take either. The feeling of love in his fairy heart for Ludwig would help him adapt to the other's needs. However, he could feel Ludwig's erection growing soft against his thigh and for a second feared the man had fallen asleep. Tilting his head slightly to see his face showed that the blue eyes were open; now all he needed to do was guide Ludwig in the right direction. Taking the large hand above his heart, Gilbert slowly slid it up and down his chest.

"I want you to feel me now." Gilbert crooned. "However you'd like; don't feel embarrassed. You're exploring."

Ludwig lifted himself up on his side with one arm to get a full view of Gilbert's beautiful body. He scanned the form carefully first, feeling the growing urge to touch every square inch of it. Gilbert's body was like a siren's song, and Ludwig was enamored by it. He first slid his hand down to feel the hard muscles of Gilbert's stomach, noting how the fairy twitched beneath his touch. For such firm muscle the skin was soft and warm beneath his fingers. His hand moved a little lower and two milky white thighs began to open for him. Pretending not to notice, and flushing brightly, Ludwig let his hand travel back up Gilbert's chest to trace the collarbones.

All of this felt so right to him as if it were the most natural thing in the world. Too long had he kept his feelings for the same gender hidden and buried deep within his soul. As he continued to explore Gilbert's body, Ludwig found himself thinking about the other young boys he had 'watched' in the fields. He remembered admiring their bodies, felt a tingle in his belly, and wondered what it would be like to touch them. It wouldn't have been in a sexual way, he just wanted to feel them. The thought of lying with them had never crossed his mind until he started to reach the beginnings of manhood. But now it was different. He was in a world where this type of relationship was generally accepted and the laws of man held no meaning here. Now his hands were finally doing what they have wanted after all these years. Not just feeling Gilbert's skin, but stroking, adoring, and relishing in its silky feel. He wanted to touch him forever. But then, in a gentle grasp, Gilbert took his wrist and started to lower it further. Ludwig held his breath, his body tensing up as the heat from Gilbert's groin began to intensify. He blushed. Touching it wouldn't be any different than touching his own?

It was warm. He heard Gilbert gasp when his fingers wrapped around the length. If his face could burn any hotter his head would explode. Why was he so nervous? He was never one to be so timid when entering a new situation, yet something about THIS was entirely different.

"Luddy, you don't have to squeeze that hard." Gilbert chuckled when Ludwig pulled his hand away.

"I'm sorry!"

Gilbert lifted himself up by his elbows to look at his lover's inflamed face. "Haven't you ever touched yourself? What the hell do they teach you monks?"

Ludwig sat up, crossing his legs and shying away. "Of course I have! I don't know why but…but thinking such…'impure' things while living in the temple was just…I don't know." He thought for a moment. "I guess it was beaten into my head that it was wrong to even think about it, and if I thought about it in a holy house it was a sin. My stubbornness, pride, and strong sense of discipline must have helped me suppress all those urges and feelings. Now that they are coming to a head…I guess I'm…I'm…?"

"Panicking?" Gilbert moved to kneel behind him, choosing to massage the broad shoulders. "You're wasted in that temple, Ludwig. You have a killer body most men and women would die for!" He nibbled Ludwig's ear. "I won't judge you on this, Ludwig. I know this is your first time and you haven't had any experience. I understand that. No one is an expert their first time. And to someone like me who has been with others…I find that rather charming and alluring. Completely delectable." He purred, moving his hands down to massage Ludwig's arms. "There is nothing sexier than being the person who is untouched and unknown by others." Now that his heart belonged to only Ludwig, Gilbert regretted being with anyone else, even if it was in the past now. How he wished this could be his first time as well so that they could learn from each other. But it was too late for regrets.

"I am the only blonde monk in that temple."

"Then I'm sure those other monks have snuck a peek at you. It would be impossible not to."

Ludwig closed his eyes and relaxed his muscles. "By the holy Green Mother, I hope not. That's a little insulting."

Gilbert laughed. "Well, they can't have you. You're mine."

Ludwig looked back at him. "Yours? After this, won't we belong to each other?"

Pink eyes locked onto blue. "Ludwig? Do you mean that?"

"I wouldn't be doing this at all if I did not want you."

"But is it lust and possession you feel for me; or is it love?" Gilbert flew around Ludwig so he was now facing him. "Whatever you answer, Ludwig, know that I love you. My fairy heart beats just for you! I will never stop loving you! I just want you to love me in return."

Ludwig felt his confidence coming back when he heard Gilbert's plea of love for him. Taking a deep breath, Ludwig took both of Gilbert's hands into his own. "Remember, I am a human. It takes us a little longer to fall in love. I do not want you to think ill of me for this, but I ask that you give me time to let our love build. I know that I already feel a very strong attraction to you. I know that I do not like seeing you with Alfred, or knowing that you have to share his bed and his room. If those are feelings of possession and that offends you, then I apologize. I do not intend to hurt you, Gilbert. We are both different species."

Gilbert took Ludwig's face in his hands and squeezed his cheeks. "I know that already, Luddy! It will take time for you to love me, but I'm certain that you will!" He grinned. "Trust me, after you have experienced me and what a fairy heart's bond feels like, you'll want to search no further for your lover." He looked upon Ludwig's face with adoration. "No matter what, I will love you until the end of my days…or until the end of time."

He closed his eyes and placed a hand over Gilbert's pale one. "This is so unlike me. It's so unlike you."

"Love makes us do crazy things! We even act different." Gilbert kissed him on the nose. "But how we act together is just between us. Outside of each other's arms, we are just the same as we always were. Me, strong, arrogant, boastful, sexy, and incredible awesome! And you, stoic, strong, calm, acting all monk-ish…no part of you has to change because of this. I want what we have to be special."

Ludwig glanced down at his lap. "You have to show me how to make you happy."

A white tooth grin was his first answer followed by, "Don't worry, I'll SHOW you!"

Ludwig found himself pushed back on the bed with Gilbert's long form crawling over him. Standing on all four long limbs, Gilbert hardly looked like a fairy warrior.

"Let me show you what I want you to do to me. So best pay attention." Gilbert winked and Ludwig blushed.

Lowering his body to rest upon Ludwig's, Gilbert first brought his lips to the shell of his lover's ear. Gently, he nibbled and sucked at the lobe, hearing the larger form moaning beneath him. He kissed his lips down Ludwig's jaw and chin before moving to the thick neck. There, Gilbert lay a trail of hot kisses along the length of his neck. Slowly he made his way down to hard pecks, circled the right nipple with his tongue, and proceeded further. Beneath his lips Ludwig's skin was burning with desire and the little moans of pleasure were music to his ears. He let his hands stroke over Ludwig's muscles, from his chest to his arms, just to show the man how to properly caress a lover. The further down he kissed the more tense Ludwig's stomach muscles became. Ludwig seemed to know where his lips were heading, and Gilbert wasn't about to prove him wrong. He passed the tuff of dark blonde curls, taking in the scent of male arousal and feeling his own body give a shudder. Ludwig's erection had come back, more alive than before. Gilbert could only imagine what kind of pent-up strength Ludwig held dominant in his body for so long. Would he cum the moment lips touched the head? Or would Ludwig just drive himself crazy with feeling? 'Only one way to find out!'

To test the waters, Gilbert gently grasped the base of Ludwig's cock and let his tongue slide up along the thick under vein to the tip. Ludwig shuddered violently under his touch, arching off of the bed to see what was happening. Gilbert looked up at him from his spot between strong thighs, smile, and kept eye contact as his lips circled the skin of the head. He watched the blonde brows lift up in sensual delight for Gilbert recognized that look well. With a purr, he curled his tongue under the head, swirling it all around the tip until the skin sparkled with his saliva. Then, he let his tongue lap up and down the length once again, using his other hand to squeeze the base. Ludwig was moaning above him and reverted to lying flat on the bed, his legs tightening around Gilbert's body. He already had Ludwig squirming beneath him, so bringing the man to his first real orgasm would be easy. He was glad Ludwig wasn't looking for he wanted the man to be surprised when he felt his cock surrounded by wet heat. So gripping the large organ with his fist at the base, Gilbert stretched his lips over the head and slowly sucked down as far as he could go. The reaction was expected, and Gilbert already relaxed his throat as Ludwig's back arched off the bed and further into his mouth. Gilbert bent his head forward to open his throat further to accommodate Ludwig's girth. Once the writhing and wriggling subsided the fairy began to slide his lips up and down along the length. He didn't want to push Ludwig too far with heavy suction in fear of a quick orgasm. Instead, he let his tongue continue to slide, circle and lap. It was amazing how quickly he had weakened Ludwig's composure and had the man right where he wanted him.

Ludwig couldn't believe the incredible sensations coming from the warmth of Gilbert's mouth as the fairy sucked on him. This was a particular sexual act he never gave any real thought too, nor did he care to participate in it. But Gilbert left him little choice in the matter, and once that mouth had engulfed him, he was lost. He arched up into the other's heat, seeking more of the wet suction and the tickling pleasure of that tongue. The tip would flick against his slit every so often and each time it sent a new wave of pleasure throughout his body. He would have never imagined this feeling on his own. But just when he thought it couldn't get any better, Gilbert swallowed him further, forcing the tip to hit the back of the other's throat. Ludwig gave out a loud moan and pushed himself deeper to feel the sponge texture of that molten throat. When Gilbert pulled his head back he was forced to let out another moan as the feeling subsided but then it returned. He thrashed his head on the pillow as the sucking and bobbing of Gilbert's mouth threatened to drive him crazy. The speed only seemed to increase each time he was swallowed, and soon he felt the build up of orgasm boiling in his belly. He had to cover his mouth to muffle his cries as he came in Gilbert's mouth, his hips arching off the bed. Gilbert only added to the sensation by sucking harder and taking in all of his essence. His chest was heaving as he tried to catch his breath, his mind still in pleasured shock by the remarkable climax he had just experienced. The cold air bit at the sensitive skin of his cock when Gilbert removed his mouth. Ludwig had to open his eyes just in time to see that marvelous pink tongue come out to lick equally pink lips. Lips, he noticed, that were slightly puffy from their previous activity.

"Do they teach that in your little monk seminars?"

"No." he said, breathless. "But they should."

Gilbert chuckled and lowered his body to rest fully atop of Ludwig's. He folded his arms over the broad chest and buzzed his wings, letting him sparkle and shimmer in the reflection of Ludwig's eyes. "I must not have done that good of a job because you're still rock hard. I can feel you against my thigh."

"That's because I have not had my fill yet." He spoke firmly and grasping both of Gilbert's arms, he flipped the shocked fairy over onto his back and forced himself between those long white legs.

Gilbert blushed at the rough maneuver, growing more excited by the fact that Ludwig is now taking the lead and following his basic instincts. Ludwig looked like a rabid beast above him with blue eyes aflame and his powerful body heaving with wanton desire. Desire, Gilbert noted, that was all for him. He wasn't sure if Ludwig was just basking in the fill of power he now held or trying to figure out what he should do next. Gilbert lightly gripped Ludwig's biceps and bent his legs further back so as to feel Ludwig's erection against his own. He glanced up through white lashes and saw that determined expression turn back to a woeful blush. Gilbert, feeling his heart ache for the sudden look of distress on his lover's face, reached his hands up to cup Ludwig's cheeks. "Luddy? What's wrong?"

"I feel like I am losing control…and I don't want to do that. I've always had control over my behavior and actions."

"But I want you to do this with me! You're not forcing yourself on me."

He glanced to the side. "I know that. I just…I mean…you were so skilled with your tongue while I…" his blushed deepened.

Gilbert smiled then. "I see what's bothering you. Ludwig, you don't have to feel embarrassed to have never done this before. I don't expect you to know what you are doing. This is your first time and it's simply a learning experience. Just do whatever feels right to you, and I will guide you along as best as I can."

"I know you showed me how to properly touch you but…my body is suddenly releasing all these pent up feelings of lust and all I want to do right now is-" He turned bright red.

Gilbert felt the other harden again. "Oh!" he grinned. "You want to go all the way first and THEN do all the playful stuff afterwards!" His answer was a lowering of a blonde head. "Then by all means, do it!" Gilbert rolled over onto his side, reached a hand through the curtain, and opened the bedside drawer. From it he pulled a corked bottle of lube and held it out in front of Ludwig's gaze. "Do you know what this is?" Ludwig shook his head. "This is a special kind of lube for sex. What it does is ease the pain of entry by making my body and your cock slippery."

Ludwig took it in his right hand, staring at the bottle. "So I am to put this on myself and it will make it less painful for you?"

"For both of us." Gilbert pointed out. "Listen here; let me give you a quick lesson because you're the type of guy who needs as much prior knowledge as possible if you are going to complete anything. Men don't get wet like women do. While this stuff is sometimes needed for a woman and man, it is more so necessary to have for both men to engage in sex. The lady parts are meant for this-" He arched his hips to rub his cock against Ludwig's "Where we're putting it things were made to go south, not north. Get it?"

"I understand that much!" Ludwig hissed at him. "I'm not entirely incompetent!"

Gilbert just sighed with a smile and shook his head. "You're too funny. Alright, so, now that you know what to do…proceed." He figured he should tell Ludwig to prepare him first with his fingers, but what Gilbert really wanted was to feel all of Ludwig inside of him. He wanted the pressure and slight soreness of stretching when Ludwig first enters him. Ludwig's size would prove to be slightly painful without proper prepping, but at least this way, he could pretend this was his first time. Oh how he regretted all those times and cursed his rebellious nature.

Ludwig looked at the bottle, and then back to Gilbert, and then to the bottle again. Carefully, he uncorked the bottle and let some of the goopy substance fall into his palm. He rubbed it on his erection, closing his eyes to savor the feel of the rhythmic motion of his hand. Once every inch of his cock was covered, he leaned forward again and pressed the head against Gilbert's entrance. Ludwig could feel the heat on the tip, watching Gilbert's face as the fairy's flush started to grow to match his own. Gilbert shouldn't be this embarrassed, since he was the more experienced one. When he felt long arms wrap around his shoulders and urge him forward, Ludwig felt the tip press inside. Gilbert gave a small gasp beneath him. He pressed a little further until the head was inside, feeling for the first time a wondrous heat around him. He knew what to do from here on, and checking Gilbert's face for any signs of pain, began to slowly press in further.

Gilbert let out the breath he was holding when he felt the head enter his lower body. There was a tinge of pain with the entry, but it's what he wanted. At least his lover was moving slow. He looked up at Ludwig's face, seeing nothing other than complete concentration. It was so like his lover. But his thoughts were interrupted by a quick little shove as the other shifted his weight just slightly. Gilbert's muscles were forced to stretch and he gasped out in discomfort. Ludwig whispered an apology yet continued to press inside, clenching his eyes shut and refusing to meet Gilbert's gaze. The fairy let out another moan as his lover was halfway in, the inner muscles finally becoming accustomed to the invader. But a hard, solid push from Ludwig had the human now buried all the way inside of him without warning. Gilbert shrieked as his inner muscles contracted with the sudden force of the entry, trying desperately to push out the source of pain. He flopped his head back onto the pillow and looked up at Ludwig with a puzzled gaze.

"I'm sorry! I couldn't help myself and I-"

"It-It's okay. Just…just give me a minute to…" he shifted his body, sliding further down on the bed to better angle his hips. "Okay. I'm okay now." He said with a pant.

Ludwig was still blushing. "I did not mean to hurt you."

"I said it's fine!" He wanted to tell Ludwig how good he felt with him inside, stuffed full with that rock hard organ twitching against his inner walls. But he would save that for round two after the 'de-virgining' of his human lover. Right now, Ludwig needed to discover the act in all its basic forms. Once that is completed the 'harder' stuff could begin. "Now pull out a bit and press back in. Keep doing it until I tell you otherwise." There was no shame in guiding him.

Ludwig held his breath and did as he was told, pulling out just slightly to then slide back in. He peeked his eyes open to look upon Gilbert's flushed face, which was nowhere near as red as his own. But he could recognize the look of pleasure and passion on that face with white lashes heavily lidded over pink eyes. Perhaps it was just his primitive instinct telling him that this look was a good sign and on a whim, he pulled out further to shove inside once again. Gilbert let out a gasp with his legs tightening around Ludwig's sides, but the added pressure told his brain that the thrust was satisfactory. He heard the fairy mutter something about not listening to him but at this point he didn't care. Lying his hands on white shoulders, Ludwig slide himself out halfway and this time, slammed back in. Gilbert's neck arched back against the pillow with pink eyes flying open accompanied by a gasp of pleasure. Just feeling the other's muscles contracting urged him to thrust forward again. Now he knew what to do. He kept his movements controlled and slow, until he felt the fairy's hips lift to meet his thrusts. After the few experimental thrusts on his end were finished, Ludwig pulled back to slam home once again. He couldn't resist the tight, velvety heat around him and began a series of rhythmic thrusts that were all his own. The pressure and heat of Gilbert's inner muscles heightened every nerve in his cock and the real feeling was indescribable. And he couldn't hold back no matter what Gilbert would say, so long as he wasn't hurting him. But he couldn't bear to look Gilbert in the face for this. Instead, he slipped his arms under the fairy's shoulders, pulled him close, and kept his face buried in the pillow beneath him. He had to bend Gilbert's body further to begin thrusting hard and fast. He wanted to keep control, but now he had lost it.

Gilbert figured this would happen; with Ludwig losing control once he knew what to do. But he wasn't complaining. There had been some pain in the beginning but the most pleasurable part was when Ludwig hugged him close. He knew the human was only hiding his embarrassment but that didn't matter to him. Right now he was wrapped up tightly in his lover's arms as fast, hard thrusts wracked his body. How he wished he could voice his pleasure but they could not risk being found out. Instead, Gilbert had to bite back his cries when Ludwig found his sweet spot with enough force to push him to climax. Ludwig was grunting in his ear with each rock hard thrust. Feeling helpless beneath another was never something Gilbert allowed when engaged in sex. But he was in love with Ludwig and welcomed the added weight with whispered mews of pleasure in the blonde's ear. "Harder." He urged. His request was granted by a deep, hard thrust that threatened to break his quiet moans. His nails racked down the firm shoulder blades, digging deeper as the strength of the thrusts threatened to push him into the headboard. It was becoming more difficult with each earth-shattering thrust to keep silent, so Gilbert did the only thing he knew. Clutching his whole body around Ludwig, he bit down on the hard shoulder.

And Ludwig came inside of him.

Both men froze.

Slowly, Gilbert removed his teeth from the shoulder as he felt the warmth of Ludwig's essence pouring inside of him.

Ludwig blushed terribly, his whole body becoming tense with pure embarrassment at having ejaculated so quickly and so easily. "I'm…EXTREMELY sorry." 'I'll just go hang myself now.'

"No, no! Don't be sorry." Gilbert panted out. "It's your first time and…and you've been holding all that in for years. It's okay."

"But…but you didn't get to enjoy it."

Gilbert snorted and flashed him a smirk. "Who said we were done?"

"Hm?" Ludwig gazed at him.

"You're already swelling inside of me." He said with a groan and a small arch of his back. "You want to continue as well."

Ludwig could feel himself growing hard once again inside of him. "Y-Yes but…"

"Here, pull out."

When he pulled out of his fairy lover, Ludwig wasn't at all thrilled by the rush of cold that hit his erection once removed from that body. He wanted to be buried deep inside the other once again, to seek out that silky warmth. But he let Gilbert take the lead and guide him so now he was lying on the bed. He watched as the Winter Fairy straddled his lap, sitting just above his erection. Gilbert had taken the bottle of lube and poured some onto his palm, which he then reached behind to grasp his cock firmly. Ludwig moaned in the back of his throat as Gilbert's hand stroked him, spreading the lube evenly on his heated flesh. Gilbert still wore a pretty pink blush across his nose but his face held all the charm of a mischievous succubus.

"This time I control the thrusting." Gilbert said with a chuckle as he raised his hips to position himself over Ludwig. He saw the monk turn his head away but he reached out to grab the monk's face and force him to look. "Don't turn away! Half the fun is seeing your lover's expressions!" He buzzed his wings for added emphasis. "Now, watch as I lower myself on you. Watch as you disappear into me."

Ludwig, unable to speak, dumbly nodded. He kept his gaze firmly focused on his nether regions while his lover maneuvered himself into the proper position. When he felt the tip encased in that velvet heat once again it was a struggle to keep his eyes open. He bit his lower lip to help keep his concentration even though the intense pleasure continued to taunt him. He watched as his cock slowly disappeared into the warm sheath of Gilbert's body but would rather look at the fairy above him. Gilbert's mouth was open in a breathless cry as he now seated himself fully. His pale, long legs were spread on either side and those frosted wings buzzed with a special sparkle. Even the silver light over his heart began to glow brighter. With Gilbert seated above him, Ludwig was able to get another full look at the perfectly white and flawless body before him. He couldn't resist raising his hands to grasp and stroke the narrow hips; and then moving further down to stroke the tops of those milky thighs. Gilbert let out a sigh of delight and placed his own hands on top of Ludwig's. The fairy pushed them away, but only to thread their fingers together instead. Ludwig felt as if they were fully connected now. Just having Gilbert's hands in his own as the fairy began a gentle rhythm of rocking made his heart soar with the growing feeling of love. At that moment he witnessed the silver glow of Gilbert's heart grow brighter, and there were even some unshed tears building up in those pink pools.

"Gilbert? Did I hurt you?"

"No." He answered softly. "But I just felt your emotions and they struck something in me…and I just feel like…crying."

"Don't cry." Ludwig tightened his hold on Gilbert's hands. "I don't want to see you cry."

"They're not tears of sadness or pain, though." He smiled.

"I just rather not see you cry at all."

"Then let's chance pace."

Gilbert lifts himself slightly off of Ludwig and pressed back down, letting out a tiny moan of pleasure. He rocked his hips forward a few times for good measure, enjoying the feel of Ludwig's member shifting inside of him. The tip pressed gently against his sweet spot and it resulted in a little tingle of sensation. Gilbert wanted to feel more of it so he let go of Ludwig's hands to steady them on the hard chest. It was easier to lift himself now and slam down with enough force for the tip to strike that special spot. He doubled over in not just pain but pleasure as well. Ludwig was seated so deep inside of him that it felt as if they would mold together. He began a solid rocking rhythm that had Ludwig's back arching off the bed. Gilbert felt another shudder of pleasure sweep through him when strong hands gripped his hips to rock him faster. They still had to remain as quiet as possible, so Gilbert's eyes were clenched shut while his mouth let out breathless pants. Ludwig's expression was flushed, his blonde hair ruffled with sweat, and his face was a mask of concentration. The bed was rocking beneath them, its feet sliding along the floor with the curtains bouncing faintly.

Ludwig had sped up the force of his thrusts, keeping his hand firmly placed on those hips. Gilbert thrashed, bounced, and rocked above him. By the Green Mother but Gilbert was beautiful. Seeing the fairy writhing in pure ecstasy was hypnotizing. "Spread your wings." He demanded lightly. "Spread them for me." Gilbert complied, letting the frosty wings spread wide as the rocking continued. Ludwig was mesmerized once again by the silvery light of both the fairy's heart and his wings. "Beautiful."

"Stars above, Ludwig…" he panted "You're gonna break… me!" The last part was a laugh.

"Then let's switch it up."

Ludwig pushed himself into a seated position with Gilbert still impaled on him. He supported Gilbert's back, holding him upright so they could keep the same rhythm. This forced Gilbert to do most of the work while he held the fairy stable. His lover never complained but only rocked himself harder. When the fairy leaned back to let out a groan at a particularly hard thrust, Ludwig leaned forward to take one of the pink nipples into his mouth. He heard Gilbert gasp out and the inner muscles tighten around him. With the pink bud in his mouth, he nipped and sucked it between his teeth. The sensation had Gilbert writhing passionately on him. But when he moved to give the other the same treatment, he felt Gilbert's muscles squeeze his cock painfully as the fairy gave a mighty shudder and climaxed between them. Ludwig felt the warm essence hit his belly and chin but looked at the glazed over face of Gilbert. Pink eyes were nearly rolling back in his head, but the best part was the growing glow of his heart. Ludwig was still rock hard inside of him yet did not move to seek his own completion. Instead, he forced Gilbert against him, pressing their chests together with the fairy's warm cum cooling between them. Their eyes met, and once again, pink ones were shedding tears.

"Did I-?"

"No! No, it was perfect." Gilbert couldn't stop the stream of tears as he wrapped his arms around Ludwig's neck, pulling him close. "It made my heart feel as if it would leap out of my chest. I can feel your emotions because we're connected…in the spiritual way."

"So this makes you cry tears of joy?"

Gilbert pulled back to meet his gaze. "Yes." He wiped at his eyes. "It excited and thrilled me so much that it was now ME who couldn't control himself!"

Ludwig felt a smile stretch across his lips and put his hand over Gilbert's heart, feeling the warmth of the glow and the strong beating under his palm. "This is still all new and strange to me. Yet in my own heart…I feel something different for you. Something I can't describe, but I will say that it is a warm feeling…one that now I don't think I could live without."

Gilbert grinned through his tears and gave Ludwig a heavy kiss before lifting himself off of the softened member. "What we share is only between us. Outside those doors, you are strict Monk Ludwig and I am Prince Gilbert, sworn to our solemn duties."

"But together like this in private…"

"We are lovers." Gilbert finished for him and kissed the warm lips again. "Lay with me? Only for a little while longer."

"Yes. And then I think it would be best for me to leave for the Light Court to investigate the staff."

Gilbert raised a white brow. "The staff? You speak of your staff, yes?"

Ludwig nodded and pulled his fairy lover down to the bed. "Today it accidently touched Alfred and it burned his arm. We don't know why. My job is to find out why, if I can. And now that we have shared our lover's bond together," he pulled Gilbert close in a protective embrace "It would be best for me to leave for a day or two. Just to let things go unnoticed."

Gilbert pouted as he titled his head up to look at Ludwig. "Even though it pains me to see you go I know that you have to. Just hurry back soon, okay? My fairy heart will pine for you when you are not near."

Ludwig smiled and kissed his forehead. "I will return as soon as I can. I promise." He rolled over so that now they were facing each other on their sides. "So now I am yours?"

"Yes. And I am yours. Forever." Gilbert kissed his nose. "See? I told you that the laws of man hold no real meaning here. Ludwig, I want this realm and my heart to be your escape from the human world. Here you are more than just a human monk!"

"I understand that. In the human realm and in public in this one I will play the role that is expected of me. As will you. But when we have the time to be alone together…we can be our real selves?"

Gilbert smiled and wiggled under the covers. "Of course! Just because we are in love doesn't mean our whole person changes! We've just added on some extra happiness." He pulled the covers up over Ludwig and curled into the strong chest, letting the human pull him close. Gilbert buried his head under Ludwig's chin, allowing his hand to caress the warm skin of his lover's chest. 'My Ludwig.' He whispered to himself. "Stay with me for a little bit longer."

"If only we had more time…"

A part of Ludwig's mind kept screaming, 'what have you done? He is married with a very powerful family behind him that could kill you instantly!' Another part of him was able to keep ignoring that raging voice with the newfound waves of emotions he felt for Gilbert. There was no turning back now. He had submitted himself to Gilbert and in return, the fairy declared his undying love. Now they were a couple; a couple sworn to their duties and powerless against the lords holding their marionette strings. There was a whole other weight on his shoulders that Ludwig now must bear; but to someone like him, his shoulders were strong enough to carry them all. He would have to carry them all for everyone…especially his love for Gilbert. Which, he knew, would end up being his top priority. And with that known promise, Ludwig saw more than just the noose before him.

/

In King Arthur's chambers…

"Perhaps it is time to settle things with Roderich." Francis offered from his place at the window, gazing out at the darkening sky with his arms crossed over his chest.

"Perhaps it is time he settled things with ME." Arthur sneered at his lover from his spot on the bed. "I am the one who needs that throne to save my people."

Francis smirked, and his next words held a dangerous undertone. "They will continue to hate you even after you've helped them. Why help such ungrateful people?"

Arthur glanced at him. "Because it's my duty."

"Says who?"

"Says the fucking rules of ruling a kingdom!" Arthur glared at him. "What is up with you today? You've had an attitude since you entered my room! You've been cold to me the whole time and you won't even touch me! What's bothering you, Francis? Can't you tell me?"

Francis whipped his head around to glare at him. "I'm just tired of all this sneaking around we have to do. I hate how you are bound to this wretched kingdom because it's your 'duty'! The people hate you; they always have and they always will. No matter what you do, they will never love you because they're ungrateful creatures! You've done all you can for them and they still sing out for your blood!"

Arthur stood up from the bed. "Have you forgotten about our sons?" he hissed at him. "I don't want them to inherit a ruined kingdom!"

"It's never going to get better, Arthur!" Francis rarely got angry but when he did it was usually due to Arthur's stubbornness.

"Then just what do you think we should do, hm?" He put his fists on his hips. "You want us all to run away with you? Become fugitive royalty on the run?"

Francis flipped his hair, trying to keep his tone even and calm. "Permission to speak plainly, your highness?"

"It's never stopped you before, but go ahead." He had never seen Francis this angry before. Something must have happened to make the normally sweet and overly lovable man act this way. Arthur almost started to fear what the reasoning was.

"Our army is weak and small. The Light Court has double our numbers, and we can't force the Dark Fairy folk to fight if they don't want to. They are rebelling against the war. You know as well as I do that the people want to become part of the Light Court."

Arthur shook his head. "I won't allow it. We have been second class citizens for far too long, Francis! I will not give up my kingdom so they can continue to be oppressed! I think you've forgotten our cause, 'oh love of my life'!" He said with sarcasm. "We want to conquer the Light Court and THEN use all of that wealth and power to rebuild!"

"But that will never come to be! Not by war! We no longer have the numbers or the power to fight the Light Court! Sadiq makes new weapons every day that rival ours! We can't fight as it stands now. You'll send our troops off to be butchered at the next battle! How is that being a 'good king'? This isn't about the courts anymore it's about PRIDE. YOUR pride!"

Arthur glared at him with his glowing snake eyes. "Then what would you have me do, Francis? Give up everything I've worked so hard to keep going? It's my magic that makes the sun shine and the moon rises in that city! It is by my power alone that the protective wall can keep out the Umbras!"

"Yes, but the people don't care! They're tired, hungry, and poor. I know that you are doing everything in your power to help the people but it will never be enough." Arthur turned away from him, his black wings slumping low down his back. Francis sighed, running a hand through his wavy hair. "I don't mean to be angry at you, Arthur. I just see how bad things are getting and they're only going to get worse. Your people do not care for you, nor do they care for Alfred. They're afraid of you, but when Alfred takes over? You know they won't hesitate to assassinate him." He walked over to his lover and placed a hand on his shoulder, but Arthur jerked away from the gentle touch. "I'm just thinking about you. About us; and about our boys. If we surrender to Roderich, then his power and wealth can help make our kingdom thrive. The people will be happier knowing-"

"Knowing what, Francis?" He wouldn't look at him. "Nothing will change for them. Nothing at all. You think just because Roderich gets to claim the throne he'll make everything better with the wave of his hand? No! The Dark Fairies will still be second to the Light Fairies. Perhaps their living conditions and lives will get better, but they will always be second rate. I don't want that for my people…" his voice dropped low "I want to be better, or at least equal, to the Light Fairies."

"Then sit down and have a discussion with Roderich. Keeping this war going is draining our funds as well. Something has to change or else there will be a rebellion on our hands." Arthur shied away from him, still not meeting his gaze. "Arthur, if not for me then for our boys. They will be safe from the Pure Bloods so long as they are under Roderich's protection. OR better yet, I would like all of you to come sail away with me as a family." He smiled at the thought and gave a heartfelt sigh. "And then we won't have to worry about hiding our feelings for each other. We can finally be a happy family! There's so much of the world to see, Arthur! I want to share it with you and our boys." He placed his hands on Arthur's shoulders, and this time the fairy did not move away. "There are too many bad memories here, Arthur. Too many rumors; too many secrets. Hand over this pile of shit to Roderich and live free with me. No more would you have to fear for your sons' lives every day."

"Francis…that sounds wonderful…"

"But?"

"But it's not how things work. That's only for the songs. I cannot give in to Roderich. We'll find a way to beat this."

Francis felt the sudden urge to strike his lover, but he jumped back before he could do so. Arthur turned to look at him with moisture in those glowing green eyes, but that only angered him further. "Stubborn jackass!" Still in a rage, Francis took off through the balcony window without so much as a wave or a look back.

Arthur could be so infuriating at times! He refused to listen to logic and instead chose pride over that of his family. Francis perched on a branch and look in the direction of the Light Court. He couldn't bear to see his sons hurt or killed because of Arthur's stubbornness. Rarely does Arthur even greet his own people in fear of assassination or an ambush. Francis knew what went on in that city and how the people felt about their king. He was sure Arthur knew of it too, but not to the extent that he did. Francis didn't even have the heart to tell Arthur of what the people said about him. His lover was standing up and fighting for a cause that no one believed in anymore. Fighting for the use of the ancient fairy ground is way out of reach and the Light Court army continues to grow. And they have enough enemies as it is; enemies other than themselves. There were Umbras, renegade fairies, humans, and the mist. As it stands, the Dark Fairy court cannot last much longer. Arthur would rather risk everything in battle just to keep his pride. A pride, Francis knew, that would see their sons killed. Francis couldn't let that happen.

Taking a deep breath, Francis decided that if you want something done you have to do it yourself. If Arthur would not discuss terms with Roderich, then he will do so instead. His mind made up, Francis leapt off the branch and flew through the sky towards the Light Court. IT was forbidden for Dark Fairies to enter the Light Court unless you were nobility or had an invitation. Francis was neither, but sneaking in would be out of the question. He would be spotted in an instant. To step foot onto Light Fairy territory was punishable by death, yet that was a risk Francis was willing to take for the wellbeing of his family.

/

Ludwig was given a small carriage to take him to the Light Court where he would first question King Roderich about the staff. He lazily stared out the foggy window watching the trees rolling by. The carriage bounced all around on the rocky road, but Ludwig paid it little mind. Speaking of his mind, it was full of thoughts of Gilbert, his fairy lover. Who would have thought that he could end up with a fairy? If he was thinking about Gilbert all the time, then did that mean he really was in love? Ludwig had never really known love; not when he was growing up or while in the monastery. The idea of 'love at first sight' did not make any true sense to him. There was no logic behind it. But if you were to ask a young, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed scholar, all would say that the saying was true. But he still could not believe that he could fall in love with someone so easily like that. Shouldn't it be more complicated?

The carriage suddenly came to a halt and it jerked Ludwig from his thoughts of Gilbert. He glanced out the window to see border guards belonging to the Light Court. A carriage man opened the door for him, and Ludwig thanked him with a pat on the shoulder. The border guards easily let him pass and just like that, he was in the Light Court fairy realm. He was not looking forward to this at all. Ludwig's biggest fear was that the king, and Sadiq, would not believe him when he spoke of what the weapon did. It took a while for him to reach the palace on foot but he didn't mind the walk. Walking tended to calm his nerves, yet when he stepped foot inside the palace they all came rushing back. Ludwig closed his eyes and just cursed his constant rotten luck with being a neutral envoy. The only good thing to come out of all this was becoming one with Gilbert.

Finally, he was allowed an audience with the king in the royal throne room. Ludwig's eyebrow twitched as he entered the room and looked upon Roderich in the throne. The throne was completely covered in roses and ivy now; and to Ludwig it appeared that the fairy was sitting on a bush. Yet for someone who had massive wealth, Roderich only wore the same few sets of clothing. The only thing that would be different is the accessories. The queen was not present beside him, which only managed to deepen his frown. He was hoping Queen Elizaveta would be here to help with the discussion. Ludwig wasn't sure if Roderich would be insulted by the accusations made by Arthur and blame him, or if the king really did have a confession to make.

"Good day to you, Ludwig. You're back sooner than I thought you'd be." Roderich plucked a rose to give it a delicate sniff.

"Yes, but I come with a message, or rather, a concern, from King Arthur. It is a concern that I share in as well."

"Which is?"

Ludwig held out the staff. "By accident, I touched Prince Alfred's arm with this staff and his flesh burned in that spot. King Arthur asks if you know anything about this or…or if you…"

Brown brows furrowed slowly. "If I 'what', dear monk?"

Ludwig swallowed hard. "If you have something to do with the staff burning Alfred."

"Just what is King Arthur trying to say to me?"

"Only if this was…intentional." There was no other way around it.

Roderich tossed the rose to the side and suddenly flew down in Ludwig's direction, floating in front of him. His expression was not a friendly one, and he looked Ludwig straight in the eyes. "Are you serious, Ludwig? THIS is a concern you share in as well?" He poked the monks' chest with his fingers. "Do you really think that I would do something so juvenile and underhanded as to send another to do my work for me? If I wanted to use this magic to burn dark fairies than I would have done this myself! Never would I stoop so low! How dare you for thinking it of me!"

Ludwig backed away and fell to one knee, bowing his head. "Forgive me, your grace. I meant no offense. I just want to know more about this staff that I am using so no one else is accidently hurt."

Roderich snuffed him, turned away, and crossed his arms. "I'm not the one who made it. Best to go and ask the source of the product. And tell the Dark Fairy King that I would never do something so sneaky as to send someone else to do my work for me. Actually, he should know better. When it comes to his loudmouth, troublesome children he's a completely different person! As if he's the only fairy to ever have children before."

Ludwig stood up and bowed again. "I apologize for bothering you with this matter. I will speak with Sadiq next and, if you would like, I could report back what he knows to you?"

"Yes, that would do well to know. You're dismissed. Oh, and one other thi-" but Ludwig was already gone "How rude!" Roderich huffed.

/

Ludwig looked up at the massive mushroom once more before knocking on the door. He hoped that Sadiq was home and not in his town shop. His ears picked up the familiar sound of a lock clicking open. The door opened slowly and a pair of green eyes peeked out at him. Ludwig recognized them as belonging to Heracles.

"Hello. Is Sadiq here?"

"Yes. He is currently taking one of his long bubble baths. You can speak to him now."

Ludwig's brow twitched. "Um…I'll just wait outside until he is done. And dried. And dressed. No rush." But the lazy fairy would hear none of it and Ludwig was pulled inside before he could protest.

"I don't care if you see him in the tub. Just watch where you step."

Ludwig wished that Heracles wasn't holding his hand because it made stepping over various breeds and colors of cats extremely difficult. He had yet to be upstairs, but at least they were clear of any cats. Yet the cats were soon replaced by colorful butterflies flying around him, which were making him uncomfortable. Between the birds, the butterflies, the fancy smells, and the décor; Ludwig highly considered throwing himself off the stairs. Heracles led him along the first floor, which consisted of numerous pillow beds, a tea table, some bookshelves, and plush carpet. The next floor must be the main bedroom, for the bed looked as if it could easily fit five adults with a massive canopy and gold curtains. The frame looked to be made of solid gold, as well as the bedroom furniture. This room could feed half of the Dark Fairy city! Sadiq seemed to live a much more extravagant lifestyle than the Light Fairy king himself. It irked him.

At last the bathing room was on the third floor but Ludwig didn't see a tub anywhere. There was more plush carpet lining the floor, only this time it was white. There was a rather large structure in the center of the room in the shape of a goblet, also made of gold and spotted with numerous gemstones. A fire burned in a space at the bottom, being tended to by a fan that was moving all by itself.

"You have a visitor." Heracles announced slowly.

Ludwig had a feeling he knew where Sadiq was bathing, and biting his bottom lip, he looked up at the top of the goblet to see the fairy coming over the edge. He folded his arms on the rim and smiled down at Ludwig, his face absent of the white mask he usual wore.

"Ah, if it isn't everyone's favorite monk! What brings you to my humble mushroom today?"

"I…said I would wait until you have finished your bath-" a pile of white bubbles fell before his feet "but your lover insisted I come in and speak with you now."

Sadiq laughed. "He just wants to show me off to everyone."

Heracles' only response was a scoffed laugh as he left the two.

"So, what has your brows all in a crinkle there, buddy? Wanna join? The water's still hot and I don't mind sharing!"

Ludwig put his hand up and shook his head. "No thank you. My mother always taught me not to get into bathes with strange men." Where did THAT come from? That was something Gilbert would say.

Sadiq blinked for a moment, and then threw his head back to laugh loudly. He nearly fell back in the tub. "That's rich! I've got to remember that one." He coughed a little to catch his breath. "Okay, sorry about that. Now, why have you come? And can you bring me that goblet right there? It has the wine in it?"

Ludwig looked in the direction he was pointing and saw the pewter goblet on a gold table. He held it up to Sadiq but realized the structure was too tall. Sadiq pointed to the other side of the large goblet tub where a couple of stairs jutted out. Holding the staff in his arm he carried goblet up the steps and handed it to the butterfly fairy. Ludwig was grateful for the amount of bubbles that shielded most of Sadiq's body. He couldn't help but rub the bridge of his nose as he tried to fathom how he had ended up like this. He should have NEVER gotten out of bed that day to rake those leaves. "It's about this staff."

"What about it?" He sipped at the wine.

"Well, I accidently touched Prince Alfred's arm with the top of it and it burned his skin. Badly."

"Really? That's odd." Dark brows furrowed as he pondered. "That is not what I made the staff for. It shouldn't harm fairies." He looked back to Ludwig. "Are you certain it was the staff?"

A nod. "King Arthur believes that this was intended."

"Intended? As if we would need you to do our dirty work for us." He smirked.

"Precisely. While I am grateful for all you and the king have done for me, I will not allow myself to become a pawn for prejudices. Do not rope me in to anything of this sort."

Sadiq held up his hands in surrender. "Back it up there, blondie. I swear to you that we had nothing to do with this! Don't you think that if it were THAT EASY to get rid of the Dark Fairies we would have done it already? Let me see that staff." Ludwig handed it to him and he inspected it every which way. "Let me ask you this. How were you feeling when this touched Alfred?"

"How was I feeling?" He repeated the question. "Well…he was…making childish advances towards me and he wouldn't stop when I asked him to…so I tapped him with the staff so he would back off. And that's when it burned him. But I wasn't angry about it. It was more annoying than anything."

"That wouldn't have set it off then." He tapped his chin. "So emotions are ruled out." He took another sip of wine. "Something is wrong on THEIR side, I believe."

"You mean on Alfred's side?"

"Yes. You see, because you're human you are susceptible to many of the dangers here in the fairy world. A certain being attacking a human will have a greater chance at killing, while as with a fairy, it's not that easy. What could kill you may not necessarily kill a fairy. I put extra magic in this staff to help protect you from those beings. Not even fairies possess the power which I have encased in here." His features turned serious as he handed the staff back to Ludwig. "Are you thinking the same as I?"

Ludwig glanced at the staff, and then returned his eyes Sadiq. "I believe I am. Arthur is a rare fairy who can change genders. His sons were both born with slight abnormalities that other Dark Fairies do not possess. So maybe they count as-"

"Not full-bloodied fairies." Sadiq finished for him. "Something is different about that family. It's all on Arthur's side. Everybody knows that Francis sired those boys, and he's a regular fairy. I know that for certain. But Arthur…there's something different about him; about his boys. And this staff knows it. That's why it attacked Alfred."

"So…what do I do?"

"Well, don't touch any of them with it again. And I would say, keep this between us. Don't tell Roderich, don't tell Arthur, don't tell ANYONE. Find out what you can about the Dark Fairy royals. Something is not right, and it could be dangerous. For all of us."

Ludwig gave a curt nod. "I understand. Thank you." He looked at the staff in his hands once again and swallowed hard.

/

Francis landed at the border of both courts where he was immediately approached by two Light Fairy guards. He put up his hands to show he was unarmed and lowered his wings. Francis even gave a polite bow to them.

"Why have you come to our court, Dark Fairy? Where is your invitation?"

"I don't have one, but I have something important that I want to discuss with the king."

The other guard snorted. "What makes you think our king would care what YOU have to say?"

"I believe that is for the king to decide himself. It's a private matter concerning my king as well as yours. I am also friends with Monk Ludwig, the neutral envoy. If you take me to him, then he can assure you that I do not mean to harm anyone. I am only here to talk."

"What is your name, fairy?"

"Francis Bonnefoy. King Roderich and Queen Elizaveta know my name."

The first guard looked suspiciously at him. "So you say you know Monk Ludwig? What color hair does he have?"

"Blonde hair, much like mine but no where near as gorgeous or well-kept." He boasted. "And he has blue eyes the same as me, yet mine are like sapphires sparkling with light when there is no light! Such GORGEOUS pools of a radiant blue-"

"Okay! We get it!" Said the second guard. "For a Dark Fairy you are vain!"

"Me? Vain? Hardly." He flipped his hair. "Now kindly escort me to the court of King Roderich?"

The two guards glanced at each other, and then the first one said "Come with us."

/

Ivan, in his dog form, wandered the human forest with his tail and ears limp; his head heavy with grief over Gilbert's love for Ludwig. He took a deep breath and sat down beside a tree, staring at his large black paws. 'What would Gilbert want with me anyway? We are a different species…but so is Ludwig.' Ivan looked up at the moon. 'Why doesn't he want me?' With a squeal and a whimper, Ivan settled himself on the ground and buried his face in his paws. 'Why don't you like me, Gilbie? I would treat you sweet and kind. I would be a good mate to you.' He lifted his hand and smacked his paw on the ground. 'I bet it's that yellow hair! I can change my hair color if Gilbie likes yellow! I can wear monk robes too!'

But then, just as he was plotting how to change himself for Gilbert, his power sensed that there was to be an upcoming death. Curious, Ivan stood up and followed the force to the temple; Ludwig's temple. He stalked the area, finding the force was growing stronger as he neared the north wall of the temple. Looking up with his saucer eyes, he found the man that was ready to die. An elderly monk had seen his form, and Ivan could hear him crying out that he is seeing 'death'.

"The old man is losing it. Again."

Ivan faded away from the voices as two monks came past him. One was cloaked in dark green robes and the other in red. The one in the green cloak had very pale eyes, and there was something about him that Ivan had to growl at. The monk in red did not hear him, but the monk in green did. The green monk with pale eyes looked straight at him, and he smiled. Ivan remained still, wondering if this man could actually see him yet he did not have the aura of impending death around him.

"That he is. Such a shame. I wonder who he has in mind to take over the temple?"

"Master Monk Jasper, surely you know who his choice will be? All of us have voted on it."

Ivan didn't like how this 'Jasper' was staring at him. "Yes, I have a pretty good idea on who he wants. Someone who shares in his knowledge, wisdom," he took a step closer towards Ivan "and secrets." Ivan growled.

"Secrets, sir?"

"Yes. Secrets. Secrets that threaten to drive them both mad."

The red monk shook his head. "I fear I do not understand what you are saying?"

Ivan backed away from this man. 'Who are you?'

"Our master's last hours grow short. Please, let us go back inside. He needs you to say his funeral prayer."

"Yes, he eagerly awaits it." Jasper took another step towards Ivan. "Perhaps the 'God of Death' should look to his own world instead of wandering in ours." Ivan's ears fell back against his head, and he whimpered. "Blood is about to be shed, but it will not be here."

"Master Jasper! What are you speaking of?" The red monk appeared to be losing his patience.

"I feel the earth trembling, dear monk, and yet you cannot. The Green Mother is fearful this night."

The pale-eyed monk grinned at Ivan, and in that moment, the 'God of Death' turned and ran. Ivan ran as fast as his legs would carry him to the woods, his heart and soul heavy with dread. What did that monk mean about 'his' world? This 'Monk Jasper' knew of Ludwig's secrets, or at least some of them. Ludwig and this dying monk share a connection; and Ivan could only assume it had to do with fairies. And those eyes…those eyes could SEE him, as if he were just a dog passing by. That monk SAW HIM. If that monk could see him so easily, than is what he said true about his world? About the fairy world? Was blood going to be shed? If so, then whose blood?

'I've got to warn Ludwig of what is happening here! And I must warn Gilbert and the king as well!'

For a moment, Ivan swore he could feel the earth trembling, just as Monk Jasper had said.

End Chapter 11 TBC

***The plot thickens. (twirls villainous mustache)***
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Tempus Vernum