Adult-FanFiction.org : Anime

Decadence Escaping
By : FlayraDowitcher
Category: +G to L > Hetalia: Axis Powers
Views: 2961 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own Hetalia.
Chapter List
- 11
- 12
- 13
***Thanks for the reviews everyone! PLEASE READ THE AUTHOR’S NOTE AT THE END!

***Warnings: Language and bloody scenes (also a folk tale is incorporated)

***Disclaimer: I do not own Hetalia!

Chapter 12

“Are you serious?” Alfred asked and scratched the back of his head while he examined the supply cart he and Ivan would be hiding in.

“That seems awfully cramped for me.” Ivan said and looked into the empty crate where he would be hiding.

The plan was to have Alfred and Ivan hidden inside the supply crates and covered with various trading goods. The crates were filled with furs, fruits, clothing, and weapons. Alfred chose to hide in the apple barrel and Ivan picked the fur crate. Ivan just looked at the size of the crate with hopelessness, wondering how he was ever going to fit in there for any length of time. Aside from the size, the furs piled on top of him would likely overheat him. He looked over and saw Alfred settling himself into the narrow apple barrel and silently wished that he could be that flexible. With a heavy sigh, he stepped inside the crate and proceeded to find a decently comfortable position to lie in. His height had always been a curse and he was by no means a side sleeper either. The only way he could lay was on his side with his knees tucked up to his chest. It had only been a few minutes and he was already cramping.

“Hey Ivan, you okay in there?” Alfred called from the barrel, his head still visible above the rim. Ivan answered him with a thumbs up and nothing else.

“Alright, lets start getting you to packed up.” Arthur ordered and called a few of the outlaws over to the cart.

Ivan frowned as the furs were laid all over him, sputtering as some of the loose bits got in his mouth. He squeezed his lips tight to prevent any more from tickling his lips. One of the men said that they were going to put the lid on but when he tried, Ivan’s shoulder was in the way. If the tightness wasn’t bad enough already, Ivan had to twist at the waist to lower his shoulder so the lid could be put on properly. Outside the crate, he could hear Alfred protesting as bunches of apples were littered over and all around him. An outlaw took a white cloth and covered the top of Alfred’s head and tucked the rest in along the sides. The barrel lid was put on and twisted to lock tightly into place. Someone knocked softly on the barrel and Arthur’s voice could be heard.

“Are you two ready to go?”

“Yes.” They both said in unison.

“Now remember, don’t make ANY sounds or movements that may alert an imperial guard to us. I will warn you when we are nearing the city. So try to get all your fidgeting out now.”

“Yes sir!” Said Alfred, giving a few taps from inside the barrel. “You okay over there, Ivan?”

“I’m terribly cramped and covered with extremely warming furs but I’m doing well.” Arthur could be heard chuckling and he pat the top of Ivan’s crate.

“Hang in there, Ivan. It won’t be for much longer.”

A few minutes later the two men felt the carriage jerk as it was sent into motion. The ride to the main road was terribly bumpy and rough, knocking the two men around wildly in their confinements. Once the wheels were on steady ground the ride was quick and smooth. Ivan was still overheating and cramping in places he didn’t know he had. Alfred had been unable to resist an apple near his mouth and spent most of his time gnawing at it. The two men did not know how long they had been on the road but it felt like days, at least to Ivan it did. Finally, they heard Arthur’s voice say that they are nearing the city and to keep quiet. Alfred covered his mouth to keep any sounds from sneaking out. Soon they could hear the distant sounds of a busy city nearing them and their anxiety began to skyrocket. Both feelings of fear and excitement filled their being and they knew freedom was just a few short feet away. That was until a loud booming voice of what could only be a guard or soldier stopped Arthur’s cart.

“Halt in the name of the Emperor!” He hollered and Alfred felt his heart leap into his throat. He couldn’t stop his body from the little tremors of fear that were threatening his resolve.

“Is there a problem, sir?” Arthur asked the guard.

“Regulations. We must check all carts and goods that come in to the city.”

“I am only a simple merchant with fruits, furs, and clothing.” Arthur responded.

“It is the law. Now we must check your cart.”

“May I ask why there is a need to check all cargo that comes through? Is something happening in the city? Was there a threat of some kind?” Arthur asked with faux concern.

“That’s confidential, sir.” Answered the same guard and the cart sudden jerked as the man leapt onto the back.

Ivan closed his eyes and willed his body to remain perfectly still. He knew the lid would be opened but he would have to resist the urge to jump out and get some fresh air. He continued to keep telling himself that as the footsteps grew nearer to his crate. He felt the crate shift as the lid was lifted up and off of its rim. The cool air made his lungs scream for a fresh breath but Ivan knew he to remain perfectly still. Pressure was being laid atop the furs, the guard patting at the ‘pile’ above Ivan. His heartbeat echoed in his ears as his mind tried to think of a quick plan of escape for himself and Alfred.

“All clear in this box.” Said the guard and Ivan’s eyes rolled back in his head with relief.

Alfred’s trembling intensified when he felt the vibrations of the guard. He couldn’t stop imagining what would happen to them if they were actually caught. Should they be found while trying to escape to freedom their bodies may end up posts like all the others. Or would they be spared? So many questions were running through his head and the fear of being so close to discovery was nauseating him. There had been other times when he had been scared but nothing could match up to what he was feeling at this moment. Everything they worked for could be ripped from them with one hand searching through their cargo. He felt his barrel wobble a bit as the lid was pulled off and pressure was pressed atop his head. It took all his strength not to react on his reflex to yelp.

“Clear.” Said the man and Alfred had to swallow his sigh of relief. “Carry on.”

“Thank you.” Arthur kicked the horse back into motion and the two men could now relax their bodies. “Just a little further, guys.” Arthur said. “I need to find a safe place to let you off.” Arthur rode the cart for a short while into the busy street and pulled into a silent alleyway. He jumped into the back of the cart and pulled the lids off both of their crates. “You’re safe!”

“Finally!” Ivan sat up right away and scrambled to crawl out of the box. His limbs and muscles screamed with pain as his blood began to flow in his veins. His legs were prickling painfully with the feeling of pins and needles, forcing him to lay motionless until it past.

“I’m free!” Alfred gasped for air and lifted himself out of the barrel, knocking out a few apples as well. “I can’t believe we passed by like that! We were so close to being found out!”

“Yet we made it.” Ivan said and finally stood on his aching legs. “We are in a free city now.” They all hopped off the cart and Alfred hugged Ivan tightly.

“We’re safe now, Ivan! We’re free! Free to make our own choices and live by our means!” Ivan smiled and wrapped his arms around Alfred, resting his chin atop his head.

“Yes, we are free. We can start a new life here.” Alfred pulled away to jump into Arthur, wrapping his arms around his waist and lifting him.

“We couldn’t have done it without you, Arthur! Thank you so much for all your help!”

“It was no trouble at all. But this where I must leave you two.” Alfred nodded and lowered him back to the ground.

“Where do we go from here?” Ivan asked Arthur as the man began straightening out the back of the cart.

“Follow this main street all the way down until the end. It will take you until the late afternoon to actually reach the end. There you will find a whole community of other escaped slaves. You need to register with the city officials there and they will set you to work. Paid work.”

“As long as we have a choice that’s all that matters!” Alfred said proudly. “Are you sure you don’t want to accompany us for a bit?” Arthur shook his head.

“I rather not. If I get sighted walking with escaped slaves I may be targeted and put on their ‘suspicion’ list. I want to be able to help others like you in the future.”

“Thanks again for all your help.” Ivan shook Arthur’s hand. “And for the talisman.”

“I hope it works for you. You two had better be going now. You will want to get there by nightfall.”

With a final farewell to Arthur the two men began their long walk down the main city street. No one took notice of them and went about their daily routines. The buildings were not as large as the last city they were in but they were made of heavy stone. The one thing that stood out more than the city itself was the smell from the iron mill. Alfred wondered if they would end up working at that mill, given its massive size and production rate. Ivan was not sure where they would end up in the working community but he hoped it was something simple like farming. After thirteen years of hard labor humble farming seemed to be the right way to go. It kept you moving, active, and played a large role in stabilizing the economy. He had wanted to feel like he was making a difference rather than just snapping men’s necks and killing them for sport.

As Arthur had predicted the two reached the end of the street by sunset. However, what they saw before them, their new ‘community’, was more of a slum than a neighborhood. Poorly constructed shacks and huts lay scrambled among the ground instead of being aligned. Alfred reached his hand out to take Ivan’s and squeeze it. Ivan looked around and saw a larger stone house to their right and pulled Alfred over to it. Ivan assumed it was were they could register with the city and learn what needs to be expected of them. Ivan rapped at the door and they waited patiently for someone to answer. The door opened and they were met with a large pudgy man who was dressed differently from the other villagers. It was obvious he was the government official here due to his plain attire, position medallion necklace and sash. The man was balding early for his age and had a poorly trimmed goatee that was easily turning into a beard.

“What do you want? You slaves?” The man asked, uninterested.

“Yes, we are slaves.” Alfred answered for them. “We have come to the Northern city to seek a free life and find work. We were told to come here.” The man sighed and stepped to the side, ushering them in. He closed the door behind them.

“Sit.” He said and the two did so in front of his table desk. Alfred and Ivan exchanged glances while the man shuffled through a box containing many papers. He let out an exhausted grunt as he sat heavily on his chair before clearing his throat. “I’m Sheriff Burke, the head man and main authority figure here.” He slid them both a paper and one quill. “Those are your citizen papers. You are to sign them. I don’t want to hear your sob stories or where you’ve come from. You must have these papers on your person at ALL times. If you are asked to show your papers and don’t have them, we have the right to bring you in for questioning.”

“That’s a little hardcore.” Alfred said, his eyebrows frowning. “Why must we carry around these papers?”

“To ensure that you belong to this city and have legally registered. We don’t want anyone sneaking in and trying to make a living without registering.” He sat back and crossed his arms. “Taxes need to be paid, you know.”

“Taxes?” Ivan looked up from the paper and to the sheriff. “How much do we have to pay? I hope it’s not for those log piles out there you call ‘homes’?”

“You’re responsible for building your own home. It must be within the vicinity of the city. If you wish to build further outside the community you will need a permit.” Ivan was going to ask why but he decided to just let it go for now. “Your taxes are automatically taken out of your pay in whatever job you get. Be thankful that our Lord doesn’t let you worry about paying on time. It’s taken care of for you.”

“Just how much is taken out?” Alfred asked.

“Depends on the job. What can you do?”

“Well, I’m the son of a blacksmith. I’m familiar with that.” Sheriff Burke turned in his chair to take out a large book from his shelf. He dropped it on the table and opened it, flipping through some pages. Alfred watched the man’s fat finger travel down a page before it stopped, tapping at a blank space.

“We have need of another blacksmith. How well can you do the job? You look fairly young to have any real experience?”

“I still have some things to learn but I’m no stranger to it.” Alfred smiled. “I’m sure the other blacksmiths will lend me a hand if I need it.”

“Then sign the paper and print your name here in the book.” Alfred signed in both spots and the sheriff stamped his paper. “Now you.” He turned to Ivan. “You’re a large ox. What can you do?” Ivan thought for a moment, trying to figure out what he would be best at. Fighting was what he was brought up to do.

“Well, as a slave I was a trained fighter. But I can build, hunt, fight, and probably farm. Which is what I would like to do. Farming sounds peaceful.” Ivan smiled happily.

“No.” Sheriff Burke answered quickly and Ivan frowned, or rather pouted. “You’re strength and size are needed in the iron mines. You will help excavate and transport the iron ore from the mines just outside the city. It pays higher than most of the other jobs in the city. Will you accept?” Ivan wanted to say ‘no’ but if it paid more than farming then he had a better chance of providing for Alfred. Granted they would be working together to make wages but he liked the domestic idea of it.

“Yes. I will accept.” Ivan signed his name on his paper and then in the book.

“Welcome to the neighborhood.” Sheriff Burke slammed the book shut. “As I said before, you will have to build your own home. Supplies are found in the community for your use. You must purchase your own food, clothing, water, and so on. Hunting is allowed if that is what you prefer. However, the patrol guards and myself are not responsible for anything damaged or stolen that was not bought from the city. So be mindful of that. Any questions you may have ask around. You will begin your jobs the moment I get them filed. Someone will come to you when we’re ready. That is all.”

“Thank you.” Alfred said and stood up, taking his paper with him. Ivan followed behind and they hurried out of the house, wanting to be as far away from the man as they could. “He’s nasty.”

“He’s our head authority figure here so mind your tongue.”

“Papers, papers, papers. I feel like this is sugarcoated slavery. Don’t you?” Ivan nodded.

“I do, but it is still far better than what COULD be, Alfred. I suggest we spend a few years here building up our funds and then seek out on our own. Perhaps the Empire will fall and we can be free to travel anywhere. I would like us to join up with a clan but after speaking to that William…I’m not sure that is the best move for us.” Alfred looked at Ivan’s saddened features and leaned up to kiss him.

“You may have given up but I haven’t! So many new things await us that aren’t pain and suffering! Look lively, my love!” Alfred slapped him on the bed. “We’re husband and husband now, remember? We’re in this together!” Alfred started to pull him along into the village. “We just need to find a place to sleep for the night! Then by morning we can start building and making friends!”

“Friends?” Ivan was never very social and Alfred could strike up a conversation with the Dark Wolf, even if the god didn’t want to. Speaking of the Dark Wolf and Winter, both seemed to have stopped haunting him. Could it really be the talisman Arthur had given him? Maybe things really were going to change for him.

“IT’S ONE OF THEM!” A woman shouted at them and picked up her son, running into their hut. Ivan and Alfred looked at one another and then to all the people around them. Each person had a look of fear and terror on their faces as they stared at Ivan.

“Now they are living among us?!” A man shouted and readied his pitchfork.

“Yo, hold up!” Alfred hollered, his eyes narrowing at the people. “What the hell is going on here? We’re new this city! We just registered! What are you people so afraid of?” No one answered but they all scurried away and out of sight. Ivan just blinked in confusion and scratched his cheek with his finger.

“I feel at home already.” He joked.

“That was weird. Everyone was looking at you like some sort of monster.”

“What seems to be the trouble over here?” Both men turned to a pair of patrol guards who had their clubs ready for an altercation. “Who are you? Do you have papers?” One asked and both held up their newly stamped papers. “Good. What’s all the yelling about?” The other guard smacked his comrade’s arm and pointed to Ivan.

“He’s one of those! Look!”

“One of what?” Alfred demanded and stood in front of Ivan. “I would like to know why everyone is so frightened of my partner?” The first guard looked at Ivan and cleared his throat before speaking.

“Sometimes this part of the city is ambushed by a mountain tribe. It happens maybe two or three times a month. Your friend there is clearly from one of those tribes. That is why everyone here fears him. They have good reason to. Those barbarians come riding in and pillage whatever they can find. Very rarely do they kill but they do like to steal. Luckily we can stop them in time or they would see the whole city burned!” Alfred looked up at Ivan who appeared just as shocked as he. “Where do you come from?”

“I am a former slave, sirs.” Ivan answered and stepped to stand beside Alfred. “I was taken from my mountain village many years ago when I was just a little boy. I’ve only recently escaped from slavery. I have no connection with this mountain tribe you fear and speak of.”

“Then you will have to establish you own peace with the villagers here.” Said the other patrol guard. “We will not help you in this matter.”

“But wait! I’m sure Ivan can help YOU and the village!” Alfred piped up and Ivan poked him in the side.

“What are you doing, Alfred?” Ivan whispered to him with an annoyed smile.

“How can he help?”

“When this tribe comes Ivan can talk to them! Maybe he can reason with them and keep any further attacks from happening! We can be heroes!” Ivan slumped his shoulders.

“You know, he has a point. Very well then. The next attack should be happening within the next week or two. Possibly. Until then try to keep out of trouble and gain the trust of the other villagers. We don’t need any extra work around here. We are heavily understaffed in these parts as it is.” With that the patrol guards walked away and Alfred looked up at Ivan.

“You can talk to them…right?” Ivan just smiled.

“How nice of you to ask me that AFTER you promised them I could help.” Alfred’s blood ran cold and his mouth dropped open. “Relax, I’m just kidding. We all speak the White Wolf words regardless of our own tribes’ dialects. Come, we’ll talk more about this after we find a place to spend the night. Now that everyone fears me I have a hunch that we will be sleeping in the streets.”

The two men went from door to door, asking for a place to stay for the evening. Each door was slammed in their faces or they were swung at with some sort of poverty weapon. Some of the villages would offer Alfred a place to sleep but he would not do so unless Ivan was allowed. That also earned them a door in the face. It was growing darker with each house they went to and the wind was growing crisp with night mountain air. Alfred started to shiver and Ivan happily shared half his scarf with him. Alfred wrapped it around his neck and face and sighed at the warmth it brought. To make it easier for them to walk side by side they held hands. This also kept them from finding a place to stay. Eventually, an elderly couple had offered them their floor and blankets for the night. Alfred and Ivan greatly thanked them and assured the couple that they would be no trouble. Alfred even helped the elderly woman make dinner and Ivan fixed the old man’s favorite chair. With full bellies and a warm fire, Ivan and Alfred cuddled into each other. They were allowed to sleep by the fire since they had to sleep on the floor.

Quietly they talked to one another about the mountain tribes and what they planned to do. Ivan was surprised when Alfred asked him if they wanted to go with the tribe after they spoke to them. He was certain that Alfred would want to stay in the city but to hear that he wanted to live in the mountains filled him with overwhelming relief. He had pulled his lover close and nuzzled his nose into his hair. Ivan had agreed that when the tribe would come he would ask to go with them. Together he could show Alfred his homeland and culture, introducing him to nature and its beauty. Of course, he would have to see how the tribe was first. Rarely did the mountain tribes attack city outskirts but then again times were changing. He was actually surprised to have heard of a mountain tribe in these parts at all! And with their new plan in set, the two lovers curled into each other and promptly fell asleep.

It had been a week and a half since their first arrival to the Northern city. They had begun their jobs and built a small hut of their own. Not only was Ivan feared but also both men were now the targets of pure jealousy. Since Ivan already knew how to build a solid house (and Alfred having learned at the hideout) their hut stood out as a grand piece of art. He and Alfred had aligned the base with three layers of stone before adding the cabin walls. A row of logs and heavy pine branches, among other large greenery, made for the roof. They had even made a hole in the top so they could have a little fire inside. While other huts and poorly constructed cabins collapsed under the weather, their house remained sturdy. They had offered to help the others rebuild but the prejudice was just too intense. Even though they were blacklisted from society, Ivan and Alfred couldn’t be happier together.

Then one night, while the two were snuggled up in bed, frightened screams had filled the air. Ivan woke up immediately, thinking back to that dreadful night that haunted him for years. If it wasn’t for Alfred tugging him out of bed Ivan would have remained there, frozen in his ghostly memories. He let Alfred pull him outside their little cabin and they could see the villagers running around like mad, trying to protect themselves. Ivan rushed back into their cabin and brought out their weapons. He handed the bow and arrows to Alfred and he readied his battle-axe. Together, the two hurried off into the maddening crowds in hopes of finding a ‘barbarian’ who was willing to talk. Ivan saw one riding through the cluster of houses and he shouted to him in their language.

‘STOP! I ASK YOU TO STOP! STOP FRIEND!’ The man pulled his horse to a stop and looked around for the voice. ‘OVER HERE!’ The man saw Ivan and clicked his horse in his direction. Ivan knew for certain these men were a real mountain tribe due to their dress. He was covered from head to foot in animal hide clothes and furs. On his back he carried a quiver and in his right hand, a bow. He stopped the horse in front of Ivan and looked at him curiously before speaking.

‘You. You are not from these parts. That scarf you wear…’

‘I am of the Buffalo tribe. My scarf is made from the wool of the mountain goats. I received it during my ceremony into manhood.’

‘Then how is you cease to be? The Buffalo tribe has been wiped out for years.’

“Ivan, first tell him to cease his raid!” Alfred whispered harshly. “Talk later!” Ivan nodded.

‘My friend, please stop your raid on this village. As you can see the people have taken to hiding in their little houses, completely defenseless. You have already won.’

‘Very well then, friend. We are curious to have stumbled across a Buffalo tribe member.’ The man reached for his animal horn and blew loudly into it. Immediately, more men dressed just as he was came from all sides to gather together. ‘BROTHERS! LOOK UPON THIS MAN HERE! HE IS OF THE BUFFALO TRIBE!’ The other men all looked to one another in astonishment and shock. Alfred still had his bow ready in case they were ambushed. ‘Tell us all how you have come to be in this godless place?’

‘After my village and tribe were raided by the imperial soldiers I was captured and sold into slavery. For many years I slaved away as a servant and a fighter. Now I have escaped with my mate and we seek solace among my people.’

‘Your mate is a man.’ He stated and narrowed his gaze at them.

‘I still crave the comfort and softness of a woman, my friend. But yes, this is my mate and he wishes to be one of us. We don’t have much time before the city guards come! Please consider us!’ The men all looked to one another again before the first man spoke.

‘Very well, we will take you to our village and leader. He will decide if you can stay with your…’mate’. We need more mountain brothers. Hop on a horse. Our raid is finished here.’ Ivan grinned and turned to Alfred.

“They have a village, Alfred! A village! They’re letting us go with them! Jump on a horse!”

“Wait, what?” Alfred was slightly confused but Ivan lifted him up onto a random man’s horse. The pale-eyed man looked at Alfred and he gave a lopsided smile. “Hi?” He said in greeting, knowing that the man did not understand a word he said. Still, a smile and a wave meant a friendly greeting.

“Don’t be afraid. We’re going to be fine.” Ivan jumped up onto another’s horse. “They are taking us to their village and leader.”

‘RIDE!’ The first man shouted and the tribe rode off behind him.

Alfred was slightly unprepared for the sudden jerking of the horse, unable to understand the tribal word for ‘ride’. He nearly fell off the horse but with a strong grip of the rider’s quiver strap he remained seated. Although he was happy for Ivan, Alfred felt a little worried at how fast things have happened. They had only been in the city for a week and now they were on their way to a whole other world. It was true that Alfred wanted to get away from the terrible society they were living in but now he didn’t know what to expect from this culture. The mythical stories Ivan told of his world were a thing of beauty and imagination to Alfred. However, now that he was actually ON his way to this ‘magical’ world of gods and spirits, he was a little more than skeptical. And that was not the only thing bothering him. He did not like the look the ‘leader’ gave him while he was speaking to Ivan. Alfred could infer that it was because he wasn’t of the ‘mountain people’ but rather from the city. For all these men knew of him he could be an imperial supporter. He looked over at Ivan who was happy as a clam, grinning from ear to ear. Alfred had to smile at his ‘husband’s’ look of pure excitement and happiness. Ivan had been plagued and haunted by the destruction of his people for so long without any hope of ever seeing his world again. But now, they were on their way to a tribal village where they could possibly make a living? Alfred smiled again and puffed his chest out proudly as the party entered the mountain woods. There was no reason to be afraid, he told himself. He had escaped the life of a sex slave and fought his way to freedom. He had trained in combat and strengthened his skills in archery. It was time to stop looking at new things with fear and start looking at it as something to discover.

They rode long into the night over forest downs and dense woods. The higher they climbed the more frigid the air became. Both of them were not properly dressed for the cold weather but Ivan was handling it better than he was. Alfred found himself huddling into the fur coat the rider was wearing, hiding his face to protect it from the chill. He was comfortable enough to actually fall asleep against the man’s back. By early morning they had arrived at the village and a jerking halt of the horse broke Alfred of his sleep, snorting him awake.

“Alfred, we’re here!” Ivan called over to him and pointed to the village in front of them.

“Wow! It’s…not what I expected.” Alfred’s rider slid off his horse and beckoned for him to do the same.

Everyone dismounted and Alfred walked close to Ivan as they entered the village. The many cabins were similar to one they had made back in the city. Snow must have recently fallen for the rooftops were blanketed in white. Fur clad villagers all stopped to stare at them, particularly looking at Alfred more than Ivan. Alfred was truly amazed by their identical appearances; all have some shade of blonde or silver hair with pale eyes. Some were blue, others violet and even shades of gray! Alfred was clearly out of place here with his wheat-colored hair and slightly tanner skin. These people lived in a very primitive manner, more so than he had originally thought. Everything appeared to be done by hand and working devices were usually a stick with some type of shaped stone tied to it. ‘Can I actually live like this?’ Alfred asked himself, wrapping his arms around his chest tight to keep away the cold. ‘It’s a snowy wasteland! Okay, okay, don’t panic yet. Remember, you need to learn new things and not be afraid of them. Unless those things are ghosts.’

“Alfred, pay attention. The man is offering you his fur.” Ivan pointed to Alfred’s rider who held out his fur poncho for him. Ivan was wearing one of his own, given to him by another. Alfred thanked him and eagerly slipped it over his head, already feeling his body warming up. “Now just stay quiet next to me when we approach the tribal leader. You are the center of attention right now and he will likely be interested in you. Just smile like you always do and let me do all the talking.”

“Ivan…I don’t speak this language or have you forgotten?” Ivan chuckled.

“I will teach it to you. And living among the speech you will pick it up quickly.”

‘Speech…living…whole new world.’ Alfred gulped and remained glued to Ivan’s hip.

The first man brought them to a larger cabin that was built up on stone piled pillars. A ladder was the only way up to the small railed in porch lit with torches. The man beckoned the two to follow him up the ladder and Ivan went first, then Alfred. He held the heavy blanketed flap to the side and ushered Ivan and Alfred into the cabin. The larger cabin was decorated with animal busts, skins, bones and horns. Various bundles of dried herbs dangled from the ceiling, giving the inside a strong, clean smell. To the far end sat a man who looked to be the same age as Winter. He sat on a throne-like chair made of wood, bones, and antlers. He wore the same type of furs the others did but they were white instead of the other colors of brown and grays. Alfred had to contain his laughter at the sight of the strange fur hat the leader was wearing. It had three large antlers emerging from the fur, two on the side and one in the front. How the antlers were mounted onto the hat was a mystery Alfred did not want to discover. Around his neck were three or four necklaces all with colored beads and animal teeth or claws? Either way the man was a little intimidating, which is why he was the leader. He looked to be a very strong fighter and hunter given all the animal tokens adorning his person. His pale blue eyes bore into Alfred’s and he even felt himself shiver with something other than the cold.

‘Lord of the North and Stag! We found a descendent of the vanquished Buffalo tribe while on our raid in the Northern city! He has come to seek solace among us for his lost tribal members. He was taken as a slave very young and trained as a deadly fighter. He knows the empire language and has been among them for most of his life! I believe he will be a great addition to our growing tribe! We can use his skills and knowledge of the empire to help understand how their system works! As you can see his scarf is that of the mountain sheep, handmade for his ceremony into manhood. With our people and culture slowly disappearing we need all of us we can find to preserve the race! Please accept him into our tribe!’ Ivan looked at the leader and bowed his head in respect. Alfred did the same and his motion had caught the leader’s attention.

‘And who is this with him?’ The leader asked in a deep voice and Ivan answered.

‘Lord of the North and Stag, my name is Ivan and this is my mate, Alfred. We were slaves in the same house and we escaped together. We were fortunate enough to find our way here, which was our very goal when we escaped bondage. We would like to explore your tribe and hopefully find a place within its circle.’ The leader looked from Ivan to Alfred, his eyes lingering there.

‘THIS is your mate? He is not of our kind nor is he from our world. He is from the city of the Damned and his presence here is a bad omen. No outsider, to my knowledge, man or woman has ever entered into an established tribe.’

‘Lord of the North and Stag, Alfred is the son of a blacksmith. A maker of weapons, you see? Years of being in slavery can warp your mind a bit, which has led me to claim Alfred as my mate. We have been through a lot together and we are promised to one another. Alfred is a skilled archer with quick wit and agility. Also, he is well versed in the empire language and ways, the same as I. Our brother here understands how that can be helpful. Alfred wants to escape the cruel living and rule of the empire by becoming one of us. Give him time to prove himself.’

‘Hmm… this outsider is strange to me. He does not have the look of the white spirits. No pale hair or eyes.’ Ivan feared these superstitious ideals would make things difficult for himself and Alfred. He had to work his way around it.

‘Lord of the North and Stag, Alfred is a man with no womb to give life to a mixed blood child. His presence here is simply as my mate and a brother of the hunt and tribe. His seed will not produce sons and his traits will die with him. Please see him as a brother and not a stranger.’

‘Brother Ivan, why mate with a man who cannot produce offspring? It seems odd to me, yet I know it exists. Do women disgust you?’

‘Not in the least.’ Ivan smiled. ‘If I may be blunt, I find it much easier and less annoying to have a mate who understands my needs. With Alfred, there is no nagging and no yelling, only pleasure. And we both can go right to sleep after.’ The leader threw his head back and gave a mighty laugh. ‘That worked.’ Ivan said to himself.

“I wish I knew what all of you were saying! I’ve only heard my name and it is coming up a LOT.” Alfred narrowed his eyes at Ivan. “Just what is going on?” Ivan put his finger to his lips, signaling Alfred to remain quiet.

‘Bring him to me. I would like to examine him for a moment.’

Ivan sighed and turned to Alfred, telling him that the leader wanted to see him. Alfred protested but Ivan promised that he would be all right and examinations of tribe members were a common thing. Alfred held his breath and walked up to the man on the strange throne, standing before him. The leader stroked his bearded chin as his eyes traveled along Alfred’s body. The man’s pale eyes reminded him of Winter and he felt the bile sting his throat. The man reached his large hand out to feel the texture of Alfred’s hair, rubbing a strand between his fingers. Alfred tried to keep a straight face but he just could not get over how much this man reminded him of Winter. He actually felt like he was going to be sick.

‘He seems healthy enough. Can he hunt?’

‘He hasn’t learned yet but I am planning on teaching him. He has shown me that he can hit a moving target so it shouldn’t be long before he is bringing back meat. I take full responsibility for him.’

‘Very well, we will give him a trial period and see how well he does. If he can prove himself useful then he will be accepted into the tribal brotherhood. If not, you will have to make your choice to stay here or go with him.’ He ushered Alfred away with his hand. Alfred was more than happy to get away from the old man and he remained close to Ivan. The two began talking again and all Alfred could do was stand and watch their lips moving. Ivan finally turned from him and gave a large grin.

“He just told me that this village is a very safe place to live! This village is protected by the Northern city because it is built near the mining hills. This land cannot be touched. He said as long as the tribes keep away from the mines there would be no issue. So it is safe to say that this will be our new home, Alfred! We have a home!” Alfred just smiled at him and said how thrilled he was to be able to live here. He was still hesitant about the whole thing but seeing Ivan so excited and happy he chose to keep silent.

‘Ranar will take you to a cabin that has been recently abandoned. A tribe brother came back from a hunt with a missing arm. It festered and killed him. You will have to fix it up and add your own touches to it. Before you are taken on a hunt, Ivan, you will spend a day showing this Alfred how to make tools, gather food, clean and dry pelts. Once he has proven himself with those trades, then we will take him on a hunt and see how he performs. You both are dismissed.’ Ivan bowed and so did Alfred.

‘Come with me.’ Ranar said and led them from the leader’s cabin to their own.

The village looked to have about fifty some huts and cabins, most filled with small families. Each family seemed to have a sled with a sleigh dog or two. Their cabin was right in the middle of the village and it was big enough to comfortably hold both of them. There was a small covered porch with only a door leading in and no windows. Ranar let them inside and they could see that the cabin already had everything they needed. There was a bed to the far left that could hold both of them and it was near the hearth. In the center was a wooden table with two benches along its sides. The hearth contained a copper pot and woven basket filled with dried wood. On the opposite side of the hearth lay three shelves, which held some clay bowls and cups. Above them was another half floor that could be reached with a wooden ladder. It had another very small bed and Ranar explained to them that the dead man’s wife and daughter had to move elsewhere.

Ivan was quite impressed with the cabin and there was little he had to do. Soon he would be decorating it with furs and pelts of animals he had hunted. Alfred thought the place was cozy and quaint, seeing himself easily living here. It wasn’t as big as his father’s home but it was more than enough for the two of them. And anything was better than living the life of a slave. Alfred reached his hand out and grasped Ivan’s, lightly squeezing it. Ivan squeezed back and they shared a smile. Ranar cleared his throat and the two turned to look at him.

‘We have some extra clothes and furs for you to wear but only until you make your own. They will be brought to you. Meat, water, and mead will be available shortly. Everyone gets their own portion and nothing more. You eat and dry what you can kill. The village meat is only for a failed hunt. Whatever you kill you are allowed to make yourself. We do take some things from the city because we do not have the resources here like we did further into the mountains. We have to make due with what we can steal. It is not honorable or natural for us…but with these changing times we have no choice. We try to keep to our ways as best we can. And since you both know the Empire language, nothing is stopping you from sneaking into the city to get things you need.’

‘Ranar, I was just wondering about this tribe’s relationship with the city. Even if you are protected on this land from the imperial soldiers what’s to stop the city guards from coming to us? You have been raiding their city.’

‘They do not care about the poor people in that little village. They get more and more each day. It is not worth their time or effort. We really have no fear of them. Besides, they do not see us as any actual threat to the big city itself.’ Ivan thanked him for answering his question. ‘Also, there is a lake not too far from here. We also eat the fish we catch. There are canoes on the banks but you have to ask for a fishing rod. You will see the little path behind the leader’s cabin that leads straight to it. You should see it. We also meet in the night to tell ghost stories and glories of the past or gods. Please join us for that.’ Ivan smiled.

‘It will be just like old times. Too bad my Alfred will not be able to understand the stories. Although I suppose I could translate as it is being told.’

‘Good. I will send some clothes your way.’ Ranar gave his chest three beats with his fists and Ivan returned the gesture. Alfred did so as well, assuming it was some sort of ‘goodbye’ motion. After Ranar left, Alfred moved over to the bed and looked at the fur blanket lining it.

“So this is our new home.”

“Do you like it?”

“Well…it’s more than I thought it would be. Stealing from the city seems to have helped out quite a bit. It sure is cold, though. Could you get a fire going?”

“Of course.”

Ivan pulled some of the wood from the basket and laid it in the hearth. He picked up two rocks besides the basket and smacked them together, igniting a flame. While he tended to the fire Alfred looked over the clay bowls and cups. There was a smell that he just could not get away from and he thought it was coming from inside the house. Upon looking all around, he found nothing where he had thought to find a dead rodent of some kind. So what was making that smell? He looked down at his belt and frowned.

“Ivan…I think the deer leg needs to be…well…cleaned out like all those animal busts.”

“Fear not, I can do that.” He chuckled. “We will hang it outside so it doesn’t stink up the place.” Alfred didn’t wait and he went to do so, laying it down on the porch floor before going back inside. “We will be able to eat soon and then we will go and listen to stories!”

“You mean stories I won’t be able to understand?” Alfred pouted.

“I will translate it for you as it is being told. Then maybe we can go and see the lake Ranar spoke of.”

“Lake?”

“Yes, there is a fishing lake near here and a path leading to it. Let me see how the evening goes and maybe I can take you there. Have you ever been on a lake at night?” Alfred shook his head and Ivan smiled. “You’ll love it.”

After a bit of rearranging and fixing small things, their warm clothes were finally brought to them. Ivan’s tunic and pants were animal hide while Alfred’s were mostly all wool for extra warmth. The fur cloaks were made from wolves and they covered from their shoulders to their waist. The front was opened for hunting and working but could be closed up tight to keep from the cold. The boots were strong hide and animal fur, which Alfred found to be extremely warm and comfortable. Ivan had only his scarf but Alfred was given a fur hat to wear. Ivan stared at Alfred dressed in his cultures’ attire and he felt his heart swell to twice its size. Alfred was just as beautiful covered in furs as he was half naked and dancing in sheer tunics. He was certain that he preferred the current dressed Alfred to the ‘naughty’ one.

Once they were properly dressed, the two explored their way through the village to find the bonfire. Alfred just followed the smell of roasting meat until they came upon the center opening. A large bonfire sat in the middle surrounded by seven logs used for sitting. The tribe’s leader sat on a stool like chair made of bone with colored feathers dangling from it. Behind him stood a woman who could only be his wife and a young boy who looked to be a few years younger than Alfred. The boy looked just like leader so he must be his son. Just like in the outlaw hideout they were offered their share of meat and drink. The meat was not as seasoned as the kind from the Arthur’s group but it was warm and filled their bellies. Many of the people were looking at Alfred and he just gave them a friendly smile back. Some returned it, mostly the women, and others just continued to stare. He even felt the pale eyes of the leader staring at him and he cringed. Shortly after the meat was finished and dished out, hot apple cider was passed out. The two did not know they had to bring their own cups but luckily there were extra for them to use. Alfred had never had hot apple cider before and he decided that it was his new favorite drink. Ivan explained to him that this was treat and he should expect hot broth more often than cider. After hearing that, Alfred made sure to nurse on it so he could savor its taste.

The sky grew dark and stars soon littered the sky while the fire continued to blaze. Alfred was leaning into Ivan, completely content and relaxed despite his recent skepticism. The tribe members started to clap or bellow as an elderly man dressed in brown woolen robes entered the circle. Ivan explained to Alfred that this man was the tribal elder and he held the power to tell ‘fortunes’ and ‘do magic’. The magic could only be done if the tribal spirit willed it but Ivan assured his lover that it was just a title and not real. But Ivan warned him that the village elder was almost as powerful as the leader and was not to be taken lightly. Right now the elder was starting to tell a story and Ivan began to translate for Alfred. He was already familiar with the story himself so it made things easier.

“This is the story of how the tribal spirits came to be.” Ivan started and Alfred showed interest in the subject matter. “After animal and man began to fight among one another there came a time when the earth grew depressed. Grey Wolf could not soothe the saddening world despite all of his talents and magic. After many days of begging, the earth finally told Grey Wolf that she was sad because of all the bloodshed that soaked her body. She was referring to animal and man fighting for power over the land. After hearing her tale of woe, Grey Wolf set out to think of a way to ease her suffering. If he didn’t do so soon then the lush world that nourished them would shrivel and die.” Alfred stared at Ivan, wide eyed with his cider cup to his lips.

“After many days of thinking, Grey Wolf had finally come up with a plan. He sat upon his mighty cliff overlooking his domain and howled long into the night. The howl could only heard by the strongest female animals in the woods and so they traveled to his domain. Upon them were animals such as: a fox, rabbit, stag, goat, buffalo, elk, moose, kite, and otter, just to name a few.” Ivan had to wait a few minutes while the elder told of what was spoken among the animals. When he had heard the words he turned back to Alfred. “The Grey Wolf told all the females present that during the mating of the next full winter moon their wombs would be filled a constant warmth unlike any young they had previously carried. To those who have multiple young, one would come out with white fur and red eyes. To the others, their offspring will have the same fur and eyes.”

“Why white fur and red eyes? I never caught on to that.” Alfred asked him, sipping more of the hot cider.

“Because of Grey Wolf’s mother, the White Wolf. It was a way for him to continue carrying on her spirit. I’m sure I must have told you that?” Alfred smiled.

“Even if you did, I liked hearing it again. So what happened next! Tell me, tell me!” Ivan chuckled and continued.

“After he was finished with them, he howled for three days and three nights straights until the full winter moon. This howl was his strength and power working together to bestow the gift upon the chosen females. Once the mating was done and their wombs warm, the females set off to protect their young. They relied fully on their mate to care for and protect them. After some weeks of growing, all the females went into labor and birthed their young. It was the same morning sunrise for all of them and just as Grey Wolf had said, one offspring would have white fur and red eyes. The moment those babies were bone, they grew to full adults but did not stop there. They grew twice the size of their parents so the world could see they had godly powers in their bodies. Then, the white animals took off into the world to begin gathering up their human followers and gaining the title of ‘Tribal Spirit’. And that is how the tribal spirits and clan came to be.”

“That’s a great story, Ivan! But what is the purpose of them?”

“They are the link between humans and animals. With the tribal spirits ruling humans and controlling animals the world was once again brought to balance. The spirits remind the humans of simple things like taking only what they need and killing for life, not for sport. The whole ‘warmth in the womb’ part was a way to show how the godly spirits would nurture and warm the world back to serenity.”

“So there are no ‘wolf’ tribes?” Ivan shook his head.

“We are all decedents from the wolves. The tribal spirits are our guardians on earth. This tribe in particular is the Stag Tribe but I see some mixed tribe members in it.”

“Hey Ivan, what tribe would I be in? If I were born to your world what tribe would it be? Is there a meaning behind the animals and the tribes together?” Ivan chuckled softly.

“Not really. It’s just the tribe you’re born in to. It also has to do with where the tribes settle. For example, my tribe was on the plains. This tribe is in the woods; otters would be by the massive mountain lake, kites would be in the trees you get the picture.”

Alfred smiled and finished off his hot cider. He enjoyed the story and looked forward to hearing more in the future. Both men grew tired rather quickly from their journey so they went back to their cabin. Ivan closed the latch to lock the door and went to tend the fire once more. Alfred stripped himself of the boots, cloak, and hat. He remained in his clothes as he climbed into bed, finding the bedding a bit bumpy. Ivan promised him that he would hunt many fowl to stuff their bedding with down feathers for them. Ivan took off the furs as well and joined Alfred in the bed, pulling the blanket around them. They lay side by side so they were facing each other. The room was dark with only the soft orange glow of the fire dancing on the walls. The cabin was so cozy that Alfred had a hard time keeping his eyes opened. Ivan smiled and stroked his cheek.

“Are you happy so far, my love?”

“I am. I’m a little worried about living this way, though. I just have to get used to it.”

“You will. You adapt easily to the world around you. Soon you will learn our language and no one will look at you as a stranger. Now tomorrow, be prepared to do all sorts of strange work. Some will be male related, others female related. Just grit your teeth and deal with it, okay?” Alfred was too tired to complain so he just answered with a grunt, closing his eyes. Ivan leaned forward and kissed his forehead. “Sleep well, little rabbit. There is so much I want to teach you…” His response was met with a snore. Ivan just closed his eyes and fell into a deep sleep as well.

Three days had passed and Alfred had found his worth among the tribe. He was still not able to go on a hunt but he was able to make weapons quickly and efficiently. Alfred was more than willing to try anything from weaving baskets to gutting animals. There was always so much work to be done that leisure time was hard to come by. Finding new trades was interesting and fun, which helped to pass the time. But today would be the first day Alfred was left alone in the village. Ivan was invited on a hunt and Alfred was left with the ladies to weave baskets and blankets. He didn’t mind it, though. The women were friendlier and always smiled at him while the men just gawked or glared. His and Ivan’s relationship was confusing many of the males here so Alfred knew that was more the reason for their ill treatment of him. While he was working on a particular basket, Ranar came up to him and said something in their language. Alfred shrugged his shoulders to show that he did not understand the man’s words. Ranar pointed to the leader’s cabin and waved his hand for Alfred to follow. Alfred excused himself and got up from the sitting blankets to follow Ranar. He was still extremely uncomfortable around the leader but he knew he had to be obedient. Alfred wondered what the leader could possibly want with him? Maybe he just wanted to feel his soft hair again. Whatever the reason he would find out soon enough. He went up the ladder and entered the cabin, getting down on his knees in greeting just like Ivan had shown him. It was a sign of respect and not a sign of submission. The man was smoking a long pipe and sitting on a bed of furs next to his fire without that ridiculous hat. His pale eyes looked at Alfred and he said something to him.

“I’m sorry, I don’t understand you.” Alfred showed with hand gestures. The man left and said something again as he lowered his pipe to the floor. Alfred watched the leader’s mouth creep up into a smirk and his palm circle the fur. Alfred hoped the man wasn’t trying to get with him but he knew that smirk. He had seen it many times on his clients. The man said something again and pats the furs. “No.”

The man glared at him and Alfred shook his head, repeating the word ‘no’. Alfred matched his glare and shook his head again. The man may be his ‘leader’ but he was not a pleasure slave anymore. He would lay only with Ivan who he has promised himself to. That life was behind him and there was no way this man’s power and title was going to overpower him. The man shouted in anger and banged his fist on the furs. Alfred shouted ‘no’ again and stood up to leave. The leader did the same and with surprising speed caught up to him before he could leave. Alfred glared at the elder man as the bulky hand grasped his arm painfully. Alfred was torn between trying to pull away or attempt to fight back. The man kept saying words angrily and pulling him into embraces, which Alfred fought off.

“I SAID NO! NO!” Alfred did not want to ruin his or Ivan’s chance at living here. Ivan loved his new tribe and even wore the same happy smile for three days straight. How was Alfred going to take all that away from him? “NO! GET OFF OF ME!” Alfred continued to struggle but the man was still much stronger than he was, despite his age. The man pulled him closer and tried to hold his struggling body against him. Alfred shouted and fought him, punching, kicking, and biting. The leader started to drag him to the furs but Alfred grabbed on to the doorframe, refusing to let go. “NO! YOU FUCKING BASTARD I SAID ‘NO’! HELP! HELP!” Alfred shouted in hopes someone, anyone, would come and help him.

Ivan paused in his walk through the woods with the hunting group of five. Something was not right and he could feel it in his bones. The others turned to him and asked what was wrong. Ivan did not answer them but turned to look behind him. His eyes widened when he saw the Dark Wolf standing some feet behind him. The wolf was the size of an average one but this time its entrails hung from under its belly. He stood in a threatening pose, appearing ready to attack. Ivan slowly turned around and stared at the Dark Wolf before lowering his eyes to its bleeding guts. He felt warmth against the skin of his chest where the talisman from Arthur rests. The wolf was fading in and out of vision but Ivan was unable to ignore it. The sight of the entrails was the same as that night in the hideout when he had spoken to Winter.

‘Winter!’ Ivan said to himself and saw the wolf take off away from him. Ivan ignored the shouts from his hunting party and took off after the Dark Wolf. Something was wrong and he knew it had to do with Alfred. Something was happening to Alfred back at the camp and the wolf had come to warn him. The talisman was beginning to burn and the wolf’s ghostly figure was becoming harder to keep in focus. Ivan reached into his tunic and ripped the talisman from his neck, tossing it to the snowy ground. The Dark Wolf now appeared in full view and Ivan blindly followed it.

End Chapter 12 TBC

***There will only be one more chapter of Decadence Escaping before I bring it to a close! However, this story is going to have TWO endings. Yes, you read right. TWO endings. The first ending will be written within the last chapter. The second ending will have its own chapter. THE READER WILL CHOOSE THEIR ENDING! You may choose to read the happy ending or the sad ending. Yes, there will be a sad ending, which will be the second choice. It is how I REALLY want the story to end but I rather leave it open as a choice. Therefore, you, and myself can BOTH win! ^^ I am not giving away any more information than that. I just want to give everyone a warning ahead of time. I will remind everyone in the upcoming chapter.***
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Decadence Escaping	By : FlayraDowitcher Category: +G to L > Hetalia: Axis Powers Views: 2961 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own Hetalia.

Decadence Escaping