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Decadence Escaping
By : FlayraDowitcher
Category: +G to L > Hetalia: Axis Powers
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Disclaimer: I do not own Hetalia.
Chapter List
- 12
- 13
***Thanks for the reviews everyone! Yes, this will be the final chapter for Decadence Escaping. Please read the author notes at the end of the chapter.

Also, the second (alternate) ending to this story will follow after the Author’s Notes at the end of this chapter. You may choose to read it if you wish.

***Warnings: Violence, blood, hardcore yaoi, slightly disturbing scenes and rituals.

***Warnings for SECOND ENDING: Angst, character death, language, sickness, and symbolism. To some this may be uncomfortable but it was the ending I always had in mind for the story. You may choose to read it if you are comfortable with the warnings.

***Disclaimer: I do not own Hetalia.

Chapter 13: Final Chapter and Second Ending.

Ivan followed the Dark Wolf through the woods and back to the village. He knew something was terribly wrong and it had to do with Alfred. Thinking back to their times at the Nazun house, Ivan was fairly certain Alfred was being forced by another male in the tribe. All the men, and some women, were just infatuated with Alfred’s looks and Ivan’s strong attachment to him. These were still backwards people who were willing to try anything, especially the males. Men of Alfred’s lithe build would have never existed in the tribes, at least not at his age. Adolescent boys were of Alfred’s size and grown men were supposed to be built like Ivan. Lanky males were usually sickly and left out the cold. Chances are, some of the males wanted to test Alfred out since he was ‘unusual’. Ivan was certain that he would have to be fighting the moment he reached the village. But the wolf led him to the leader’s hut where he could hear Alfred’s cursing.

“Just great…!” Ivan hissed to himself. The last thing he wanted to do was fight the leader for if what William said were true then he would be the head of the tribe. That was a title he wanted to avoid if all possible. He would be fighting constantly with other males trying to take his position and with his pride he would never just hand it over. “Hopefully Alfred has defended himself…”

When Ivan pushed through the flap, he saw Alfred, still fully clothed, fighting off the leader. Alfred was using his legs and fists to hit all parts of the man. The heavy fur the leader wore helped to soften the blows and he appeared to be getting more enjoyment out of the struggle. Ivan slammed his hunting spear down to alert them of his presence. Both men stopped and looked towards Ivan.

“IVAN!” Alfred shouted to him.

‘Let him go!’ Ivan said in their native language. ‘He is my mate!’

‘He came to me.’ The man responded and still held a tight grip on Alfred.

‘Last time I’m asking you! Don’t make me have to fight you because I will. And I will win.’

“Ivan for the love of all that is, DO SOMETHING! I don’t want to ruin our time or chance here!” The leader smirked and tossed Alfred to the ground with a heavy thump.

‘Outside. We will settle this. I, the Lord of the North and Stag, shall open your belly to the skies!’ Ivan smirked. ‘Fists only.’

‘I accept.’

“Ivan, what’s going on? Where are you going?”

“To start a fight, of course! Now I have to defeat him, kill him, and then become the new leader because you are so damn cute. Stop being attractive.” Ivan smiled sweetly and Alfred just stared at him blankly.

The leader was already outside and down the ladder, waiting for Ivan to join him. One of the nearby men noticed the fight and he took out his horn to blow the warning sound. Ivan approached the leader with Alfred a few steps behind just as others were gathering around to watch them. Alfred asked him if he wanted to rethink this but Ivan just shook his head. He was not one to back down from any fight, even if the end result was something he didn’t want. To back down would be a huge sign of weakness and the tribal members would chase him out. He had to fight for Alfred’s honor and his own pride.

The leader removed all of his body décor and some furs, leaving him in just his hide attire. Ivan did the same, tossing all his furs to Alfred to hold. Ivan cracked his neck and back, warming his body up for the task at hand. The man was around the same age as Winter with the same level of strength and experience in battle. Maybe a little more so since he had to survive in the woods, unlike Winter. This fight may be more of a challenge and he licked his lips with excitement. He was starting to get into it now.

“Are you sure you want to do this?” Alfred asked him.

“I’m sure.”

“But aren’t you afraid you’ll become the leader?”

“I’m not afraid but we will cross that bridge after we get to it. There is no doubt in my mind that I am going to win. Stand back.”

The two men closed in on one another and began circling, searching for an opening. Ivan decided to attack first to get a feel of how hard and fast the man can hit. He blocked Ivan’s blow easily and the next couple that came after the first. Ivan was able to lift his knee up and strike the man in his side. The leader took hold of Ivan’s arm and spun him, flipping him over onto his back in the snow. Ivan had expected a move like this and he was fairly used to them. He recovered quickly and locked his arm around the other’s leg, attempting to knock him off balance. The leader gripped Ivan’s hair and painfully tugged his back to the top of his spine. Ivan grit his teeth and added his second arm with the first, proceeding to snap the man’s kneecap. The leader immediately released his hold and folded his fists to come crashing down on Ivan’s skull. Though stunned, Ivan was able to loosen his hold and stand back on his feet.

The duel continued on in this manner with both men wrestling to gain the upper hand. Once he was able to grip the leader’s arm, he used his skill to snap the joint in half. The man gave a hissed but hid his pain like a true leader. He backed away from Ivan with his twisted arm, hanging limply at his side. Ivan spit some blood filled salvia into the snow and wiped his mouth before beckoning the man to attack again. Now that he had only one arm to use effectively Ivan could end the fight quickly. The leader attacked again but this time had to focus on using his weight to gain the upper hand. Ivan was familiar with this type of method as well and in a few more heavy flips, the duel was over. Ivan had slammed his boot down on the leader’s neck and slowly began to crush his windpipe under he smacked the ground in surrender. The other men all shook their heads and murmured amongst themselves. Now that the old leader had surrendered, it was Ivan’s duty to kill him for shaming the tribe.

Ivan watched as the leader nobly sat on his knees and bowed his head in defeat, his arm still dangling beside him. Now was the moment where Ivan would have to kill him and take up the position as tribal leader. Normally, the loser would either be beheaded or have his skull smashed on a ceremonial rock. So Ivan was a bit surprised when Ranar tossed a sword at him. He caught the hilt and looked at the blade before looking to the leader. Death by a sword was the Empire’s way of doing things, not the brotherhood of the wolf. He had to remember that some traditions were different now then when he was young so best to follow through. Ivan looked back at Alfred who could already tell what Ivan was going to do the old leader. He gave Ivan a sad, slightly disappointing look.

“This is the way of the tribes, Alfred. If it bothers you, don’t look.” Alfred shook his head.

“I won’t turn my head. I know this is something you have to do and I wish things were different…but we have ourselves to think of.”

Ivan nodded and turned back to the leader who still had his neck outstretched, awaiting the blade. Ivan had done this numerous times and he could make it swift. However, it did reoccur to him that this man was trying to have his way with Alfred so he shouldn’t go easy on him. The familiar rage and jealousy swept through his veins, making him see dark red. Ivan had decided that a swift beheading was not a proper punishment for attempting to rape his lover. Instead, he held the hilt with both hands and raised the blade above his head. With a swift sparkle of light in the blade, Ivan brought the point down and through the back of the neck. The blade came straight out through the leader’s throat and dark blood splattered onto the white snow. Alfred’s eye only twitched at the sudden blow but a chill traveled down his spin. The leader gasped and choked around the blade, streams of blood dripping from his mouth. The tribal members gasped in surprise as they watched their former leader slowly drift towards the ground. Ivan pressed his foot on the man’s back and pulled the blade out of his throat. The former leader’s body collapsed onto the snow, trembling a few times before his body lay completely still. Everyone remained silent as Ivan stuck the sword into the ground and turned back to Alfred.

“I couldn’t let him get away with what he tried to do to you.” Alfred just responded with a nod before turning his eyes to meet the crowd, where the village elder was making his way through. The old man walked up to the dead corpse of the former leader and slowly bent down to remove the necklace of teeth and claws. “Ah…here it comes.” Ivan lowered his head so the elder could place the necklace on his shoulders.

‘You who has slain the former leader may now take up the power of the North and Stag!’ The elder held his arms out to his side and bowed low at the waist. The other tribal members fell to their knees all around them and Ivan actually felt a little twitch of joy.

“Are you going to accept?” Alfred asked him.

Ivan took the necklace in his hand and looked down at it, studying the teeth and claws carefully. Why shouldn’t he accept his new role as a tribal leader? If he were still living among his own tribe he would have never had this opportunity. He thought he would hate the title of ‘tribal leader’ but now that he actually held the power, he liked it. Ivan told himself that he had been a slave to others for most of his childhood straight on into manhood. He could lift himself from the dirt straight up onto a dais of power. Going from slave to king, in a manner of speaking, was a chance in a lifetime. He couldn’t pass it up. It would be a challenge since times were different but he was certain he could make it work.

“Yes. Yes I want to accept.” He turned to Alfred with a smile. “Will you be my mate and rule beside me?”

“I thought I couldn’t because I’m not a woman?”

“You will be my number one mate. I will see what I can do after I speak to the elder. I think I have an idea.” He winked at Alfred and kissed his cheek before turning to the elder, who was now standing erect and awaiting Ivan’s answer.

‘Do you accept this honor?’ The elder asked again.

‘I do. I accept my role as tribal leader and I ask that Alfred continue to be my chosen mate.’ The elder looked hesitant.

‘M-My lord…he is a man. He can’t sire-‘ Ivan held his hand up to stop him.

‘I just came to this position by defeating the previous leader. I believe I am safe to say that any one of these young bucks could challenge me for the position, yes?’ The elder nodded. ‘So if that happens, or if something happens to my life, then the men will fight each other to reign supreme. Am I correct?’ The elder sighed.

‘Yes. Yes you are right. The spirits have chosen you to lend their strength to and finish this battle. Your mate is of your own choice.’ Ivan smiled and looked over his shoulder at Alfred.

“You are the new tribal ‘mother’, Alfred. We can stay together as mates!” Alfred raised an eyebrow.

“Hold it, I’m not going to be ‘tribal mother’! I’m ‘tribal lover’ or ‘tribal brother’ or something like that! I don’t want to be referred to as ‘mother’!”

“They will call you that until you learn our language. After that, we will decide a new title for you.” Alfred was about to protest when the elder said something loudly to the tribe and they all cheered with their weapons high.

‘Lord of the North and Stag, you may go to the high chamber belonging to the former leader and take or discard his things. Tonight we will have your coronation.’

‘And then my wedding right after! Or before the coronation! I want everyone to know that Alfred is my mate and their tribal mother! The spirits allowed us to escape together and we were able to come this far, so they have accepted him already. Our tribe shall as well.’ The elder looked sadly at Alfred, more baffled than anything.

‘Yes, my lord. Um…shall he…go through the traditional ritual of brides?’

Ivan burst out laughing with both the elder and Alfred more confused than before. Each tribe added their own tradition to the women’s preparation for marriage and just the thought of Alfred going through it amused him. He would have to hold the womb cut from a female animal (preferably one in heat) while the elders and older women chanted nonsense to their chosen tribal spirit. Ivan thought of telling that bit to Alfred after he had told him the tale of how the tribal spirits came to be. But he was enjoying that hot apple cider so much. A city boy like Alfred would throw up if he had to sit on a fur bed in the elder’s hut, completely naked, holding the womb as spiritual words were chanted. And there was the little issue of Alfred not being a virgin. Normally, after the wedding, the strongest hunters of the men would have to witness the consummation of marriage, inside the home or out. It was just a symbol of masculinity in hopes of the bride producing a male child. Everything was ritual in this world and Ivan began to wonder if some bits he should keep to himself. Or let Alfred find out another way.

‘I don’t think that will be necessary. He is not a young girl, he is not a virgin, and the ritual of fertility would be wasted on him. We will simply have our hands tied together while you perform the ceremonial words.’ Ivan still believed in his heart that all of this was nonsense but if he was to continue living this life he would have to pretend. He wanted what he had taken away from him so long ago and he was willing to lie to the world in order to obtain that. It was a secret he would keep between himself and Alfred. “Alfred will do everything a normal man in the tribe does. He will hunt, fish, build, protect, and help maintain the welfare of the tribe. He will just be sleeping with me every night.’

‘Yes, my lord.’

‘Send the hunting party back out to do their duties. We will speak shortly.’

‘Yes, my lord.’

‘Thank you.’ Ivan smiled at Alfred and led him away back to the former leader’s hut.

“Ivan, we need to make some arrangements in here.” Alfred said the moment they walked in. “I want a new bed padding made for starters. Who knows what he used to do on that bed. The pot needs desperate cleaning. The floor needs to be swept, there are cobwebs on the ceilings-“

“Then get to cleaning, my love. This is our home now.” Ivan smiled but was soon face to face with Alfred.

“No. You are going to HELP ME clean! This is OUR home, yes, and the word ‘our’ means ‘together’! Meaning YOU will pick up a broom!” Ivan gave a goofy little smile with his lips and batted his lashes.

“I’ve never had to clean before…unlike someone else in this room.” Alfred ‘tsked’ through his teeth, knowing Ivan met all those times Sardar and Winter made him clean because they could. If he didn’t make things spotless then he would be ‘punished’. No matter how good he did there was always something wrong or they would purposefully knock something onto the floor like a potted plant. “Please, my love? I have so much work to do as the new leader!”

“I have a choice now! My choice is ‘no’!” He crossed his arms.

“Look, I will help you clean in the future. Right now I have to move all of his things and all you have to do is tidy up a bit. We will be having my coronation and our wedding ceremony tonight.” Alfred shook his head in surprise.

“And when were you going to tell ME this?” Ivan smiled sheepishly and politely covered his mouth with his hand.

“Oops. It was a surprise.” Alfred rolled his eyes.

“Fine. But just this once! The next time will be a team effort!”

So together Alfred cleaned while Ivan discarded anything he saw fit to toss, which was almost everything. Ivan made sure to keep some of the fur blankets and weapons until he was able to have his own. Everything he and Alfred would hunt would be theirs to decorate the hut with. Ivan had never seen Alfred clean and he found himself staring at the man as he swept. He thought back to the time where he had lifted Alfred onto his shoulders to pick the apples. Looking up his tunic bottom was the clearest memory in his mind of that moment. The next being their first romp together in the little shed. No matter what he was wearing or what he was doing, Alfred would always arouse him. Ivan knew it had to be him who was unable to control his libido for the blue-eyed man. Ivan appeared to always be in heat when Alfred was around and he loved it.

“Hey, get back to work!” Alfred hollered at him and Ivan did as he was told.

Later that evening the village gathered in the center to celebrate Alfred and Ivan’s wedding ceremony along with the coronation. Alfred wasn’t dressed in anything fancy but remained in his everyday attire. The only difference was the necklace of colored beads he wore and some strange headdress made from leaves and pinecones. He had to fight the urge not to keep scratching his head from the dirt and bugs that must be running along his scalp. Ivan had on the exact furs and antlered hat that the former leader wore. Many of the tribal men and women were dancing around the large bonfire in ceremonial garb while a small group roasted the wild boar they had hunted. Once the boar was cooked, Alfred and Ivan would have to share a piece of the meat with their hands bound in a traditional colored rope. Currently they were waiting for the elder to arrive so the ceremonies could begin.

“I’m a little nervous, Ivan.” Alfred said to him.

“Of what?”

“Just the marriage ceremony and your coronation…and this massive life change.”

“Hm. You will no longer have any doubts in your mind when I take you to the lake tonight.” Alfred looked at him.

“The lake? But it will be dark.”

“Don’t worry, we’ll be perfectly safe. It’s my wedding gift to you.”

“But you’ve already-“

“This is of a different kind. Hush now, the elder approaches.” Alfred took Ivan’s hand as the elder stood before them in his robes with a special shawl made of rabbit fur across his chest. He placed the horned helmet beside him and pulled the colored rope from his belt. “We will be married shortly. Now this will not be like a marriage between a man and a woman. This is just for you and me.”

“I understand.”

‘Brothers and sisters of the tribal spirits! We are gathered here to pay witness to the mating of our leader, Ivan, to his chose mate!’ Alfred was unsure of what he was saying but was annoyed when he heard Ivan’s name mentioned and not his own. Ivan smiled and softly began translating for Alfred. ‘Together as partners they will rule, guide, protect, and oversee the wellbeing of our clan! Before our creator, the great Gray Wolf, I bind these two together in material bliss!’ The members were silent as they watched the elder walk up to Ivan and Alfred with the rope. Ivan took Alfred’s hand in his own and squeezed it tight as the rope was wrapped around. Alfred noticed the strange way the rope was wrapped, going in all different directions to look like a tumbled mess. ‘The roads ahead are full of mystery and dangers but with this length of rope between you the two shall never part.’ Alfred smiled at the words and looked to Ivan, meeting his purple gaze.

“Ivan…this is really-“

“I know. Sweet?” He smiled happily.

“It’s…very meaningful. Now you are stuck with me.”

“I believe it is you who are stuck with me.” Ivan wiggled his brows. Their conversation was cut short by the piece of cooked boar meat being brought over to them. Alfred’s lip went up in slight disgust at the sight of the meat. The ends had been cut away to reveal the bone so they could grip it together. As much as he loved meat sometimes it could be quite repulsive. But it smelled good and was dripping with whatever juices and spices the villagers used. “Are you ready to eat?”

“Yes. Let’s eat our mating meat.”

Ivan chuckled at the term and they took the first bite together. The tribe cheered loudly before returning to their dancing and feasting. The meat was thick and tough, which took the two some time to finish. Once the meat was picked clean from the bone, Ivan tossed it to the sled dogs. Now came the moment of his coronation and he asked to have the rope removed from their hands. Normally the rope would remain for the rest of the night and into the next day. Ivan didn’t take all this seriously so it made no difference to him. Alfred kept his end of the rope tied, lost in the ceremonial meaning of it. He was ushered off the raised dais by the elder so Ivan could stand in the center. Alfred puffed his cheeks a bit and fiddled the rope between his fingers. He knew there was no reason for him to be up there but it would have been nice. At least he was considered a partner.

The elder began chanting in a strange dialect that Ivan figured belonged to the Stag Spirit. He would have to learn it soon and hoped he could do things right while he was crowned. The elder held the horned helmet high above his head and the tribe members bowed their heads. He turned to Ivan and spoke a few more words before placing it on his head. Ivan knew Alfred was probably snickering so he made certain to make eye contact. The men of the tribe held their weapons to him and shouted words of pride and encouragement for him. For how quickly the tribe members were able to change from one leader to another was amazing. The former leader must have been cruel or something of the like. Next, the elder went over to the stag the hunters had brought back with the boar. Ivan watched carefully as a man slit open a part of its neck and the elder held a drinking horn beneath the bloody stream. Ivan’s nose crinkled at the sight and immediately knew what they wanted him to do. In his old tribe, the men who were to become elders had to drink the blood of a slain buffalo. He was certain he would be doing the same here. Either that or it would be poured over his head. Alfred’s tongue went out in disgust and he had to turn away from the sight. The elder brought the horn over to Ivan and bowed low.

‘Drink the blood of our sovereign spirit’s child. Finish it and the Stag will have truly chosen you. Should you fail…you will lose the respect of your herd.’

Ivan took the horn and looked at Alfred whom had his back turned. He looked down at the amount of dark red liquid and he gulped. He had come to far now to back away over something so simple. It was strange but he had killed men in so many brutal ways that drinking blood should be an easy task. He was a drinker on top of it so it wouldn’t be any different than chugging some ale. Taking a deep breath, he brought the horn to his lips and began chugging the metallic liquid. He sucked back his gag reflex as he swallowed up the rest of its contents. Some of the blood dripped down his chin and his lips were an extra dark shade of red. He wiped his mouth with his sleeve and held the horn upside down, showing that he had drank all of it. The tribe cheered wildly and the elder fell to his knees, promising his life to Ivan’s. Ivan felt his stomach churn in nausea and fought to keep the blood down. Alfred had turned back to him after he had heard the cheering and gave Ivan a concerned look. Ivan just smiled back at him, letting him know that everything was all right.

Once the ceremonies were finished the festivities continued but the two had snuck away. Ivan wanted to take him to the lake before it got too late. They walked silently hand in hand down the little path, which lead to the lake and one of the canoes. Alfred helped Ivan flip the boat over and push it into the water. Ivan steadied the boat as Alfred climbed in first and then himself. He handed Alfred a paddle and together they began to make their way into the center of the lake. Alfred looked up at the night sky littered with millions of white stars. He looked down at the dark, still water and saw the reflection of the sky. His breath caught in his throat at the beautiful sight and for a moment he felt as if he were floating in the sky.

“Oh Ivan…this is beautiful! It’s like a mirror!”

“I know. It is wonderful. Take your paddle out and put it in the boat. We’ll drift for awhile.” Alfred did so and leaned back against his end of the canoe. He held his arms out to Ivan and smiled.

“Come here, ‘husband’. I want you to lay with me.” Ivan placed his ore on the floor and carefully slid over between Alfred’s legs, resting his back against his ‘husband’s’ chest. Ivan felt relaxed and comfortable in Alfred’s arms and he looked up at the darkened face of his mate. Alfred wrapped his fur-clad arms around him and kissed the top of the silver head.

“I like this…curling up into you. I feel like a little kitten.”

“A ‘little’ kitten?” Alfred repeated and gave a giggle. “You’re more of a big moose than a little kitten.”

“You wound me, my love.” Ivan pouted. “I am not a moose. I’m as strong as an ox!”

“Of course you are. And I’m swift and witty as a fox!”

“Try a rabbit.” Alfred poked him.

“Why rabbit?” Ivan smiled up at him.

“While they too are swift and witty…rabbits are also horny little creatures. OW!” Alfred had pinched and pulled his cheeks painfully.

“Shut up so we can enjoy the night sounds.”

Ivan nodded and laid his head back against Alfred’s chest to gaze up at the sky. The two floated along the lake silently, wrapped tightly in their furs to keep them warm. The lake at night, although beautiful, was very cold and Alfred found it hard to control his trembling. Ivan noticed this and he moved from Alfred’s arms to the other side. He opened his furs and ushered Alfred over to him. The smaller man crawled over and burrowed into Ivan’s chest as he closed the furs around him. Alfred shifted himself so he was lying back against him. With their new change of position, the two continued to float along the lake, enjoying the silence. The forest was fairly quiet due to the cold and snow. Shortly after, their moment was disturbed by the sound of wolves howling in the distance. Both men lifted their heads towards the sound but the howls carried and it was hard to tell which direction it was coming from. They were safe out on the lake and Ivan wasn’t worried in the least but he could feel Alfred tensing up.

“Isn’t it a beautiful sound, Alfred?”

“It’s…a little scary though. It’s so dark out here I can hardly see anything.”

“We will be safe on the water. Just lay still and listen to the sound they make. Listen.” Ivan held him tight and nuzzled the wheat colored hair. The wolves howled again and Alfred began to hear the beauty in the sound. He smiled to himself and cuddled further into Ivan. “Feel better?”

“You’re right, Ivan. They do sound nice…of course I don’t think I would be liking that sound if I were near them.” Ivan chuckled.

“No, I suppose not. We will come back again during the day so you can hear the loons.”

“Loons?”

“It’s a water bird with a very unique voice. I know you will like it.”

“I can’t wait.”

By the time they had returned to the village, most of the fires and torches were put out and all were asleep. Ivan and Alfred climbed their ladder and entered their hut, eager to warm themselves up. Their boots were wet and the first thing they did was take them off. Ivan went to the hearth and started a fire while Alfred readied the bed and furs. Now that they were ‘married’ (in a sense) it was time to consummate, which really shouldn’t have Alfred as nervous as he was. The whole hand binding ceremony and the lake scenery must have done something to him, making him feel like a lovesick girl. He felt the warmth of the fire blaze to life behind him and saw the orange glow on the wall in front him. He heard Ivan stand up and his boots walk up to him, wrapping his arms around his waist. Alfred closed his eyes and leaned into his arms.

“Are you still cold?”

“A little…but I am warming up.” He felt Ivan smile against his neck as the large hands slid up his chest to begin untying the fur shawl. Alfred shivered at the sensation and Ivan stopped his motions.

“Are you alright?” He asked with a hint of concern.

“I’m fine…just for some reason…I feel a little…well…I feel a little shy. Me, of all people, feeling ‘shy’.” Ivan kissed his neck.

“Then lets do it the right way. No fights or knives or kinky stuff…just love making. How does that sound?” Alfred turned around in his arms.

“I thought we do that anyway?” Ivan smiled.

“Yes, but it doesn’t have to be rough and fast…not right way.” Alfred looked down at their boots before lifting his gaze to meet Ivan’s violet orbs.

“So…what do you want to do?”

“First, let me undress you…as if I were seeing your naked body for the first time.”

Ivan carefully finished untying the leather and removed the shawl. Next he pulled off Alfred’s gloves and archer bands, dropping them to the floor. Alfred was unsure of what to do so he remained still as he let Ivan undress him. Ivan had a soft, content smile on his face when he lifted the hide tunic to expose Alfred’s lean chest. Alfred held his breath when the hands went to the tie of his pants and pulled them apart. Ivan’s fingers slipped into the hem and pushed the fabric down to pool at Alfred’s ankles. Alfred shivered from the slight chill and stepped out of his pants, now naked before Ivan. He watched the violet orbs travel all around his body and he felt the blood begin to rush to his groin.

“All mine.” Ivan took a step back. “Now undress me.”

Alfred began with slipping the animal pelt and necklace off of his shoulders, followed by his scarf. Ivan was wearing more clothes and furs than he was. He had to remove his armbands, tunic, belts, and pants. He flushed softly at Ivan’s body glowing in the firelight and noticed the man was already fully aroused. Ivan smiled and suddenly scooped him up in his arms bridal style. Alfred protested to the holding and Ivan put him back on his feet, only to get pushed back instead onto the bed. Alfred looked up at his husband and waited for him to pounce like an animal in heat. Instead, Ivan lifted Alfred’s legs so he could pull the fur blankets out from under him. He motioned for Alfred to settle under the blankets before he joined him. Like so many times before, the two laid on their sides face-to-face and nearly nose-to-nose. Blue stared into violet for a short while until their lips met in a soft kiss.

Their shared kiss was long and passionate with Ivan sliding his body overtop of Alfred’s. Alfred was pressed into the new soft bedding by Ivan’s weight but moved his legs to wrap around his waist. Their erections rubbed together as tongues dueled for dominance. Ivan started rocking his hips lightly into Alfred’s, moaning at the friction it created on his cock. Alfred lifted his head from the pillow to angle the kiss and tangle his fingers in Ivan’s silver hair. They had been together like this many times but this moment felt different. Alfred could hear his heart beating in his ears and his belly quivering with lust. Ivan pulled away from the kiss to rest his forehead against Alfred’s before moving down to his neck. He latched his lips onto the skin and sucked gently, living little red marks in his wake. Alfred tilted his head and slid his hands down Ivan’s back, pinching at the skin and muscles. Ivan gave a little growl and bit down his shoulder, not enough to draw blood but the skin swelled a soft pink. Alfred gave a little hiss and started shoving Ivan’s head further down his chest. The other’s lips stopped at the left nipple and slipped his tongue out to flick it. Alfred gasped and arched into his mouth. Ivan’s free hand toyed with the other, rubbing his thumb over the nub.

“I can’t take this, Ivan! I need more! Please hurry!”

“I want to savor this moment.”

“It was savored on the lake!” He arched his hips so his erection rubbed against the hidden muscles of Ivan’s belly. “Please…”

Ivan could never resist his lover and brought his right hand up to trace Alfred’s lips. Immediately, the other opened his mouth and sucked in the thick fingers, licking and sucking on the digits to make them damp. When Alfred thought they were wet enough he pushed Ivan’s fingers out of his mouth with his tongue. Ivan took the hint and placed his hand between Alfred’s legs, pressing the flat of his finger against his hole. He lightly applied pressure and felt the others’ hips trying to force it inside of him. Before pressing the finger instead, Ivan took one hard nipple into his mouth and nibbled gently. Alfred gasped when he felt Ivan’s finger wiggle its way inside, swirling itself along the muscle. Alfred let his hands travel along Ivan’s shoulders, arms, and back, writhing in ecstasy and craving more.

Hearing Alfred’s voice continue to climb in pitch, Ivan slipped in two more fingers to join the first. Alfred’s back arched and he let out a cry as the tips pressed against his sweet spot. Ivan smirked and moved his mouth to the other nipple to bite as he thrust his fingers in and out. Alfred was panting heavily with wanton need and his bangs clung to his forehead with sweat. Ivan thrust a few more times before removing his fingers and rubbing the remains on his cock. He was ready to lift Alfred’s legs when the man did it himself, placing them on his shoulders. Ivan blinked down at the flushed man beneath him and gave a lopsided smile.

“Horny rabbit.”

“Shut it.”

Ivan responded with a quick thrust into Alfred’s entrance, entering only halfway. Alfred cried out in surprise before moaning deep and clutching his shoulders. Ivan pressed the rest of the way in slowly, holding Alfred’s his down to keep him from moving. He closed his eyes as he was encased in Alfred’s velvet heat, savoring the perfect feel. His lover was panting incoherent words of protest and wiggling beneath him. Ivan took both of Alfred’s hands in his own and kissed the soft lips before beginning a slow pace. He glued his violet eyes to Alfred’s pleasured filled face as his lower half worked with a mind of it’s own. Soon he would have to let go of Alfred’s hands to get a firmer grip on the bed to ram into him. Ivan thought he could keep up with the slow pace but his husband’s pleasured cries and writhing body drove him mad. With that, he slipped his hands from Alfred’s and gripped the bed on either side of the others’ head. Bracing his weight with his knees Ivan began the quick, hard pace that Alfred craved.

“Just like that…don’t stop!”

Alfred begged him and held onto the forearms for leverage as he started to thrust up. Ivan lifted himself again and held the back of Alfred’s knees to bed him back so he could continue to push in further. His lover had to grip the sheets beneath him, unable to reach Ivan’s legs to hold him in place. Ivan continued to thrust into Alfred’s body, striking his sweet spot and drawing new sounds from him. The festivities of the night must be getting to his husband because Alfred’s toes were slowly starting to curl, signaling his orgasm was near. This was not how he had planned the night to go. It started off right and would end with both of them thoroughly satisfied. They had the rest of their lives together to explore their love and passion.

“I’m…I’m gonna cum…!” Alfred gasped out, his lower half filled and threatening to burst with the force of Ivan’s thick cock.

“Let’s cum together…I’m almost there as well.” Ivan said with a rough grunt and Alfred nodded swiftly, trying to hold back his own orgasm. Ivan’s pace never wavered or slowed and Alfred’s own cock was aching for release. “Almost…”

“IVAN!” Alfred shouted his name as he shot his essence onto his chest and belly, unable to hold it in. However, Ivan had managed to release a second after Alfred’s own. He held himself buried all the way in Alfred’s bowels, making sure his body would eat up as much of his cum as it could. “I’m…cramping!” Ivan replied with a quick ‘oh’ and carefully pulled himself Alfred, lowering his legs back to the bed. He could see his semen leaking out of Alfred’s hole and onto the bed, but not as much as usual. That made Ivan grinned in triumph and flop himself onto Alfred, ignoring the moist cum that now littered both their bellies.

“Mmm…not quite what I expected but I’m not complaining! Nope! Not one bit!” Ivan said and nuzzled Alfred’s flushed cheek. “Did you enjoy yourself?”

“Shouldn’t my new stomach décor tell you that?” Alfred smirked, leaning in to kiss Ivan passionately. “I loved it…doing it in a real bed after so long was by far the best!” The two nuzzled each other for a few minutes until Ivan caught a glance of outside between the flaps.

“Hurry! Throw your tunic on and grab the blankets!” Ivan jumped up off of him to toss the other his tunic.

“Ivan? What are you going on about?”

“It’s dawn! Let’s watch the sunrise together! Hurry, hurry!”

Alfred stumbled over himself as he tried to slip on his tunic and boots. Ivan had already gathered the blankets and run to the entrance. He waited for Alfred to join him before slipping past the flap and outside into the cold. There was a bench outside and they sat on the wood with the blankets covering them. One covered their laps while the other wrapped around their shoulders and chests. Alfred snuggled closer to Ivan and prepared to watch the sun rise over the forest trees. For a long while, the two sat in silence as the sun slowly peeked out from the trees and rose higher into the sky. Alfred finally broke the silence, slipping his hand into Ivan’s.

“Are you happy here, Ivan?” He asked.

“Of course I am. This is my culture and my life. I am home. How do you feel about it, Alfred?” Ivan almost feared his answer. For as much as Alfred had shown he liked this life there was still the chance of doubt.

“I do love it here. I love that we are free to do as we wish and we are actually rulers and not servants. There are some things I will have to get used too, but I know I will over time. The cold is hard for me to deal with but I can adapt. Everything here I am certain I can adapt too. Just please…remember that it might take me some time to get used to the new way of life. Be patient with me, okay? We are going to share the rest of our lives together…we’ll learn more and more!” Ivan nodded with a smile.

“Look at how far we’ve come. When we first met, both of us were slaves with no will of our own. I was defeated but you still had a strong sense of hope. Gods above how I admired that about you. You gave me the strength and courage to take control of my life to make a better living for myself. I know that with you we could accomplish our journey to freedom. And look at us now.” Ivan stroked his side. “We have a new home, a new life, and we are duel rulers. In a manner of speaking. Look at this peaceful moment before us. Could we have ever gotten this feeling while we were living as slaves?”

“Never.” Alfred responded. “We would both be dead by now, I think. Or at least so broken that our spirits could not even recognize a scene such as this. With the sunrise begins a brand new day full of hope, adventure, and wonder! Now that we are free all of this is ours for the taking! Everything will begin anew and then we can finally put the past behind us.” Ivan kissed the top of Alfred’s head before resting his cheek against it.

“I couldn’t agree more. We have accomplished all this on our own and we can do even more in the future!” Ivan gave a little chuckle. “You know, one of the elders in my old village told me something once. Something that I just remembered now that I understand the world better.”

“What is that?” Alfred squeezed his hand.

“Always keep looking forward and never back.”

The End.

***Thanks to everyone who has given their support and fueled the fire to continue writing! I hope all of you enjoyed it because I really enjoyed writing it! Some things may have been off here and there, some grammar mistakes and I’m sure, and other little tidbits. Thanks for sticking with it though! The reviews and support have always been the highlights of my fanfiction writing! Couldn’t have done it without you guys! You’re the best! Xoxoxo!***

SECOND ENDING:

Ten years had passed since Alfred and Ivan had escaped from the lives of slaves and made a new life for themselves. Their tribe continued to grow and flourish with their years of ruling. The empire had fallen a few years ago and society was slowly beginning to build itself back up again. But out here in the free world where the wildlife ran free, no one had to worry about it. Their lives continued on day by day without fear of the empire coming to destroy them. Ivan and Alfred had proven to be fair and valuable rulers without ever being challenged by other men for the position. Their married life had remained the same throughout the ten years of being together. They had their troubles and tiffs like any other couple but there were more good times than bad. Ivan was finally enjoying his life with a different outlook every day.

But lately, some things had begun to change, starting with Alfred. It all started on a hunt on spring morning with their party. They had been on the trail of a fox when Alfred suddenly collapsed to the ground. Ivan rushed to his side and asked if he was all right. Alfred had complained earlier about his stomach hurting but he brushed it off as just stomachache of some kind. Regardless, Ivan sent the hunting on and helped walk Alfred back to the village. The medicine man came to examine him but he could not find anything wrong. He gave some herbal powder and just said to let Alfred rest until it goes away.

The stomach pain did not go away and everyone slowly began to worry, especially Ivan. The man tried desperately to keep Alfred active and ignore the situation. Alfred was always cheerful and kind despite the constant pain he was in. He had described it as a gnawing pain that never ceased to give him rest. Sometimes Alfred would even push himself to do things, such as cooking, playing cards, or drying out the furs. But even if he did, he was unable to last at the task. He would have to climb back into bed and hide under the covers.

Ivan started to fear the worse as he blankly stirred the porridge in the caldron. Alfred had yet to waken up from his drugged induced sleep and Ivan turned to look upon him. His silver eyebrows slowly lifted as his lips drooped in a sad frown. Something was not right with his Alfred and he wasn’t going to get better. No one could tell him what it was or what could be done to help him. The medicine man had said that he could continue to live with this pain or he could die as well. Those last words turned his body and blood to solid ice and he nearly snapped the man’s neck in half for even suggesting it. But with the way Alfred was now…Ivan feared he was heading in that direction.

“Hmm…Ivan?” Alfred’s voice was soft and heavy with sleep.

“I’m here, love.” Ivan said with a little smile, standing up to walk over to the bed. “How are you feeling today?” Alfred forced a smile and slowly sat up, hissing a bit and holding his stomach.

“As good as I can be, I guess.” He looked to the stove. “Something smells good. What are you making?”

“Some porridge for us. I thought after breakfast we could take a walk around the village.” Alfred just rubbed his stomach.

“That sounds nice. I would like that.”

“Are you hungry at all?” Alfred shook his head and Ivan’s heart sank into his belly. Alfred had been unable to hold food down recently and rarely did he ever have an appetite. He could only drink water and warm milk, with maybe some broth on the side. “Well, you will love this porridge!” Ivan tried to make light of the situation and went to the pot to fill two bowls. He brought them over to the bed and sat beside Alfred. “Careful, the bowl may be hot.”

“Thank you.”

Alfred took the bowl from him and looked down at the white substance. Ivan watched carefully as his lover took the spoon and slowly brought it to his mouth. That was another thing about Alfred’s sickness. He had grown very weak and more fragile. For years the man was bouncing and jumping and running circles around children with such energy! Now he seemed…old beyond his years. Alfred blew on the porridge before taking it in and swallowing it. Ivan was pleased when he ate another spoonful, and then another! But his relief was short lived as Alfred gurgled and spat up the porridge. Ivan already had a rag at a permanent spot on the edge of the bed railing just for this situation. He carefully wiped Alfred’s mouth, took the bowl, and then proceeded to clean up what little vomit was on the furs.

“Ivan…”

“It’s okay, Alfred. I don’t mind cleaning it up.” He smiled.

“No, that’s not it…” Alfred looked at him with moist blue eyes and held his stomach. “It hurts more and more each day…it’s like a fire within me.” Ivan slipped his hand beneath Alfred’s to rest it against his stomach. For not eating Alfred had a slightly hard stomach that seemed to hurt if he applied pressure. “And it’s not going to get better, is it?” Ivan just looked at him.

“We don’t know, Alfred. No one knows anything. I have all the best medicine at your fingertips. M-Maybe as time goes on the main will stop and your body will slowly recover! The medicine man said that could happen. You wont’ be able to go back to the way you were but at least you will be alive.”

“Ivan…I don’t…I don’t want to keep living like this. I love eating…now I can’t eat. I love running…I can’t even get out of bed. I love cooking…I pass out into the fire. I don’t think I could live like that…being totally helpless.”

“We don’t know that for sure, Alfred.” Ivan gripped his shoulders gently. “Please Alfred…you’ve always held more hope for the both of us but right now YOU need it most.” Alfred looked at his husband’s concerned face and he gave a soft smile.

“You’re right, Ivan. Help me dress and we will go out today. I would like to go to the meadow but it is far to walk.”

“I will carry you. I wouldn’t care if I had to carry you forever.”

Ivan carefully helped Alfred to dress in his clothes and fur poncho. Even though it was spring there was still a chill in the air. Like he had promised, Ivan carried Alfred to the meadow on his back with a canteen full of hot tea. The meadow was not far from the village and they picked a spot under a budding apple tree to lay their blanket. They both sat in silence, with Alfred staring off into the distance and Ivan staring at him. The breeze blew lightly through Alfred’s slightly thinning hair yet the man didn’t appear to notice. Even though Alfred would laugh and joke sometimes Ivan could tell that most of his childlike glee was gone from him.

“What are you staring at, Ivan?” Alfred’s soft voice broke his thoughts.

“At you and how gorgeous you are.” Those words made Alfred give a chuckle.

“I find it funny that both you and I have not fallen out of love with each other for our looks. I know our relationship and marriage have been much more than that. But look at us. I’m twenty nine your thirty six…I’m getting weak and thin…and you’ve put on a little weight around the waist.” Alfred teased and Ivan puffed out his cheeks.

“I’m big boned.” He protested. “Hey, why don’t we try for the lake tonight? You are doing well out here in the meadow. It’s going to be a clear sky?”

“It’s too cold for me on the lake, Ivan. I’m sorry.”

“I understand.” Ivan looked at Alfred’s lap and felt the need to lie down and rest his head in it. His husband smiled down at him and fiddled with his silver bangs. This was one of his favorite positions when he was spending time with Alfred. He looked up into those perfect blue eyes, seeing the life slowly starting to drain from them. With a lump in his throat, he asked a painful question.

“You’re going to be leaving me, aren’t you?”

“I don’t want to. I can’t leave you behind, Ivan. I am your friend, companion, and husband.”

“But if you are suffering and if you are afraid then…then I don’t want that for you. You know I would do anything in my power to keep you safe.”

“Yet this is out of your power.” Alfred’s eyes began to well with tears and he had to turn away. “I know something is wrong, Ivan. Something is very wrong with me…it’s like something is telling me I’ve reached the end of the rope. It…it’s the waiting and the fear of the pain increasing that frightens me the most.” He clenched his eyes shut and balled his fists. “Damn it! I used to be so strong and quick!” Ivan sat up and pulled him into his arms.

“Whatever happens I won’t leave your side, okay? I will be here to take care of you. I will do it for as long as you are still here in my arms.”

“But we have come so far together…we almost…almost destroyed an entire system! Why does this have to happen?” Ivan rubbed his back and buried his nose in his hair. He looked ahead and noticed, after many years of being absent the Dark Wolf had returned.

“The Dark Wolf makes it so…like in the story, yes?” Alfred nodded and Ivan never took his eyes from the wolf. “But you are of our culture and tribe. You have been a part of our world and followed all our customs and rules. Whatever lies beyond you will be welcomed there.” In his heart, Ivan still could not believe it but he was certain it would bring Alfred some comfort. The Dark Wolf had taken his leave so they were once again alone. “Lets go back. I want you in bed. I’m sending for the medicine doctor again.”

Alfred did not protest to being carried back and placed in the warm bed. Ivan fussed over him until the medicine man entered with his wooden box of herbs. He quietly looked over Alfred and examined him from head to foot. The man noticed Alfred’s heartbeat growing weaker and his pulse slowing. Alfred himself seemed to be going in and out of conscience and Ivan was growing more concerned. He was growing angry as well, angry at the fact that Alfred was giving up hope. In a way, he understood fully why Alfred was loosing his spirit and will to live. But that wasn’t what he wanted! He wanted Alfred with him until the end of their days, when they were old and gray! Still…even at this time…he could not deny his lover.

“Lord of the North and Stag…may I speak with you?” Ivan walked to the far side of the room with the medicine man, out of Alfred’s earshot. “He is worsening by the day, my lord. Even though I don’t know what is wrong…I have seen it in the past. Different people react differently to the disease. His body is slowly shutting down…I don’t think he has much time left.” Ivan’s breath caught in his throat but he asked anyway.

“How can you be sure? And when?”

“Hard to say but…but he may not wake by the morning. If he does, then it will only be a matter of time.” Ivan lowered his head.

“Alfred…”

“I have something to give him that will make things easier. It will sooth and calm him, as if he was slowly going to sleep. It will just ease whatever may come. His wits may be a little distorted while it is in his body.” Ivan just nodded blankly again. “I will tell the tribe and we shall all pray to the spirit and the mighty Grey Wolf to grant him strength. I know this hard…it will be hard on the tribe as well. They adore him.” Ivan took a deep, shuddering breath before speaking.

“When will you give him the medicine?”

“Best at sunset tonight. I will slip him some sleeping herbs to keep him relaxed. Best to stay with him.”

“I’m not leaving this hut.” Ivan said firmly.

“Yes, my lord. Let me prepare the medicine for him.”

Ivan’s body was frozen in time and space while the man mixed the medicine. His eyes traveled to the bed where Alfred was writhing and groaning in pain. He wanted to just take all that pain and sickness Alfred was experiencing and pass it on to himself. Seeing his lover suffer was always a grave weakness of his. He walked over to the bed just as the man was feeding Alfred the medicine water. Alfred made a face at the taste and turned bloodshot eyes to Ivan.

“Tastes like shit.” He said softly and Ivan just smiled at his joke.

“It will help you though.” He knelt beside the bed and rests his folded arms on the mattress to gaze at him. This reminded him of the time Alfred was badly beaten and had to be on bed rest for a day, wrapped in bandages. Only this time…he was not going to get better. “I love you, Alfred. You’re my everything…I never get tired of telling you that.”

“I’m never tired of hearing it. Oh Ivan…things have a funny way of happening, don’t they?”

“Life is full of wrong turns, dangers, and surprises. This is one of them. My lover…my best friend…my favorite advisor…my Alfred.”

“For fuck’s sake Ivan don’t say things like that!” Alfred quickly rolled himself over so Ivan wouldn’t see the tears falling down his face. “Not at this time! Please!”

“I’m sorry. Forgive me.”

“I shouldn’t have snapped…I’m sorry. Just…just please…try to understand. I’m scared…I’m scared and sad and confused!”

“I know…I’m scared too. But we’ve faced other scary things together and we will face this one too.” Ivan stroked his shoulder and Alfred just closed his eyes, feeling the sleep medicine taking over.

“Sleepy…please don’t leave?”

“I will be right here when you wake up.”

Ivan felt Alfred’s body settle into a sleepy and he turned around to sit with his back to the bed. Even though Alfred was still alive he was already having memory after memory. This whole hut was filled with their ten years of married life. Everywhere he looked he could see Alfred’s mirage doing various things around the house. Cooking, sweeping, sewing, weaving, wood working, weapon making…everything. And whenever Ivan would come into the hut after a long day of duties, he would always be greeted with the same toothy grin and a happy shout of his name. So many little things that always filled him with joy now made him feel numb and empty. Was this the last night he was going to have with Alfred? And why was he so calm? Was he going to snap at any random moment? Would it be when Alfred passed away? Would it be when he had to remove his body from the house? Why was he so confused and numb? The light of his life, the hope and dreams of his, were all set inside of his husband, Alfred. He had depended on Alfred to give him all of those things to keep him strong. What would he be like when Alfred was gone? Never had he wondered about this because he dismissed the idea of ever occurring. He had hoped that he would die before Alfred. Alfred would continue to strive and grow after Ivan’s death and that’s what he wanted. He was unsure of how he was going to be after Alfred’s passing. For the rest of the day he remained with these thoughts and images running through his head constantly. It wasn’t until the medicine man came in that Ivan was shaken from his thoughts.

“My lord…it is sunset. I have the medicine.” Ivan nodded and stood just as Alfred was waking up. He looked at Ivan and the doctor and smiled weakly. However, his face was beet red and sweat pulled at his forehead.

“You’re still here…good.” Alfred said to Ivan, having the larger man take his hand.

“I said I would be. Alfred? What’s wrong?”

“I’m trying…not to show that it…hurts.” He squeezed Ivan’s hand in pain.

“My Lord Alfred, I have a new medicine for you to take. It will help you to sleep and it will ease the pain in your belly.”

“Will it really?” Alfred looked on hopefully.

“It will.” The man mixed it into some warm milk. “You may feel tingly or funny, but it will ease the suffering. Please drink.” Ivan helped hold Alfred’s head up as the liquid was poured down his throat. Alfred could barely lift his head on his own.

“Then what?” Alfred asked him once the milk was drunk.

“Then we check on you in the morning, just as I’ve always done.” Alfred’s squeezed his lips together as he tried not to cry in front of him.

“Yes…of course.” He said softly. “Thank you. Thank you…for all your help.” The man bowed.

“Rest well, Lord Alfred. Good night.”

Alfred barely had a moment to speak before Ivan was already under the covers and crushing him to his chest. Alfred knew the truth behind the strange medicine. His body was failing him, he knew it. He knew it better than any one. The medicine seemed to be working for he felt his tears dry up and his body relax in Ivan’s arms. The pain in his belly was dull and bearable right now, something he hadn’t felt in a long time. He wrapped his arms around Ivan’s bulk and held him.

“I like this, Ivan. I feel okay.”

“I’m glad. Cuddle up tight, now. The nights are cold.” Ivan’s voice almost broke when he spoke the words.

“Everything will be alright, Ivan. This…this is life…we can’t control it.”

“I wish I could. How I wish I could save you from this. But you are suffering from a monster that I cannot see or fight to protect you! It is slowly driving me mad.”

“Please don’t be that way. Just hold me like this. I’ve always felt the safest when I was in your arms. I hope I meet the Gray Wolf…”

“Alfred…”

“I know…I know. Whatever happens, I’m ready!” Ivan smiled as he heard some of the old Alfred coming back. It was the drugs, yes, but it was still his Alfred’s voice. “I love you, Ivan. One of my greatest accomplishments in life has not been escaping from slavery…it has been giving you a second chance at life. I’m glad I could help you…” Ivan’s hand pressed against the back of Alfred’s head and crushed his face to his neck. It had been years since Ivan cried but at those spoken words he broke down. They were silent tears for he did not want Alfred to see him crying. “Ivan? Are you alright?”

“I am. And I thank you for all you have done for me. You’re my everything.”

“I feel sleepy…very sleepy…” His voice became low.

“You’ve had a long day…rest now. I will see you in the morning.”

“I hope so to…hey…where’s my goodnight kiss? You always…give it to me.” Ivan wanted to close his eyes to hide his tears but when Alfred lifted that beautiful face to him he just couldn’t. Ivan stared at him, trying to capture every single little feature about his face. But when Alfred’s lips met his he froze. It was a short kiss since Alfred was too weak to do much more. It was their every nighttime kiss they shared. “Goodnight, Ivan.”

“Good…night Alfred.”

Ivan remained in his spot with a sleeping Alfred in his arms all through the night. He cried silent tears onto the pillow until they dried themselves out. He did not sleep the entire evening incase Alfred needed him. It was some time by early morning when Alfred had passed. Ivan had felt his breathing grow slower with breath until his body stilled. Ivan did not make one move for a long while, still holding the now lifeless body in his arms. Alfred didn’t even know what happened to him and Ivan felt grateful that. He loved looking at his lover’s peaceful face when he slept and that’s what he did.

When the medicine man came in was when Ivan took his leave of the bed and his husband. The medicine man said that the hunters were building the funeral pyre for him but Ivan shook his head. Without question, the man bowed low, whispered a pray in Alfred’s name, and left the hut. Ivan looked at his lifeless, sleeping lover on their bed and once again felt numb. However, he willed his mind to work. He dressed Alfred’s body in his best furs and wrapped him in the linen blankets, covering his entire body. He didn’t want Alfred to be cold. Next he took his axe, his shovel, and his dagger with him. On his belt he placed the antler dagger he had made for Alfred as a wedding gift.

When he descended the ladder, the tribal members were all gathered around to hope and pray for their fallen leader. Ivan didn’t notice them as he took the longer path to the lake that led up to a grassy ridge. The ridge overlooked the lake, their favorite spot. He would bury Alfred here so he could always see the stars reflection in the lake. Ivan hardly remembered digging the hole until he realized how deep it really was. He had to climb up out of it and tossed the shovel to the side. He looked at the wrapped bundled body of his Alfred and thought of something. Taking out his dagger, he cut through the linens to Alfred’s belly. After cutting through the tunic he spotted the faded burn scar of their slave house.

“You will not be buried with this, Alfred. You are a free man. You died as one.”

Ivan took the dagger and cut away the scar, leaving only a bloody patch. He did the same to the long burn on his lower back. He shifted Alfred’s body to the ledge of the grave before jumping back in. Carefully he shimmered Alfred’s body into his arms and laid him in the grave. Before climbing out, he kissed his palm and placed it on Alfred’s wrapped forehead. Filling in all the dirt took until midday and finding the rocks took until twilight. He had circled the grave with the stones and placed a single bluebell flower he had come across on the top. For everything he had just done, his body was still numb. What was wrong with him?

‘You know, jumping is an option for you, child.’ Ivan heard the voice and growled. ‘You will be able to see him.’

“I don’t need words from y-“ Ivan froze when he turned to see a tall gray translucent leg with a white pelt leg covering a quarter of it. He looked up to see the Gray Wolf staring down at him, dressed in his mother’s white pelt. His eyes were soft yellow and his aura was kind. “Y-You’re the Gray Wolf…” ‘No wonder my body is numb…I’m going crazy!’

‘You will be able to join him in the afterlife.’

“I don’t believe in an afterlife.”

‘You can still think that way even after you held your dying lover in your arms and buried him?’

“Yes. For you see…I cannot trust your word that Alfred is a cloud above us or he’s romping around in the spirit woods. You may very well be a figment of my imagination…trying to trick me in my time of grief. However…if I take the chance to die then I might live in nothing but darkness in an eternal sleep, forgetting everything. If I am alive then my memories of Alfred will never die…and that is what I want. I want to always remember him, not forget him. If I’m alive then his memory is alive.” Ivan turned to smile at the grave. “My Alfred…”

‘I see.’ The Gray Wolf answered. ‘I wear this pelt to always remind myself and my world of her great gift to us. Still, you are a lost soul seeking guidance…just like that time in the woods all those years ago.’ Ivan looked to the apparition.

“That was you? You led me out of the forest that day?”

‘I did. Such a sad, lonely child you were. Stuck against a tree…crying for help…how could I have ignored you? And now you are simply in the same position. I’m here to guide you.’

“I don’t need your guidance.”

‘So what are you going to do? You’ve just lost the greatest thing in your life.’

“I don’t know what I’m going to do. I have my axe…my dagger…and my skill. I’m just going to take a walk.” The wolf lowered his head to snort at him.

‘Very well, child. You’ve made your choice. Regardless of what you believe, your mate is living happily with me. He is content where he is. This is the little hope I can offer you.’ Ivan smiled and felt his eyes sting with a few tears.

“At least he died as a free man…not a slave. His life was full of light and hope. I’m taking that hope with me…wherever I go from this day.” He took a deep breath and smiled. “That’s my ‘thank you’ to Alfred.”

‘Stubborn and strong…yet brave. Keep looking forward, not back.’ The Gray Wolf repeated Ivan’s words to Alfred all those years ago on their wedding night. ‘I bid you luck on your journey…wherever it is you may go.’

Ivan took one last look at Alfred grave and gave a little smile. He quickly stripped himself of his tribal leader things, keeping only some furs and his scarf. At least he still had his scarf…within its weaves carried the tales of his life and once again…it was the only thing he had that represented his world. Slinging the ax over his shoulder, Ivan turned from the grave and walked into the woods ahead with his scarf flowing gently behind him.

The End.
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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