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Darker Than Morning	By : FlayraDowitcher Category: +G to L > Hetalia: Axis Powers Views: 2275 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own Hetalia. This fic is for fun. I'm not making any money off of this fanfiction.

Chapter List
- 12
- 13
- 14
***Thank you so much for all the reviews! I just eat them up! You guys are awesome! This is another long chapter!

***Warnings: Language, violence, blood and gore (not too bad)

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

Chapter 11: The Storm Clouds Gather Part 2

The clock ticked on the wall of Arthur’s quarters, the only sound present in the room. Almost a full day passed since Ivan’s capture and Arthur had heard nothing on the demon’s condition. The first place Arthur went when they returned to the base was to his room to be completely alone. Everyone thought he was tired and needed rest when in reality he was ridden with guilt. The image of those hurt violet eyes were the only thing Arthur could see when he closed his eyes. Ivan had looked to him for help, and Arthur gave the orders to have him taken away. Those eyes; they kept haunting him to the point where sleep had not come to him. He had barely touched his dinner, having no appetite or even the will to eat. In theory he had done the right thing, but in his heart duty and honor did not exist.

“This is why relationships and emotions are stupid,” he said to himself, stirring his spoon around in his beef stew. “I hate this.” There was a knock at the door and Arthur rolled his shoulders with a growl. “It’s open.” The door opened and Arthur looked over only to see red at the person who entered. “You’re the last person I want to see!”

Kiku came in quietly and closed the door behind him. He turned amber eyes onto Arthur, folding his hands politely in front of him. Closing his eyes he gave a curt bow before speaking. “Forgive me, Arthur-sama, but I-“

“Cut your native bullshit, Kiku! What do you want?”

The Asian man frowned slightly. “Everyone is worried about you. They have not seen you and… and wish to congratulate you on such a tremendous victory. Already the demon armies of the Southern regions have fallen back and should be surrendering soon.” Kiku walked over to Arthur and took a seat on the sofa. “We should have that area surrounded and conquered for our armies.”

Arthur forced a beef piece into his mouth, biting down on the spoon to keep from flipping out on the Japanese man.

“Arthur… I know you are still angry at me, but is it not time to put that all behind us? You know how well I can sense the mood, and right now you are a wave of tension and emotions.” Kiku looked for a reaction from Arthur, but the blonde was saying nothing. “We used to share so many things, Arthur. We always had a good connection and a wonderful friendship. You do not want that again?”

Arthur pulled the spoon from his mouth, slamming it down onto the table. “Yes, we did until you jumped in bed with Alfred! You stole him from me!” Arthur’s green eyes glared daggers at Kiku. He was just looking for a scapegoat to his anger and helplessness right now.

Kiku remained eerily calm, folding his hands in his lap. “No, Arthur-sama. You stole him from me.”

“You’re a looney! I did no such thing!”

“Alfred and I spent a lot of time together. We were getting close during and after training sessions. He used to blush when we were by ourselves sometimes, and I thought we were moving in the right direction. I have never been too forward about things, but you know that. Then some time after… I saw both of you making out in the hallway. Things were awkward after that, but I accepted it, continuing to be both your friend and Alfred’s.”

The news surprised Arthur, and he just stared at Kiku. “Why didn’t you say anything? For that matter, why didn’t Alfred mention it to me?”

“Because Alfred is the rascally rogue everyone falls for.” Kiku gave him a soft smile. “I never said anything because our relationship was never official. A lot of flirting really.., but I guess you appealed to him more than I did.”

If Arthur didn’t feel like shit before he really felt like it now. Still, that did not change the fact that Kiku slept with Alfred while they were still together. “So why did you sleep with Alfred then? Why be so sneaky about it? We always shared things you couldn’t just tell me that? You couldn’t tell me your feelings so you jumped into bed with him?”

Kiku glanced to the side and cleared his throat lightly. “Arthur, everyone knows full well that your relationship with Alfred had been failing. Alfred was looking for something more that you would not- could not give him.”

“So he found it with you.” Arthur grumbled. “I can’t help who I am! I’m not lovey-dovey with cuddly teddy bears and cute little jing-jongs!”

Kiku flushed softly at that and looked to the floor.

“But I’m done with him, that bastard Alfred! You can have him; he’s ALL yours! I don’t want him in any shape or form! I rather just wrap my hands around his stupid throat and squeeze the breath out of him! It’s all his fault! ALL OF IT!”

“What is all Alfred’s fault?” Kiku gave him a curious look. “What has you even angrier than before?”

Arthur folded his hands to rest his forehead against them. No matter how mad he was, talking to Kiku was helping to calm him. Perhaps all was water under the bridge from now on, and Arthur could regain his best friend. Having someone to talk to who would not judge him in any way would be a nice change. Kiku would try his best to understand whatever Arthur was going through, and it’s what the blonde needed, really. Kiku would be the only person Arthur could fully confide in. Arthur lifted his head when he felt that slender pale hand on his shoulder, rubbing soothingly.

“What is wrong, Arthur? Is it about Ivan?”

Arthur turned his green eyes onto him. “How did you know?”

“I was on lookout duty during Ivan’s capture… I could see every expression on your face.” Arthur gulped. “You were nearly in tears with your body shaking.” Kiku rests both hands on Arthur’s shoulders now. “It is okay if you developed some feelings for Ivan.”

“They’re not really feelings of ‘love’ though. I mean... Ivan is just like me where we both don’t see the need to be together all the time. He has his hobbies, and I have mine. The sex is mind-blowing, and we do it for the pleasure, not the whole ‘making-love’ part. That’s not who I am, and I know that.” He looked down at his stew. “That’s what Alfred wanted, and I just couldn’t do it… I didn’t want too.” Arthur leaned his head back into Kiku’s chest. “That’s very selfish of me, but I can’t help it. I am stubborn, selfish, and hard of heart… just like Ivan.”

“Hmm… you may have finally found what you wanted, but it had to turn out like this. That would bother anyone. Seeing how they were hurting Ivan must have torn you apart inside.”

“I thought it wouldn’t bother me, but it did. I hate emotions… but he guilt is the worse one. I bet he hates me now… and he has every right to!” Arthur looked up at Kiku again. “Being with him helped me to see things differently about the war. I saw a whole other side to it I didn’t see before…”

Kiku hugged him around the neck from behind. “We have much to catch up on. I would love to hear what you have learned, but first I think you should see Ivan.”

Arthur stood up, pulling out of Kiku’s hold. “He won’t want to see me. I did, after all, betray him.” He wrapped his arms around himself. “He came flying head on into danger to save me… and I let him be captured. I didn’t know they would do it so brutally…but I should have expected as much. Ivan is a strong demon, and simple attacks can’t take him down.” Arthur sat on the sofa with a heavy sigh. “How’s he doing?”

“I’m not sure. They’ve closed off the holding cells and all entrances to leading to them. But…I’m sure we can find out?” Arthur gave him a curious look, and Kiku responded with a smile. “We are generals, after all, and you are the one who helped catch him. Typically, we are above the local guards and soldiers, so… we would have exclusive rights to enter the facility.”

Arthur smirked. “To make sure Ivan is being properly held and treated well as under our code for prisoners of war. No one has to know anything else!”

“I thought you didn’t want to be with him?” Kiku chuckled.

Arthur narrowed his eyes. “Tricky little monkey… dare I ask how you tricked Alfred in to sleeping with you?” he asked while lacing up his boots.

“A few simple words was all it took. Hardly had to think on it at all.”

Arthur stood up. “Fair enough. He is a dipshit who could be talked in to giving a blind man’s Seeing Eye dog directions on a map.”

“While speaking to the dog and pointing out the route on said map.”

Arthur threw his head back and laughed, the first good laugh he had had in awhile. He went up to Kiku and wrapped his arm around the smaller man’s shoulders. “Gods above, I’ve missed you. But this doesn’t leave the room. You’re the only one who knows.”

They headed to the door and Kiku opened it for him. “We can discuss it more over tea later.”

///

“I’m sorry sir, but the area has been closed off!” said one of the soldiers. “You are not permitted to be here.”

Kiku and Arthur just glanced at each other before the blonde spoke.

“Don’t you think that… since it was ME who captured this demon that I should be able to see him?” The two guards looked at each other. “After all, I spent time with him and risked my life so your families can sleep safely at night. Now cut the nonsense, and let us through. That’s an order from your general!”

The guards stepped aside, and one slid his keycard in the slot to open the door. Arthur walked past them, but Kiku politely thanked the pair before following the other inside. They walked down a wide hall until they came to another set of doors, also guarded. Since they were already inside, the guards did not question and let them continue through. Arthur couldn’t remember the last time he had been down here, looking around at all the empty cells. He figured Ivan had to be kept as far away from the door as possible, which meant he was most likely at the end. Arthur held his breath as he came up to the last two cells, looking into both. One was empty but the other was occupied.

Arthur looked through the thick steel bars where Ivan’s chained body lay sprawled out on the cold floor. Ivan’s body was still covered in blood, but it was caked to all his wounds. He had not been bandaged or cleaned since being brought here, which was protocol. Arthur knew that because Ivan was a powerful demon the humans had been after for so long they decided to treat him inhumanely. The demon was still under heavy drugs and sedatives that dulled his senses, which is why he did not know Arthur was there. Ivan’s back was to the bars, but he still made no sign of movement. Arthur took out his keycard and swiped it before punching in the pin number. The door slid open, and he cautiously stepped inside with Kiku right behind him. Arthur told Kiku to shut the door behind them before approaching Ivan. Even though the demon was badly wounded and drugged Arthur did not want to take any chances.

Ivan did not look like himself at all. His skin was pale and dotted with beads of sweat, most likely from a fever. Arthur noticed how the torn wings were scabbed with dark blood and the puncture wound in Ivan’s tail was an angry red. The tail was infected, but the rest of his wounds seemed to be healing slowly on their own. Arthur knelt on the floor beside Ivan’s head to get a better look at the demon’s face. Ivan’s eyes were closed, his mouth slightly open to suck in heavy gulps of air. The tip of the purple tongue flapped out of the corner, dry from fatigue and the drugs.

“Arthur, look at this.” Kiku whispered softy, gently lifting Ivan’s wing to point out some white dots.

“What is it?”

“I believe it is from that strange mixture the scientists created last year. The one that burns like acid, but doesn’t fully penetrate the skin to the bone. It looks like that is what was splashed, or sprayed, onto him.

“He was completely drugged dumb when they brought him here… I don’t see why that type of treatment was necessary,” Arthur said with a growl. “They’re being purposefully cruel to him.”

“I would have to agree with you.” Kiku noticed a particularly deep gash in Ivan’s shoulder. “That needs to be properly cleaned and stitched closed.” He stood up. “I think I can do it myself.”

Arthur looked up at him. “Are you sure? You don’t have to, you know. I could do it.”

The Asian man smiled at him. “I have more of a background in medical training then you do. I don’t mind at all. Wait right here, and I will find some of the medical supplies.”

Arthur watched the smaller man leave before focusing his attention once again on Ivan. He bit his lip while he stroked Ivan’s damp hair, not something he was accustomed to doing. Arthur felt the demon deserved some sort of kind treatment after the way he was betrayed. He curled his fingers around the thick horn, and it reminded him of how many times these were used during sex. Arthur flushed hotly, squeezing his knees together in hopes the tight pain will force away the growing erection. The blonde was so focused on his groin that he failed to notice the slow movements of the body beneath him. Arthur’s eyes opened when the sound of a chain clanked against the floor. Looking up at him were the cat-slit violet orbs, which did nothing but stare intently at him.

Arthur froze in his spot on the floor; fearful to make a move less Ivan chose to attack. The body was paralyzed with drugs, but Arthur was dangerously close to that mouth. Ivan would snap at him without a doubt for the hurt and betrayal Arthur had caused him. And in a small way, Arthur wouldn’t blame him. Something happened next that shocked him but it wasn’t at all a bite.

Rather it was a simple nuzzle of his lap.

Time stopped for Arthur as he watched Ivan’s face nuzzle against thighs. The demon was even purring with the tip of his tail swaying just so. Obviously Ivan could barely move from the ordeal, yet he still managed to nuzzle Arthur lovingly. Arthur figured it had to be the drugs clouding Ivan’s mind for there was no way the demon could have forgiven him. The demon’s body was practically destroyed to the point where he may never fly again. Ivan’s crushing defeat and fall from the top was by his own hands. So why was the demon nuzzling him?

“Ivan?” Arthur whispered his name.

“I know why you did it,” came a soft, almost hushed voice. “I forgive you.”

The tears began to well in Arthur’s eyes as his brain processed the words from the Ivan. The demon acknowledged what had happened and why, yet was willing to forgive him. Logically, Ivan made no sense. If the roles were switched Arthur would be doing his best to kill Ivan right now. He grit his teeth and had to ask, “Why?” through grit teeth. “Why do you forgive me?”

Demon eyes blinked up tiredly as he spoke. “It is war… you have little choice… you did not hatch this plan. Others did… I am certain of it.” Ivan now rests his head in Arthur’s lap. “I even sense how distressed you are, and how guilty you feel.”

“Ivan…”

“I would… have done the same… in your position.”

Arthur was about to speak when Kiku returned with a medical box. Ivan growled low at the Asian man, but Arthur stroked his silver hair, reassuring the demon that Kiku was friend. “He’s going to fix your wounds a bit.”

Ivan lifted his head to look at Kiku who smiled at him in greeting. The demon grumbled a bit and returned his head to Arthur’s lap.

“Now this is going to sting, but I need to disinfect the wound,” Kiku gave the warning before pouring the liquid onto a gauze pad and dabbing in carefully over the wound.

Ivan hissed loudly at the pain but remained perfectly still with his hands gripping the wrist chains. Arthur continued to stroke Ivan’s hair, scratching behind the horns and the back of his neck. Ivan seemed to relax and melt against the scratching, his wounded tail beginning to wag.

“I think he likes that,” Kiku said with a hint of amusement in his voice. Once he finished cleaning the wound the threaded needle came next. “This may hurt, as well, but I will do my best to be quick and efficient.”

Ivan’s response was another grumble before it turned into a hiss when the needle pressed through his skin. The pain was bearable after the needle went through. The rest that followed felt like nothing more than thorn pricks to him. The chains around his wrist were heavy as he forced his hand over to grip Arthur’s hip. He ignored Kiku’s soft words of ‘please don’t move’ while his clawed hand rubbed the blonde’s thigh.

Arthur allowed Ivan’s strange behavior, focusing on Kiku’s stitching instead. The nuzzling was making him a bit uncomfortable, but he did not want Ivan to see. Kiku’s stitching seemed to take forever when really the smaller man did it quickly. Arthur watched the gauze pad being placed over the wound and tapped to the demon’s skin.

“There, I’m sure that feels better?” Kiku asked the demon gently, patting Ivan’s hip.

“Yes. Better," Ivan’s reply was short for he was more focused on the blonde in front of him. “Leave us for now.”

“That is up to Arthur.” Kiku looked at his friend.

Arthur cleared his throat. “Just wait by the door for me. I won’t be long. Thanks for doing this with me, Kiku.” He smiled. “I appreciate it.”

The smaller man stood up and smiled back at his friend. “It was no trouble at all. I will warn you if I hear someone coming. I will suggest that you don’t be too much longer so as to not raise suspicion.”

Arthur nodded to his friend, waiting for Kiku to be out of sight before crushing Ivan’s head to his chest. The demon made a little muffled grunt, having to hold himself up on his elbows while Arthur’s hold remained strong. He just pressed Ivan’s face against his chest, burying his nose in the silver hair. This was very unlike him, but Arthur needed to be as close to Ivan as he could. He didn’t know if it was guilt, fondness, or passion that was making him act this way.

Ivan tapped the top of Arthur’s thigh, trying to pull his face away so he could breath. Once Arthur let go, Ivan took a gulp of air and rolled over onto his belly. The floor was cold, and it felt nice against his fevered flesh. He felt Arthur grasp the top of his wing, so he turned to look at the human. The heavy brows were drawn together in a frown while pink lips kissed softly at one of the wing tears. Ivan felt a deep purring in his chest as he watched, licking his own lips in feverish delight. When Arthur nuzzled his cheek against the leathery wing Ivan felt his body tingle all over. He was well aware of how much Arthur was pushing himself to act like this, and Ivan had to admit that he was impressed. He would keep all jokes and jabs to himself.

“You shouldn’t be forgiving me like this,” Arthur stated firmly. “I betrayed you. I seduced you only to lead you into a trap! I destroyed your home and crippled your armies!” He held tears in his green eyes. “So why? After the horrible thing I did… why the bloody hell are you forgiving me?”

“The answer is simple,” Ivan said softly. “This is war and you were only thinking of your race.”

Arthur frowned heavily, and Ivan couldn’t help but let out a weak chuckle.

“However… your little devious plan backfired on you, didn’t it?” Ivan wiggled his brows with all the smugness he could muster on his face. The smug smile turned into a goofy one when he saw the green fire blaze up in those eyes. “Did I say something wrong?”

“I HOPE YOU ROT IN HERE!” Arthur shouted in his blushing rage, dropping Ivan’s head to the floor.

Ivan yelped and twitched when the cold hard floor hit his head, banging his teeth together.

“Y-YOU ARE JUST… JUST… YOU ARE THE MOST ANNOYING, AGERVATING, RIDICULOUS, AND CENIVING BAFOON!”

Ivan just smiled stupidly at him, which only enraged Arthur more. “You left out ‘sexy’ and ‘a good fuck’.”

“I WILL KILL YOU!”

“Halfway there.”

Arthur pointed a finger threateningly at him before leaving the cell, slamming the door shut and locking it.

Ivan cocked his head to the side to continue his glimpse of Arthur’s retreating figure. He smirked to himself and curled up on the floor, wrapping his injured tail around his body to lick the wound. He preferred Arthur’s blowups rather than the blonde’s forced emotions. Ivan recognized the tenderness and bonding between them through the man’s short temperament. It was what had attracted him to Arthur in the first place.

The demon sucked on the wound, spitting out some of the old crusted blood onto the floor. Ivan now had a vendetta for that Alfred. The human would pay for three reasons: Hurting Arthur, foolishly attacking him, and using a pickaxe. Ludwig was also on the hit list, brother-in-law or not. He was certain Ludwig thought half of this plan up, and Arthur played along. His human was regretting it now, and that was all the revenge Ivan needed. He did admire Arthur’s strong sense of pride, duty, and honor for having gone through with his trap. It did make him laugh, however.

“You humans… all thinking you have me beat. Just you wait… I will get out of this… and then a great disaster will befall you all!” he chuckled again and rolled over onto his back, licking his dry lips. “And Arthur Kirkland… I’m still not sure if I plan to mate you or eat you. Tough call on my end.”

Ivan found himself starting to wonder what Arthur would taste like.

///

“Where the hell is Arthur?” Alfred asked Kiku who was busy helping with his uniform jacket. “He should have been here by now!” Alfred checked himself over in the mirror. “He’s going to be late for the trial!”

“I am sure he is just a little hesitant about being there. Remember, everyone in that courtroom will know that he was spending… ‘intimate time’ with Ivan while in captivity. It is embarrassing on multiple levels.”

“Oh please,” Alfred scoffed. “Arthur is the first person to spit in your face and yell insults if you cross him the wrong way. I bet you that in the court room today he will flip someone the bird within the first half hour of being there.” Alfred straitened his shirt collar over the jacket.

“We should be going now.” Kiku pointed to his watch. “We are a few seconds behind schedule.”

“That’s right, and we don’t want you turning into a pumpkin,” Alfred said with a laugh and took Kiku’s hand. “We’ll stop by Arthur’s room first though, see if he wants to sit with us.”

“I don’t think that would be wise, Alfred,” Kiku pointed out. “Arthur will need some alone time for awhile. We should leave him be.”

Alfred just dropped his head back, giving a sigh. “You’re too considerate, Kiku. Oh well, he can get the back row then! I want front row seats for this!”

“I think that-“ Kiku was cut off from his words as Alfred jerked him out of the room.

///

Arthur stared at the courtroom doors, his brows furrowing deeply with hands clenched at his sides. He was late for the trial because his thoughts had been running ramped in his head. The trial was no doubt going to be a very short one for Ivan was plainly guilty. The judges would have cold hard facts pertaining to each battle or brutality Ivan had engaged in. He would have to remain the back as to hide from judging eyes. Not that it really bothered him but there was enough going on that he could use less annoyances and stress. Holding his breath the blonde sneaked into the courtroom, taking the last seat at the end of the back row. He sunk down a bit in his seat when one of the judges called the court to order.

“We are gathered here on this day in July to convict the demon general, Ivan Braginksi, of his heinous crimes! Thanks to the brave and noble efforts of one of our own we were able to bring this beast to justice!” The courtroom soldiers cheered. “We can only thank heaven above for this great privilage that has been bestowed upon us! One of our most feared and dangerous demon generals has been caught! Our men and women on the battlefield can share in a sense of relief and victory!” The courtroom cheered again and Arthur just rolled his eyes.

“BRING IN THE PRISONER!” shouted another judge and the doors were flung open.

Everyone turned to the doors as five soldiers wheeled in Ivan. Arthur’s breathing had stopped. The demon was completely bound in chains from chest to torso, concealed inside a steel cage. His tail was pressed up against his back beneath the chains. He was forced to sit on his knees so everyone could see that his ankles were shackled as well. The most disturbing part was the spiked collar placed around Ivan’s neck, which had already started to draw blood. Ivan gave no sign of pain or fear but wore that stupid smile of his. Arthur tensed in his seat, purging his lips together to keep from shouting out.

“Demon General Ivan,” started one of the judges. “You are hereby charged with multiple atrocious acts of inhumane warfare. How do you plea?”

“Guilty as charged.” Ivan smiled and the court fell silent. Arthur slapped a hand to his face.

“You do not seem to be taking your position seriously, demon;” said another judge.

“Simply because it’s ridiculous. I am not sorry for what I did, and I will do it again. This is a war, or have you old goats forgotten that?”

“Silence!” hollered the first judge. “A demon’s way of warfare is disgusting, inhumane, medieval, and brutal! You act like brainless animals, which you are!”

Ivan smirked. “The humans who raped and slaughtered the females of one of our smaller cities didn’t seem to think demons were disgusting then. How very humane of you human men, attacking a village full of females when the males were away fighting.”

One of the calmer judges spoke up, “That was an unapproved act by a specific troop. They were punished for their crimes, I assure you. Surely you realize that demon males aren’t exactly priests when it comes to the age-old art of raping and pillaging. You seem to forget that most of those females put up a very brave fight.”

“Then we are one in the same, humans and demons.” Ivan smiled sweetly. “I’m just killing the humans before they kill my people. Aren’t you all doing the same? Demons have families, children and homes they want to protect from humans in tanks.”

The first judge chuckled with a smirk. “Then tell your demon brethren to lay down their claws and fangs in surrender. Let the humans be recognized for their superiority among the world and this ruthless killing will stop. Very simple.”

“Simple? Yes. Stupid? Very,” Ivan giggled. “I can pose the same question to you, and we’ll both have the same answer. Besides,” Ivan leaned forward, turning his violet gaze on the first judge. “Who said humans are the superior race? You all foolishly destroyed yourselves over silly things like religion and ‘whose dick is bigger’. Who, I ask, gave you this so called ‘birthright’? Let me know, so I can talk to them.”

“It is God, of course,” said the second judge.

“Ah, yes your human god, who idly sat by while the world and people He created blew themselves up. Didn’t bother saving anyone either. I would very much like to take His word over logic and rationality.”

“We are not here to discuss religious and political debates, demon!” shouted the first judge. “The facts we have, and your plea have brought us to our verdict!” he cleared his throat. “Demon General Ivan Braginski, you are hereby sentenced to death by demonic means. Your limbs shall be torn from your body and burned in front of you. Your skin will be flayed from your-“

“OBJECTION!”

Arthur wished for an anvil to fall directly on his head for the single word he just blurted out. Everyone turned to stare at him, making him shift slightly in his stance and give an awkward smile.

“Ah, General Kirkland, what a surprise to hear such a word from your mouth,” said the first judge. “Care to share your objection? Our hero of the hour?”

Ivan wanted to turn to look at Arthur, but the collar prevented him from doing so. He had to settle with just listening instead.

“It was my idea,” Alfred grumbled to Kiku, crossing his arms with a pout.

“Y-Yes sir, your honor!” ‘Get it together, Kirkland! You can do this!’ “Yes. I object to the verdict!” Arthur made his way to the front of the court, passing Ivan’s cage on the way but did not look at him. He turned to face his fellow soldiers.

“What do you wish to say, Arthur?” asked the calm judge.

“I ask for the death sentence to be appealed!” Everyone gasped and murmured.

“Have you acquired feelings for the demon?” asked the second judge.

Arthur narrowed his eyes at the man. “Hardly. I do not think it’s necessary to execute him by demon methods. If we do that it would only show the demons we are as low as them! We are the superior race, so we should act like it! We need to teach these demons how to properly act! What do we gain by murdering one demon?” Arthur asked the court, looking around at all the faces. “Killing a demon will not bring back our troops, friends, or families! As Ivan has stated in the beginning, this is a war and such dastardly acts are preformed! War is war! If we want all this nonsense to stop then the fighting should stop! He committed crimes, but as have we. If he thinks we are so lowly to massacre and rape towns, then we ought to show him and others in his race that Humanity is a genuine nature among Humans.”

Arthur was rather pleased with himself for standing up to the court and his fellow humans. It may not be what the humans wanted to hear, but Arthur knew now that it was his duty to point out the error of their ways. He felt his chest swell with double the pride it normally had by standing up for himself. The words he spoke held truth, which crumbled ‘duty’ and ‘honor’. Seeing the way his fellow humans were attacking Ivan opened his eyes. It was unfair for Ivan to be found guilty for the crime of being demon. It was a gray area he was currently standing in but not one he wanted to leave any time soon.

“Then what do you suppose we do, General Kirkland?” asked the second judge.

“Lock him up forever,” Arthur suggested. “Let all demons know that we have captured and imprisoned one of their finest. It will send a worldwide message to all demons that they could be next. Think about the fear and doubt it will put into their hearts. If the infamous Ivan Braginski could get captured so could they.”

Ivan licked his lips sensually, closing his eyes in delight as he relished in Arthur’s words. His human was indeed something special. Ivan knew that he had won the human’s heart. Arthur just didn’t realize it yet.

The judges leaned in to speak amongst themselves. The room lay in silence as everyone awaited the answer. Shortly after their huddle, the judges turned back to Arthur, who was standing in the center of the court.

“General Kirkland, we have considered your words and proceed to follow them,” said the second judge. “Ivan Braginski will be confined to permanent quarters in the jail cells until he can be properly transported to a holding prison. More details will be given once proper arrangements have been made. COURT AJURNED!”

Arthur felt the corners of his mouth lift into a smile as the courtroom residents began to shuffle around. Arthur turned to Ivan’s cage, meeting that violet stare. Ivan’s eyes held a playful gleam to them while Arthur’s were still hard and cold. Even though Arthur felt a wave of relief wash over him, he still could not wrap his mind around what was actually happening. It would take a lot of tea and soul-searching if he were to come up with an acceptable answer. But their eyes remained locked on one another until Ivan was charted out of sight.

Arthur couldn’t help but wonder where they go from there.

////

Two days had passed and Arthur’s performance in the courtroom was still the top gossip. Arthur thought it best to keep away suspicion by avoiding Ivan. In another day or so the blonde would go and see Ivan to check up on him. His argument and logic were valid but rumors could start a wave of unnecessary troubles. More trouble was something Arthur could do without. He could do without it all the time. After all, the separation would give him more time to think although they all kept coming to the same difficult solution.

Dinner at the base that night was like any other, only this time the five generals were all eating together again. Arthur and Kiku were happily sharing in some warm tea with their stew dinners. Francis had a simple Caesar salad since most of the food there made him gag. The Frenchman had very particular and fussy tastes. Ludwig set to mashing up his sliced potatoes in a frenzy while Alfred gobbled down a plate full of cafeteria burgers. Francis spoke first.

“I must say Arthur, that was quite a performance you gave in the courtroom.”

Arthur placed his teacup down onto the saucer. “Ugh. I’m tired of hearing about it, but everything I said was true. I’m a logical man, you know that.”

“I would think you’d want him dead,” Ludwig stated firmly after having shaped his now mashed potatoes into a small mountain. “I know I would like him dead.”

“Speaking of that, where is your brother anyway?” Francis asked Ludwig.

“Visiting with our family at our villa. Things are very quiet there, and I gave specific orders they were not to be disturbed by any outsiders. I want that lunatic demon away from my brother.”

Arthur picked up his saucer along with the teacup this time. “I still think your brother is going to find out. And when he does you better head for the hills, Ludwig.” He took a sip from the rim.

“I’m willing to take that chance.”

Alfred interrupted them to show the strange creation he had just made. “Hey, you guys! Look at this! I want all burgers to be made this way from now on! You put the bun, lettuce, tomato, onion, ketchup, mustard, and pickles in the center and use the BURGER PATTIES as buns!” Alfred held up his creation. “Isn’t that great! It’s like a cupcake sandwich but with burgers! Still tastes just as good!”

“We’re not friends anymore,” Francis stated calmly. Arthur threw up a little in his mouth before turning to Kiku.

“You can have him!” Arthur said, sharing a little laugh with the Asian man much to Alfred’s protests.

Their joyous moment had just been cut short.

At the sound of the alert alarm, all five men shared the same stiff face of surprise before shooting up from the table. They rushed out of the cafeteria in a group, but Ludwig gave word for them to split up and find out what was happening. As Arthur readied his gun and ran down the halls, dodging other scrambling soldiers, he had a fairly good inkling on what was happening. Or rather, ‘who’ was happening. It had been one of his biggest concerns and fears since bringing Ivan to the base as a prisoner. He would bet every dollar he had that the blaring alarm was for a demon attack; a white demon attack. It wouldn’t have taken long for Gilbert to have gotten word of Ivan’s capture, and it would only be a matter of time before the ‘wife’ showed up for revenge. Arthur would have to be extra cautious.

“General Kirkland! GENERAL KIRKLAND! SIR!”

Arthur stopped at the shout of his name and turned to see a soldier stumbling towards him, his leg practically snapped in half. He appeared to be in shock while using his still loaded rifle as a crutch. Arthur went to him and had to shout over the blazing alarm. “What’s happened?”

“A… a demon, sir! A w-white demon! With glowing red eyes!” The man started to tremble. “He… he was making everyone EXPLODE! WE COULDN’T SHOOT HIM! HE WAS SO FAST!”

Arthur helped rest the man carefully on the floor. “I will send for help!”

Arthur knew it was cruel to leave the bleeding man unattended, but sadly more pressing issues were at hand. He tore down the halls, running faster than he ever had. Stopping Gilbert from entering the base was his top priority. If Gilbert were to find Ivan and release him things could end up being bloodier then they already were. Arthur turned the corridor but slid to a shocking halt at the scene before him. He stood in terrified awe at the mutilated bodies that lay scattered on the floor, walls, and ceiling. Torsos were sliced perfectly in half or chest cavities lay open with broken ribs. Arthur realized that this was what the soldier was referring to about the others ‘exploding’. Gilbert’s power did more than just stop hearts from pumping. When the shock value had finally worn off Arthur was left with a terrifying realization.

Gilbert had already entered the building and was leaving a trail of bodies in his wake.

“Then I will just have to follow the trail!” Arthur made sure his gun was properly loaded before running down the halls once again, this time jumping over bodies. He noticed that it was not only bodies he had to follow but also the endless, single line scratches that stretched along the wall. Arthur had to assume that they were wing marks and that was how Gilbert sliced through the soldiers. “Perhaps he is not as strong as Ivan, but he can be just as brutal. Damn it… I’ll have to play it smart!”

The blonde jumped out of his skin when the lights suddenly shut off and emergency lights popped on. The emergency lights weren’t nearly as bright and did little to properly light the hallways, since all were widely spread out. Arthur cursed his bad luck but continued down the dimly lit hall, listening for any kind of sound. His brows twitched at the distance sounds of screaming and he swallowed the lump in his throat.

‘GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOD EVENING, HUMAN ALLIANCE MILITARY BASE INHABITANTS!’

Arthur let out a wild curse and grabbed his heart from the extreme shock of the speaker system blaring at full force. He recognized that obnoxious voice and glared, gritting his teeth.

‘And what a fine evening it is! Full moon and all! Gotta say, I didn’t think it would be so easy to break into such a… prestigious and heavily guarded military base! Whoever chose the interior covers should be fired, but I digress.’

‘That pompous ass!’ Arthur thought to himself.

‘I just love hearing my awesome voice on a loud speaker! Kinda sound like God, don’t I? LET MY PEOPLE GOOOOOO!’

“That was Moses you dumb shit!” Arthur hissed.

‘I’m sure Arthur Kirkland is correcting me right now as I speak.’ Arthur couldn’t help but roll his eyes. ‘And don’t roll those eyes.’

Arthur gulped and let his eyes dart around frantically, wondering where and how Gilbert was watching him.

‘Did you think you could get away with it, Arthur? Did you think I wouldn’t find out and reign hell on your race? Well, tough shit, little Brit! This desperate demon housewife is about to open up a can of whoop-ass! Run, run, Peter Rabbit! Mr. McGregor is gonna make the best rhubarb pie out of your inners!’

“I’m not going to hesitate to shoot him,” Arthur stated to himself. “He’s a pompous wanker.” Green eyes rolled back in his head at what came on the loud speaker next. On the radio, the song ‘One Way or Another’ by Blondie began to play over the speaker system, and Arthur sucked his teeth at the cliché chase attempt. “He deserves to be shot.” The blonde could picture Ivan in the cell right now, rolling onto his back with legs kicking in the air in laughter.

Arthur ignored the song as he slid carefully along the wall, looking for any sign of Gilbert. If he was in the security room then the demon wasn’t far at all. A few more turns and Arthur would be right at the security door so he made his way there. The music made it hard for him to hear any kind of sounds that would alert him to Gilbert being nearby. With the dim light to make things more difficult, Arthur could only take the stealth approach.

It was a good thing he did for a second later he saw Gilbert’s demonic image at the end of the hall. He quickly dashed behind the wall to stay out of sight. The dim lighting only outlined Gilbert’s form, but the demon was there. Arthur held his breath and peeked around the corner just in time to see those red eyes burst into a bright glow. He hide and pressed his back against the cool stone, his heart rate rising.

“I know you’re here, Arthur. I can smell your fear.”

Arthur peeked around the corner again and saw how Gilbert was walking forward, scrapping his claws along the wall. The red eyes had yet to notice him, but Arthur felt the urge to panic slowly starting to rise. The gun in his hand would do little to damage Gilbert. One glance at those eyes could burst his ribs from his chest. Maybe he could weasel his way out of Gilbert’s attack; it was a risky thought, but it was one that should ensure his safety. Holding his hands up, Arthur stepped out into Gilbert’s path, keeping his eyes on the floor.

“I surrender!” he dropped the gun. “Look, I surrender!”

Gilbert’s roar echoed in the hall and a second later Arthur felt himself tackled the ground. He kept his eyes close so as to not look into Gilbert’s eyes. The demon held his shoulders down and used body weight to keep Arthur in place. Gilbert’s growling and hissing were pure signs that the demon was pissed. Arthur feared he had made a huge mistake, but he did have an ulterior motive. It was certain to work.

“Why?” Gilbert hissed the word at him. “Why, Arthur? What the fuck were you thinking? I trusted you, damn it! I let you into my home and room! I kept your fucking secret about your letters to Alfred!” His hands moved to Arthur’s neck now. “My dim-witted mate gave you the shirt off his back! Showering you with gifts and showing you the upmost respect a demon is willing to give a human!” He squeezed tight, making Arthur gasp for air. “So WHY?! Why did you betray Ivan and me? Tell me before I kill you!”

Arthur choked a bit, trying to mouth some words. Gilbert must have sensed his struggling for the demon’s hold on his neck loosened. Arthur coughed once air returned to his lungs, but he still kept his eyes closed. “I did betray him… and I am sorry for it. Things are different now! I want Ivan freed!”

Gilbert was silent for a moment then said “Open your eyes… I won’t kill you. I have no reason to.”

Arthur cautiously peeked an eye open, seeing that Gilbert was telling the truth and those eyes were not shining bright. He turned his green eyes up at Gilbert’s darkened form. “They will treat Ivan brutally here. I want him out. You shut off the power so the doors and chains will be unlocked. Let me go, and I will take you to Ivan.”

Gilbert growled low. “How can I trust you?”

“Your brother trusts me. Ivan trusts me. So you can trust me. Besides,” he added in an obvious tone, "If I seem like I am about to betray you, you can easily kill me in the most painful of ways before I can even blink."

Gilbert spread his wings, making himself look fiercer. “And just what will you do after we save Ivan, hm? Must I take you back under my roof to mate with him?”

“No. No, you don’t,” Arthur said softly. “Ivan is yours.” Arthur sat up when Gilbert’s weight was lifted from him. “Ivan and I… we are different. Two different people… two different races. Ivan will not stop killing humans, and I can’t live with him while he does that. He won’t want to be with me because I will be fighting and killing demons.” Arthur looked away. “It’s not fair… but it’s fact. Ivan and I… we would never get along in a long-term relationship. We are from different worlds. It wouldn’t work.”

Gilbert stood and helped the other up. “I have to agree with you. I don’t think I could live with you either. All this carnage… you made me do it. Forced me to do it because my mate was in danger. Attacking humans is not something I like to do but you left me little choice,” the white demon hissed. “Take me to Ivan. Now.”

Arthur nodded, taking Gilbert by the hand and leading him through the halls. They had to dodge and hide from running soldiers but managed to make it to the holding cell steps.

The whole way there, Arthur’s chest was aching with regret for he did not want what was going to happen. He had hoped for a little more time with Ivan ", but an opportunity presented itself that he had to follow. Gilbert could safely get Ivan out and have him fixed by a demon doctor. If Ivan stayed here he would be tortured. Arthur was aware that Ivan tortured him but things were different and two wrongs don’t make a right. He couldn’t stand by knowing Ivan was destined to only suffer. The best choice appeared, and Arthur had to accept that.

“He is here,” Arthur said to Gilbert as they approached Ivan’s cell.

Gilbert slid the door open easily now that the power was shut off. “IVAN!”

Ivan looked up from his napping spot and gasped when he saw the two men. “Gilbert! Arthur!”

Gilbert smiled and ran to him. “Oh Ivan… look at what they’ve done to you!” Gilbert nuzzled him and Ivan purred.

“I’m alright. I knew you would come, my mate.”

Arthur swallowed a hard lump in his throat.

“I’ll get you out of here!” Gilbert helped Ivan stand, using his own tail and wings to break the chains. “We’ll get the shackles off later! You're going to be a bitch to carry, but I'll manage. We have a few others waiting outside in the woods for us!” Ivan nodded.

“Come on, you two! You have to hurry!” Arthur hissed at them.

“THE DEMONS!” Someone shouted, and Arthur spun around sharply to see one of the guards. “THE DEMONS ARE ESCAPING!” The man said as he ran out of sight.

“YOU HAVE TO GO!” Arthur hollered at the two while standing to the side so they could pass through.

“Don’t think this is over yet, Arthur!” Gilbert sneered at him and poked a claw at Arthur’s chest. “I know where you live! And you’d best warn my baby brother, too!”

“Whatever!” Arthur snapped back at him then turned to Ivan. “This is where we part…”

“Part? As in we won’t see each other?” Ivan questioned.

Arthur nodded. “Yes. We are back with our races now so… things can’t be the way they were.” They could hear more footsteps coming. “You need to go! Now! Use the ventilation system! The duct goes straight out of the roof in this area!”

Gilbert nodded, flying up and over to the vent door to get it opened.

Ivan gripped Arthur’s forearms and pulled the blonde close. “I will come back for you, Arthur Kirkland. You are my human, and no one will take you from me.”

“It… it is over between us, Ivan. I will never yield to you. I don’t want to belong to anyone. You may think I am yours, but you know in my heart that I only share a slight fondness for you. Nothing more. No bond. No love.”

Ivan smirked. “You can’t hold off forever. I will have you, willing or not.” He pulled Arthur tighter against him. “Nothing is over and nothing is ending,” he hissed softly, making Arthur blush. “The only time we will part is when I open your body and eat your insides.”

With a wink and kiss to Arthur’s cheek (much to Gilbert’s dismay) Ivan hurried over to Gilbert who helped lift him into the vent. Once inside their demon abilities allowed them to walk along the vertical walls.

Arthur stared up at the dark vent, watching as Gilbert’s white tail vanished from sight. He felt a few tears welling up in his eyes as he thought about Ivan’s words. What did Ivan mean by them? Ivan was going to come back for him even though Arthur told him their worlds were too different? For a split moment, Arthur thought of the word ‘love’ when he replayed the demon’s words in his head. Did Ivan love him, and did Arthur share his love in return? Was it that bonding Ivan spoke of or something more?

“Why is this eating me up inside?” Arthur said to himself, feeling his hands trembling. All the mixed emotions, along with the mystery and feeling of helplessness, started to push Arthur closer to a nervous breakdown. “What is happening? What do I want to come of all this? Ivan,” he said the demon’s name. “Ivan!” he shouted the last time. “IVAN!”

“FREEZE! DON’T MOVE GENERAL!"

Arthur lazily turned his eyes to see the wall of soldiers aiming guns in his direction. Arthur made no movement to attack or use words to defend himself. He just stood there, stiff as a board, and stared. He was not afraid of what was to come.

“GENERAL KIRKLAND, YOU ARE UNDER ARREST!”

End Chapter 11 Part 2 TBC

***We have only one more chapter left, folks! It’s coming to a close!***
- 12
- 13
- 14
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Darker Than Morning