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

Chapter List
- 13
- 14
- 15
***Warnings: language, disturbing scenes

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

So hold on to me

I feel like I'm losing my way

Rather than with promises

Tell me with your soul.

Tsukamaeteite- Yoroiden Samurai Troopers

Chapter 14

The coffin was empty.

Neither one spoke a word for some time; both just staring down into the empty space. It was lined with red velvet, a symbol of royalty. The coffin, without a doubt, belonged to the Dark Court royal family.

Ludwig carefully, and slowly, closed the lid without a word.

"Ludwig?" Kiku spoke his name. "What should we do?"

"The right thing to do is to tell Arthur of what has happened." He turned to Kiku. "He has a right to know. He was standing here when the baby was laid to rest, not knowing that the body wasn't in there."

Kiku shook his head. "No, we cannot tell the king of this tragedy."

"Why not?" His tone was sharp. "If you were the king, wouldn't you want to know?"

Kiku looked away. "Of course I would…but I would understand why such a tragedy was kept from me." He turned back to Ludwig. "I think we should investigate this matter further, before we even think of telling the king. Only the Pure Bloods could have done this; they have the strength and the power. You will need to investigate this Monk Jasper on your end while I work on it here. If anyone should be told, it's Francis. He can help us. He's much more even tempered than the king."

Ludwig's breath caught when he said Francis' name. Should he tell Kiku? No. It wasn't safe to tell Kiku since he is very close to the family. He may not want to tell Arthur about the baby, but he may tell of Francis. "Where is Francis? Do you know?"

"I'll find him. He'll be devastated to know of this…and I do not look forward to telling him."

It was unsettling to ask such a question, and Ludwig's hands trembled on the coffin as he spoke. "Should we…put the body in here before burying it again?"

"No. The baby is not ours to do so. When the time is right, Arthur and Francis should do it. Not us."

"Very well."

He was relieved to not do it, and without another spoken word he buried the coffin. As he pat the top of the dirt with the shovel, the feeling of lonesomeness washed over him. It must be the graveyard making him feel this way. Burying tiny coffins wasn't in the job description, nor did he ever think something like this could happen. But the urge to be with Gilbert right now was stronger than ever. He kept his feelings mute as they exited the graveyard, only telling Kiku that he was growing tired from exhaustion, which was part of the truth. He felt drained and worn out, wanting nothing more than to escape into a solitary room somewhere and just hide away. Yet he wanted to be with Gilbert more; needing to feel that warm body against his while their limbs lay tangled together. He wanted to press his ear against the fairy heart and drawl from it the love, warmth, and hope it produced for his soul. And then, he could properly rest.

Yet when they arrived at the castle, it was nearly morning and the inhabitants were bustling around madly. Caught in the commotion, Ludwig finally grabbed a guard by their arm. "What is going on? Has something happened?"

"Prince Alfred and Lord Gilbert have not returned from their dinner!" The guard answered. "The king is frantically worried and has everyone searching the castle for them! There is rumor of something having happened in the city! A carriage was tipped over by an angry mob!"

Ludwig's eyes widened. "Who's carriage? The prince's?"

"We don't know. We think that it may be. The king has not sent soldiers into the city yet."

"Where is the king? I must see him."

"In his throne room!"

Ludwig turned to Kiku. "I need to see Arthur."

Kiku nodded. "You go."

Ludwig ran to the throne room, fearing what might have happened to Gilbert if the guard's story was true. He figured the reason why Arthur hadn't sent out troops into the city was to keep things calm. Hopefully Arthur had a little more information than the guard did. When he entered the throne room, Arthur was pacing back and forth violently with his hands clenched at his sides. His black kingly robes twirled behind him with each spin on his heel. The king was clearly troubled by all this, and Ludwig was prepared to have his head bitten off.

"Your majesty! What has happened?"

"Where the hell have you been?" Arthur stopped his pacing to yell at him.

He bowed. "I was in my world taking care of-"

"For all this time? Don't lie to me, Ludwig! Word of your arrival back in our realm came yesterday, and here you are, just showing up now!"

"Your majesty, I apologize if I caused you any inconvenience. How may I be of service to you now?"

Arthur put his hands on his hips and went back to pacing. "My son and Gilbert never came home last night! I was told of trouble in the city, and I fear they ran into it!" He stopped to bite at one of his long nails. "I can't send the troops out to investigate just yet. It will make the people angry. If they had them held captive, I would have received a notice by now. My spirit isn't aching, so I know Alfred must be well. He and Gilbert are probably hiding in the city somewhere, just waiting for everything to calm down before getting back…but that isn't doing anything for my nerves."

Ludwig noticed the sorrowful look that swept across Arthur's face. "Sire? I'm sure they are well." From Ludwig's own soul came the feeling of uneasiness and fear; both of which, he knew, were linked to Gilbert. Now that he knew what had happened, the feeling in his chest could only mean that Gilbert was hurt and Alfred was well. It angered him that he had to conceal this worry in front of Arthur.

"Try to tell that to any mother who's child is missing…and they don't know where they are." Arthur removed his crown to run a hand through his blonde strands. "I always said it. Alfred is going to be the death of me."

"Is there…anything else troubling you?" Ludwig could see that Arthur was on the brink of tears and clearly looked drained with worry. If he could feel that Alfred was well, then why was he so upset? He jumped when the throne room doors shut behind them, leaving him completely alone with Arthur. A sense of fear traveled through him, wondering why Arthur had locked them both in. Did he know something? "Your highness?"

"Francis is missing." Arthur blurted out, spinning on his heel to take a seat on the dais steps. "I had to tell someone…might as well be you. I'm certain you know of everything, and if you were going to tell, you would have done it by now." He hid his face in his fists. "I can't find him. My soul has been searching for him…and I've come up with nothing. It's as if…as if he doesn't exist anymore."

This was killing him. Ludwig just stood there, staring at Arthur's trembling form, knowing the truth behind the fairy's grief. His soul couldn't find Francis because the fairy was frozen in time. Ludwig's hand clenched around his staff as his mind battled with the thought of relieving Arthur of his pain by telling the king what had befallen his lover. However, Roderich swore him to secrecy, and Ludwig couldn't be certain of how Arthur would react in this state, especially if Alfred was still missing. Still, it was unfair to Arthur that he had to be kept in the dark about what has happened to Francis, and Ludwig hated himself for being forced to keep it. He knew the reason behind Arthur's sorrow, yet he could do nothing to help the king. Since he couldn't tell Arthur the truth, Ludwig felt the urge to do something. Normally he was uncomfortable with human emotions and expressing his own; and was even more awkward with trying to understand other's feelings. But having met and falling in love with Gilbert had seemed to change his inner spirit, and it opened him up to others' emotions. Quietly, he walked over to the king to sit beside him, yet stopped when he saw a droplet of dark red blood splatter on the floor between the king's black boots.

"Your majesty? Are you hurt?"

"Yes." Came the hoarse reply, and when Arthur lifted his head to gaze at Ludwig, the monk let out a gasp.

"You're bleeding!" The bottom blonde lashes of Arthur's eyes were tainted with blood as twin trails of the red liquid were present on both cheeks. "Why are you-"

"Oh that's right, you're human." Arthur let out a breathily laugh. "If a fairy has been in love with their mate for as long as I have, crying blood is the sure sign of…of having our souls split apart!" He barely got the last word out before his voice cracked.

Ludwig sat next to him, unsure of how to properly comfort the king. He was still thrown off by the bloody tears. "Your majesty, I wish I could offer some words or actions of sympathy but I do not understand what you are feeling."

"You never will be able to understand." He answered. "You're not a fairy."

What happened next made Ludwig's skin crawl. Arthur actually leaned into him, or rather, threw his upper body into the monk's lap. The king nearly slid off the steps as he did, folding his arms beneath his face. Ludwig watched the cloaked shoulders tremble and heard the sorrowful muffled sobs.

"I can't even go look for him!" Arthur sobbed. "I can't do anything without raising suspicion! It's tearing my soul apart, Ludwig!"

Ludwig simply placed his hand atop the blonde head and let Arthur continue to cry. He had never noticed it before, but Arthur was really quite small. The king appeared much bigger to him because of the way he carried himself. But now, this prideful, stubborn fairy was showing weakness the same as anyone else. It reminded Ludwig of just how strong emotions could be. Now he truly understood the meaning behind Roderich's warning of not going to war for a lover's revenge. In the state Arthur is now, the Dark King would likely destroy not just the Light Court but also his own as well. Arthur was emotionally unstable over the missing soul of his lover; and Ludwig knew where Francis was.

But soon, his thoughts drifted away from Arthur and onto Gilbert. Could Gilbert cry tears of blood like this? Arthur and Francis had been in love for numerous centuries; something that Ludwig could never achieve because he was human. But would Gilbert ever cry blood for him like this? The image of Gilbert's perfectly white cheeks stained with rivulets of bloody tears sent a searing pain through his heart, like it was pierced by a sharp blade or arrow. He knew now that this image of Gilbert will haunt him, and he needed to see the fairy more than ever. Even if it were just to hold him in his arms. But like Alfred, he was missing. 'Gilbert…? Please, come back to me!'

A thumping at the door startled them both. "YOUR HIGHNESS? WHY HAVE YOU SHUT THE DOORS? ONE OF THE LORDS IS HERE TO SEE YOU!"

Arthur turned bloodied, fearful eyes up to Ludwig, pleading with him to do something.

Ludwig swallowed hard and shouted. "YOU MUST TELL THE LORD TO WAIT! I AM FINISHING UP BUSINESS WITH THE KING!"

"BUT YOUR GRACE-"

"SILENCE!" Ludwig hollered. "WE ARE NOT TO BE DISTURBED UNTIL OUR MATTERS OF BUSINESS ARE TAKEN CARE OF! NOW GO!"

There came no more voices from beyond the door.

"Monk?" Arthur whispered.

"Yes, your highness?"

"Tell no one of this."

"Never."

Arthur sat up and wiped away the blood with his sleeve. "I'm sorry for…breaking down like that but-"

"No need to explain. You needed to vent. There is much on your plate and your soul is hurting. A heart is a heavy burden."

"No shit." He took a deep breath. "Thank you for trying to comfort me. I know it was hard for you. It's hard for me as well. I'm just tired all the time." Arthur moved to sit on his throne, letting his body slump in the seat. "Sometimes I feel like clearing out of the kingdom all together."

"Your kingdom needs you." Ludwig stated.

Arthur smirked, showing a hint of fang. "If something happened to my son out there in the city, mark my words, I will show them no mercy."

Ludwig knew that Arthur spoke the truth, and he said no more on the matter.

/

Gilbert awoke to a pounding headache on one side of his head. When he opened his eyes, he saw a cracked ceiling above him littered with cobwebs. He was reminded of what happened almost instantly; the carriage being tipped over, the angry mob, and their rescue by a stranger. A snort and a snore came from beside him and he turned to see Alfred lying next to him, asleep. He was surprised that Alfred was still here; that he had not flown home by now. The mob was after Alfred, not him. But where was the stranger? Carefully so as to not wake Alfred, Gilbert slid his feet over the side and forced himself to stand. The pain in his head threw off his equilibrium, which took a minute or two to return to him. Once stable, he walked around the old building, stepping over ceiling stones, garbage, broken furniture, and other smashed items. From behind the wooden slab makeshift door was a shadow moving about. Gilbert went over to the slab to peek out from behind it, noticing the cloaked form of their rescuer. The person was a little on the heavy side but taller than him. But who was this person? Who was their 'friend'? And why did he save them?

"Hey there." Gilbert said casually.

The cloaked figure glanced over at him from a broad shoulder. "You're awake I see. How are you feeling?" The fairy male turned away from him once again.

"Got a headache, but other than that, I'm doing okay." Gilbert slipped out from behind the wooden slab. "I don't know if Alfred said anything, or if I remember really. But on behalf of both of my husband and I, we say thanks for saving us!" Gilbert grinned and slapped the man on the back. "That 'friend' must really mean something to you if you risked your life to help us; public enemy number one."

"Yeah, well, it's over now. So don't speak any more of the incident."

"But I'm curious as to who your friend is. It must be someone powerful. Let me guess…" he smirked "I bet it's a noble lady?"

"No."

"Okay then. How about a noble young lord? A soldier? A guard? A serving girl?"

"No, no, and no! Stop asking me!" The fairy hollered. "It's none of your business who my friend is! Just be thankful that I saved you from that mob! If that mob had their way, both of you would have been stripped of your wings and clothes to be ridiculed in the streets! That bastard Alfred they would hang with his own entrails."

Gilbert crossed his arms and shifted to one foot, narrowing his gaze at the man's back. "Such hatred towards my husband is started to piss me off. I know Alfred well enough to know that he's not the modest of fairies, and he can be very loud, rude, and pushy. Incredibly pushy. And he likes to push his weight around while being very vain and stubborn. And let's not forget his massive ego. But I grew up with him. Both him and his brother, Prince Matthew. Alfred isn't all that bad once you get to know him, and once you look past all his annoying flaws, he's a pretty decent guy. But you guys here in the city don't want to give him a chance! Alfred was branded a tyrant and a monster the second he was born by all of you! Just what is YOUR personal beef with Alfred?"

The fairy crossed his thick arms and leaned against the wall. "It was my luck that day that Alfred was ruling as king regent while his father was indisposed. I came to him with a plea; a plea that is none of your business, and he dismissed me. No, he LAUGHED at me, popped some sort of tiny cake in his mouth, and sent me away. He wouldn't even listen to me. I lost a lot and suffered when he so ignorantly turned me out! I don't even care if he's of pure royal blood or not. But he is not fit to sit on that throne and make a mockery of all of us! It's Mattie who belongs on that throne!"

Gilbert stared at him, and then his lips curled into a knowing smile. "You speak so casually of your prince by referring to him as 'Mattie', something only we call him!"

The fairy stiffened.

"So your 'friend' is Prince Matthew! No wonder you saved us! Matthew would never want to see either of us hurt or killed, especially his brother."

"Damn." Hissed the fairy and he cracked his thick knuckles. "No one will arrest me for killing a fairy with no real title!"

Gilbert 'eeped'. "Whoa, hold up! I'm not going to say anything to anyone! What Mattie does is his own business! And don't you threaten me or I'll tell Mattie what you just tried to do!" The fairy lowered his fists. "HA! So that's it!" Gilbert's features turned smug. "Game, set, and match. But in all seriousness…" his features softened "Mattie needs someone looking out for him. Someone who isn't his father or brother. These are dangerous times and I don't ever want to see him hurt."

"Nor do I." The fairy looked up. "The king is nearly ready to change the night into day. Best be on your way. The streets are quiet now, but fly as swiftly as you can back to the gates."

"Alright, we will. And thanks again for your help. Don't worry, your secret is safe with me. We all have secrets, don't we?"

Gilbert winked at him and stepped behind the wooden slab to awaken Alfred. Just what was Matthew doing out here all by himself and consorting with the enemy? His little Mattie? The little fairy boy trailing behind them holding a stuffed bear the same size as he? They couldn't be talking about the same Prince Matthew…yet he vowed that before the day was done he would confront the fairy on this matter. If not for anything other than his own curiosity.

"Alfred?" He shook the other. "Alfred, wake up."

He snorted awake. "Huh? Wha?"

"It's time to go; the streets have settled."

"Oh! Right!" Alfred jumped up from the bed. "Where's that guy?"

"I already said our thanks. Let's hurry back so Kiku can look at my wound. Maybe Mattie can even heal it."

"Yeah, and I'm starving!" his stomach grumbled. "We'll get back to the castle lickity-split!" Alfred took Gilbert's hand and led him to the slab, peeking out around it. "Coast is clear! Let's go!"

Gilbert looked around for the fairy but found that they were now alone. He barely had time to wonder about the stranger before Alfred had them soaring through the sky at top speed.

They made it to the gate and through the entrance to the castle where they were swarmed by guards and servants. News of their arrival traveled fast, and it reached the throne room.

"Your majesty!" Shouted a guard as he pounded on the doors. "Your son has returned with Lord Gilbert!"

Arthur threw the doors open. "Where are they?" Ludwig was right behind him.

"Father! Father! I'm here!" Alfred waved at him as he came flying down the hall with Gilbert.

Ludwig smiled from over Arthur as he saw Gilbert, and then noticed the white bandage (or what looked like a bandage) around his head. Alfred was forcefully taken into his father arms, his eyes bugging out with how tight Arthur was squeezing him. Gilbert and Ludwig's eyes met; and even though they could not embrace here, their spiritual link did it for them. Ludwig tapped his own temple, referring to the bandage on Gilbert's head. Gilbert nodded, but held up his finger for his lover to hold that question; at least until Arthur's frantic rambling (and scolding) was complete.

"Now what happened to you?" Arthur asked Gilbert when he finally pulled away from his son.

"When our carriage was tipped over I guess I must have hit my head on some glass. I really don't remember."

"How did you escape?" Ludwig asked next.

"So strange guy saved us." Was Alfred's answer. "He said he was a friend of someone here, or someone we know. He wouldn't tell us who, but he helped bandage Gilbert and saw us safely back. Roughly speaking."

"Hm." Arthur crossed his arms. "It's good to know that we have someone on our side out there." He turned to Gilbert. "How are you faring with that wound?"

Gilbert poked it. "I have a slight headache, but I figure Matthew can heal it with little trouble. Is he in his room?"

"Yes. He's worried to death about his brother. Let him know that Alfred is back and well. I want to hear more about this attack. Ludwig, go along with Gilbert. Make sure he gets to Matthew's room safely."

Ludwig bowed. "As you wish, your highness." He led Gilbert away from the king and Alfred. "We have to make a stop at my room first." He whispered.

Gilbert grinned. "Does it have to do with-"

"Hush. It's nothing like 'that'. Trust me, I don't have the energy for such heavy activity." He leaned in to whisper. "I really just need to hold you."

Pink eyes flashed him a look of concern. "Now I sense stress and fear coming from you. Will you tell me what's bothering you?" He whispered back.

"Yes." Ludwig hated lying; and he's been doing it a lot recently. But he still did not want to burden Gilbert with his worries or fears. Once they entered his room, Ludwig locked the door and propped the staff against the wall.

"New robes?" Gilbert asked, letting his eyes travel the length of Ludwig's body.

"They are. This color red symbolizes my status in the monkhood. I am now, officially, the Head Monk." Ludwig rubbed both his temples. "As if I don't have enough responsibilities already." He heard Gilbert shuffling and glanced up to see the fairy taking off his circlet, cloak, and boots.

The white fairy flew over to the bed and sat down upon it, patting the mattress for him to join. "Come on over and tell me all about your problems."

Ludwig's feet hurried across the floor, nearly leaping onto the bed and crawling into Gilbert's embrace. He forced the other flat onto the mattress where he tenderly held him. Ludwig laid his face in the crook of Gilbert's neck, feeling the pulse of life beneath that warm skin. Just like Gilbert's heartbeat, the healthy blood flow eased his feelings of stress. He asked if he was too heavy, but Gilbert's only response was to embrace him back, squeeze tight, and kiss the top of the blonde head. By the Goddess how he had craved this. All of his worry and strife melted away. He never knew love and bonding could feel like this, especially not with a fairy. Now he could never love another human; ever. All he wanted was Gilbert. His Gilbert. His Winter Fairy. His MATE. How could he stand before his fellow monks, preaching a sermon while thinking of Gilbert the entire time? Ludwig wouldn't be able to control his blushing if the thoughts turned to more…sensual ones. Being pressed up against this body was arousing, but he still did not have the energy. It wasn't fair to Gilbert, who had just survived an attack, to be flipped over and made love to. The fairy still needed to see Matthew about his wound.

"So tell me what is troubling you? How can I help?"

"Monk Jasper."

"Hm. The nutcase with the pale eyes."

"Yes. I fear he is out to get me, Gilbert. He knows I can see fairies. Even he can see them. He was able to see Ivan without the warning of death, so he can see you and the others as well." He pulled Gilbert tighter to him. "I worry for the children there as well, especially Daniel, who can also see fairies."

"What's the worst this guy can do?" He scoffed.

"Well, he IS the most powerful monk in the whole Emerald Valley. No, make that the entire kingdom and region. He could have me hanged; and he's cruel enough to have Daniel hanged as well."

Gilbert glared at the ceiling. "Hanged? What the hell for? Fairies are a part of the world! The Green Mother made us herself! You all worship her, so why not the other creatures she has created?"

Ludwig took in Gilbert's scent, burying his nose further into that white crook. "Humans are a cruel and unforgiving race. We like to think we are the ONLY beings created by the Green Mother, the Earth Goddess. It is a sin to believe in magic; in fairies and in other realms. I guess it's because only a selective few can see the other creatures, so we are branded 'insane', 'bewitched', or 'evil'."

"I'll never understand humans. You belong here with us, Ludwig!"

"I still have my responsibilities in the human world, Gilbie. I can't leave them all behind when so many depend on me."

"Gilbie?" Gilbert chuckled at that. "It's funny hearing a pet name come from your lips, 'Luddy'."

"Don't call me that." Ludwig spoke firmly and sat up on his elbows to gaze down at his lover. "Never call me 'Luddy'."

A white brow went up in question. "Why not?"

"When I was young and living in the temple…I was often called 'Little Luddy', and Monk Jasper, to this day, prefers to call me by that name. So I implore you; do not speak that name to me."

Gilbert searched his blue eyes, finding the truth behind them, as well as the hurt. "How about 'Wiggy', then?"

He frowned deeply. "W-Wiggy?"

"Yeah, Wiggy! My Wiggy! What do you say?"

Ludwig stared at him, held out his fist, and gave a thumbs down. "Vetoed."

Gilbert gave him a raspberry but the sudden soft vibration leap to his head wound, making him hiss out in pain. "Ah! Ow…"

"We need to get you to Matthew."

"Aww, but I want to cuddle some more."

"I just needed to feel you. Seeing you in pain causes me to feel it as well. I don't want to see you hurt. Now put your boots back on." He gave Gilbert's cheek a kiss and stood up from the bed, flattening his robes. He heard Gilbert mumbling as the fairy put on the cloak, circlet, and boots. He blushed softly just looking at him. "Ready?"

"Yes. I actually need to see Mattie about another issue as well, and I think you should be present when I bring it up."

Ludwig was curious. "Very well."

When they arrived at Matthew's room, Gilbert knocked gently and announced their presence. Footsteps came trotting towards the door and the latch lifted. Matthew peeked his head out to smile at them. "Gilbert! I'm so glad you're back. Is Alfred with you both?"

"No, he's with your father. But I want to let you know that Alfred is fine." Gilbert grinned.

"Oh, that's good." Matthew breathed a sigh of relief.

"But as for me," he pointed to his head "I wasn't so lucky."

Matthew gasped softly and stepped aside. "Please, both of you, come in. Let's have a look at that wound."

Ludwig watched from Matthew's desk chair as the fairy examined Gilbert's head wound on the bed. He knew Gilbert would be all right, but he was curious to know what 'matter' there is to speak of. Did Gilbert suspect that Matthew had a lover? That could be the only thing.

"Well, this wound isn't too bad. Just a few deep scratches, but it's nothing I can't heal. Stay still." Matthew closed his eyes and slowly waved his hand along the gash. The colorful auras of healing magic sealed up the wound, as if it were never there. Gilbert's headache was gone as well. "There, you're all better." Matthew smiled and took his stuffed bear into his arms. "Now I'll go see Alfred."

"Ah, hold up a minute." Gilbert put his finger up. "I have something I want to talk to you about."

"Okay. What is it?"

Gilbert smiled as he spoke. "Alfred and I were saved by someone out in the city. An angry mob tipped our carriage over, and we were trapped inside. However, this chunky fairy guy saved us by pulling both of us to safety. He said he did it for a 'friend'."

Matthew began to blush. "O-Oh? Is that so? What a kind fairy." He laughed nervously.

Ludwig's brows went up.

"Yeah, and the funny thing is, when I started to speak to him, he somehow…blurted out who his 'friend' was."

At Gilbert's massive grin, Matthew squeaked and hid his blushing face behind the bear.

"So, who's the lucky guy?" Gilbert slowly pushed the stuffed bear down to see Matthew's face. "You can speak in front of Ludwig. He won't tell."

'I already know.' Ludwig said to himself. 'I hope Matthew doesn't tell Gilbert that I already knew. Gilbert will slap me for not telling him.'

"Please, you mustn't tell my father!" Matthew whispered. "He'll banned me from ever seeing him again!"

"No way! I would never tell your father about this! He's so overly protective that it makes him act crazy! But this guy is not really a friend of the family, Mattie. He only seems to like you. He hates your brother. What's his name? He wouldn't tell us."

Matthew blushed. "Everyone just calls him Cuba. No one knows his real name."

"How long have you been seeing him? And how did you meet?"

The young fairy looked to Ludwig. "Ludwig already knows. I'm surprised he hasn't told you?"

Gilbert stared at Ludwig who turned his head to the side and whistled. "You knew Mattie had a lover and never told me?"

"He knows of us as well." Ludwig countered. "He overheard us in the garden that night."

"Is that true, Mattie?"

Matthew nodded. "I did. And I promise not to tell. You won't tell mine."

"I guess I can't even blackmail you with it. Phooey." Gilbert smirked and gave a snort. "So, how have you been seeing this guy? Don't tell me you sneak him into your room! Naughty, naughty, Mattie!" he booped the other's nose.

"NO!" He turned deep crimson. "I would never!"

"I better not catch him in your room!" Ludwig suddenly warned in that scolding tone.

"Don't listen to him, Mattie." Gilbert dismissed Ludwig's words with a wave of his hand. Ludwig grew offended. "So how do you see him?"

"I sneak away at night." Matthew smiled sheepishly. "I know I shouldn't go out after dark, but I know he'll keep me safe. We never go far from the castle entrance. He's so kind to me. He actually saved me from an angry mob as well who all thought I was Alfred. If it weren't for him, I would have been taken advantage of and probably killed right there. I am so grateful to him."

Gilbert gasped. "Mattie! What the hell? Why didn't you tell anyone you were almost attacked like that?"

He shied away behind his bear. "I was too embarrassed and ashamed."

"It's nothing to be ashamed of." Ludwig chimed in.

"Ludwig's right. I hate to think you went through that all by yourself. I know nothing 'happened', but still. The attempt itself had to have been frightening?"

"It was horrible. I've always been helpless, but never have I felt so helpless at that moment. I don't even want to think about it. Cuba saved me, that's all that matters. He's my friend…not 'lover'."

Gilbert flashed him a teasing grin. "Are you surrrre?"

"Stop that." Matthew whimpered, turning red once again. "He's not my 'lover' because we haven't done anything yet. I just like him, okay?" Gilbert kept on grinning, and Matthew struck him with the bear. "Stop looking at me like that! Ludwig! Make him stop!"

"Gilbert, stop pestering him." Ludwig scolded calmly.

"I can't help! I just can't believe my little Mattie has an intended! Remember when I said I was going to marry you, Mattie?"

Ludwig froze.

"Yes, when we were children together. And then my brother chased you off." He looked at Ludwig. "It was only the heart of a child. Hearts change."

Gilbert looked to Ludwig as well. "They do."

"Well, now that you know I have…someone…" Matthew cleared his throat. "You both can help me."

"Help you how?" Ludwig asked, hoping it wasn't something too troublesome for them; most of all 'him'!

"Since I know of your relationship, and you know of mine, we can help each other! As I'm sure you know, the Cupiditas Nocte is coming up soon."

Gilbert's eyes widened. "It is, isn't this? And this time I'll actually have a true mate to share it with!" He leapt from the bed and smiled at Ludwig. "Did you hear that, Ludwig! Cupiditas Nocte is happening soon!"

"Would you like to explain to me what that is?"

Matthew answered. "It's a special night that comes around only every fifty some years. During this night, all the stars in the sky will turn a bright red and the moon will disappear. It's a special night granted by the Green Mother to remind all of us how important love and bonding is. And it also…" He blushed. "Gilbert…you take it from here."

"It's a night where all passions run high! Fairies who share a love bond grow closer together! It makes men hard and women fertile. Well, fairy folk, that is. Never seen it affect a human, if it even does."

'So it's a passion mating frenzy.' Ludwig said to himself. 'Gilbert knows how to be seductive and wanton already…how can this night make him surpass that?'

"And this is me being more assertive like Alfred says. You two will help me see Cuba on that night!"

"Eh?" Gilbert and Ludwig both gasped in unison.

"But…but what about ME and Ludwig! We have our own sneaky around to do!" He whined.

Matthew pouted. "I don't want to have to tell my brother about you and Ludwig. You know what a big mouth Alfie has."

Gilbert sneered at him. "You have a little evil side, don't you?"

"It's always the quiet ones you have to watch out for." Ludwig pointed out, rubbing his temple. "How do you expect us to pull this off?" 'Just what I need, more stress.'

"Well, Alfie knows a lot of places…and so does my father. He sneaks away on this night a lot. So can one of you find out from him? Without father knowing, of course."

"I volunteer Ludwig."

"I second that." Matthew agreed with Gilbert's choice.

Ludwig just glared at them. This was easier said then done, especially while Arthur was in mourning over his missing lover. He couldn't tell them about Francis or of Arthur's meltdown earlier. Asking Arthur where secret 'love spots' were for a night when lovers are at their fullest would be like rubbing salt in a wound. However, Ludwig supposed he could find a way around it. He was good at manipulating words and making them sound like curious questions. He could pull it off. But he did want to give Matthew's ear a little twist for being so devious.

"Very well. I'll ask him. But Gilbert…aren't you supposed to be with Alfred that night?" Asking that question hurt. "Is it expected of you?"

Before Gilbert could speak, Matthew answered for him. "Oh, Alfie has had his eyes and heart set on someone for a long time now. He'll want to pursue that person."

Gilbert threw his arms out. "Now who the hell does Alfred like?"

"Oh, I can't tell you. I'm sworn to secrecy." Matthew covered his mouth then.

"It's Kiku." Ludwig spat out. Matthew gasped. Gilbert laughed. "I saw the way their eyes met that day when I accidently touched him with the staff. Judging by your reaction, Matthew, I can conclude that I am right?"

"That's great, though!" Gilbert grinned. "I can work with that! I'll set up a special dinner for Alfred and I early in the evening! By royal marriage law, he has to attend! There, I'll let out that I 'think' he loves someone and wants to be with 'them' rather than me! Chances are, he'll run to be with Kiku and then I'll be free to do what I want! He won't tell on me if I don't tell on him!"

"But then, where will you guys go?" Matthew looked to them both. "You'll need to hide as well."

"I know a spot! It's a good one and we'll be safe there." He went over to Ludwig and plopped himself in the other's lap. "We'll make it special. I always wanted a picnic. We'll get a nice big blanket, pack a picnic dinner, have some good wine, and" he wrapped his arms around Ludwig's neck to press their forehead together "make love until morning." Something hard poked at his thigh. "Shame on you." He teased and flew off of Ludwig's lap. "I am SO looking forward to this night! No sex until that night, okay?"

Ludwig just stared at him, dumbfounded.

"And that goes for you too!" Gilbert warned Matthew with a wagging finger. "No sex! You have to make that Cuba guy REALLY work for your precious virginity! Don't give in so easily!"

"You don't have to worry about that." Ludwig stood up from the chair and grabbed his staff. "Matthew possesses those sorts of virtues in his nature. Something WE can all learn from." Ludwig meant the wording towards Gilbert, who only stuck his tongue out in playful response. Matthew smiled softly at him.

"So you'll do it? Both of you?"

"Yes. We'll work something out." Ludwig answered. The promise of an extra horny Gilbert in a secret spot where they could not be discovered was payment enough for his services. "Now, if we are done here, I should like to go about my business. Both Alfred and Gilbert are back safe. I should go and consult the king on what I should do next."

"No, don't go to Arthur!" Gilbert took his hand. "Walk with me in the gardens! I want to hear all about your new title in the temple and talk about 'other' things."

Ludwig frowned. "Just be honest and say you want to talk about that special night."

"The Cupiditas Nocte." Gilbert corrected him. "Thanks again, Mattie! We'll be in touch about 'you know what'."

Matthew waved at them. "You're welcome. I'll be on my way to see Alfred now."

As they left the room, Ludwig pulled his hand from Gilbert's. "We should not hold hands out in the open like that. As far as anyone is concerned, I am simply escorting you around the garden grounds."

Pink eyes rolled. "Yeah, yeah, I know. I get it."

/

In Alfred's Bedroom…

Alfred flopped onto his belly on the silk sheets, burying his face in the black silk pillow to escape the candlelight on Gilbert's side. He was trying to enjoy the feel of the silk on his shirtless chest and get some sleep, but his 'loving wife' was too engaged in a book. Alfred lifted his head from the fluff of the pillow, puffed his cheeks, and then turned to Gilbert. "What the heck is so compelling about that book? What are you reading anyway? It's time for bed!"

Gilbert laid the bookmark ribbon in the center of the book. "It's a guide to being a Dark Fairy Knight. There aren't many of them here at your father's court…but I would like something to fall back on if Roderich doesn't keep his word. Which is likely."

"Well, can you read during the day instead of now? I need complete darkness to go to sleep!" He whined and kicked his feet under the covers.

"You're just like a cranky baby! Do I need to burp you too?"

"If it'll get me to sleep faster?" Alfred teased with a grin.

Gilbert rolled his eyes, closed the book, and set it on the bedside table. "I know it's hard to have to share your bed with another after having it to yourself for so long. Trust me," He gave a lopsided smirk. "Sleeping in a bed with you is no picnic! You kick, punch, flop, and I SWEAR you chew on your pillow! I one time rolled over onto it and woke up with my cheek chilled in spit!"

He laughed. "So that means for you to stay on your side! Now blow that candle out! I need my beauty sleep."

"You'll need more than a single night's sleep to achieve THAT goal!"

Alfred gave a mock laugh. "Oh, you're a RIOT, Gilbie!"

"In all seriousness though, I know you'd rather have someone else in your bed that's not me."

Alfred rolled over onto his back and folded his arms behind his head on the pillow. "Would it bother you if I said that…it's kinda true?"

A scoff. "Well, it's too late for that now, isn't it? Alfred, to be honest, I don't actually mind. We're only doing this for show, nothing more. I know you have someone else you would like in this bed, and that's okay. I'm not mad or jealous."

"Just so you know, I don't HATE YOU in my bed, Gilbert. I could have had someone worse! Like someone who smelled or was ugly; or old. And I know you too! Don't think of yourself a burden in this bed, Gilbie. I don't think of you that way."

"Really?"

"Yeah. It's more or less like…like an extended sleepover." He grinned. "Right?"

"Ha! Right." He leaned over and blew out the candle, snickering at Alfred's loud 'AHHHH' of relief to finally be in the dark. Gilbert settled under the covers and sighed. "Stay on your side this time, okay?"

"So long as you stay on yours."

"I'm always on mine! Don't invade my vital regions!"

"I already have! Now shut up and go to sleep. You talk to much."

Gilbert hissed and Alfred snickered into his pillow.

/

He ran, and ran, and ran.

Yet the others were still fast on his trail. Ivan's phantom form tore through the woods of his realm, his tongue hanging from the side of his mouth with exhaustion. There was a group of his own after him; a group that had betrayed him. He couldn't remember what it was, but he knew he had been framed. The Supreme Being of his world wanted to punish him for this 'crime', but Ivan would not let himself be destroyed so easily. But the clan was running him down and soon they would be upon him. The only place that Ivan knew of that he could escape to was the fairy realm. He was getting closer to the vortex; he could feel it. Yet his paw tripped over something hard, and in his exhaustion, Ivan fell to the ground.

They swarmed him like hungry beasts, each one attacking him with teeth and claws. Ivan fought back with all his might, his only advantage being his height. He was too worn out from the chase while the others were strong in the pack. A whole pack could easily turn on one, and that 'one' was him. Sensing his defeat, Ivan fought his way through the pack of black beasts and took off in a run with his blood leaving a scent trail behind him. And of course, they followed. Black beasts with red eyes were gaining on him. His own kind. His own family. They had betrayed him. If he stopped now the pack would kill him. But Ivan was in luck for the fairy realm vortex was just up ahead. Finding the strength to speed his escape, Ivan came to the vortex, crouched low, and leapt through the blinding light.

In an instant he was crash landing on the ground, his body sliding along the dirt before coming to a stop. He jumped to his feet and spun to gaze at the portal, watching in case the others came through. At least now he had a better advantage if they did come through. He was gambling on the notion that they may be too scared to jump through the portal. But when five black bodies came flying through the vortex, Ivan knew he was in for the fight of his life. He growled, barring his fangs and gums while raising all of his hackles. His red saucer eyes burned brightly, focusing on each one as they pack started to circle him. The others snarled and snapped their jaws, or kicked up dirt with their back feet.

Ivan heard the first growl of attack coming from behind, and he turned to collide with another. Ivan was stronger and bigger in build, so he was able to shove the other off of him. Now they were all attacking him, ambushing him with a series of bites and scratches. Whimpers and yelps were torn forcefully through his throat as they tore at his fur and flesh. While he fought with all his might he was still no match for the larger number of dogs. Accepting defeat as a bloody mess, Ivan let his body fall to its side on the ground, all legs crossed and twitching. The pack howled together in victory and their cry echoed through the woods. Ivan could barely open his eyes but he watched through narrow slits as one came up to him. The other dog was growling above him while digging its front claws into the soft dirt. Ivan could only close his eyes and await his death. 'How ironic', he thought 'a god of death can die as well.'

But instead of a blow there came a thunderous crash, like the sound of a lightening bolt. The air around him was full of yelps and squealing cries of dogs in pain. Ivan managed to open his eyes to see most of them lying dead around him, their bodies blacker than ever and smoking, as if they had been burned. Ivan forced himself onto his belly to get a better look at the carnage around him. What had happened to all of them? A whimpering came from nearby and he whipped his head around to see one of his own crawling away, dragging its shattered back legs behind it. A bolt of green lightening struck the dog, striking it down dead. Ivan stared at the sizzling body before hearing the heavy wings of a bird above him. Slowly bending his head to look up, a human-like being floated down from the sky to land before him. Ivan knew immediately it was a Dark Fairy because of the large dragon-like wings. It was a male fairy with glowing green eyes resembling that of a snake or a lizard. Ivan's ears folded back and he formed the submissive position; laying flat on his belly as the fairy approached him.

'What is a deliverer of death doing in my realm? It is forbidden for such creatures to cross over into this world.'

'I was wrongfully accused and turned on by my pack. They attacked me…chased me here.' He pawed at the dirt. 'I can't go back there, so kill me now if you must.'

The fairy rubbed his chin as he contemplated the situation. 'No. No, I won't kill you. While it is forbidden for your kind to be in this world, it is not unheard of to be OWNED by a fairy. Especially one as powerful as me.' He spread his large dragon wings. 'I am King Arthur of the Dark Fairy Court!' His aura glowed a bright green. 'As of this moment, you will be my servant. I will control and own you; and you shall do my bidding. Continue with your work of warning humans of their approaching deaths, but remember that now you belong to me!' Arthur grinned. 'Swear yourself to me and I will see you safe. Swear yourself to me, and you may just live to see the rest of your days.'

Ivan stared at the fairy king, sensing the tremendous strength and power in someone smaller than him with large eyebrows. He lifted his head, pulled his body along the dirt, and sniffed at Arthur's legs. Ivan's nose could sense a deep darkness within the fairy; he couldn't describe it, but knew that it was there. Making an enemy out of this person would prove deadly, and Ivan would rather live. At least if he could live then there was a way he could set himself free…or destroy his 'master'. Ivan believed in loyalty, yet he knew that he was allowed to choose his own master. But until then, circumstances being what they are, he had to submit and swear himself to the king.

'I do so swear my life and loyalty to you, my king.'

The king held out his hands. 'Then show me your human form.'

Ivan tried, but he was too weak from his injuries to do it. 'Sadly, I can't. I am too weak right now.'

'Then give me your paw.'

Ivan lifted his left paw into the waiting palm of his new 'master'.

But he snorted awake before the dream could finish. Ivan looked up and all around him, seeing as it was still night with the hint of morning on the horizon. He looked out at the soft gleam of orange from his perch atop a large bolder, sniffing at the air heavy with the breath of morning dew. He shimmied the dew off of his fur, stretched, and gave a squealing yawn. 'I haven't thought about that day in centuries. Why now?' Ivan asked himself. 'Oh how I hope it is some premonition of me finally being free from Arthur's hold?'

He got up into a sitting position and looked towards the black crystal pillars of the Dark Fairy Castle. 'I don't want to be alone. I'm always alone…and I hate it.' But he didn't want to be in Arthur's presence unless he was summoned. Ivan thought about seeking out Gilbert, but chances are the fairy was still asleep with his new 'husband'. His hackles rose with a snarling growl as he made the decision to go to the castle anyway. No longer did he want to be an outcast! Not after remembering that fateful day!

/

A baby cries.

Ludwig wandered down a crisp and bright marble white hall. Where he was he did not know, yet he was not lost. At least, he didn't feel like he was lost. This must be a dream, he figured, but then why were his feet taking him further and further down the corridor to a baby's cry? The walls around him, now no longer solid marble white, began littered with hundreds of eyes and ears, like they had been painted onto the surface. Now there were incoherent whispering voices all around him but Ludwig shut his ears to them. What he found curious was the baby's wailing and insisted on finding where the source was coming from but the corridor seemed to have no end. All the eyes were following his every move yet he ignored them. They still did not bother him.

And then, up ahead, he saw a large white door appear. The sound of the baby's wailing was coming from behind the door, and it grew louder as he came closer. All around him the walls began to bleed, such bright crimson on shining white. Yet like the other horrors, he paid it no mind. Reaching out his hand he gripped the door handle, but as soon as he touched it the walls of white crumbled away, leaving him levitating amongst a field of red. From beyond came a large black malevolent cloud echoing with a bellowing roar. Ludwig stared at the cloud in wide-eyed awe as two massive green snake eyes opened in the center. The cluster of black came soaring towards him and Ludwig shielded his face from the attack. But he moved right through the cloud, coming out of it unscathed. Whatever it was did not want to, or care, to cause him any harm.

That was when he stirred from his sleep, blinking open his eyes to gaze at the wall ahead of him. It was rare that he would dream, and when he did, they were usually ones of simple frustration. He could never understand dreams, but needed to know if this dream meant anything. Ludwig had a rough idea of what it could mean but would like a second opinion. It was a little unsettling to play over in his head yet it did not terrify him. It only raised questions. Before coming to bed (and after Gilbert had went off with Alfred) he stopped by Kiku's room to pick up a sleep aid. His mind was racing a mile a minute with all the secrets and issues that he knew. They were really strong! But when he tried to roll over to go back to sleep, he felt the sheets were stiff; they wouldn't move. Was someone next to him? With a glance over his chest, he came face to face with a large furry black tail and rump. He shimmied himself in an upright position from the tight sheets to look at the slumbering dog form of Ivan. 'When did he get here? And why?'

Ludwig decided so long as Ivan was in his dog form the being could sleep with him. If he turned into human, then Ludwig would have to kick him out. He didn't see Ivan as a dangerous threat anymore, and in actuality, the phantom creature was proving to be a great protector. With the way things were happening, Ludwig would need someone like Ivan on his side to watch his back. He assumed Ivan was simply looking for some companionship, and like so many others here (it would seem) chose him. Ludwig started to ponder how he suddenly became so popular? Yet sleep was starting to take over, and Ludwig wiggled his way back under the blankets with Ivan's form beside him. He quickly fell into a peaceful slumber, and this time, dreamt about the Cupiditas Nocte…with a very naked Gilbert.

End Chapter 14 TBC

***Yes, Matthew's secret lover IS Cuba. Since he doesn't have an 'official fanon' name, I'm just sticking with Cuba. Sounds a bit like a code name for the position he is in! ^^

*** Cupiditas Nocte: Latin; basically means 'Passion Night'.
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