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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
- 16
- 17
- 18
Chapter 17

The masked ball continued on into the evening with Alfred becoming more 'hands on' with Gilbert by the hour.

Ludwig slowly chewed his food like an old cow gnawing on grass, all the while glancing at the newlyweds feeding each other pieces of food and sipping out of the same goblet. It made his skin crawl. Jealousy was something Ludwig never allowed himself to feel, or much less act on it. When he was small and still living with his parents, he asked his mother one evening before bed why the boy next door had a new wooden horse and he didn't? He told her that he was mad at the boy, for he did not have one and he wanted it. His mother lightly scolded him, saying that jealousy was an evil green-eyed monster in which no good could come. That night, he pulled the covers up to his nose, imagined himself as what a green-eyed monster would look like and shivered with fright. He vowed that night to never be jealous of anyone and to do his very best. The monks had taught him that there will always be someone better than him in this life, but it was not right to feel jealousy or malice towards that person. They had taught him to love that person; to be happy for that person's talents and achievements and strive to do just as well if not better. Those were strong words he held in his bodily soul; but in the words of Gilbert, his lover, it was complete bullshit.

Why should he be happy for Alfred? What had that Dark Fairy demon done to achieve this high honor? Alfred was born a prince; with a silver spoon in his mouth, a kingdom, a castle, dozens of servants and an army to protect you. Ludwig was born to a poor working family in the middle of nowhere; shacked up inside a crumbling hut with little food and heavy labor. He never had fancy clothes, new shoes, or servants bringing him food. Ludwig had worn the same brown tunic his mother had made for nearly all of his boyhood years at the hut. If there were a hole, his mother would patch or stitch it. Alfred has a tailor or a servant mend his clothes, or he just buys new ones. The obnoxious fairy prince had more privileges than anyone so why did he have to have Gilbert too? Arranged marriages were sometimes inescapable but that doesn't mean he can't hate it. He does not doubt Gilbert's love for him and knows the Winter Fairy is merely acting, right?

'Kiku should have known better; and friends don't let friends sleep with their bonded mates.'

Heracles' words echoed in his mind and with those words came the small sliver of DOUBT. He had thought that once fairies were bonded that they could not sleep with anyone else. Or rather, they had no DESIRE to sleep with anyone else who was not their bonded mate. But in their case, Sadiq and Kiku had something between them while the butterfly fairy was already bonded with Heracles. There was suddenly a large loophole in the philosophy of 'fairy bonding'. If those two could have mutual feelings for each other while being bonded to another, then what would stop Gilbert from taking a shine to Alfred? They were childhood friends after all. Alfred had known Gilbert longer than he had. But could Gilbert actually share a piece of his heart with Alfred? Gilbert was set to be the new 'queen' of the Dark Fairy Court while being married to Alfred, who would be king. Alfred could give him so much more than he could. Who wouldn't want to be married to a prince and be living the easy life? The human king in his world has two sons and three daughters. Would any of those daughters be interested in him?

He choked on a fig; but coughed it up.

The drunken laugh of Arthur accompanied him. "You've been hanging around my Alfred too long, monk! You're inhaling food as fast as he is."

"I just took a gulp of air at the wrong time." He rubbed his throat. "I don't even like figs."

"I don't like them either." Arthur swigged the last of his wine. "Don't look so gloomy, monkie monk! This is a party! Shouldn't we all be dancing merrily?"

Before Ludwig could answer, Arthur had flown out of his chair to float among the crowd, waiting for them to give him room. He landed delicately on the floor (for one so drunk) and the music stopped. Arthur twirled in a slow circle, looking at all of his masked court members. When he stopped, he set his sights upon the dais, preferably at Ludwig. "Sir Monk, would you dance?" And suddenly, all eyes were upon Ludwig.

Ludwig paled, growing whiter than Gilbert's skin.

"Well, monk? Will you dance with your king?"

"Um…m-my king is…is in the human world." The courtroom went up in laughter. Ludwig saw that Alfred was laughing the most and Gilbert slapped a hand to his face.

"Let me rephrase that, monk." Arthur gave a charming bow. "Will you dance with your FAIRY king?"

Ludwig felt his mind and body fill with panic. Arthur wanted them to DANCE? Ludwig was amazed that Arthur could still stand after all that wine the fairy consumed. And what was the purpose of this proposal? Was there a motive behind it? Or was it just the rambles of a playful drunk?

"If I may be quite frank, your highness, I really don't want to."

"And why not?" Arthur gave him a stern, but amused look. "Why do you tell your fairy king 'no'?"

"Because I have two left feet?" Everyone laughed, and Ludwig forced to give an awkward, panicked smile. "And I don't have the grace of a fairy, your grace! Because you're so graceful, your grace! And I am not worthy of such grace from one of-" he knew he was rambling and that his face was bright red.

"LUDWIG!" Gilbert shouted his name. "Calm down. You're making an ass of yourself!"

"But…that is- I…I don't…I mean…I thought-" his eyes rolled back in his head and he fell off the chair in a faint, taking half of the tablecloth with him.

Gilbert got up from his chair and ran to Ludwig's aid, kneeling down beside the fallen man to slap his cheeks. "Ludwig! Ludwig, speak to me! Ludwig!" The monk's eyes slowly rolled back into focus and Gilbert smiled. "Ludwig?"

"Harem mushrooms don't mix with tassels." He mumbled.

Gilbert stared. "Uh…what?"

Ludwig gasped and shot up straight. "Everything is well. I am fine."

Gilbert chuckled. "You just fainted and said something REALLY messed up!"

"W-What did I say?"

"Something about harem mushrooms and tassels?"

Ludwig turned red, cleared his throat, and stood up from the dais floor. "Utter nonsense." He said proudly.

"THE MONK HAS COME TO!" Arthur cheered. "Will you still not dance with me?" He mock pouted.

"Alas, I must retire to my bed for I grow weary!" Ludwig stated proudly once again. "I bid you all a good- NIGHT!" He slipped on the heel of his shoe while trying to descend the dais steps with what little dignity he had left. The courtroom laughed softly. Ludwig regained his composure, straightened his back, and bowed his head to them. "Good night to you-"

"I'LL DANCE WITH YOU FATHER!" Alfred called down to Arthur.

"Very well, then, seeing as my monk is too shy and modest to grace the dance floor with his talents!"

Ludwig glanced at Gilbert, who looked at him with a woeful expression, before hurrying out of the dance hall. He hated having to leave Gilbert like that, but he was just too embarrassed by Arthur's drunken behavior to allow himself to stay. Besides, he had had enough of Alfred's taunting behavior towards him this evening. If it weren't for Arthur's drunken act, Ludwig feared he MAY have just walked over to the fairy prince and throttled him. It was best at this moment to go straight to bed and calm himself down before he really made an ass of himself.

/

Late in the evening, when the feast had ended, Gilbert was lying in bed waiting for Alfred to fall asleep. The fairy had drunk more than he should have, and was out cold within a short while. When Gilbert was certain of the snores accompanying deep sleep, he slipped out of bed and through the door, entering the dark hall. Using his winter powers for light, Gilbert flew along the corridor with his toes nearly touching the floor as he silently made his way to Matthew's chambers. He had wanted to sneak out to see Ludwig, but figured after the way this evening went it was best to stay away for a little bit. He also had something he wanted to talk to Matthew about, something special. He smiled at just the thought of it and knew that Matthew was the best fairy for the job. When he approached the chamber door, Gilbert didn't waste time knocking but just went right in, closing it softly behind him.

Matthew was asleep on the bed, the sheer white curtains draped all around the bed while the small fairy slumbered peacefully. Gilbert floated over to the bed, pushed the curtain aside, and peered down at Matthew's angelic, almost childish face. He lightly tugged at the curl atop of Matthew's head, something he had always enjoyed playing with when they were little. Matthew murmured and shifted in the bed onto his side, snuggling further under the plush white comforter. Gilbert chuckled and thought of a playful little prank that would wake the other. Holding his hands above Matthew's cheek, he twiddled his fingers and from them came sparkling white snowflakes. The snowflakes landed on Matthew's cheek, melting instantly, and jerking the young fairy from his slumber.

Matthew snorted and startled himself awake, pulling the covers up to his chest. "W-What happened?!"

"Shh! Matthew, it's me!"

"Gilbert? What on earth are doing here at this time of night? And why is my cheek wet and cold?"

"Sorry, I played a little prank on you!" Gilbert smirked playfully. "No harm done."

Matthew stuck his tongue out at the other fairy. "Well then, what is it that you want?"

Gilbert climbed onto the bed with Matthew, drawling the curtain closed again. He smiled at the other fairy's confused expression. "I have a secret to tell you!"

"Oh? What is it?"

"Well, Ludwig and I are going to promise ourselves to each other in the human realm! Like a wedding ceremony."

Matthew gasped softly and smiled. "Gilbert, that's wonderful! I'm so happy for you! But what do you need from me?"

"Two things, really. One, I want you present as a witness to our union and second I want you to make me a wedding attire."

"A whole outfit? Oh Gilbie," he breathed out "I don't think I can manage that on my own! I'm not that good with sewing. Needlework like father; then yes. But sewing? I fear I won't be of any REAL good to you."

"Then maybe we won't make a whole outfit. I just want something nice to wear for Ludwig. Something that will surprise him!"

Matthew chuckled behind his hand. "When it comes to love, Gilbie, you sure a softie!"

"Pfft! Bullshit! I'm the most awesome, the cleverest, the smartest, and the BRAVEST fairy in this whole realm! No one can match my awesome might! The mountains tall and short quiver at the mere sight of me!"

"Except when you're snuggled up with Ludwig." Matthew pointed out, and Gilbert grinned.

"That's also our little secret! I still have a reputation to keep."

Matthew nibbled his thumbnail. "But getting back to your outfit…what could we make that would be easy enough for me?"

Gilbert pondered as well.

Finally, it was Matthew who came up with the idea. "I know! How about a veil?"

"Just a veil?"

"Yes! It won't be too hard to make. I can embroider some beads into it, or pearls, or flowers? We can put simple lace trim around the ends, oh! We can secure it with a flower crown! That would be much better! I can easily make a flower crown on the said evening! Oh wait…it is winter there. Flowers will be gone. We'll have to just bring some with us then."

"I don't know…that sounds awfully…womanly."

"During our studies, while Alfred was sleeping, I read many of the books in our library. I read one about human rituals and ceremonies. If you are doing this in the human realm, then you should abide by their rules, right?" Gilbert nodded. "So-"

"Men marrying men is not allowed in the human world, you know. They are against it for some reason. So I guess, then, that I would HAVE to wear something a human woman would wear. Come to think of it, most brides where something on their head…so why not a veil?"

"On you I'm sure it will look VERY manly no matter what."

That made Gilbert's pride and ego skyrocket. "You're right! I can make anything look manly! It's settled, then. I leave the veil making up to you!"

"Um…may I ask something in return?" Gilbert nodded. "Can we bring Cuba with us?" He blushed.

Gilbert smirked. "Sure. We could use another witness. As long as you trust him enough to keep a secret?"

"You know I do, or else I wouldn't have let them do that…thing he did. And not the 'what you're supposed to do' thing.'"

"Oh yeah…THAT. I don't think Ludwig would EVER go for that…maybe some years down the line. He's too reserved for that."

Matthew giggled. "He is rather uptight…but father really likes him. Father's been so lonely without papa…I'm worried for both of them. This isn't like papa at all."

"I'll ask Ludwig about it. Maybe he can snoop around in ways that we can't. It's worth a shot, right?"

"Yes. Thank you, Gilbie."

"No, thank YOU!" He poked Matthew's nose. "I should be getting back to bed now. Sorry to bother you this late, but I just couldn't help it!"

"Any time, Gilbert. I'm glad I could help you. Goodnight."

Gilbert gave Matthew a friendly kiss on the forehead and left the bedroom for his own.

/

It was time once again for Ludwig to head back to the human realm. There were quite a lot of things he still had to do there, and this time, Sadiq would be with him. He wasn't looking forward to the butterfly fairy coming with him but there was no way to stop it. Ludwig felt that this could only end badly for him. But alas, there was no hope in escaping it. With his bag packed, and having said 'goodbye' to the king, Ludwig proceeded to leave the dark castle. Along the way, the familiar jingling of Winter Fairy wings sang in his ear. Curiously, he looked around for the source, wondering if it was Gilbert. Taking a few steps forward, Ludwig was suddenly yanked roughly into a dark room where he heard the door click shut. He wasn't able to see a thing until a white light gently illuminated the room. He turned to see Gilbert standing there, the fairy's form glowing with the silver light. Ludwig smiled at the other and turned to face him.

"Are you kidnapping me?"

"No," Gilbert answered playfully "I just wanted to say 'see ya later'. You're going back to the human realm now, right?"

"Yes. I have to straighten out some things there."

"You might be gone awhile, so I thought we could spend a few short minutes together?" He bat his white lashes.

"What would you like to do?" Ludwig should have known what Gilbert wanted when the fairy walked over to him and cupped his crotch.

"Don't ask such a stupid question." He whispered against the human's lips. "You're so naïve sometimes, Wiggy."

Ludwig wrapped his arms around Gilbert's waist. "Is this safe?"

"This is the wine storage room." The room was full of barrels. "No one will come in, and these castle walls are thick with stone and crystal." He pressed the length of his body against Ludwig's. "We still need to be quiet."

Ludwig answered, "Maybe I don't want to make love then if I won't get to hear you crying out my name?"

Gilbert was surprised at the answer he received, but it only made his grin widen. "Who says you can make me cry out your name? Maybe I'm just doing that to please the ego of the one pounding me?"

He raised a blonde brow. "I highly doubt it. Still, this isn't a good idea. Not now. I have nothing to prepare you with." The mischievous twinkle he saw in Gilbert's eyes suggested that the fairy already had a trick up his sleeve.

"Don't worry, I already took care of that." He took a step back. "How will you have me?"

"Over a barrel."

Gilbert chuckled. "Seriously though." He lifted himself the air. "How will you have me?"

Ludwig reached up and pulled the fairy out of the air, carefully turning them so he had Gilbert pressed up against the wall. He gently commanded Gilbert to drop his pants, which the fairy was already in the process of doing. Once he stepped out of the clothing, Ludwig lifted the front of his robes and tucked the fabric into his belt. Ever since that night in the caves, Ludwig has ceased to button up his underrobes for just this reason. Gilbert appeared to notice it but the other said nothing, only wrapped his arms around Ludwig's neck. Hooking his arms under Gilbert's legs and hoisting him up, he positioned himself at the already prepared entrance. Bringing Gilbert into a kiss, Ludwig slowly started to push in to that welcoming velvet heat. Gilbert moaned into his mouth while his willing body swallowed him whole. Once fully seated, Ludwig broke the kiss to begin thrusting.

Their session didn't last long. Ludwig couldn't keep a slow pace, being driven to pounding speed by the whispered words of 'take me' and 'more'. Gilbert wasn't heavy at all in his arms, and it made his thrusting easier. He feared Gilbert would get hurt as his body was rocked back against the wall, but the fairy never showed any signs of discomfort, only pleasure. Gilbert's cries were soft, breathily, and whispered; but he made up for it by digging his nails into Ludwig's shoulders and tightening around him. Ludwig was actually holding out longer than he was, and Gilbert was feeling his orgasm nearing its peek. As his climax finally hit, he clung tightly to Ludwig's body. He heard Ludwig growl against his ear and then felt the other cumming inside of him, its warmth washing over him. They stood still for a moment, Ludwig still inside, as they fought to catch their breath. Ludwig carefully pulled out of his lover and lowered Gilbert back to his feet. Gilbert's knees wobbled, still in the afterglow of climax, and Ludwig reached out to steady him. When he glanced to look at Gilbert's legs, he saw his own essence trickling down the white thighs.

"I'm sorry." He said softly.

"For what?"

"For…that." He pointed to the semen between Gilbert's legs. The fairy only chuckled and crouched down to his pants, where he took out a handkerchief from his pocket.

"If it were anyone else's I'd be disgusted. But because it's you…I don't care if it's all over me." He cleaned himself up and put on his pants. "Luckily Alfred is in a meeting for most of the day. I'll go get a bath right now and wash away the evidence." Gilbert saw the look of jealously appear on Ludwig's face at the mention of Alfred, but he quickly turned and kissed it away. "Be safe going back, okay? I'll wait for you." He brought Ludwig into another deep kiss.

"I'll be back as soon as I can. I don't like being away from you for any length of time. But-"

"I know, I know." He rolled his eyes. "Duty calls. Hm. I'll leave first. Wait a short bit, and then you can leave. Most of the servants don't come down this way anyway.

"Take care of yourself as well. And…keep an eye on King Arthur. I'm worried about him." He still had not told Gilbert the truth of Francis' whereabouts, and he did feel guilty about it. But this was the safest way. If anyone were to find out, especially Gilbert, that he knew about Francis, how would the fairy view him? Would he be offended that he kept it a secret all this time? Ludwig shook his head swiftly. It was not time to think about that. He would save that issue for another day.

Some time later, in the human realm…

"I still wish you had not come here." Ludwig said to Sadiq, his fairy companion for the day.

"Come off it! Everything will be fine. You'll be thankful to have me here."

"We are nearing the temple, so I suggest if you are going to turn into a bug, do it now."

Sadiq pouted. "I think you just want to get rid of me."

Ludwig rolled his eyes and paused in their walking, crossing his arms in annoyance. He was waiting for the butterfly fairy to turn into a moth. Sadiq had caught on to his aggravation, hence the glowing light that formed around the fairy. It was a sight to behold to say the least. Ludwig could hear Sadiq's bones crackling and snapping as the glowing form grew smaller and smaller. With a bright flash of light, in the spot where Sadiq stood, fluttered a large colorful moth. Ludwig stared at it as it flapped over to him and landed in his open palm. The wingspan reached the ends of his palm and the body was the length of his index finger. The wing pattern and colors resembled the butterfly ones, but the body was grayish-brown in color. Ludwig couldn't remember how close up he had ever seen an actual 'normal' moth. Were they always so furry?

"Aren't you a little…big?"

'I can't make myself any smaller!' Sadiq spoke telepathically to him.

"Aren't moths supposed to be dull in color?"

'What's wrong with being colorful? One does want a hint of color. Wouldn't hurt YOU to zazz it up a bit!'

"I'm a monk. We are humble and-"

'Cut the crap and get moving. I'm freezing my antenna off!' His moth form leapt onto Ludwig's chest and climbed up to hide under the folds of his shawl. 'Onward!'

Ludwig began making his way to the temple, which was slowly coming into view through the trees. "Please, do not be speaking to me all the time like this. Allow me to have some normal human time, okay?"

'Yeah, I hear you.'

As they came out of the forest, Ludwig smiled at the sight of the children playing outside in the snow. They were throwing snowballs and making snowmen. When they saw him approaching, one shouted his name and then they all came flooding to him.

"Ludwig! There you are!" Shouted Daniel, coming up and hugging his leg.

"You comes pway wifs us?" Said another little boy.

"Come see mine! I make snow fairy!" Said a little girl, tugging at his hand.

'Aww! Papa Ludwig!' Sadiq cooed.

'Be quiet.' Ludwig answered sternly. He looked at all the smiling facing and did a quick headcount, noticing they were one child short. He narrowed his brows. "Where is little Rosa?"

"She got sick." Said another girl. "She's in her bed."

"Yeah, High Master Monk Jasper is going to send her away." Said Daniel.

"Me no likey bad monk man!" Said another little girl. "Me thinks Rosa go to bad place!"

Ludwig feared the worse for the little girl. He had to agree with Sarah that Rosa would go to a 'bad place', or Jasper may even eat her! "Children, I'm going to go check on Rosa and speak to Monk Jasper."

"HIGH MASTER MONK Jasper!" Daniel corrected. "If you don't call him that he gets mad!"

Ludwig narrowed his gaze. "Well, if he needs to get mad at someone then let it be me. Enjoy your time in the snow, children." He turned to the temple and headed for the main doors. 'That monk is going to get a serious tongue lashing from me!'

'Careful, hot-head.' Sadiq warned him. 'We don't know how dangerous he is. That's why I'm here, remember?'

'Just do your job and do…moth things! Stay near, but try not to be so conspicuous.'

When they entered the temple, Sadiq flew off of Ludwig and followed at a safe distance. Ludwig didn't care about the moth, heading straight to the children's room. He didn't stop to speak to the other monks he passed for his main focus was on Rosa and her condition. He entered the room and went over to her bed where she lay under the covers. Her cheeks were red and dotted with sweat from a high fever. There was nothing near her bed, no medicine or water. Was she even being cared for? Ludwig touched her forehead and she was burning up. She opened her eyes, barely, and saw him.

"Buvig." Rosa could never say his name properly, but reached her arms out to him. Ludwig lowered himself so she could hug his head. Her whole face was hot and he could feel the heat of the fever radiating from her tiny body.

"Yes Rosa, I'm here." He stood up from the bed and saw Sadiq's moth form land on the headboard.

'She needs help and fast.'

'I don't know why they aren't taking care of her. I need to find Jasper. I have a feeling he's behind this!' When he started to move away from the bed, Rosa let out a wheezing cry, begging him not to go with her grabby hands. He turned back and gathered her form up in the top blanket. 'Isn't there anything you can do?'

'I'm not a healer. Arthur's son Matthew is a true healer, but we can't bring her there.'

Ludwig held her tight and left the room with Sadiq fluttering near. One of the younger monks was coming his way and he stopped him. "Horace, where is Monk Jasper? I want to know why Rosa is not being cared for?"

Horace shied away at Ludwig's tone. "Forgive me, Head Monk, but we have…strict orders not to…care for her with medicine. It-It's High Master Monk Jasper's orders."

Ludwig growled. "That is ridiculous! How does he expect her to get better then?"

"With prayer to the Green Mother-"

"No! Prayers will not help her. We have the knowledge given to us by the Green Mother to gather and mix herbs properly to combat disease! He is being foolish! Now where is he?"

"In your office."

Ludwig hurried there with the coughing child tucked tightly in his arms. What nonsense was Jasper spouting about 'no medicine'? This temple had ALWAYS used medicine when it was needed. Regardless of whatever Jasper would say, he was getting medicine for Rosa and nursing her back to health. When he got to the office he entered without warning, seeing Jasper sitting at HIS desk with two more monks he didn't recognize. The other two were dressed in robes much similar to Jaspers, also adorned by jewels and snobbish attitudes. Jasper smiled in that evil, eerie way with his pale eyes staring at the bundle in his arms. Ludwig glared dangerously at him.

"Why is she not being cared for? This child is sick with fever!"

"The Green Mother decides all fate." Jasper answered in a soft, heavenly voice that held no true sincerity at all. "Dear sweet little Rosa is in the Mother's hands now. What is, is what must be."

"That is nonsense and you know it! The Green Mother Herself has given the intelligence to men so that we can fight illness and continue to strive. No mother, goddess or human, would ever sit by and allow their children to be sick without a chance to help them!"

"Exactly." He folded his hands on the desk. "So She will care for Rosa as best She can. Leave it to the powers at be."

Ludwig shook his head. "No. I do not agree with that. This is MY temple. I am Head Master Monk here. You, sir, are not allowed to pass laws and judgment in my temple!"

Jasper appeared amused by this, flashing him a little smirk. "Really? Have you forgotten that I, by the Goddess herself and his majesty, am the one supreme ruler of ALL that is holy? I am your superior. I am of the honest honor and you are not. You will follow MY rules." He looked to his other monks and silently dismissed them with a wave of his hand. They glared at Ludwig as they passed him to exit the office, shutting the door behind them. "Let us speak plainly, Little Luddy."

"Do not call me that. My name is High Monk Ludwig of the Emerald Valley Temple of the Green Mother. You will address me as 'High Monk Ludwig'."

Jasper's pale features grew dark; his smile dropped, his brows narrowed and his teeth were slightly bared. "And I am the Supreme Green Lord! So just what are you going to do?" He whispered darkly. "Set your FAIRIES on me?"

Ludwig twitched at the word 'fairies'. "I have no fairies. You keep speaking nonsense as if it were true. Fairies are not the issue here! The issue is Rosa and her health!"

The monk shot up from his desk, knocking the chair to the floor with the force of it. "You took something that is mine, and I want it back. You know damn well what it is, too. No one would have TAKEN IT unless they could SEE what was IN IT! THAT 'thing' was given to me! So give it back."

He held Rosa tighter. "I don't know what you are talking about."

"Don't play dumb with me! GIVE. IT. BACK!"

"I have nothing of yours. You may check my room and all my things. I do not have this thing you speak of."

Jasper's face returned to its normal, eerily happy features. The monk strolled over to face him, leaning in close to whisper Ludwig's ear. "Do not test me, Ludwig. I know what you have and you know it too. You're a handsome liar, Little Luddy. So noble and heroic in your morals and values; such a strong sense of truth and honor, who would ever accuse you of not telling the truth right?" he chuckled. "I have more influence over this world than you know. Perhaps you fear the dark forces that haunt the fairy realm?" Ludwig's breath stilled "Or the white mist that covers the forest floor?" Ludwig's mouth went dry "All those things are nothing compared to what I can do to you. The only force you need to fear is ME. I can and will destroy you, along with everything you love. You would be wise to befriend me and not make me your enemy. So, be the smart boy I know you are…and give it back."

Jasper left Ludwig alone, his knees trembling and his face drained of all color. Jasper KNEW that he had the baby's skeleton. He even knows of the fairy realm! Rosa's cough snapped him out of his fearful trance, and he looked around for Sadiq. 'Sadiq, are you here?'

'I am. Look to the left wall.' Ludwig looked at the wall, seeing the fairy shadow of Sadiq cast upon the surface. His moth form was resting near one of the lanterns. 'That man is dangerous, Ludwig. You can't stay here. He knows you have the infant's body!'

'But I cannot leave my fellow monks and the children alone here with him! Look at what he is doing to Rosa! Quick, come with me to my chambers. I believe I have some medicine for her!' Ludwig gathered her close and left the office, glancing back to see the moth form of Sadiq following him. When they got to his new chambers, Ludwig shut and locked the door behind them. He ran to the windows and pulled the curtain closed. Sadiq fluttered to settle himself upon a bust of the Green Goddess, watching with his moth eyes as Ludwig scurried around the room, checking his trunks and bags. 'I know I have some! I've just got to have some!'

Finally he found a small bottle with some fever reducing potion in it. There was not a lot left, but she was small enough where it should help to break her fever. Sitting on the bed, he carefully placed the bottle to her lips and tilts it slowly so she could swallow the liquid. Rosa was too weak to protest against the nasty taste of the stuff, but her face contorted into wrinkles of disgust. Ludwig fixed the blanket around her body and sat on his bed, still keeping her in his arms. Rosa cuddled into him, gurgling a little and letting out a tiny sneeze. Ludwig pulled more of the blanket up to cover her head. He looked around the room for sign of Sadiq, and spotted him on the bust. 'Please tell me some good news? What can you read about Monk Jasper? You heard him in the office.'

'He has traces of the Pure Blood's power. I sensed it in him immediately.'

'Kiku mentioned that only the Pure Bloods would have the power to grant such strength to a human. We already ruled out that the Pure Bloods gave Arthur's baby to Jasper and that happened over a hundred plus some years ago?'

'Yes. I don't know the exact numbers, but it was a very long time ago. Longer than any human could live. It is safe to say that he does not age the same as humans do. Whatever power the Pure Bloods gave him, it slows his aging process. I guess I could say that you have a half-blood on your hands.'

Ludwig narrowed his brows. 'Half-blood? As in, half fairy and half human? Is that even possible?'

'Of course it is. You've heard of humans and fairies falling in love. Fairy men fall in love with human women, but only human women can get pregnant from them. Fairy women can not be impregnated by a human male. This is one of the reasons why human and fairy unions are taboo; no one lives a half breed.'

'So you think that…Jasper was born to a human mother and had a fairy father?'

'Most likely. Think of it this way; half breeds are not welcomed in either race. Neither human nor fairy. BUT, should a half breed obtain fairy power to cover up his human half…then he can be accepted.'

Ludwig growled. He had always thought there was something strange about Monk Jasper and now he knew. That must be the reasoning behind the picture in Kiku's book; the one of the 'human' consuming a fairy baby. It wasn't full bloodied HUMANS the book was describing, it was half blooded fairies! Everything was making sense.

'But such power is a gift granted to one by the Pure Bloods, and it comes with a price.'

'What price?'

Sadiq fluttered his wings. 'I couldn't tell you. All I know is that when the Pure Bloods bestow a gift upon you, you have to pay it back in performance. Perhaps Jasper is doing some sort of secret fairy work for them here in the human realm.'

Ludwig shifted the sleeping Rosa in his lap to turn his body so he could face Sadiq. 'How do you know all this? What sets you aside from the others? You make special weapons and have strange powers. What branch of fairy are you?'

'Tell no one of this, but I am of the Pure Blood race.' His antennas twitched at the reaction of shock on Ludwig's face. 'I was only a toddler when my parents fled the Pure Lands with the others. The group of us 'rebels' no longer wanted to live as Pure Bloods, so we set up to build our own world…which is the fairy realm that you know. But like most growing empires, the people began to have different views and voiced them. People became angry, enraged. Soon the fairies split up into two parties-'

'Light and Dark.' Ludwig finished for him.

'Yes. The two sides fought the ancient war on the grounds where your temple sits. It is only a small piece of land, but the fairies will not allow the humans to build across their holy battle field. It is a sin to tread upon the dead bodies of slain fairies, Light or Dark. That land holds special powers…it is the heart of our realm. If the humans build on it then the fairy realm will be destroyed, save for the Pure Lands. The Pure Bloods would love to get rid of the Light and Dark courts.'

Ludwig's eyes widened. 'Wait! You said…that if the humans continue to build onto the fairy land…the realm will be destroyed? But not the Pure Lands?'

'That's right.'

'But I thought Monk Jasper was against expanding the temple? He is also 'against' fairies and magic, yet he IS a fairy! Sadiq! Do you know what this means?'

Sadiq's moth wings flapped wildly. 'You don't think the Pure Bloods are using him to get the humans to expand onto the ancient grounds?'

'Yes! That's precisely what I think! Monk Jasper has been lying all this time to hide who he really is! He wants to take over my temple now because he knows about my ability to see fairies! He knows I've been in the fairy realm! I'm a threat to him!'

'And if that monk succeeds in building…the fairy realm will fall and the Pure Bloods will once again be the Supreme Beings. It'll be twice as bad if he uses his Pure Blood power to bless the stones in which they use to build. The fairies won't stand a chance against defending it.'

'So what can we do?'

'It's important for the Light and Dark kings to know. However…we face a very, very, VERY big obstacle.'

Ludwig glanced away. 'You mean King Arthur having to learn of what happened to his stillborn princess.'

'He may just destroy the fairy realm himself, and should he find out about Francis-'

'We're all doomed.' Ludwig's shoulders slumped. 'We're doomed in both this world and the fairy realm.'

Sadiq fluttered over to him and landed on his nose. Ludwig's eyes crossed to look at him. 'We'll think of something. But right now you should rest a bit with the child. You look worn and tired. I will go around and see what else I can discover.'

'Yes, thank you. Um…escape through the keyhole. You should fit.' He watched the moth flutter across the room, land on the door and walked the surface to the keyhole. As much as he tried, Sadiq couldn't fit himself fully through the hole. Ludwig watched him struggle to get through but to no avail. Instead, the moth walked down the door and escaped under it.

Ludwig settled back on the bed with Rosa in his arms, who's little body was still hot with fever. He was afraid to let her go, or to put her in the care of the other children for evening in fear of Jasper 'taking her away'. Not only did he have to fear for himself, Gilbert, and both courts; but he had to be concerned for his temple and the children as well. The list just kept growing in length; and the further it grew the more dangerous his situation was becoming. Ludwig had gone from a simple work hand and a monk to being on multiple hit lists. Jasper was his BIGGEST concern and the one most likely to kill him. If Arthur found out that he knew of the infant and Francis, the king would not hesitate to bite and poison him. If he hurt Gilbert in any way, Queen Elizaveta would slit his throat. If he gave away anything he knew of the Light Court, King Roderich would write his death warrant in an instant. Ludwig knew too much about everyone he was involved with. Each person, human or fairy, that he knew could have a reason to kill him. The few he just thought of were the ones that would find him guilty without a trial.

He was romantically involved with a fairy; not just any fairy but a prince by marriage and the next heir to the Dark Court Throne. He knew of Matthew and Cuba's secret affair, which both Arthur and Alfred would have his head if they found out. He knew of Sadiq's and Kiku's secret affair, something that he SHOULD tell Alfred but that would only cause issues. Alfred would find a reason to punish him for keeping it a secret. Kiku could poison his food or drink. Sadiq was too unpredictable to figure out what he would do to him if the secret was found out. Even sweet, innocent Matthew could feel threatened if Ludwig ever exposed the secret they shared. Ivan seemed to have an agenda of his own, but with the way things are going, Ludwig couldn't trust the God of Death either. He was surrounded by enemies and friends. The only good thing in his life right now was Gilbert.

'Maybe…maybe I should share these secrets with Gilbert. If only to have another's help to shoulder my burden. If Gilbert finds out I've been hiding things from him all this time he will be hurt. And should anything come of these…situations…I need a champion to defend me. Gilbert is the only one I can fully trust right now. My Gilbert…'

Mentally exhausted, Ludwig nodded off against the pillows.

/

'Damn it…I can't find that Jasper guy.' Sadiq had been flying around for some time now, having gotten lost numerous times in the corridors of the temple. All the walls were beginning to look alike now. He finally had to stop and take a short rest, planting himself against a wall. 'I'm rusty with this shape shaping thing…' he sighed.

Suddenly, something hollow came down on top of him and he fluttered madly inside of it. In his frantic fluttering, he noticed it was a glass jar, which was being held by a young boy. The boy slipped his hand over the open end and turned the jar upright, grinning at Sadiq through the glass.

"I got you!"

'I demand that you let me go, child!' But the boy couldn't hear him like Ludwig could. All the boy saw was a big colorful moth.

"I gotta show you to the others!" The boy ran with him still fluttering in a jar. He wanted to transform but it took extreme concentration to return to his fairy form. Right now, he was being bounced around in a glass jar by a crazy child and couldn't focus. "Hey guys! Look what I got!" The boy held out the jar to the others.

"OOOOOO!" All the children 'oo-ed' and 'ah-ed' at his moth form.

"Donnie, it's so pretty!" Said a little girl.

"Yeah! I gots it in the hall! Look how BIG it is!"

A small girl tapped on the glass and the echo made him shudder and cringe. "Butterfly."

"No stupid!" Said another boy. "It's a moth! DUH!"

"Whatcha' gonna do wif it, Donnie?" Asked another girl.

Donnie grinned. "Imma gonna add him to my buggie collection!'

Sadiq's antennas began to droop. 'C-Collection?'

"I'll get the pins!"

'PINS?!'

"Can I have a wing?" Asked a small boy.

A little girl punched him in the arm. "You always rip off the wings, you badie!"

'Demonic little monsters!' Sadiq growled. He had to change fast or he'd be shoved with pins. Sitting still in the boy's palm, he focused his magic and mind on becoming a fairy once again.

The jar began to rattle and shake. The children watched in awe. The jar grew bright with light. There was an explosion of rainbow sparkles and smoke that filled the area, making all the children cough or sneeze. When the magic smoke finally cleared, dozens of eyes trailed upwards to the large form standing before them. High pitched screams filled the room.

/

Ludwig had already heard most of Sadiq's turmoil in his head, for it had jerked him out of his slumber. He ran with Rosa still in his arms to the children's room, thrilled at the fact that no one else seemed to hear their cries. Ludwig burst in and closed the door, looking at all the children standing in a circle around Sadiq, pulling at his clothes and playing with his jewelry or accessories. Ludwig's head slowly tilted to the side. 'I'm dead.'

"Ludwig! Ludwig! Look! Big ugly bug man!" one of the girls pulled on his robes and pointed at Sadiq.

Sadiq's brow twitched. "Ugly?!"

Ludwig handed Rosa to the girl and stormed over to Sadiq, grabbing him by the shirt front. "Are you out of your hookah smoking mind?" He hissed through his teeth. "Why did you transform like this?"

"Because your badly misbehaved children were ready to rip my wings off and shove pins through me! Does that sound like fun?" Sadiq sneered back.

"You should have just called me!"

"Ludwig!" Another boy pulled at his robes. "Can we play with the bug man?"

"Of course not! The big ugly bug man HAS to go!"

"Hey! Watch your tongue!" Sadiq sneered at him.

"Awww! But we wanna play!" Said another boy.

One of the little girls with red curly hair tugged on Sadiq's silken over tunic. "Me name you Rainbow Buttercup!"

"Well, aren't you cute." Sadiq picked her up and Ludwig nearly had a heart attack.

"Are you mad?! Put her down!"

"Oh don't be silly." Sadiq wove his free hand in the air and pink mushroom appeared. "Here, have a mushroom." He gave it to the girl.

Ludwig nearly fell over dead again. "What are you giving her?" The other children protested that they wanted one too.

"Sweet mushrooms for all the boys and girls!" Sadiq smiled sweetly at them as each child received a colorful mushroom that appeared in their hands. "Eat up little ones!" He put the little girl down.

"STOP! DON'T EAT IT!" Ludwig tried to grab them but the children had already bitten into the mushrooms. Just before scolding Sadiq, the fairy winked at him and disappeared into a puff of colorful smoke. The mushrooms suddenly disappeared and the children looked all around, confused.

"What happened?" Asked one.

"Ludwig? When you gets here?" Asked another boy.

"MY JAR'S BROKE!" Shouted Donnie.

Ludwig let his head fall back with a heavy sigh of relief. The mushrooms must have erased their memories of seeing Sadiq in the room. This was the only time he could not scold the children for taking sweets from a stranger. A knocking at the door made them all jump.

"Ludwig? Is everything alright in there?" It was Monk Derrick.

"Yes, everything is fine. The children saw a big spider and I got rid of it."

The door opened and Derrick stepped in, giving him a worried and troubled look as he was followed by Jasper. Ludwig straightened his shoulders when the Monster Monk walked in. The children cowered and all started to gather behind Ludwig to hide from him. Jasper smiled at them and held out his arms.

"Do not fear me, children. I came here because I heard your cries of fright and wanted to help." The children didn't appear to believe him.

Ludwig continued to shield them. "I thank you for your concern, but I have taken care of the matter."

Jasper stared at him with those pale eyes. "Really? Well then, we should thank the Green Mother that you are here to care for them. I wouldn't want ANYTHING to happen to them." The little smirk of Jasper's lip infuriated Ludwig for he knew that was a threat to him about the safety of the children. "Have you…given any thought to my words, Little Luddy?"

"This is not the place for that." Ludwig answered firmly.

Jasper turned back to the children. "You see little ones, Monk Ludwig here took something of mine that he doesn't want to give back. Is stealing things nice?" They were all afraid to answer, but most just shook their heads 'no'. "So lets try and get our friend Ludwig to give it back to me okay? It makes me really mad and really sad that I don't have it."

Ludwig glared at him. "How dare you-!" He stopped when he saw a look of fear flash over Jasper's face, making the monk take a few steps back. He was staring at something behind Ludwig for his eyes were casted upwards towards the ceiling. Ludwig slowly turned as well to see what it was Jasper was looking at. However, there was nothing there. If there was, only Jasper could see it and whatever it was seemed to terrify the monk.

"Just give it back to me." Jasper said firmly before storming out of the room.

Derrick looked at Ludwig with a 'what the hell was that' expression.

Ludwig just shook his head and shrugged his shoulders. He was just glad the situation was over.

'You can take back the 'ugly bug man' thing you said to me now.' Sadiq's voice echoed in his head. His eyes widened at the sound of his voice.

'What did you do?'

'He may cast a big shadow, but mine is bigger. And as of now you don't have to fear him hurting the kids while you're away. And we'll leave it at that. Now take back what you said!'

Ludwig crossed his eyes in annoyance. 'I take back the ugly bug man thing.'

'Thank you! He should back off a little bit now, but I would say get back to the fairy realm as soon as you can.'

'I will.'

/

Ivan was stalking around the woods surrounding the temple, sensing that soon there will be more than one death in that building. He knew Ludwig was still there, and like a faithful dog, he would remain in case the human needed him. This is Gilbert's wish and he would fulfill it. He sensed that someone else was here with him and looking around the area, he spotted the bright butterfly wings of Sadiq flying over to him. Ivan growled low, letting all his hackles rise as the fairy approached.

'What do you want?' Ivan asked.

Sadiq sat cross legged in the air beside Ivan, looking at the temple. "You're not going to let that little girl die, are you? Ludwig will be heartbroken."

'My senses say nothing about a child. It did earlier, but not now, which means she will live. What about you? Why are you here?'

"I was curious to see this Monk Jasper that has everyone worried."

Ivan shook his head. 'That monk can see me as I am.' He decided to turn into his human form and stand beside the butterfly fairy. "What do you think of him?"

Sadiq pulled a pipe out of the air. "I fear for Ludwig being in that temple. If you serve him as I believe you do, then remain here and protect him." He puffed on the pipe. "He will need all the mystical help he can find if he is to live."

Ivan flashed him a look of concern. "Just what do you think will happen to him?"

"That Monk Jasper is out to destroy him. Just keep a watchful eye on things and protect Ludwig at all costs. If we lose Ludwig…we may just lose everything." With that, Sadiq disappeared.

Ivan turned back to the temple. 'Only for Gilbert.'

Three days later…

Today was the Royal Meeting where both King Roderich and Arthur would get together with their council to discuss terms.

Gilbert was alone in his chambers. Alfred had already gone to pick up Matthew and head to the meeting. Gilbert had to be fashionably late, not just because he wanted to show off for Ludwig but for the fact that Roderich was here. The Light Court king had given him many clothes and would be pissed if Gilbert didn't wear one in his presence. Gilbert preferred the clothes Arthur's tailor made for him, but nothing would anger Roderich more if he came down in Dark Fairy clothes. So he chose to wear the golden outfit again. For some reason, a small part of him wanted Roderich to not be the only best dressed one. Besides, he wanted to impress Ludwig too.

Finishing up, he made his way down to the first floor where the meeting was getting ready to be held. One of the guards standing by the door banged his spear bottom on the floor and announced is presence. Gilbert had to admit that he liked being introduced as 'Prince Gilbert'. With any luck, it would soon be SIR Prince Gilbert, if he ever got the chance to become a Fairy Knight. He wanted to be like Queen Elizaveta; a warrior as well as a Queen. She didn't have to resort to doing girly 'queen things' all day long. While she followed in her queenly responsibilities, she never lost sight of herself as a warrior. And Roderich just doesn't like to get dirty if can help it.

When he walked in to the meeting room, everyone necessary was already there and seated waiting for him. King Arthur sat at the far head of the table. To Arthur's left was Alfred, followed by Matthew, Kiku, and Ivan. The chair between Alfred and Matthew was empty, which was for him. To Arthur's right sat Ludwig, Toris, Sadiq, Elizaveta, and then Roderich at the opposite end. They had all turned to look at him, but his eyes only caught Ludwig's for a moment before he gracefully took his seat. A servant came up behind him and offered a goblet of wine, which he gladly took. He smiled at everyone, raised his glass, and took a sip.

"Sorry I'm late."

"Nothing like keeping us waiting, Gilbert." Roderich said with an annoyed frown.

Gilbert's eyes met Ludwig's again, but then they all had to focus on Roderich who took the floor. He was surrounded in neatly folded papers. Gilbert realized that Roderich had more of his own servants present than were necessary. If he knew the Light King, then each one held a specific purpose.

"Now then, our meeting will begin with the unification of the Light and Dark Courts. This meeting will sort out and determine any suggestions, complaints, ideas, and laws. There are going to be a lot of chances coming up in both our courts so I suggest we discuss the most important ones. Now-"

"I have a question!" Alfred interrupted.

Roderich's curl twitched, he didn't care to be interrupted. He lightly cleared his throat. "Yes, Prince Alfred?"

"I still get to be the king when my dad steps down or dies, right?"

Arthur gave him a sharp look. "Thank you, Alfred." He said with sarcasm. "Glad to know you already have the nails for my coffin accounted for."

"Well, yes, you will be king, however, since I will be the Supreme head ruler, your title, as well as your father's, must be changed to 'Demi-King'."

"Objection!" Arthur said with a raise of his hand. "I still will be referred to as KING Arthur! My son will take on the new role name of 'Demi-King' when I am gone!"

Alfred gasped. "What? No way! I want to be 'King Alfred' too!" He turned to Roderich. "You can just stay King Roderich, too! None of this 'Supreme Ruler' shit!"

The table suddenly turned into a free-for-all argument, with everyone adding in their own ideas. Ludwig rubbed his temples, growling low in his throat and feeling his temper rising. He did not want to be here today. Although this was an extremely important meeting, the effects of his temple were still weighing heavily on his mind. With everyone acting the way they are now, this meeting would go on forever! He couldn't take it anymore, so he shot up from his chair and slammed his hands on the table.

"EVERYONE SHUT UP!" Everyone stopped and looked at him. "This meeting was to solve problems, not create new ones! Can't we sit down and talk like respectable people?! From now on, I'm in charge of this meeting! Those who wish to speak must support their opinions with valid research and data! Each speaker will be given a short time to speak! And absolutely NO CHATTING!" Everyone was still staring at him, their eyes wide and their mouths closed. Ludwig crossed his arms and sat back down. "That settles it. Whenever you're prepared to speak, raise your hand!" He ordered, and a servant ran off to do so.

Roderich raised his hand first. "I am a king, so I get extra speaking time, and so does Arthur."

"Fine." Ludwig took a deep breath. "King Roderich, you may continue. One speaker at a time."

"Now then, once the unification papers have been signed by Arthur and me, effects will immediately take place. My first order of business will be to send my Fairy Troops into your city to observe and report. I doubt there will be any complaints or trouble from the Dark Court Fairies since they have been calling for this for…oh, I believe I've lost count." Arthur just sneered at him. "Arthur will continue to settle minor matters of the Dark Court, having to only to answer to me should any major issues come up." Arthur's hand shot up. Roderich glanced at him. "Yes?"

"Let us change 'answer to' to 'consult with'. Just because we are partners now does not mean I have to ANSWER to you. This is a team effort, so we are CONSULTING." Roderich forced himself to smile, as did Arthur.

"Oh, of course. Forgive my manner of speaking. I meant no offense."

'You meant all the offense in the world.' Arthur thought to himself, but then felt Ludwig's foot lightly kick his under the table. He managed to pull himself back together.

"Since Arthur is not married, my wife, Elizaveta, shall be queen of both courts."

Arthur raised his hand again and spoke. "What about when I am in my female form?"

"Then you are Demi-Queen Alice. Simple as that." Roderich answered him. "And when Elizaveta and I have a child, he or she will be betrothed to Prince Alfred. That way, our kingdoms will strengthen by the laws of marriage."

It was Gilbert's turn to speak. "Then what does that make me? Will I become a Fairy Knight then?"

Roderich nodded. "Yes, that is a valid option for you, should you still wish to take that route. Now, if Arthur still is king and remarries, then produces another heir; then that child will be betrothed to ours and will be the next king or queen of the Dark Court."

Alfred raised his hand spoke. "Um, hello? I'm sitting right here! I'm the first born son of King Arthur! I'm next in line to the throne!" Everyone became still at that moment. Roderich softly told the servants to exit the room until they were called back in. Once they were all along with only each other, Roderich handed the floor over to Elizaveta for this 'particular topic'. She knew immediately what he meant, as did everyone else. Arthur's shoulders were already growing tense.

"Considering the rules of the Pure Bloods whom still reign over us, the rumors of your birth, Alfred, do not stand valid in their laws." Alfred and Arthur were ready to protest, but Ludwig stopped them.

"Let her speak!"

Elizaveta continued. "By joining with us, the Light Court, Arthur and his sons will be under our protection. Despite what you may think of my husband, he is working tirelessly to try and find a loop hole in their rules. The Pure Bloods will be off our backs about this matter if both Arthur and I have children. Until then, we need to simply find a way around it. For now, Alfred, you and Gilbert are still next in line to the throne."

Roderich added in. "We all know the rumors and once you sign these papers I will help to punish those who say otherwise. To say such rumors is not only an insult to you and your sons, but to Gilbert as well, who, by my choice, was given to your son. By verbally attacking your children with rumors they are insulting my choice and decision. You watch how fast these rumors become no more."

Arthur nodded. "I do thank you for that."

Roderich turned to Toris. "I now give the floor to Toris, who will offer up the changes we plan to make to the Dark Court, with your consent, of course."

Toris unfolded one of his papers. "Our first order of business will be to offer the Dark Fairies jobs, in which they will be paid a small wage for their service. Since we are gaining thousands of new fairies, we will need more farmland and workers. We will begin removing trees and plowing fields to make room for more crops and animals. Workers will be distributed properly where they are needed, both Light and Dark. King Arthur, do you accept these terms?" Toris handed the paper to him.

Arthur glanced at it and turned to Ludwig, giving him the paper. "I think it's a fine idea. How about you?"

Ludwig nodded. "It will please your people to have paying jobs. They will be outside in the real sunlight again. I would sign it."

Roderich called in the servants once again, snapping his fingers for his personal Writing Box holder. The paper was passed down to him first. The servant bent low to him, holding the writing box with a quill and ink. Roderich signed it, blew on the ink, and passed it back down to Arthur. Arthur just stared at him, his lips purged together as he dipped his quill into his ink…which was placed on the table near him. Arthur was tempted to throw ink on Roderich's perfect white and purple doublet.

Toris took the paper, folded it, and then opened another. "This next order of business concerns the service and power of Ivan." Everyone looked to Ivan.

"Me?" Ivan pointed to himself and blinked rapidly. "Why me?"

"You have a magical contract with King Arthur, you serve him. Now that our kingdoms will be joined, you must offer your services to Roderich as well. You are a guest here in our realm." Toris was shaking at the look Ivan was giving him. "K-King Roderich will not require much of you…I…I assure you."

Ivan drummed his fingers on the table. "I do not like being 'shared' as if I were a pet."

Roderich answered, "We value your help here in our world, Ivan. That is why we called you here. You will now be allowed to set foot in the Light Court. Do you consent?"

Ivan looked at Arthur and Ludwig, who both gave him a nod. Sighing, Ivan held out his hand for the paper. A servant brought it over to him and Roderich's Writing Box bearer offered him the quill. Silently, Ivan signed the paper.

Toris opened up a third paper. "This next order of business deals with the army. As our soldiers and knights travel through the city, they will start recruiting Dark Fairies for the army. We would now like to join both Light and Dark armies to fight against the rise in Umbras and other mystical beings. Our military trainers will work to make the Dark Fairies honorable soldiers. Some, if they prove their worth, honor, and loyalty will be knighted. Do you consent?" He handed the paper to Arthur.

"Only if Sadiq will supply us with the same weapons as you have."

Roderich turned to Sadiq. "How would you like to respond? It's your work after all."

Sadiq, who was dressed louder than Roderich (His plume constantly tickling Ludwig's ear) answered plainly. "I've been making thousands of weapons over the centuries. I have my own armory, you know that. I have no problem distributing my weapons to the Dark Fairies, but only if they are able to wield them. The best of the Dark Fairies will be given what I have first. Then, I will work to make more. I have no qualms."

Roderich nodded. "Done, then. Both of you may sign." Arthur and Sadiq signed it.

Alfred raised his hand again. "I want my own personally made weapon and armor. I'm the prince, and the hero, so I deserve my own special, unique weapon. Just like Ludwig and Gilbert have!"

Matthew raised his hand. "May I have one too?" But no one heard him. "Okay…I'll ask later." He said softly.

"Sure, fine with me." Sadiq answered. "The Dark Royal Family may all get their own specialized weapon. In return, Kiku must share all of his medical knowledge with our apothecaries."

Kiku nodded. "Yes, of course. I will require my own farmland, though, if I am to make more herbs."

Roderich put his hand up. "We will decide on that at a later date."

Toris took the floor again. "These matters of which we speak are what is most important at this time. We still need to visit the topics of rebuilding the Dark Fairy City. That will take many centuries, but one thing at a time."

Arthur spoke. "I have something to ask. By joining with you," he looked at Roderich "Will my people get the same privileges as yours? For example, will they have access to your giant market?"

"Yes, they may. However, that may take a while because your people's salary is no where near mine. Many items in my market are too expensive for the wages my court will be paying them to work the fields. Once the economy on both our sides starts to grow at a steady rate, then they can begin buying in my market. Until then, they should stick with their own until the time is right."

"So," Arthur clicked his tongue "My people are still to be oppressed?"

Elizaveta intervened. "Only until they save up their wages properly. Like all people, some spend their money wisely, others don't. Roderich is simply stating that the price of items in our court are very high because our people are paid higher, but only after centuries of hard work. You must realize that it will take a very, VERY long time for your kingdom to flourish as well as ours. With our help, you will be reaching that level at a much faster pace." Arthur nodded to her.

"Very well, then." Roderich clapped his hands. "We accomplished a lot here today. Let us sign the unification papers and-"

"Wait." Ludwig stood up, taking the floor. "I have something to say."

"Speak then." Arthur waved him on.

"I have helped in bringing all of you together in terms of peace, as was expected of me. As a monk, I have been taught to be humble and to help people without seeking anything in return. However, considering my circumstances, I feel that I deserve the help of the Fairy Courts for an issue that will rightly effect ALL of us. May we continue in private?" The servants took that as their time to leave once again.

Gilbert narrowed his brows at him. What could Ludwig be speaking of? He hadn't told him anything, but Gilbert could see and sense, that Ludwig was tense and worried. He longed to walk over to his lover and sit beside him for support.

"Both Ivan and Sadiq know of which I speak. There is a monk in my world. He is the Supreme Monk of all the temples in the human realm. With Sadiq's help, we have concluded that this monk is not a human as I've believed. He is actually a half-breed." The table members looked shocked or gasped. "He was born of a fairy father and a human mother."

"How do you figure this?" Kiku asked, noting the look in Ludwig's eyes, which he read as 'stay quiet'.

"Sadiq and I have found out that he has gained full fairy power due to the Pure Bloods granting it to him."

Roderich sucked his teeth. "Those damn Pure Bloods!"

Arthur scratched his claws along the table. "If only I could eat them…"

"Let me finish." Ludwig shushed them. "We don't know HOW the Pure Bloods gave him this power." He glanced at Kiku, who then knew exactly what he was referring to. "All we know is that this monk, who's name is Jasper, is secretly working for the Pure Bloods."

"How so?" Toris asked.

"The Pure Bloods want to be the only fairies living in this realm. I have strong reason to believe that they are using Jasper to help make the humans expand onto the ancient fairy battle ground." The table went up in complaints and outrage, but Ludwig slammed his hand on the table to silence them. "Jasper's ambitions are to win over the human realm and the Pure Bloods in turn get full control of the fairy realm. THIS MUST BE STOPPED! Jasper plans to use my temple as his headquarters. He threatens all of those in my care, monks and orphan children alike. I am only a human man, I cannot stand against him as I am now. I need help from the fairies and, forgive me for being so blunt but…all of you have put me under a lot of stress in your own way. Now I ask that you give back a little…and help keep my temple safe."

Roderich threaded his fingers together, resting his chin upon them. "We'll have to research this on our own. We must find out what it was the Pure Bloods gave to this Jasper to grant him such powers. And just how do Sadiq and Ivan know of him?"

Ivan answered first. "He can see me in my phantom form, but he is immortal. His pale eyes are that of a fairy's."

"I accompanied Ludwig to his temple a few days ago and witnessed for myself. I managed to hold this Jasper guy off for a short while, but it won't last long. We need to act on this."

Ludwig nodded. "And it has to be together. Despite your differences with each other, we can agree, at this moment, that the Pure Bloods are our common enemy. We have to work together to suppress them."

"But, they are so strong." Toris pointed out. "For thousands of years brave fairies on both sides have tried to destroy them, but there is just no way to get in that dome without being invited." Roderich remained silent, as did Sadiq.

"I have to agree with Toris." Kiku added. "Their magic is more powerful than both our courts combine because it is such OLD magic. It is the first magic granted to fairy kind at the birth of the world. It was bestowed upon the fairies by the Green Goddess. Their magic has never changed, which is what makes it so strong. How can we possible combat such old magic?"

Everyone at the table fell silent.

End Chapter 17 TBC

***Whew!***
- 16
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Tempus Vernum