Adult-FanFiction.org : Anime

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
- 18
- 19
- 20
***Warnings: Angst, language, minor humor, minor violence
***Disclaimer: I do not own Hetalia. I am making no money off of this fic.
'Love is a poison. A sweet poison, yes.
But it will kill you all the same.' –Cersei Lannister
Chapter 19- Hear Me Roar Part 1
Ludwig pulled away from the embrace, startling Gilbert, who looked up at him with concern. "Ludwig? What's wrong?"
"Get dressed, and grab your sword!" Ludwig demanded, grabbing just his under robe to slip on over his head. "I sense something dangerous nearby."
Gilbert was slipping his pants on quickly. "How do you know?"
"I'll tell you later. We need to tell Matthew and Cuba; they have to get out of sight!" Ludwig didn't wait for Gilbert to finish dressing to leave the small room, peeking out into the open and looking for signs of danger. Seeing nothing yet, he stepped out into the open and looked up at the sky, seeing only the snowy moon above him. He could hear Matthew and Cuba talking softly near the temple entrance, so he hurried over to them. "You two, come on, we need to hide!"
"What for?" Matthew asked. "What's wrong?"
"I don't know yet, but there's something dangerous nearby and I rather us not be found out!" Ludwig glanced at the ring again, seeing that it was now fully filled with black smoke. "It's coming nearer! Hurry!"
Cuba and Matthew looked at each other briefly, then followed Ludwig into the small room where Gilbert was just coming out from, sword in hand. "Did we find it?"
"No." Ludwig ushered all of them inside for now. "Best we stay put for now." He looked down at the ring, which was still black. "This ring was given to me by Sadiq. It fills with black whenever magical presence is near. Only dangerous magic, though."
Matthew moved closer to Cuba. "Is it Ivan, maybe?" He suggested in a whisper. "He can move around here in this world."
"No, I don't think so." Ludwig answered.
"SH!" Gilbert startled them. "Listen, do you hear that?" He whispered. They all fell silent, their eyes darting all around as they tried to listen. Then they had heard it.
There was a distant, echoing sound, as if something was wailing, or crying. The sound was not familiar; it did not sound like a specific animal or a person. The echoing grew slightly closer, and the sound was clearer now, yet they still could not make out what it was. It started to frighten them. Gilbert readied his sword, being the only one of the group with a weapon. He stood in front of them, trying to keep his resolve as the sound drew nearer and nearer. Putting a finger to his lip, Gilbert slowly peeked around the wall of the door, trying to see whatever it was making that wailing sound. There was nothing in the open temple, yet the rustling of dry, dead brambles accompanied the haunting wail from outside the walls. Whatever it was had now reached the temple walls. Gilbert gripped the hilt of his sword.
"I'm stepping out further." He whispered to the others. "It's nearing the entrance! I might be able to see what it is!"
"I'll come with you." Ludwig whispered, and then turned to the others. "Stay here until we call for you."
"Be careful." Cuba whispered back as the two left the security of the room.
Gilbert reached his hand behind him to take Ludwig's, keeping his lover close to him. Ludwig was helpless now without this staff in this world, and it was Gilbert's duty to guard and protect him. Together, they peeked around the crumbled wall that gave them a clear sight of the temple entrance. Their vision suddenly grew dark due to the passing gray clouds that covered the moon. They two men stayed very close to one another, especially when the unfamiliar haunting sound drew closer. Now it was no longer an echo, and the source of the sound appeared at the archway entrance of the temple. The form was of a man, completely shadowed by the absence of moonlight. The form was using the walls of the crumbled doorway to hold itself up, its legs trembling as it fought to stay upright. Gilbert squeezed Ludwig's hand, gulped, and readied his sword. Whatever it was, it appeared wounded or sick. And then, the single word that followed chilled them both to the bone.
"Gilbert…!" The form wailed his name.
Gilbert's breath caught in his throat and froze in his spot. Ludwig, sensing Gilbert now paralyzed with fear and confusion, pushed his way in front of him. It was his duty to protect his lover as well, even if he were completely defenseless.
"Who's there?" Ludwig demanded in a harsh tone. "Who are you?"
Sauer red eyes shone with their own inner light as the set focused on the both of them. "Ludwig…Gil…"
Gilbert realized who it was, and his breath came back to him. "It's Ivan!"
"Ivan?" Ludwig repeated the name, but then recognized the red saucer eyes as being Ivan.
Gilbert let his sword glow with light so they could better make out Ivan's form. Ludwig called for Matthew and Cuba to join them. Gilbert rushed over to the slumped form, using the light of his crystal sword to illuminate Ivan's battered form. Ivan's human form was badly injured, appearing to have been mauled by animals or something else entirely. The normally laughing purple eyes were pale and dead; one was even bloodshot a dark red. There was barely anything left of his clothes; all exposed spots of his body were dark with thick red blood and gashes. Even the dog ears atop his head were bloodied and torn; his tail lay flat and hung straight down behind him. Ivan could barely keep himself standing, and once he saw Gilbert, he collapsed into the fairy's arms.
"I tried…" Ivan whispered.
"Ivan! What happened to you?" Gilbert was joined by Ludwig, who helped his lover to lower Ivan to the temple floor. Matthew and Cuba joined them soon after, and when the young prince saw Ivan's maimed form, he immediately set to work healing him. "Ivan, speak to us!"
Ludwig let his eyes trail over Ivan's wounded body, wondering what sort of beast could have done this. "Ivan, what's happened? Can you speak?"
Ivan gasped for the breath and strength to speak. With his head resting in Gilbert's lap, he looked up at the Winter Fairy. "I tried, Gilly."
"Tried what? Ivan, what are you talking about?" Gilbert shook him gently.
"I followed you both here." Ivan whispered. "I stayed far away…saw you enter the temple…and stayed. Then…then someone came."
"What was it?" Ludwig asked. "Did you see anything?"
Ivan closed his eyes, trying to find the breath to speak. He was breathing heavy and panting, his body trembling with both fear and pain.
Cuba placed a hand on Ludwig's shoulder. "I'm going to go look around, I won't go far."
Ludwig nodded to him and then turned back to Ivan. "Ivan? Do you know what you saw?"
Gilbert stroked the silver blonde hair now caked with blood. "It's alright now, Ivan. You're here with us, so you don't have to be afraid."
Ivan's eyes fluttered open once again, and he buried his face into Gilbert's belly, reaching his arms around to hold his ex-lover. "I didn't want it coming for you." He breathed out. "I tried to stop it…but it's still here."
"What is?" Gilbert was trying to keep himself calm and not yell at the wounded phantom. "What did this to you?"
Matthew had tears in his eyes as he found that he could only heal some of Ivan's wounds. He continued on trying while trying to hear Ivan's story.
"It looked like…like an Umbra… but it wasn't. It was a dark mist…black or…dark blue…I couldn't tell. It was heading for the temple where you both were…and I…I confronted it." Ivan glanced his eyes to Ludwig. "Against my will I changed into this form… and then the thing attacked! I fought it off as best I could…it felt like a thousand wolves tearing at me with claws and teeth. I couldn't tell what it was…but I…I managed to somehow subdue it…and it disappeared." He buried his face back into Gilbert's white tunic. "I had to find you…find you both and tell you to…to leave. It's still here."
Ludwig stood up and looked around the temple, focusing on the walls and the sky above. He was afraid to use it, but the fairy vision would aid him in helping find Ivan's attacker, if indeed it was still here. Closing his eyes, he called forth the second sight. It turned the gray walls red and the sky silver. Slowly, his eyes searched high and low for signs of anything magical that might be near them. Leaving Ivan to the care of Gilbert and Matthew, he walked out of the temple to search further. To his left he saw a swirl of sparkles, but upon closer inspect he saw that it was only Cuba. Ludwig went over to the fairy and asked if he had seen anything. Cuba just shook his head, and the two continued to search the perimeter of the ancient temple. Ludwig heard the 'hooting' of an owl nearby and looked up, searching for it. For a second, he returned to his human vision and looked around quickly, wondering if the owl he heard was just the regular animal. Something landed atop the shattered wall of the temple, and both men looked up at the large horned owl above them. Ludwig felt the ring begin to tremble and squeeze around his finger. He took the warning as proof that the owl was not a normal bird. Quickly switching to his fairy sight to focus on the bird, he was unprepared for what he would see. The full-bodied form of Jasper was standing perfectly poised in the spot of the owl. Ludwig stared at him, shocked and stunned at what he was seeing. When Jasper shot him a pale-eyed stare, Ludwig nearly let out a shriek of surprise. The dark monk grinned at him, and then suddenly disappeared by flying off.
"THAT OWL!" Ludwig shouted, pointing to it as flapped away. He let his vision return to its human sight. "It's that owl!"
Cuba followed the finger and saw the owl disappear into the dark branches of the trees. "What about it?"
"Don't let it go! It's Monk Jasper in its form!"
"Wait here!" Cuba flew off into the trees to chase after it.
Ludwig turned and ran back into the temple were Gilbert and Matthew still sat with Ivan. "We have to go! Now!"
Gilbert looked up at him. "But Matthew hasn't healed him yet! Ivan's not fit for travel."
Matthew turned moistened eyes up to the monk. "Something is very wrong with these wounds, Ludwig. They are unlike any I have seen and I…I don't know how to heal them. Not on my own. I need help to save him!"
Ludwig nodded. "I'll carry him back to the fairy realm, but we have to be quick. Monk Jasper is here."
"Are you sure?" Gilbert helped Ivan into Ludwig's arms.
"I saw him. I don't understand it myself, but he is here, and he knows where we are. Right now we can't stay here." He cradled Ivan carefully in his arms.
"Where is Cuba?" Matthew asked.
"He went off in search an owl. Jasper has taken the form of an owl and must have been spying on us, or even looking for us. He must be a shape shifter."
Ivan whispered, "He's a warg."
Gilbert leaned his ear closer to Ivan's mouth. "What did you say?"
Ludwig had heard him. "He said 'warg'."
Matthew's eyes widened. "He can't have that power too, can he? That's a whole other form of magic!"
"What is it?" Ludwig asked, shifting Ivan in his arms.
"The magic allows one to enter into the form of an animal, and even sometimes, a person. A person can be a hundred miles away in their home, but use their magic to take the form of a bird and travel the world. If what you saw was indeed true, then this Monk Jasper has more than just fairy powers."
"Ivan, is that who attacked you?" Gilbert asked him, but Ivan didn't answer.
"Leave him be for now." Ludwig whispered to Gilbert. "He's tired and wounded…he'll tell us more when he feels better."
"But we can't leave without Cuba!" Matthew softly pleaded with them.
Ludwig was prepared to let Gilbert take Ivan back and he would stay with Matthew, but Cuba appeared right away, landing before them. "Did you see it?" Ludwig asked.
"It got away." Cuba answered. "I'm sorry."
"It's alright. We need to get back to the fairy realm." Ludwig then handed Ivan over to Cuba. "I need to go back to the temple and get my items."
"I'll go with you." Gilbert said and turned to Matthew. "Go with Cuba and get Ivan to Kiku. He should be able to help you in healing Ivan. If anyone asks about Cuba, just say he's my friend and I'll handle it later."
Matthew nodded. "Alright. Be careful. We'll see you soon."
The pairs went their separate ways. Gilbert flew Ludwig to the mouth of the woods where his temple stood. Instead of having Ludwig go, Gilbert said he would do it instead. Gilbert knew he could get in and get out with ease. Ludwig told him where the trunk was, and said to only receive the items from it and nothing else. Ludwig pleaded with Gilbert to be careful. Gilbert kissed him before flying off to the temple, entering through the kitchen like Ludwig had said to do. The halls were dark and Gilbert used his glow to light his way. He would tell Ludwig about this later, but it was easy for him to find his lover's room based on his smell. Gilbert followed Ludwig's scent to the room, jiggled the handle of the door, but found it to be locked. He smirked. This was an easy fix. He turned himself into snowy fog and slipped under the door. Returning to his fairy form, he found the trunk and gathered up its contents. Turning back into fog, he exited through the chimney shoot of the chamber fireplace. He would have to remember this way in the future. Once up and out, he returned to fairy form and flew off in the direction of his lover. He found Ludwig resting behind a tree.
"I got everything! You're one lucky human, you know that? All these fairy gifts are just…wow!"
Ludwig nodded. "Yes. Let's not waste time in getting back. We need to get to Ivan and properly thank him for trying to defending us."
"Yes. Grab on to me. I'll get us to the realm quickly."
/
In Kiku's chambers…
Ivan had finally passed out from pain and exhaustion. He lay on one of the examination beds with Kiku, Matthew, and Cuba by his side. Kiku had an entire small table set near the bed covered with bottles, salves and cloths. They had stripped Ivan naked so Kiku could have full view of all his wounds, which were numerous. Matthew was doing his best to help by adding his healing magic to Kiku's salves and potions. Some of the wounds had healed slightly while others would have to do it on their own. The both of them helped to stitch a few open gashes closed while Cuba set to washing the blood out of Ivan's hair and tail.
"Kiku…why won't these wounds heal?" Matthew asked in a weeping whisper. "Why can't my magic help him?"
Kiku dipped his blood-coated hands into a bowl of fresh water to clean them. "You said he was attacked by something, but he doesn't know what it was. From what I can guess, by these wounds alone, is that whatever attacked him had magic beyond your powers, Matthew."
Matthew's eye widened. "Stronger than my healing powers? But…how can that be? Healing is a neutral form of magic that shouldn't be bested!"
Kiku looked at him and shook his head slowly. "Some things in this world are far more powerful than you can even begin to imagine. These wounds were inflicted with old magic, that is why you can't fully heal them."
"So will Ivan make it through?" Cuba asked, rinsing out the last bit of dried blood.
Kiku nodded, turning back to Ivan's body to wipe away some excess salve from the wound on his shoulder. "His life is currently bound to the king's. King Arthur will not allow him to die since Ivan is basically a part of him. If the king should die right now, then Ivan would die. If the king died while Ivan was well, then he would be free. We don't have to fear him dying on us. It will just take some time for his body to heal." He turned to Matthew. "So do not beat yourself up over it, Prince Matthew. You're doing all that you can and that is more than enough."
Matthew wiped at his eyes with the back of his sleeve and nodded.
A knock came at the door and Alfred announced his presence. "KIKU? MATTHEW? YOU IN THERE?"
Matthew gasped and turned fearful eyes to Cuba. "My brother!"
Kiku acted quickly. "Hide behind those curtains!" He told Cuba, who hurried to do so. Kiku straightened his tunic and went to the door to open it. Alfred looked down at him. "Your highness."
"I heard Ivan was here and that he was badly injured. Father sent me to check it out. So what's going on?" Alfred stepped into the room and Kiku shut the door.
"He was attacked by something in the human realm," Kiku started "But he doesn't know what it was. His wounds have been inflicted with an old magic that even Matthew's healing ability cannot fix. But Ivan will survive. I am certain of it."
Alfred looked to Matthew and then to the form of Ivan on the bed. "Damn, he looks like a piece of shredded meat!" He stood by the bed and looked over the bandaged form. "This is ridiculous. To think that there is something out there who can attack a creature like Ivan and do this much damage." He looked over at Kiku. "Do you think it has anything to do with all of Ludwig's problems?"
Matthew answered instead. "We're not certain…but Ludwig seems to think so."
"Speaking of which, just what were you doing in the human realm with Ludwig in the first place?" Alfred narrowed his gaze at his brother, who cowered. "Kiku, do you know of this?"
Kiku glanced to Matthew and then to Alfred. "Your brother is a grown fairy male, Alfred. He does not have to answer to you in where he goes or who he sees." Alfred frowned, his dark wings lowering.
"Matthew?" Alfred looked at his brother again. "What is going on? Will you not tell me? Your own brother?"
Matthew gulped. "Um…you see…I was trying to help Ludwig out a little bit, that's all. He was so sad after that meeting that I just wanted to help. Nothing happened to me, as you can see. I'm all right. Please, don't mention anything to Father." Matthew's eyes were filled with tears as they silently pleaded with his brother to keep his silence, even if he did tell only a fraction of the real truth.
Before Alfred could answer the door flew open and in stepped Gilbert with Ludwig. Alfred looked at them both, noticing their slight state of dress and ragged features.
"Is Ivan all right? He-" Gilbert paused when he saw Alfred standing by the bed. "Alfred."
Ludwig bowed. "Your highness."
Alfred narrowed his blue eyes, clicking his tongue, and crossing his arms. "So, was there a party I wasn't invited to?" He said sarcastically.
Gilbert rolled his eyes. "Don't start with us. A lot of shit happened tonight and we don't need you butting in. Ivan's been hurt and we have to help him!"
"I just want to know what everyone was doing in the human realm for this to happen? What's going on?" He looked at all of them, sensing that they all knew something that he didn't.
"Prince Alfred," Ludwig started "Your brother and Gilbert were only trying to help me. We are all in danger here and what has happened to Ivan is just further proof of it. If it weren't for us being there, Ivan might have died."
"No, he would have lived." Kiku said, quickly explaining to them about Ivan's bond with Arthur. "Regardless of who thinks what, there are more important matters that need to be discussed. The king should know about what happened out there and King Roderich should know as well. Remember, we are all in this together, every one of us. Instead of fighting and arguing, let us help the other."
Gilbert nodded and looked to Ludwig. "Kiku's right. We have some other business that needs to be 'taken care' of. Right?"
Ludwig swallowed hard, knowing exactly what Gilbert meant by that. "Yes. Let's go and talk to the king. I also think that Prince Alfred and Prince Matthew should be with us as well."
"What's this about now?" Alfred asked.
Matthew shook his head. "I don't know. Is something wrong?"
Ludwig cleared his throat. "I have something to tell your father…and you both have the right to know as well. Kiku, will you continue to watch over Ivan?"
"Of course." Kiku turned to Matthew and then he glanced at the curtains, silently telling the prince that he would take care of Cuba.
Matthew smiled at him and then went to stand by his brother.
"Let us know when Ivan is awake." Gilbert told Kiku. "Come on, let's go see the king."
As Ludwig came upon Arthur's chamber doors, he felt his body tingle with anxiety. He kept wondering how Arthur would react when Ludwig finally told him about the fate of his lover, the father of his children. How would Alfred and Matthew take to the news? Gilbert insisted that this was the right thing to do and Ludwig even agreed with it. However, that didn't change the fact that actually TELLING the king about Francis would be no easy task. Should Arthur go stark raving mad at him, Ludwig would have to depend on Gilbert and Matthew to protect him. He couldn't quite trust Alfred; not yet. As Matthew announced their presence and opened the doors, Ludwig had the sudden urge to grab Gilbert's hand for support. He had to stop himself for Alfred was standing on the opposite side of Gilbert. As they entered, Ludwig felt his blood run cold and his mouth go dry at the sight of King Arthur sitting in a window seat.
The king turned to look at them, and all four bowed.
"Do the four of you bring me good news?" Arthur asked.
"I'm afraid not, your grace." Gilbert answered calmly. "Ludwig has something to report."
Arthur sat up from the window seat and called his sons over. He had Alfred to stand on his left and Matthew to his right.
Ludwig swallowed hard again. The three sets of eyes were focused on him. Alfred appeared annoyed. Matthew looked worried. And Arthur held no expression at all.
"Well, speak up, monk!" Arthur commanded. "What do you have to tell me?"
It was now or never.
"Your highness, I have news regarding your lover, Francis." The three dark fairies gasped.
"You know where Papa is?" Matthew asked hopefully.
Ludwig nodded. "I do."
Arthur stood up. "Where is he? Tell me, now!"
Ludwig licked his lips. "Your highness…I'm afraid all is not well with Francis." He watched Arthur's face fall. "There was a misunderstanding that led him to trouble. I will tell you exactly what happened, but I ask that you wait until I am finished."
"I knew it." Arthur gasped out, falling back into the window seat. "I knew my feelings were right all along. Something horrible has happened to my Francis." Matthew took his father's hand and sat beside him. Alfred just glared at Ludwig.
"Your majesty, it all started when Francis, against your wishes, went to the Light Court for a secret audience with Roderich. It was there that Francis offered terms of peace…the very peace in which you just signed and agreed to at the meeting. Those terms were from Francis. When they had that meeting, Roderich accepted the terms and promised to work alongside with Francis to get you to consent. Francis only did this because he was tired of fearing for the lives of his mate and his children. Roderich understood this as well. However…while trying to sneak back out and denying Rodrich's offer of an escort, Francis ran into some trouble with Light Court Fairy Knights. They did not know who he was, and they did not believe he was there to see the king. They thought he was a spy and they…" Ludwig felt his knees buckle under his robes.
"They what…?" Arthur asked in a low warning tone.
"They attacked him. He was stabbed by a crystal fairy sword." Matthew shrieked, covering his mouth as he leaned into Arthur's shoulder. Arthur just stared at Ludwig, his features flat.
"What do you mean they stabbed him? What happened to him?" Alfred nearly shouted.
Ludwig took a deep breath. "Before he could bleed to death, both Roderich and Sadiq used their advanced magic to shield Francis in a tomb of fairy crystal. Francis' death is frozen in time right now. I saw it all happen…I know this to be true. Right now Francis is safely guarded in the cellars of the Light Court castle. Roderich is keeping him safe, I assure you."
Alfred appeared numb, his eyes staring off into space while his little brother wept softly.
Arthur slowly stood up from his seat and took a few small steps towards Ludwig. His green eyes looked into human blue. "You saw all this, you say?" Ludwig nodded. Arthur gave a little smile. "You knew about this the moment it happened…and you lied right to my face!"
"Your majesty," Gilbert started "Ludwig was only-"
"Stay out of this!" Arthur hissed violently at Gilbert before turning back to Ludwig. "You knew about this! You knew! You knew it all along and yet you STILL lied to me! All those times I cried to you and confided in you about my fears and my suffering for Francis, you knew! YOU FUCKING KNEW! Damn you! DAMN YOU!"
Ludwig quickly fell to one knee before him. "Your highness, I swear to you that I wanted nothing more than to tell you right away! But please, before you pass judgment let me speak!"
"I say lock him up!" Alfred hollered, his voice echoing in the chamber. "Lock him up for withholding information from his king!"
Gilbert sneered at him. "Alfred, shut up!"
"SILENCE! ALL OF YOU!" Arthur's voice boomed loudly like that of an earthquake, its force rumbling the castle walls. He turned back to Ludwig. "Hurry up and speak you bastard, before I kill you."
"Roderich begged of me not to tell you about your mate in fear of starting another war! Roderich feared that you would go mad with violent revenge and stage an all out war when he is striving to make peace. He wanted to find a way to save Francis before you could find out about his true absence. Yes, both he and I lied to you, but I swear that it was only done in good faith! Francis loves you so much that he put himself in danger for you. All of this was an unfortunate accident! No one wanted it to happen! No one knew who he was! Roderich has severely punished the knights who stabbed him! We were just…" he took a deep breath "we were afraid to tell you. We know how much you love Francis. Please remember, your highness, that while I serve you, I also serve Roderich. I am the neutral envoy…I am constantly torn between you and Roderich. I did only what was asked of me. I would have done anything to help Francis if I could, you know that to be true."
Arthur looked down at him, turned away and crossed his arms. His wings lowered against his back, and his shoulders slumped. He couldn't stop the bloody tears that began to fall from his eyes; tears he hoped his sons would never have to see on his cheeks. But both of his boys looked at him, their eyes wide and misty as well with their own tears. Alfred was trying to be strong, but Arthur sensed that he was shaking and scared. Matthew's emotional pain was clearly evident on his face and in his tears. After all this time, they finally knew what had happened to Francis, his mate and their papa. Arthur took a deep breath and exhaled, only it came out like a hiss. He turned to Ludwig once again.
"Stand!" He commanded of the monk, and Ludwig obeyed. "Ludwig…despite your consideration in this matter…I don't think I can ever forgive you for lying to me as you have. I always took you for an honest man…but I guess I was wrong. I wish that you had told me immediately. How would you know I would rage a war? You barely know me. You went by what my ENEMY told you. You never took your own judgment into consideration." Arthur looked away from him. "You have shamed me. I'm very disappointed in you." He turned away from him again.
Ludwig felt faint. Arthur's words were like a sword in his gut, the blade being rammed again and again in his flesh. The words had hurt. Arthur had made him feel like a bad little boy for lying to him. For some strange reason, he wanted Arthur to forgive him for this sin. He wanted to slap Gilbert for insisting that they tell the secret in the first place. Ludwig was simply stunned beyond words and the sounds of Matthew's sorrowful weeping threatened his own tears to spill. It wasn't just Arthur's disapproving eyes that hurt him, but it was Matthew's woebegone stare that nearly killed him.
"Get out of my sight." Arthur hissed.
"Wait!" Gilbert stood in front of Ludwig. "Just wait a minute! You can't just dismiss Ludwig like that! You can't blame him for being afraid to tell you something like this! And there are a few things you're forgetting! For one thing, Francis is STILL alive! Roderich didn't HAVE to save him! Roderich chose to preserve him instead and try to find a way to save him! He didn't HAVE to do that! Francis means nothing to him! Roderich did it for you! He and Ludwig are trying to make it better! You should be grateful!"
Arthur spun to glare at Gilbert, his eyes green with red snake-like pupils. His open mouth barred venomous fangs and the black snake tongue stuck out in Gilbert's direction. Gilbert gasped and took a step back, holding his arms outstretched in means to protect Ludwig, who could easily be killed from just a drop of Arthur's venom.
"FATHER! STOP!" Matthew screamed at him.
Arthur kept his frightful features as he spoke in a hissed and raspy voice. "You truly think so? Do you think that Roderich is so caring and consider to have thought about my feelings when Francis was attacked? You stupid little snowflake; how young and naïve you are to believe what you say! Roderich by no means cared about me! He feared my reaction and that he should! I am grateful for nothing from him! I know damn well that he was keeping Francis a secret for his own gain! He can easily use Francis to get to me! He came to me with these terms knowing I was suffering and in pain over Francis! He used that to his advantage! And even if I did rage war on him, he has Francis in his grasp to be used a shield! Keeping Francis is his special little golden meal ticket to get at me! To get what he wants! And he succeeded!" Arthur hissed loudly, letting his nails grow and curl into thick claws. "I want Francis back, in whatever form he is in. I want him. I want him here." His snake eyes focused on Ludwig. "If you wish to redeem yourself in my eyes, then go to Roderich and order Francis' return! If he will not return him, then I will come to the Light Court and retrieve him myself." Arthur grinned darkly; the corners of his mouth reaching the base of his ears again…just like a snake. "And I won't be nice."
Ludwig stood in front of Gilbert and bowed low. "I will do as you command. I will leave immediately. I apologize a thousand times over for lying to you. I should have gone with my first instinct and told the moment it happened."
"And I'm going with you!" Gilbert said firmly.
"If you're going, then so am I!" Alfred chimed in.
"No." Arthur turned to his eldest, his features returning to that of a fairy male. "Your place is here with me. I'd rather you not go to that place where your papa is currently being held prisoner. I don't want them getting their hands on you too."
Gilbert cleared his throat. "You're forgetting that you signed that document with Roderich…he owns half of your kingdom. Alfred is welcomed there now."
Arthur let out a breathily chuckle. "Treaties are made to be broken. When I spoke to him about Francis missing, he looked at me and said simply, 'you don't say'. Another liar. So why should I believe he will do anything he promises, hm?" He turned to Ludwig. "You will tell him that as well. Tell him that, if he does not return Francis to me, I will break the treaty and I will destroy him. I am my own army." He returned his gaze to Alfred. "Very well then, Alfred. Go with them and represent the Dark Court and your papa."
Alfred gave a curt nod.
"Now all of you can leave me."
Ludwig and Gilbert were the first to leave, followed by the young princes. Ludwig couldn't bear to look at Matthew, who could still be heard sniffling and crying. That meeting didn't go as well as he expected. Now how would Roderich react when Ludwig revels that he told their secret? And what would his response be to Arthur's demands and threats? And what did Arthur mean when he said he was his 'own army'? Just a few short hours ago he was the happiest man in the world; now he's back to being the most troubled and depressed. At least he had-
"Gilbert." Alfred voice cut in. "It's late and I'm tired. Let's retire to our chamber. We'll order dinner brought up to us."
"But I-" Gilbert wanted to sneak away with Ludwig, knowing his mate needed comfort. But the stern look in Alfred's eyes suggested to him that he should go with 'fairy' husband. He yearned to be with his 'human' husband. "Alright." With another glance at Ludwig, Gilbert followed behind Alfred.
Ludwig was left alone with a weeping Matthew, who was gazing at him with tear stained cheeks. "Matthew…forgive me for not telling you about this sooner. We were hoping we could save Francis before it even got to this point."
"I…I can't be mad at you, Ludwig. You've done so much for Cuba and me that I know you try to do only your best even when you know it's wrong. I guess I…I sort of wish you had told me first. Then perhaps I could have…eased the news to my father. Now we might be at war…and my brother and father will lead it. We've already lost papa…and I couldn't bear it if I lost Alfie and father too!"
Ludwig hooked his arm in with Matthews. "Allow me to escort you to your chambers." Matthew nodded and let Ludwig lead him.
Ludwig needed something to keep his mind off of Gilbert going off with Alfred. He had a notion that Alfred knew more about what went on between them then he was letting on. Ludwig only hoped that Gilbert could lie his way through whatever nosey questions Alfred may have. Gilbert was his mate as well, not just Alfred's. If Alfred wanted a duel then Ludwig wouldn't hesitate to give him one. He held the staff given to him by Sadiq with the power to destroy and burn the flesh of 'darker than normal' dark fairies. If Alfred knew what was good for him, he'd back off of Gilbert. Or perhaps…to make things go a bit smoother, he should talk to Kiku about how he views Alfred's feelings for him; and if he would ever accept Alfred as a lover. Kiku had helped him with the infant fairy body, so he was hesitant to bring up the conversation he had heard between Sadiq and Heracles. Kiku knew enough secrets about him that the apothecary could use to bring him down. He would have to think this through more and what better time to do it then laying in a cold, empty bed?
To Ludwig, all of this felt like he had a hundred enemies, each one as dangerous as they were friendly. The only person he could really, truly trust in this world, the human realm and the universe, was Gilbert.
/
Gilbert pushed his food around with his fork, having lost his appetite after the meeting with Arthur and Alfred's sudden interest in their marriage. They were already dressed for bed, and Alfred wanted to go to 'sleep' right after. Gilbert had never felt so uncomfortable around Alfred than he did now. He wasn't sure if it was because of the exchange of words they had earlier or the fact that his fairy heart was joined with his TRUE love and husband? Gilbert found drinking his wine a lot easier than eating his food and he figured Alfred had noticed his uneasiness.
"You're not eating. Eat up, we've got a big day tomorrow. I can't wait to see the Light Court castle. I bet it's just as fancy as King Roderich." Alfred tore a huge chuck of the red raw meat from his steak.
To Gilbert's eyes, it looked like it wasn't even cooked and Alfred's fangs were starting to show. Alfred was just as bat-shit crazy as his father was. Maybe Ludwig was right to have kept the secret about Francis as just that: a secret. "I'm not really hungry."
"It's hard work running around the human realm, I guess?"
Gilbert dropped his fork loudly on the plate. "What's that supposed to mean?"
Alfred smiled, licking the blood from his lips. "Nothing. Just wondering. You smell enough like the human realm, so I know you were there with Ludwig and Matthew. So, what was so important? More secrets?"
Gilbert glared at him. "Ludwig is my friend. I'm trying to help him with dealing with this Monk Jasper guy. Ludwig is helpless in the human realm. Well, he's half helpless. He needs me, us, all of our friends here, to help him. He helps us. We should return the favor."
Alfred shrugged his shoulders. "Fair enough."
They ate the rest of dinner in silence, with Gilbert drinking more than he should. It helped the ease the tension of the situation he was currently in, and his slight fear of Alfred. When Alfred drew down the sheets and beckoned him to follow, Gilbert was reluctant to go. Alfred gave him an annoyed stare, motioned once again for him to come to bed. Gilbert felt his mouth grow dry and his hands were starting to shake, but he had no choice; he had to get into bed with Alfred. Maybe nothing would happen, he thought as he slipped under the sheets as far from Alfred's side as he could. He turned on his side so he wouldn't be facing Alfred, but he could feel the fairy's gaze on his back. Then, he felt a hand rest on his waist and on reflex, with the beating of his fairy heart, he smacked Alfred's hand away.
"No." He whispered. The hand returned to his waist, only this time it gripped harder and once again he shoved it away. "No!" He was then flipped over onto his back so he could face Alfred. "Alfred, don't do this."
"Why not?" Alfred asked. "You've had no trouble doing it before. What's different now?" His blue eyes bore into pink and he could see the doubt within them.
"I don't want to have sex with you. If you HAVE to do it, then I won't be willing and I'll put up one fucking hell of a fight. I might even kill you." Gilbert warned.
Alfred pushed the pale wrists into the mattress. "I'll take that chance."
"NO!" Gilbert struggled against him, but he barely had to use any force because Alfred let go. Gilbert scrambled away to press his back against the headboard, his eyes welling with tears and his fairy heart pounding painfully in his chest. Why was he crying? It must be his fairy heart, which was filling him with uncontrollable emotions. His love and bond with Ludwig was being threatened, so his fairy heart reacted. He was both frightened by what happened but also relieved that Alfred had stopped. But when he looked at Alfred's face, he noticed that the fairy wasn't even acknowledging him. Gilbert whispered his name; "Alfred?"
Alfred looked over at him. "You had that…that same look on your face Kiku did that night when I tried to kiss him. He had that same hurt, panicked look on his face, just like you did. Kiku was trying to be nice, but he just couldn't do it. You did the exact the same thing just now." He looked up at Gilbert. "I was really just testing you, Gilbie. I wouldn't have done anything like that against your will. What do you take me for? A brute? Did you really think I would force you?"
Gilbert was still crying, but they were silent tears. "I…I did. I really thought you were…going to, but you stopped." He wiped his eyes.
"So you were with Ludwig in the human realm." Alfred said softly. "That's where you were. You were with him. And now your-"
"My fairy heart belongs to him." Gilbert said firmly. "We are bonded. Our red thread has appeared, even though he is a human! We are meant for each other. My body reacted to my bond with him being threatened by another! If I…if I acted the same way as Kiku did…then you now have your answer as to why he will not be with you. He must love another, and it's not you."
Alfred turned away quickly and slid off the bed. Gilbert immediately kicked himself for saying something so cruel and stupid. He got off the bed as well to go over to Alfred.
"But who is it?" Alfred spoke to the air. "Who could it possibly be? I never see him with anyone!"
Gilbert understood the hurt Alfred was feeling now. Not only did he find out about his missing father, but also he just learned that the fairy he loved had their heart set on another. He walked around the fairy to stand in front of him and wrapped his arms around the broad torso. "Alfred, you forget that Kiku is very old, almost as old as your father and papa, if not the same. I think you should ask Kiku yourself…knowing what you do now. At least then you'll have your true answer and you won't have to keep wondering."
Alfred covered Gilbert with one bat wing. "I hope to the Green Mother that I'm wrong. I really do. And I will ask him, but only after we return from the Light Court with my papa."
"Right." Gilbert wouldn't look at him as he spoke again. "Let's go back to bed. Like you said, we have a big day tomorrow."
"No." Alfred smiled down at Gilbert's expression of surprise. "You don't want to hear my snores and pull back the covers I steal from you!" He grinned. "Go be with Ludwig and put your cold feet on his!" Gilbert matched his grin. "Those things are like damned icicles! Just don't let anyone see you."
"Seriously, Alfred? You'll let me go with Ludwig tonight?" His wings buzzed excitedly, sending wave after wave of sparkling snow.
"Who am I to stop a fairy heart? It never stopped my parents! So go ahead! Don't worry, I won't be mad! And there's no hard feelings between me and Ludwig because of it! Shit happens, right?"
Gilbert leapt in the air twirled, giving off more snow. "Thank you, Alfie! I promise I'll be discrete! And don't worry, we'll work on Kiku together, I promise!"
"Great! See you tomorrow!" Alfred waved and laughed happily as Gilbert hurried his snowy form out of the room, slamming the door behind him. Alfred's wings, smile, and hands slowly began to droop once he was alone in his room. His thoughts were now on Kiku, who is probably in love with another fairy and will never return his feelings. And his papa may well be dead inside that crystal prison. His father was going crazy, Gilbert abandoned him and Roderich was taking over the Dark Fairy Court. When had the carpet been pulled out from under his feet so quickly? Alfred flew into his bed, hid under the covers, and silently brooded.
/
In Ludwig's Chambers…
Ludwig blew out the bedside candle and settled under the covers, praying for a peaceful sleep to come to him. His mind was running rampant with thoughts of Arthur, Gilbert, and Roderich. He must have tossed and turned in his bed over a dozen times. Just when he thought sleep would never come, someone suddenly entered his chambers. Sharply turning to see who it was, Ludwig was shocked to find Gilbert flying over to him. The fairy brought him into a deep, passionate kiss and settled on the bed beside him.
"Gilbert? What are you- why are you here? Where's Alfred?"
Gilbert grinned. "Don't worry about that. He knows. Just don't worry about it!" He kissed him again and snuggled up to his human lover, tucking his head under the strong chin. "I sleep with you tonight, my mate. My TRUE husband."
Ludwig smiled and sighed, feeling like a weight had been lifted off of his shoulders and he could finally relax. He held Gilbert tightly to him and all of his worries washed away in a sea of warm snow. "You are my husband as well. We will face this together."
"I'll be right by your side." Gilbert burrowed his face into Ludwig's neck and buzzed his wings happily.
/
The next morning, Ludwig, Gilbert and Alfred set off for the Light Court. Ludwig chose to wear his fairy armor and flying cloak, accompanied by his staff, ring, and boots. Using the cloak and boots while dashing through the trees allowed him to keep up with the fairies, but he was still trailing behind. He would get used to using the items correctly and it was best he learn quickly in case he meets Jasper head on in a fight. Ludwig prayed that it wouldn't come to that. For a creature that could so brutally wound a being like Ivan is way beyond his fighting ability. But he would still fight if he had to. He had to fight, if not for himself, then for Gilbert.
"Hey Ludwig! You're falling behind, bro!" Alfred called from way ahead. "I can grow a beard by the time you catch up!"
Ludwig paid him no mind and continued through the trees on his own; until Gilbert suddenly scooped him up from under his arms.
"We can beat you with no problem!" Gilbert accepted the challenge and flew with Ludwig after Alfred.
Ludwig was pleasantly surprised with how Alfred could easily make a game out of anything in any situation. He only hoped that Alfred would keep that chipper attitude when meeting with Roderich.
/
"My Lord and Lady!" Panted a Fairy Knight as he flew in to the main courtroom. "I bring news!"
Roderich slowly placed his teacup down on the floating saucer. "What is it?"
"On the main road, we've spotted two fairies and human on their way here. The human is Monk Ludwig and the other two are Gilbert and Prince Alfred! They're coming here!"
Elizaveta looked at her husband. "Unannounced like that?"
Roderich stood from his throne. "I did not invite the Dark Fairy Prince here! Stop them at the border of the kingdom and ask Ludwig why Prince Alfred is here! Then report back to us!"
"YES SIR!" The Fairy Knight flew out of the courtroom.
Roderich sat back in his throne and turned to his queen. "Sweet, I would suggest putting on your armor…just in case."
"Just in case of what? You don't think Ludwig's betrayed us, do you?"
"No, it isn't that." He straightened out a broach on his doublet. "I just have a feeling that Alfred is here because the Dark Royal family has gotten word of Francis' whereabouts. Go get Sadiq and meet me in the cellars."
Elizaveta summoned Sadiq from the armory and they both traveled far down to the cellars where Francis still stayed frozen in the crystal. Roderich was peering up at Francis' stone-like face, his own a mask of disbelief. He turned to the others with a fretful look. "Please tell me you both sense something different than I do?"
Elizaveta walked up to the crystal and placed her palm on the surface. She gasped and looked at Roderich. "Is he-?"
Roderich glanced at Sadiq, who took off his mask to rub the bridge of his nose with an agitated sigh.
"How could this have happened?" She asked. "I thought he was frozen!"
Roderich hissed. "I thought he was too! Magic can only do so much."
Sadiq put his mask back on. "You know what this means, right?"
Roderich gave a flat smile. "Yes. We're going to war."
/
"Presenting Dark Prince Alfred, his wife, and Monk Ludwig!"
Gilbert glared at the guard as they entered the throne room, miffed that he was not announced with a title. That was something he was going to have to fix around here.
Alfred walked a few steps in front, with Ludwig on his left and Gilbert on his right. The courtroom was empty save for the fairies on the dais. Roderich and Elizaveta sat in their thrones. To Roderich's left stood Knight Berwald, Knight Vash, and Head Advisor Toris. To Elizaveta's right stood Sadiq and Heracles. Strangely, Ludwig noticed, all of them were armed. Elizaveta, clothed in a rather slim brown dress with pants underneath and boots was not typically the style for a queen taking visitors. Not to mention the golden breastplate that was more a stylish corset than armor. She had her crystal sword lying upright against her knee. Sadiq had a sword of an odd style the likes of which Ludwig had never seen. The top of the blade was flat, curved, and large, while it grew thinner leading down to the hilt. The blade was easily bigger than his head, and it would probably make a clean, quick cut. Sadiq stood perfectly posed with the sword in front of him, this hands resting perfectly folded on the hilt. Next to him stood Heracles with some sort of large and long blunt object resting on his shoulder, yet the fairy seemed to be dozing off as he stood. Berwald and Vash had their hands on the hilts of their swords, which were still sheathed. Toris appeared to be unarmed, but Roderich's sword, if that's what it was, was the strangest of all. Ludwig could only see a jewel-encrusted hilt that appeared to be floating in the air, yet Roderich's gloved hand was resting atop of it. Ludwig could conclude that Roderich's weapon, the blade part, was invisible. Such a weapon would be impossible to fight. What was going on? Why was everyone armed and straight faced? Toris was the only one who looked nervous to be there. Ludwig glanced over at Gilbert who had picked up the same vibes of danger. Only Alfred seemed unaware of the state of things.
"Greetings to you, Prince Alfred." Roderich started. "Welcome to my palace."
Alfred placed his hand on his hilt as well before speaking. "I come in my father's place and I speak with his voice. We've been told of what has happened to Papa, Francis Bonnefoy. We ask that you return Francis in his current form without question. If you do this, then the Dark Fairy King will lay down his arms. If you refuse, then my father shall have to pay you a little visit." Alfred smirked proudly. "And he has the power of a thousand armies just on his own."
Roderich kept his features calm and collective. "Is that so? Hmph. Well, first off, let me say what a fine lad you've grown up to be and you spoke your part well. However, I'm afraid there are a few…complications…that will interfere with these terms."
Alfred narrowed his brows. "What do you mean? What complications?" He turned to look at Ludwig. "Do you know anything about this?"
Ludwig shook his head and looked to Roderich. What was the king talking about? Had something happened to Francis? Was that why everyone was armed?
Roderich motioned to Elizaveta to speak next. "Prince Alfred…this is very hard for us to say, but we fear your papa has passed on while encased in the crystal."
The room fell silent. Alfred stood like a statue. Gilbert's eyes widened in shock and disbelief. Ludwig felt the urge to curl into the fetal position and wish he were dead instead of Francis.
"Alfred," Roderich spoke "Sadiq and I did our very best to keep him alive for you. It was an unfortunate accident due to a misunderstanding. We never meant for it to happen, but it did. We tried to save him for your father. We thought we could preserve him until we could find a way to cheat his death. We of the Light Court had no ill will bared to Francis; he was a good fairy, your papa. We mourn his death along with you."
Gilbert moved closer to Alfred and rubbed his shoulder. "I'm sorry." He whispered.
Alfred just stared at them all on the dais. "How long has he been dead?"
Sadiq answered. "We're not sure. Today we checked on him to find the crystal was no longer flowing with his life force. This had been the first time we used such magic to expand over a length of time. We did not know what the consequences would be, but we took the chance to try and save him."
"Now go in peace." Vash spoke firmly, yet his voice held a soft undertone. "Relay the news to your father."
Ludwig stood in front of Alfred then to speak. "If Francis is indeed dead as you claim, then break the crystal case and allow us to bring his body back to the Dark Court. King Arthur deserves to mourn properly for his lover; and Francis belongs with his family in his home court."
Roderich cleared his throat lightly. "I'm afraid I cannot allow that."
"Why the hell not?" Alfred pushed in front of Ludwig. "Give me back my papa! Now!"
It was Elizaveta's turn to speak. "We cannot trust the mental issues of your father at this point in time. King Arthur sighed the treaty making the Light Court the supreme ruler of the Fairy Realm. We will keep Francis' body here in its current form until further arrangements can be made."
Roderich looked at Alfred's glaring blue eyes as he spoke next. "If your father decides to act like a brute and lead his broken army into my lands, then he will be breaking the treaty and we'll declare war. Tell your father to think very, very carefully about the choice he makes. We will return Francis' body when we can be sure your father has regained his sanity. Besides, your army is not exactly the most reliable, or the strongest."
Alfred's body was shaking with rage, hurt, and helplessness. He felt his eyes welling with tears but he refused to cry in front of these Light Court monsters.
"I've heard enough!" Gilbert shouted, his voice echoing in the flowering cavern hall. "All of you should be ashamed of yourselves! Most of you have a fairy bond with your mate! Put yourselves in King Arthur's place for a moment and rethink your decision!" Gilbert's pink eyes darted to each one of them, but not ONE'S features ever wavered. They were all stone faced, meaning that they were not going to yield to logic. Gilbert growled. "So be it! If this is what being a Fairy Knight of the Light Court means then I'd rather be a part of the Dark Court! I denounce my love and devotion for the Light Court!" He began to strip himself of the clothes Roderich had given him as a gift. "I denounce being your subject and your ward!" He let the clothes pool around his feet, leaving him in only his pants and undertunic. "Allow ME to give you a message that King Arthur was too noble and kind to say in public company." He removed the circlet from his head, another gift from Roderich.
'Gilbert…please…don't say something we'll all regret.' Ludwig prayed in silence.
"Eat shit and die, you rose-farting pussy!" He threw the circlet in Roderich's direction.
Berwald let out a loud laugh, startling everyone momentarily from the vulgar insult. No one could say anything, especially after seeing Roderich's heated face filled with embarrassment and fury.
"We're leaving!" Gilbert shouted. "And I'll piss on all your fucking roses on the way out!"
Roderich stood from his throne. "YOU WALK OUT OF THIS PALACE AS YOU STAND YOU CAN FORGET EVER COMING BACK!"
"EAT ME! YOU BACKSTABBING- wah!" Ludwig gripped him by the back of the tunic and dragged him out with a stunned and confused Alfred following behind.
Roderich cleared his throat and sat back down in his throne. Everyone was dead silent, until Heracles snorted awake.
"Did I miss anything?"
/
"I can't fucking believe him!" Gilbert hissed through his teeth. "To think that they won't give Francis back to you!" He turned to Alfred. "We'll get him back, don't worry."
"We really should be leaving." Ludwig spoke. "We'll speak more once we're away from the Light Court."
Alfred just took them both by the hand and at top speed, flew through the palace and out to the city. Flying high, Alfred guided them to the border of the courts and landed in a small glen. He had his back to them both, refusing to meet their gaze. Alfred didn't know how he felt. His body was empty, as if it were void of all emotions. He went to retrieve his papa only to learn that the fairy had died. How would he break the news to his father? To Mattie? He had to stay strong and keep his wits about him if he were to shoulder the burden of their papa's death. His father and Matthew would be depending on him for strength; and Alfred would be their hero. He would be the hero of the Dark Court and make his papa proud.
"Alfred?" It was Gilbert. "Are you all right?"
Alfred didn't answer.
"Alfred," Ludwig started "You can't let your father go to war with Roderich. It would be suicide on your end. Francis is already dead. He died trying to help bring peace to this world so he would never have to bury his child or his mate. Going to war would only disgrace his memory and what he was striving to achieve just so he could protect his family. When you break this news to your father, please, remind him of that." Ludwig only hoped his words had gotten through to Alfred in his grief. He took Gilbert's hand and squeezed. Gilbert leaned into him.
"Oh, we won't go to war," Alfred said firmly and turned to them. "But we'll get his body back all the same." He then looked to Gilbert. "That was a really nice thing you did back there, Gilbert. Denouncing your loyalty to the Light Court."
"Hey, they're being assholes, and I won't be any part of it! You deserve to have your papa back, and Arthur deserves to mourn for his mate!"
Ludwig nodded. "I will go back and try to talk some sense into them."
"No, not yet." Alfred stopped him. "I want you both to be with me when I tell my father about papa." He took a deep breath. "And I'm going to do it the proper way, as a proper prince and a proud fairy like my papa."
Ludwig could see the hurt in Alfred's face and hear the sorrow within the words he spoke. However, Ludwig found himself smiling softly, for it would appear that Alfred was finally taking this seriously. Alfred's adult mannerisms and strength will be a great help in easing the sorrow of his father's heart. "Well then, let's go and talk to your father…and hope for the best."
/
Arthur sat in his throne room with Matthew standing by his side. He had given all the servants the day off and sent the guards away; he even closed court while awaiting the return of his son. Arthur's fairy heart was pounding, but with each heavy beat, it only brought only pain. He knew that something terrible had happened and soon his son would walk in here and tell him of Francis.
The door opened.
His heart sank.
In stepped Alfred with Ludwig and Gilbert beside him. The doors closed behind them. Ludwig and Gilbert remained as Alfred, with his sword in hand, walked up the dais. He stopped before the steps and looked upon them both. His father's eyes silently pleaded with him to bring news of Francis. Alfred felt his chest tighten and his knees weaken with what he was about to do next. He stood the blade on its tip and held the hilt tight, knelt to one knee and lowered his head without a single word.
Matthew's hands flew to his mouth with a gasp and he turned away, crying out the word 'papa' over and over again.
Arthur's hands gripped the armrests of the throne. "How do you know of this?"
"They told me upon my arrival. They refuse to give us his body." Alfred answered. "I'm so sorry, father."
Gilbert tugged on Ludwig's sleeve and they both mirrored Alfred's stance to share in their grief. Ludwig wished he could offer more sympathy and his condolences, but his fears lay within Arthur's reaction to this news. Slowly, he looked up and at Arthur, seeing the fairy's cheeks streaming with bloody tears. Arthur barely moved, as if frozen where he stood. Matthew was on his knees, crying into his hands and he begged it not to be so. And then, Arthur's shoulders began to shake, and then his body started to tremble. His wings grew longer and wider. Ludwig stood up quickly and grabbed Gilbert's hand, preparing for the worst. He pulled his lover close to him, clenched his eyes shut, and shielded Gilbert's body with own as the palace shook with the bellowing roar of a heartbroken king.
/
The monstrous roar echoed through the trees and shook the magic dome surrounding the Light Court.
"LOOK! OVER THERE!" Shouted a Fairy Knight, pointing through the barrier. "YOUR MAJESTIES! THERE!"
Roderich and Elizaveta could see a large black form flying straight towards them, its body growing bigger and bigger as its six wings granted it lightening speed.
"We'll end this nonsense right here and now!" Roderich hollered. "PREPARE YOURSELVES!"
End Chapter 19 Hear Me Roar Part 1 TBC in Part 2
***Cliffhanger***
***For Anyone Who Cares: While writing the end to this, all I could hear in my head was the Mana Beast battle music from 'Secret of Mana' SNES. Although I hear that theme as Turkey's boss battle music instead...but it fits for this too.***
- 18
- 19
- 20
You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.
Report Story

Tempus Vernum