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A Storm of Sunflowers	By : FlayraDowitcher Category: +G to L > Hetalia: Axis Powers Views: 4890 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own Hetalia or any of the characters. This story is strictly for fun and for the enjoyment of fans.

Chapter List
- 19
- 20
- 21
***This is another LOOONG chapter! I hope you enjoy it!

***Warning: Yaoi ahead and cruel language

***Disclaimer: I do not own Hetalia

Chapter 20

Alfred had to seek out Arthur and the first place he chose to check was the kitchen. He would have to get him away from Francis somehow without letting on that something was amiss. Sure enough, Arthur was in the kitchen helping Francis cut up some onions and carrots. If he was correct, Arthur would want to hear about how his night went only to see if he was all right. He could use that as an excuse to get Arthur alone. He stepped into the kitchen and cleared his throat.

“Alfred!” Arthur dropped his knife and immediately went over to him, grabbing his shoulders. “Are you all right? He didn’t hurt you much, did he?” Alfred shook his head.

“No, not at all. It was a very pleasant night and I need to tell you something about it.” He noticed Francis leaned his head over slightly to hear what he had to say and Alfred played coy. “In private.”

“Phooey.” Francis said and took Arthur’s place at the carrots.

Arthur nodded and left with Alfred but wasn’t too keen on knowing what the ‘wedding night’ was like. He was surprised when Alfred gripped his wrist and pulled him along the hall, looking in all the rooms. He was looking for a desereted one apparently because he looked all around the small storage room and pulled Arthur in, closing the door.

“Alfred, what is this all about?”

“Sh! Don’t talk so loud.” He said softly. “Toris came to me today with bad news about the farm.” Arthur’s eyes widened and he gripped Alfred’s hands in both of his.

“What is it?”

“After the city was attacked the enemy retreated and burned our farm in its wake! Everything is gone, Arthur! The scout didn’t find any bodies which means Tino and Berwald are still alive! Problem is, we don’t know where they are. Toris thinks they are with slave traders that have control over the city right now.”

“You couldn’t tell me that in front of Franics? This is terrible…absolutely terrible…” He slumped against the wall, his hand covering his mouth as he tried to take all of it in. How the hell were they going to find them among slave traders? What if they were taken prisoner by the enemy army? What if they ran away and got lost in the woods?

“Arthur, you and I are going to go back to the city and try to find them!” Arthur looked at him in shock.

“W-what? Shouldn’t you ask Ivan for help with this?”

“He’s only sending people out to look but we HAVE to go to the city and find them! Ivan wants me to just sit around and wait but I can’t do that and I know you can’t either!” Alfred looked at him seriously. “Regardless if they are in the city or not…we have to try. They are our family, Arthur. Our brothers…our friends. We can’t just let them fade away while we relish in luxury here!”

Arthur knew Alfred’s words were true and the thought of Berwald and Tino in the clutches of some filthy slave-trading group irked him. If they were smart they would have run away and not attempt to defend the farm. But running the opposite way from the city would be nothing but forests and hills. There wouldn’t be any more cities for miles and to travel on foot would be dangerously long. Running to the city would be just as hazardous as running to the woods, but in the city they had a chance of finding shelter and perhaps a job. However…if the city was stormed like he heard it was then the underworld industry would be running rampant there. Tino and Berwald would have walked right into the hands of neutral enemies.

“Alright, I agree with you. We have to try and find them before it is too late. Have you thought about HOW we are going to get there?” Alfred grinned and gave him a thumbs up.

“Ah-ha! I have! You see, to keep Ivan from kicking my ass too hard and having you loose both your heads-“ Arthur paled a bit. “We will take Gilbert along with us as an ‘escort’ and bodyguard! Gilbert can attest that we didn’t ‘do’ anything sexual with each other! He can also protect us if things get too dangerous or risky! Gilbert is a troublemaker and a curious little demon that would JUMP at this little ‘adventure’ of ours! Don’t you agree?” Arthur sighed.

“While I am impressed with your thought process on this matter and your planning…I can’t help but tremble at the thought of traveling a distance with that loud man. If Ivan doesn’t track us down by his voice then the wolves in this area certainly will.”

“But what other person have we who would do this?”

“Exactly…” Arthur sighed heavily. “When do we leave?”

“Tonight! Ivan is spending the night with Yao so I will be alone and I can sneak away! Can you slip away from Francis?”

“If I choose to sleep with him tonight then I can tire him out to the point where even the scent of wine won’t wake him.”

“Good! Then meet me outside the stables! Gilbert hangs around there a lot so I’m sure he can send the stable hands away!”

“Have you even talked to Gilbert about this yet?”

“Nope. But I know he will say ‘yes’ and I’m going to see him next. If anyone asks I’m just off to see Matthew.” Arthur grit his teeth.

“He’s getting to close to Gilbert and I don’t like it.” Alfred scratched at his temple.

“Well, I agree with you there but we will wait until AFTER this ordeal is done because we need Gilbert. And Matthew can’t know about this either.”

“You know Ivan will be extremely pissed at your absence and reek havoc on the castle until he finds out where we went.”

“I think Toris will be able to figure it out on his own why we ‘disappeared’ and he’ll tell Ivan. But I can’t think about Ivan right now! My only concern is finding Berwald and Tino! So are you in?”

“One hundred percent.” Alfred smiled.

“Good. Now I will go and speak to Gilbert. Leave this room a short bit after I leave so we don’t draw suspicion. See you tonight!”

Alfred went to the door and looked out, seeing that the coast was clear and he quickly left. He politely greeted some servants he past as he made his way for one of the castle’s back entrances. Hopefully he picked the right one that would lead straight to the guard quarters. With a quick guess, he picked the furthest one and as luck would have it, he opened the door to see the narrow stone passageway that led to the main barracks.

The passageway was narrow and the high walls reminded him of the noble’s manors in the city. It was cold and damp in the small space and he had hoped Matthew didn’t take this route to see Gilbert. When he got to the wooden door he found it was unlocked and using his shoulder for extra strength as he pushed it open. The area was more bare stone with some torches lit. Alfred could hear laughter and talking from around a lit corner and when he made the bend he saw a group of guards around a table. Now was his chance to be ‘noble’.

“Good afternoon, gentlemen.” He said as firmly as he could and when they saw who it was, they all stood up.

“L-Lady Braginski! What brings you this way?” Asked one, looking shocked to see him there. Alfred folded his hands in front of him and smiled cheerfully.

“Don’t be afraid, I’m only here looking for General Gilbert. Could you kindly point me to his room?” One of the guards blushed a bit.

“Um…we were told not to bother him tonight because Lady Matthew is with him.” Alfred frowned at his brother’s title, which he thought was completely unnecessary. Being the brother of a noble must have given Matthew a similar title.

“Well I am above Lady Matthew, my brother, and our general. I wish to see him…so bring me to him.”

The guards all looked at each other and one finally volunteered to escort him to Gilbert’s room. Alfred was starting to worry about what he would find behind that door. If his brother was naked in the bed then Gilbert would have to face his big-brotherly wrath. What Matthew saw in the man was completely beyond him.

“General?” The guard knocked.

“What? I thought I said I didn’t want to be bothered!”

“Y-Yes but…but Lady Alfred Braginski is here to see you, sir!”

“My brother?” He heard Matthew say from inside and then they heard Gilbert walking to the door. The door clicked open and a shirtless Gilbert opened the door, leaning on the frame and crossing his arms.

“What can I help you with?” Gilbert asked with a smirk and Alfred lifted his head to peer over Gilbert’s shoulder to catch sight of his brother. Matthew was on the narrow bed without a shirt as well. Alfred gave a little hiss and pushed past Gilbert to enter the room. “Hey! What are-“

“Matthew William Jones! You put your shirt back on right now!” Alfred demanded and Matthew tried to say something when the sheets were ripped off the bed to expose his lower half. Luckily, Matthew was still wearing his pants and Alfred let out a sigh of relief.

“Alfred! What are you doing?!” Matthew shrieked softly at him.

“That’s what I want to know!” Gilbert slammed the door shut and went over to the bed, standing on the opposite side of Alfred. Alfred gave Gilbert a dirty look.

“So just WHAT was going on here before I stepped in, hm?” Gilbert put his hands on his hips.

“For your information we were giving each other back massages!” Alfred didn’t believe him and suddenly searched Matthew’s neck and shoulders to find traces of hickies or bites. He did find one small little mark on his collarbone and he pointed to it.

“And what do you call this?”

“A-A bug bite?” Matthew tried to lie but Alfred wouldn’t buy it. Gilbert sucked his teeth and looked away.

“None of your business if you ask me. Now what is it you want?” Ah, right, he had to talk to him about the ‘plan’.

“Yes, I have come here on a mission. And Matthew, you should hear this too.” He said and sat on the bed. He related all the information and the plan to the both of them. Matthew was already in tears and Gilbert was clearly excited over the idea. “So what do you say? Are you in?”

“Count me in!” Gilbert said with a grin. “I defiantly need some action in my life! This boring old castle has nothing fun to do other than train!”

“B-But T-Tino and…and Berwald…” Matthew looked at Alfred with a tear stained face. “What if you can’t find them!?”

“Don’t think that way, Matthew! We have only one lead on them! Should our search in the city turn up empty…then we will just have to try again. But I don’t want you to come with us, Matthew. I want you to stay here. It will only be myself, Arthur, and Gilbert.” He looked to Gilbert. “Do you understand what you’re suppose to do?”

“Sure. I’m simple the ‘lady’s’ escort and I will see to it that you and Arthur don’t mingle in ‘impure’ ways.” He chuckled and crossed his arms. “I’ll have some horses ready by the high moon so don’t be late!”

“It’s set then.” Alfred stood up and Matthew grabbed his hand.

“You will be careful, Alfred…right?” Alfred smiled.

“Of course I will. I know it is useless to tell you ‘not to worry’ because I know you will.” He kissed his forehead. “Don’t do anything stupid, Matthew. Make sure you know what you’re ‘doing’.” Matthew cocked his head, confused.

“What do you mean?”

“You’ll figure it out.” He narrowed his eyes at Gilbert who just gave him a toothy grin. “You really have no fear of Ivan?” Gilbert shrugged his shoulders.

“Not for something like this. I’m simply doing my duties and escorting you. I can’t be faulted for that.”

“Good, then I’ll see you tonight. I promise I’ll be back, Matthew.”

He smiled at his brother and kissed his cheek before leaving the room. He had a lot to prepare before his ‘big leave’ tonight. His insides were jumping around with fear and anxiety because he wanted to head out as soon as possible. The waiting would almost drive him mad so when he got back to his room he figured he would study more of his sight words to keep his mind focused. He wasn’t sure if they were going to find Tino and Berwald in the city and if it turned out they couldn’t find them…then he knew of no other way of locating them.

‘Please…please let us find them…’ He said to himself as he entered his room with a heavy sigh.

The time of night had finally come and true to his word, Ivan was spending the whole night with Yao. When Alfred heard that they were not to be ‘disturbed’ he had to hide the smile of his good fortune. Alfred chose some of his old clothes he had saved that were well set for traveling and he wore just a plain fur shawl. He proudly put on his glasses and smiled triumphantly at himself. He knew that once they descended the mountain he would be met with hot weather. The next thing he took was his ‘allowance’ that Ivan had also given him for their wedding. To him it seemed more than enough to buy some ‘slaves’.

Peeking out his door and seeing no guard on duty, he carefully slipped out of his room. He tiptoed down the steps and peeked around the corner, looking both ways down the hall. Sounds of soft talking could be heard down the right end of the hall and he figured it was the night guards. Quickly, he hurried down the hall and proceeded to make his way to the stables. Alfred was almost spotted one or two times by a servant but he effectively hid from them. He knew hiding from Ivan when he got back wouldn’t be this easy.

Finally he made it to the door leading to the stables and it was there he met Arthur who was waiting for him. To anyone passing by it would have appeared that Arthur was just hanging around. Alfred on the other hand would raise more suspicion wondering around the castle this late at night.

“Are you ready?” Alfred said with a smile when he met up with Arthur.

“Yes…I peeked out into the stables and Gilbert has the horses ready for us.” Alfred nodded.

“Alright then, lets go!”

After quickly tying their necessities to the horses and mounting them, the trio set off into the black of night with only a lantern lighting their way. Gilbert was in charge of the lantern since he was used to riding with one hand. He led the two onto the path they had traveled before coming to Wolf Hall. Alfred looked back at the castle as it started to become smaller and smaller with their distance. He knew the danger he would be facing when he returned to Wolf Hall but right now it was the last thing on his mind. His main focus was finding Berwald and Tino and then he would take whatever punishment Ivan had for him.

The trio rode long into the night until Gilbert knew they were far enough away to set up a small camp and get the horses rested. Gilbert led them off the path and some ways into the woods where they would be hidden. Arthur helped Gilbert set up the small tent while Alfred tied the horses and removed the bedrolls. It was getting harder for Arthur to concentrate on the tent the more he watched Alfred walking around and Gilbert had to curse at him a few times to get his attention.

Once the tent was set up Alfred rolled out the bedrolls inside. One would be for him and the other would be for Arthur since Gilbert insisted on taking the first watch. Arthur was already in his bedroll waiting for Alfred to come into the tent. Never in his life had he felt this uneasy being next to Alfred. He and Alfred had shared a bed many times and never once was he anxious about it.

His biggest fear was that he would not be able to control himself lying next to the man. When he saw Ivan marrying Alfred his emotions were a kaleidoscope of confusion. What was he really feeling yesterday at that ‘alter’? Was it the loss of a ‘child’ from his ‘father’? Arthur had raised him like he was family and in a way they were.

But once the ‘loving’ came as hormones grew in the younger male their relationship had changed. For the longest time Arthur was just telling himself that his ‘feelings’ for Alfred were mutual and they were just ‘relieving’ each other of basic human lust. However, when he saw Alfred kiss Ivan at the ceremony every feeling had crashed into him as if he were struck by several lightening bolts. It troubled him to the point where his mind was now constantly on Alfred and it shamed him to feel the wave of lust that has washed over him. Once Alfred lay next to him tonight he could not trust himself to remain a ‘gentleman’.

“Ah, time to sleep. My back is killing me!” Alfred said as he came into the tent, getting into his bedroll. “We have to be up early tomorrow, Gilbert said.” Arthur stared at him seriously and nodded. “Are you okay, Arthur? You’re awfully quiet.”

“Hmm…sorry, just lost in thought.” He laid down on his bedroll. “Go to sleep, Alfred.”

“No argument there!”

Alfred said and settled into his bedroll. Since the tent was so small the two were incredibly close to each other where Arthur could feel Alfred’s body heat radiating from him. Without thinking, Arthur slid closer to Alfred and wrapped his arm around his waist, pulling him close. He heard Alfred give a small gasp and felt his body tighten. He pulled the slightly taller man’s back against him, spooning them together.

“A-Arthur?”

“Be quiet.” Arthur said a bit harshly and Alfred did so, feeling comfortable being in Arthur’s arms again but slightly intimidated by his tone. Aside from that, Arthur should know the risk of the two of them being so close together. “Be quiet and listen…for once…I want you to fucking listen to me!”

“Y-yes Arthur.” Alfred said, refusing to roll over and face him.

“I’ve been battling with myself since you first went into the arms of Ivan. Yesterday at your wedding I was a flood of emotions both good and bad. I’ve been so foolish all this time not to have taken you and claimed you myself. I always thought you would find someone to love and wish to give yourself to them…not just me.” His grip tightened. “But now you have married a man I disapprove of and you crave his touch and his bed.”

“Arthur…what is wrong with you?” Alfred said firmly. “We had our chance…many times in fact. My feelings for you were always strong and true but lately…my feelings have changed. I have experienced more in my life and I feel myself growing to love Ivan.”

“Stupid boy!” Arthur hissed through his teeth and buried his face in Alfred’s hair. “Don’t remind me of things like that!” Alfred let out a shriek of shock as he felt Arthur’s hand move down to his groin and grip his crotch.

“Arthur?!”

“Shh! Hush. This is the only chance I’ll ever have to be with you like this…away from that monster of a snowman!” Alfred gave a little chuckle at that. Having Arthur’s hand on him wasn’t something he technically ‘hated’. He turned over slightly to look at him.

“Arthur…I’m married now…we really shouldn’t do this.” He moaned softly when Arthur started to rub him. “Why now of all times? Why? Is it because someone else has me?”

“Toris must be tutoring you well.” He removed his hand and maneuvered them so he was lying atop of Alfred, staring down at him. “Just this once…while we are away from Ivan and the castle…please Alfred…just give me this one night…and then we’ll forget about it.” Alfred blinked up at him.

“Arthur…this isn’t the best idea…I mean I want to but-“

“But I won’t tell.” Came Gilbert’s voice from the tent flap. Both men looked to gawk at him as they were caught. Gilbert just smirked. “Hey, don’t stop on my account! We’re out in the middle of nowhere! Fuck until the cows come home! I promise I won’t say anything. Seeing you hurt would upset my Matthew too much and I can’t have that.”

“He’s not ‘your’ Matthew!” Alfred scolded him but Gilbert just let the flap fall back as he whistled a tune. Arthur listened for his footsteps to be out of their hearing before returning to Alfred. “Arthur…”

“He said he won’t tell…he wouldn’t have proof anyway.” He moved his face closer to Alfred’s. “I want to have you…just this once, Alfred.”

“W-what about Francis?”

“What’s between us is something complicated. Don’t ask me about it.” Francis’ words of the marriage proposal danced in his head but he shook it away. “All I know is that I want you now, Alfred Jones. I should be entitled to this because I held you in my bed first!” He leaned down to bury his face in Arthur’s neck. “Just let me know that you haven’t forgotten me.” He whispered softly and Alfred’s eyes widened.

“Arthur…I would never forget you.”

“Then give me this night…just us and nothing else. Erase everything from your mind. Give it a clean slate! And tonight, we will see only each other.” He moved his head up to press his lips against Alfred’s.

Alfred didn’t move away from Arthur’s kiss but instead moaned softly and wrapped his arms around his neck. He had missed these moments between him and Arthur and it brought back a calm, safe feeling of love. As a boy Alfred thought nothing could ever go wrong as long as he was in Arthur’s bed and those childish emotions were rising up in him again. It was true, they were far away from Ivan and no one would have to know other than the three of them. He did owe Arthur a lot, more than he owed to Ivan. Arthur had suffered many hardships so Alfred and Matthew could live a bit more comfortably. It was time he gave something back…even if it was against his vows and morals. It wouldn’t hurt to sleep with Arthur…at least he wasn’t a stranger.

“Arthur…” He whispered against his lips when Arthur pulled away to kiss his neck. He felt Arthur’s body shiver against his at the sound of his name. Arthur was already settling between his legs and pressing his erection against Alfred’s growing one. “W-we have time, Arthur…go slow.”

Alfred reassured him but Arthur seemed to ignore him and started kissing his neck. The choker from Ivan was covering most of his neck from Arthur’s lips so he made sure to kiss every bare spot he could find. He knew better than to leave marks on Alfred’s neck so he had to keep his kisses light. It didn’t matter to him though, as long as he was with Alfred like this. The night was cold and stripped the other bare would prove to be a difficult task. Instead, Arthur quickly took off Alfred’s pants and put them to the side. He lifted himself a bit to undo his own pants and slide them down just enough to free his own erection.

“It’s cold out…” Alfred said softly and Arthur just nodded against his chest, licking and nipping his neck. As much as Arthur wanted to take things slow like Alfred said his body just couldn’t stand the excitement and fortune. Right now he had Alfred all to himself again and if he didn’t take what he needed he feared the man would slip away from him. “A-Arthur…you don’t need to-“

“Just stop talking. Sounds only.” Alfred had to smile at that because that’s what he used to say back in the cabin. This was a chance he was taking but the chance was in his favor.

“I don’t need preparation…Ivan’s seen to that.”

“Don’t say that name!” Arthur hissed in his ear as he slowly began to push inside of Alfred’s body.

Arthur groaned deeply at the long awaited feeling of being inside Alfred. To long had he denied himself this simple pleasure and Alfred’s insides were as hot as he had imagined them. He could feel Alfred wrapping his arms around his back and moaning softly as Arthur continued to press into him until he was seated comfortably inside of him.

Arthur paused for a moment to let him adjust while he let his mind register that he was actually making love with Alfred. Alfred’s muscles clenched around him and his thighs were just as smooth as ever. Those long legs wrapped around him and for a moment he pictured Alfred in this same position with Ivan and it drove him crazy.

Without warning, Arthur pulled out and thrust back in, making Alfred give a sharp cry of surprise. Arthur clutched the bottom of the bedroll, both fists next to Alfred’s head as he started a steady pace of thrusts. He didn’t care. At this moment he didn’t care what anyone said or what was waiting for them when they returned to Wolf Hall. All that mattered now was his Alfred in his arms again while he made love to him.

Alfred moaned with each thrust Arthur gave and gripped the man’s shoulders as he sped up his thrusts. Alfred had to control his voice as Arthur began slamming into his prostate, filling his body with pleasure. He had to admit that sex with Arthur wasn’t like sex with Ivan. Maybe it was due to Ivan’s massive size in all forms or maybe it was just the way he fucked.

What he was doing with Arthur right now was special to him. Arthur was always his first in line but the man never jumped at the offer. Arthur deserved this and Alfred was more than happy to give it. He had always loved Arthur’s gentle kisses and now he was getting them after so long. His body was building up with pleasure and he felt his completion coming on.

“Arthur…I’m going to…”

“I said..no…talking!”

Arthur whispered out as he continued thrusting into the body beneath him. Alfred wrapped his arms around Arthur and held him tight as he bit his lip to keep from crying out as he climaxed between them. It was a long awaited one with a person he trusted the most.

When Arthur felt the warm essence coat his lower stomach it was more than enough to send him over the edge. With complete and utter control, Arthur pulled out the moment he was going to climax and ejaculated onto Alfred’s lower half instead of inside of him. This he wanted to do to keep Ivan or someone else finding his ‘juices’ inside of Alfred if he was examined. There was no real point in cumming inside him anyway since Ivan had already laid claim with that. Arthur panted heavily above him, a few beads of sweat dripping from his bangs.

“Arthur?” Alfred reached his hand up to rest it against Arthur’s cheek. “Arthur, are you alright?”

“Yeah…” He rolled off of him and pulled his pants back up. “Did I hurt you at all?” Alfred turned on his side to look at him with a faint blush across his face.

“No, not at all. It was special, Arthur…it’s something I wanted to do for such a long time.”

“I know…it’s a shame it had to be like this…” he sighed and covered his eyes with his arm. “I couldn’t cum in you because I feared they would find evidence of me.” Alfred chuckled.

“I don’t know of anyone who can have THAT kind of control! You’re a hero to men everywhere!” Alfred smiled at him and reached over Arthur to grab one of the rags to wipe himself clean.

“You know we can never speak of this…” Arthur said once his mind started to clear from its lust filled haze. “What we did right here stays here.”

“Yes, I understand, Arthur.” He leaned over and kissed his cheek. “Can we snuggle?”

“No…best to just get things back to normal. I’m sorry.” He rolled over, giving his back to Alfred. Alfred sighed softly and pats his shoulder.

“I understand…you can be so difficult sometimes, Arthur.”

“Like you’re one to talk…goodnight Alfred.” He said softly.

“Goodnight Arthur…sleep tight.”

And just like that, their passionate moment was over and even though they would never mention it to one another, both of them knew it would never really be forgotten.

It was nearly sunrise when they finally arrived at the nearly deserted city they still had a bit of ways to go until they reached the slums. Arthur remembered which roads to take and the two followed him until they reached the area by early afternoon. The market was still in its hustle and bustle but the crowd that was there was not the usual one. Arthur and Alfred had spent many days here on this same market street and they could sense the change.

Alfred immediately took off the choker around his neck and anything else he thought made him look rich or important. Before they could search the streets they had to find a stable where they could board the horses. There was only one stable nearby that had a large variety of horses tied to posts so the chances of theirs getting stolen were less likely. Alfred handed the man a gold coin for the boarding until turning to the other two.

“Okay, are we ready?”

“I’m a little intimated by all the gangs that are swarming the market.” Arthur said and they three started to walk. “Did you see all their symbols? I’m surprised they aren’t warring with each other right now.”

“Why should they?” Gilbert responded “As of now the city is theirs for the taking. Give it another week or so and then this place will be a gang war haven.”

“That’s why we need to find Berwald and Tino as fast as we can and get the hell out of here!”

“I’ll ask someone for direction to the slave unit. You two wait here.” Gilbert said and he entered the market, going to the first vender he saw. The man nodded and pointed down the road and Gilbert nodded, going back to them. “Sucks to be us. We came in on the wrong side. The slave unit is ALL THE WAY down the other end.”

“Ugh. That means we have to walk through all these muggers and vipers!” Arthur hissed and Gilbert just laughed triumphantly.

“No need to worry!” He took out his sword. “With my trusty dick in my hand no one would DARE try to assault us!”

“With a lame line like that they may just try to.” Arthur said with a frown.

“Stop drawing attention to us! Everyone, look as scummy and as cruel as the rest of these guys!”

“There’s an order you don’t hear everyday.” Gilbert chuckled and let the two walk in front of him as he sheathed his sword.

The gang market was disgusting and Alfred had almost lost his breakfast twice. Both Arthur and Gilbert seemed to be unaffected by the human limbs hanging around. There was even cock fights and dog fights in the ally ways and sometimes even in the middle of the street. Deserted buildings were crawling with prostitutes of all ages and genders. Luckily, they had successfully avoided every scuffle and mugging that was around them. Alfred found himself clinging to Arthur’s arm.

“Arthur…this is really…something else! Where are all the good merchants? Why isn’t the royal army here stopping all this?” Gilbert answered the question for him.

“Simple. The royal army is taking care of the aristocrats and the middle class citizens first. Here in the slums there is little need for them to waste their precious time. The army will get here eventually but we can expect to see this part of the city turn into a full underground operating system. Both of you stay very close to me.” Gilbert suddenly said with a serious tone. Before they could ask him why he pushed between them both and linked their arms with his. “If you value yourself don’t loosen your grip!”

“Why? What’s wrong?” Alfred asked with worry and noticed a group of men standing next to three or four wooden wagons. The wagons had no windows or doors. The men watched the three intently and Arthur immediately recognized who and what they were.

“Traffickers.” He said and Gilbert nodded.

“You hit the nail on the head. Normally they wouldn’t be so conspicuous but amidst all this chaos they fit right in. You two with your luscious little golden locks here would be snatched within a second.” Alfred gasped and looked at Arthur.

“Arthur…you don’t think that Tino or Berwald were-“

“Don’t EVEN entertain that thought! Lets hope they are with the slaves. At least there it would be…well…they’re both bad but-“

“What do the traffickers do?” Alfred asked and Arthur cleared his throat.

“You tell him.” He said to Gilbert.

“In short, they are like slave traders but inside of selling them for work, they sell them for sex. They will take their prisoners to all different kingdoms and be sold off. Normally slave traders only sell to their own kingdoms because it cost money to keep the slaves fed and somewhat healthy so they can fetch a good price. The more sickly and week the traffic prisoners are the better it is…in most cases. Usually it’s for sex but a lot of times it’s for even more diabolical things. Unlike prostitutes, they don’t get a choice in who they sleep with and they don’t get paid. Furthermore they- fucking shit! They’re following us!”

“Oh hell no!” Arthur hissed through his teeth. “Now what do we do?”

“Just keep walking.” Gilbert said as he glanced over his shoulder again to see two of the traffickers coming their way. They walked calmly with their arms crossed. “They’re on to me at least. Traffickers are above the average underground intelligence and they’ve seen my sword. They know I’m a general and my sheath represents the king’s colors.”

“Why would they be after you?” Alfred asked softly, trying not to appear frightened.

“Do you have any idea how much the opposing kingdom would pay them to have a high ranking general in their mitts?”

“I see your point…” Alfred looked back and noticed they were getting closer. “Gilbert…they’re-“

“I know…looks like it’s time to introduce them to my Dick Stick!” He smirked. “ Follow me.” He quickly turned into an ally and shoved the two of them to the far back wall that connected two houses.

“Why are we here?! Are you nuts!?” Arthur hollered at him.

“Relax, blondie! This way I can fight them without having to worry about you two behind snatched from behind!”

“What if they attack from above?!” Alfred said and moved closer to Arthur, who rolled his eyes.

“If they did that, Alfred, then where the hell would they go?! They’d break their legs jumping from this height!”

“SH!” Gilbert shushed them when the two men appeared at the mouth of the ally way with another joining them. “Good afternoon, gentlemen! I’ve noticed you’ve been following us. Care to elaborate?” Gilbert grinned dangerously at them. The men said nothing in response but took out weapons of their own, which were only a dagger and two clubs. “Seriously?” Gilbert pulled out his sword and pointed it at them. “You think you can take me on? Then bring it!”

Gilbert charged at them first, making one of the men with clubs back away. When the other two saw that Gilbert actually meant to attack them and they turned tail and ran. Gilbert stopped at the mouth of the ally and smirked at their retreating figures.

“Stupid asses! They actually thought they could challenge me? I take back what I said about them being of higher intelligence.” Arthur and Alfred hurried back to him.

“Is it safe now?” Alfred asked and Gilbert nodded.

“Yeah, but to be on the safe side, don’t let go of my arms! We shouldn’t be much further from the slave unit.”

As they walked onward Alfred couldn’t help but wonder, to his horror, if Tino was picked up by those traffickers. If they were selling people off for sex and other things then Tino would be a prime target. Berwald maybe not so much since he was fairly big and intimidating if you didn’t know him. All he could do was just keep hoping that they found them soon and could bring them back to Wolf Hall. A thought crossed his mind and he wondered if Ivan would even take them in. He was sure he would after Alfred would beg for it. Still he couldn’t think about that right now.

When they finally reached the end of the street and made a right, they heard an auctioneer taking bids on some slaves. There were about six bared carts with people inside of them all crowded together. Various people were strolling up along the carts and looking through the bars at them. Gilbert searched around to make sure no one else was following them before bringing them both over to the first cart.

“Okay, I don’t know who I’m looking for so it’s up to you two. I’ll stay right beside you.”

“Alright Arthur…lets start looking.”

“Right.”

They separately searched a cart, looking through the people and calling for Berwald or Tino. Many of the people were saying they were the people he and Arthur were looking for but they knew better. It saddened Alfred that he wouldn’t be able to free all these people but that was one of the challenges of life. Tino and Berwald were more important to him. Just when he thought their search was going to be in vain, he heard his name called from the last barred cart.

“Alfred?” Alfred looked over and saw Berwald up against the bars.

“Berwald! Arthur! I found Berwald!” Arthur and Gilbert both ran to stand beside Alfred. Berwald had seen better days for he was covered in cuts and bruises, many which were clearly infected and his left eye was swollen and caked with dried blood.

“What happened to you? And where’s Tino?” Arthur asked.

“Tino’s not among us here. He’s been taken to one of the whorehouses on this street. I believe it is that one over there.” Berwald pointed five houses down.

“We’ll get him next once we get you out!” Alfred said and took out his coin purse. “Where is the owner of this thing?”

“That’s the boss, over there.” Berwald pointed and let out a heavy cough.

“I’ll stay with Berwald.” Arthur said. “You can go with Alfred.” He told Gilbert who did as was suggested. Gilbert took the coin purse from Alfred.

“Let me do the talking. I can handle riff-raff like this.” Gilbert grinned as he walked up to the man with Alfred. “Good afternoon, sir. We’re interested in buying a slave.” The men smiled with a mouth full of missing and rotting teeth and Alfred had to keep himself from letting out a groan of disgust.

“Why of course! I have many fine slaves here. Any one in particular?”

“Yes, that one over there in the last cart. The bulky blonde one.” The men ‘tsked’.

“Him? Sorry, no can do. He’s the healthiest one we have here! I plan to put him on that auction block and get a pretty coin for him!” Alfred narrowed his eyes and took the coin purse from Gilbert.

“We have more than enough money! I want that slave!”

“Ho-ho! Your friend is pretty demanding there!” Gilbert ignored him.

“We’ll give you fifty gold pieces.” The man smirked and folded his fingers.

“One hundred.”

“Seventy five.” Alfred offered.

“One hundred.” The man said firmly.

“We’ll go as high as eighty.” Gilbert offered up, starting to get annoyed.

“I’ll give you a one hundred and twenty!” Alfred glared at him and the man looked impressed.

“Little man, you don’t have that kind of money!” Alfred tossed the coin purse in front of the man on his little table.

“Count it.” The man did so, dumping the coins out to count them quickly.

“One hundred and twenty exact.” He looked at Alfred. “Fair enough, little man. He’s yours.”

“Thank you!” Alfred smiled and they followed the man to the wagon where Berwald was.

“You don’t know who to haggle very well, do you? Now how are we going to get the other one from the whorehouse?” Alfred smirked.

“Ha! I already thought about that! Berwald will rescue Tino from that place, free of charge.”

“Impressive.” Gilbert said as they went back to Arthur and watched as the man pushed through the crowd and motioned Berwald to come to him. Berwald quickly stepped over the others and followed the man out. He ran right to Alfred and Arthur, surprising them with a hug.

“I never thought I’d see you two again…how did you find me? Wait! Forget about that. We need to get Tino!”

Berwald rushed past them and Alfred and Arthur ran after him, followed closely by Gilbert. Berwald told them to wait outside while he went inside the whorehouse. The woman at the main desk tried to stop him but he just barreled past her, searching each room. He had startled many couples in the midst of their deed but he didn’t care. All he wanted to do was find Tino. He wasn’t on the first floor so he headed upstairs and proceeded to do the same.

There were shouts of people telling him to stop but they were of little worry to him. Berwald didn’t have to search the upstairs for long when he found who he was looking for. Pushing the door open, he saw Tino sitting up on a pile of blankets on the floor, propped up against the wall. He looked exhausted and his eyes were rimmed red from crying. The client was just ready to take off his pants when Berwald had burst in. The man looked frightened and Tino rolled his head against the wall to see Berwald standing there.

“Ber…wald?” Berwald glared dangerously at the man who frantically looked for a chance to escape.

“Do you think he’s found him yet?” Alfred asked worriedly. “I hope he’s alright! They’re shouting like crazy in there!” Arthur was about to say something when the sound of shattering glass came from above them and they looked up to see a man flying from the window and land on the ground near them, dead.

“Yup. He found him.” Arthur said and they could hear some people screaming and a few actually ran out of the building. Berwald came out with Tino slung over his shoulder and a bloodied piece of wood he must have picked up from inside he used to defend himself.

“Lets go.”

Berwald said softly and he started to run through the street. Alfred and Arthur followed behind with Gilbert bringing up the rear. Arthur held on to Alfred’s hand so they wouldn’t get snatched as they ran by the traffickers again. Most people paid them no mind as they ran through the crowd but somewhere along the line Berwald started to cough and it through his equilibrium off. He already had a hard time seeing where he was going and he stumbled into a vender’s cart. Both Tino and himself hit the ground roughly.

“HEY! YOU JACKASS! YOU DESTORYED MY CART!” Shouted a man angrily as Arthur and Alfred ran to them.

“Tino! Are you alright?!” Alfred asked him and he just nodded silently.

“Berwald…get up…” Arthur gripped his arm and attempted to help him stand when he felt a sword poking at the side of his throat. He froze.

“Someone has to pay for this, you know!” The man hissed but was met with a sword point to his own neck by Gilbert.

“Put the sword away, asshole.” Gilbert warned him. The man smirked and pulled his sword back. Gilbert was ready to put his own sword down when Alfred saw some men start to surround Gilbert.

“BEHIND YOU!”

Alfred screamed out and Gilbert swiftly turned around in time to block a club from meeting with his head. He kicked the man to the ground with his foot and swung his sword at the next man who came at him with a chain. The chain wrapped around his sword but he pulled the man towards him with it and kneed him in the gut. The chain fell from his sword then but he had to use his fist to block another man coming up on his right.

“GO! GET THEM AND GO! I’LL FOLLOW!” Gilbert ordered with a laugh as he continued to hold off the gang. Berwald quickly got up and took Tino from Alfred’s arms, slinging him over his shoulder again.

“Follow me!”

Arthur said and he gripped Alfred’s hand as they ran back down the street. Gilbert took off after them, keeping some distance between them as he was pursued. He had to stop from time to time to deliver a fatal blow to any that came too close to him. It wasn’t until they were a quarter of the way back to the stables when the gang decided to give up and Gilbert did a running jump with a shout of triumph.

“NO ATTHORITY EQUALS AWESOME!”

He shouted as he continued behind the others and they finally came upon the horses. The stable hand looked confused as the now five men gathered up their horses. Berwald and Tino took one while Alfred shared with Arthur. Gilbert still had his own horse and he had them follow him back through city.

“WHOO HOO! We made it!” Gilbert called back to them with a grin.

“I’m so glad we found you guys!” Alfred smiled back at Berwald and Tino, and then frowned when he saw the state they were in. Berwald was looking tired and extra pale while he appeared to struggle to hold on to the reigns. Tino lay against his chest; his eyes clenched shut as they rode. He leaned his head forward to whisper to Arthur. “Arthur…they’re-“

“I know…but all we can do now is get as far away from the city as we can and then we’ll rest.”

“No.” Berwald called as he rode his horse up next to Arthur’s. “We will keep riding until it is nightfall or to wherever you are all staying.”

“Wolf Hall.” Alfred said. “It’s a very long way and we’ll have to stop for a rest eventually. It’s up in the mountains!” Berwald just nodded as they continue to ride through the city.

They rode in silence throughout the rest of the day and long into the night. Without breaking pace they had already made it halfway up the mountain until Gilbert insisted that the horses rest. Berwald agreed to that and Arthur offered his bedroll to the both of them. They were short on blankets and Alfred offered up his fur cloak to keep them warm. Once they were all settled in Alfred began to tell them about everything that happened, from when he first arrived at Ivan’s manor up until he got married. Tino tried to smile for real but Alfred could tell he was out of it.

“I’m…glad things worked out, Alfred.” He said softly.

“And it’s going to work out for you guys, too! We will all be able to live together again and this time we won’t have to worry about food or money or shelter! Tino, you can be my personal groom and Berwald, I’m sure Gilbert could find something for you in the guards?” Alfred looked at Gilbert who shrugged his shoulders.

“I could give it a try. Technically, I’m not supposed to hire new guards or soldiers without consulting Ludwig first…” he kicked a small stone. “Despite being older I’m only ‘general half-regent’ while he’s gone.”

“What’s with the ‘half’?” Arthur asked with an eyebrow raised.

“A ‘regent’ is supposed to act in place of the real person in charge. But Ludwig limits me to some things…and that’s one of them.” Gilbert scratched the back of his head as he mumbled.

“SHH! Do you guys here that?” Arthur said as he looked through the trees to see a carriage coming up the path with two lanterns swinging. “Somebody’s coming…”

“Is it Ivan?” Alfred asked, his voice trembling at the thought of being caught out here by his husband.

“That is one of his carriages.” Gilbert said softly. “Shit, we’re fucked!” Alfred’s legs turned to water and he felt the color drain from his face.

“But that doesn’t make sense…how could he be BEHIND us? We would have passed him on horseback, don’t you think?” Arthur looked at Gilbert. “Unless they were camping and we missed them?”

“Maybe they won’t see us…everyone stay down and be quiet.” Gilbert said and the three crouched down beside Tino and Berwald. Tino held on to Berwald tightly, hiding his face in his neck. “Shh…listen, I can hear voices.” The carriage was pulling up closer to their side of the trees when a very familiar voice rang out.

“VE~! I really have to go bad!”

“WE’RE NOT STOPPING A SECOND TIME!”

“Holy sheep shit! Where the fuck did those two come from?!”

“They must have been coming here from the battlefield! We lucked out!” Arthur said and Gilbert rushed out of the trees and headed for their carriage.

“LUDWIG! FELICIANO!” He shouted and the carriage man pulled the vehicle to a halt. The carriage door opened and Ludwig stuck his head out, followed by Feliciano’s.

“Gilbert?” Ludwig said, completely confused.

“Gilbert! So good to see you!” Feliciano waved at him happily.

“What are you doing out here?” Ludwig asked as he ran up to them, panting a bit.

“Long story! But I’m glad you’re here! We need a ride back to Wolf Hall!”

“ ‘We’?” Ludwig saw Arthur and Alfred standing amongst the trees.

“Yes, we’ll tell you about it later. But right now we have some sick guys that need a safe ride back.” Ludwig sighed.

“Very well. Bring them to the carriage.”

Gilbert went back over to them and helped pack up their things as Berwald carried Tino over to the carriage. Ludwig looked over the two faces and Berwald had the same hard expression he had. He got out of the carriage and offered the inside of it to them. Berwald thanked him and carefully climbed inside, still holding Tino close. Alfred and Arthur walked their horses up to the carriage.

“Anyone want a break from horseback?” Ludwig asked for he was tired of being cooped up with Feliciano in a small carriage for such a long period of traveling time. It wasn’t that he didn’t care about Feli but traveling with someone in such close quarters and unable to escape would grate on anyone’s nerves.

“I would!” Alfred said and gave the reigns to Ludwig.

“Alfred! I’m so happy to see you!” Feliciano hugged him tight and Alfred held him back.

“We’re all glad both of you are all right!”

“Yes, it was a rough time but we got through it!”

“Everyone, we’re ready to continue traveling.” Ludwig said firmly. “Who is in the carriage and who is on horseback?”

“I’ll take horseback.” Arthur said, mounting his horse.

“Then Alfred and I will take the carriage!” Feliciano smiled. “I want to know everything that has been happening since I was away! And you can introduce me to your friends!” Alfred nodded with a smile and once the two of them were in the carriage the party took off.

Ivan had not left his room since yesterday morning when he woke up to find that Alfred had gone. Upon asking the others, Francis said that Arthur was also missing and a guard from the barracks said that Gilbert was also missing. Once Toris had explained that they most likely ran off to find the missing friends and asking him for permission would be useless. That didn’t stop Ivan from flipped over Toris’ desk.

He sat at his own desk, tapping his fingers slowly as he took another swig of his vodka. Once Alfred came back they would have to have a LONG talk about running off. Ivan hated when people disobeyed him and he would have to make sure that Alfred wouldn’t do it again. If he was with Gilbert then he knew he had nothing to worry about. Alfred would come back safe and unharmed…but then he had Ivan to deal with.

The other thing that bothered him was that he chose to run off with Arthur of all people. Ivan knew that Arthur was just as close to those two friends as Alfred was so naturally they would go together. However, they shouldn’t even be together given their history of ‘neutral’ relations. Now that put a strain on things because now he would have to find a way to get them to confess if they ‘did’ anything together. He could ask Gilbert but the man could be slightly unreliable when it came to issues like these.

He smirked then as an idea crossed his mind. Alfred and Arthur would obviously say ‘no, nothing happened’ but he could most likely force Gilbert to give him an answer. Ivan did not want to involve Matthew but Gilbert had grown very attached to him so he would be the best game piece. And it would all be Alfred’s fault anyway, what ‘may’ happen to his brother. It would all depend on Gilbert’s answer.

By mid afternoon he had nearly fallen asleep at his desk when heard someone shouting outside that a carriage was approaching. He blinked his eyes open and looked out his window. He cursed the fact that he was facing the woods so he had to pull his cloak on and leave the room. Yao had met up with him in the hall and asked if he was feeling better but Ivan wouldn’t listen to him. As they walked to the first floor they also picked up Francis. Some of the servants were looking on the windows.

“It’s General Gilbert!”

One said and Ivan smirked, picking up his walking pace and throwing open the front door. The one thing that baffled him was the carriage that had pulled up. When he checked all of his carriages were accounted for, yet this was one of his own.

Out of the carriage came Alfred and Feliciano, followed by two badly damaged and dirtied men. Those must be the friends he had gone to find. Ludwig was present as well, riding along side Arthur. Ivan had known that Ludwig and Feliciano were on their way from his manor so they must have met up at some point. Alfred noticed him right away and he gave a sheepish smile. Good, he knew he was in trouble but Ivan wouldn’t let on that he was.

“Alfred, my Winter Rose! I was worried about you.” Ivan said as he walked down the steps towards him. Yao watched from his place at the door and he found Ivan’s calm attitude a bit suspicious. Francis was already running to Arthur, helping him off the horse.

“Ivan, so sorry but I just couldn’t sit back and wait for things to happen! I had to act right away and good thing I did! Berwald was going to be sold off and Tino was being prostituted!” Alfred said sadly. “I’m still very sorry for disobeying you but look at them! I had to save them!” Ivan put on a smile.

“Of course you did, love. I can’t say that I am happy you snuck off and we will have to talk about that, but I’m just glad you’re home safe, yes?” Alfred smiled and hugged him.

“Thank you, Ivan! I would like to have Tino as my personal groom if that is okay?”

“I don’t see why not.”

“And Berwald can be very useful in the guards! He’s very strong!”

“Ah, indeed he is. I can see that from here. But that will be up to Ludwig to decide. Everyone! Please come inside out of the cold. We must welcome back Ludwig and Feliciano!” Ivan offered to them all and they took him up on his hospitality. “Yao, please see to the two men. Clean their wounds.”

“S-Sure.” Yao was still suspicious but he told Berwald and Tino to follow him. Francis was babbling to Arthur about how worried he was about him just up and leaving without any word.

Ivan linked his arm with Alfred as he walked ever so calmly up to Alfred’s room. On the way they met with Katyusha, who hugged Alfred and wept tears of joy at his safe return. Ivan shooed her away, saying that he had very ‘important’ things to talk about with Alfred. Alfred noticed that Ivan’s grip was getting tighter the closer they got to his room. Once they arrived at the door Alfred got a sinking feeling in stomach.

“Go on in, my Little Rose.” Ivan smiled sweetly at him and Alfred cautiously walked in, hearing the door close behind him. He did not hear the ‘click’ of a lock and he breathed a sigh of relief. Ivan kindly removed Alfred’s cloak for his and let it drop to the floor. And that was until Ivan’s large hand tangled in his hair and roughly yanked him back.

“AHHH! IVAN!?”

“Who do you think you are running off like that?” He said slowly but with a firm tone. Alfred reached his hands back to try and pry Ivan’s hand from his hair. “I gave you strict orders to stay in this castle! You had no right running off with MY consent!” He threw Alfred to the floor, making the smaller man cry out.

“Ivan! I said I was sorry!”

He looked up at Ivan and his eyes widened as he recognized that familiar, far off gaze in those violet orbs. Just like the first time Ivan had taken him…those eyes wild with dangerous lust to do harm. Alfred started to tremble and when he tried to crawl away he was met with a kick to his side. Alfred let out a pained gasp and reached to clutch at his side. It was clear Ivan was holding back his full strength and Alfred feared for what was to come.

“How dare you disobey me? No one disobeys MY law! I am Lord and Master of this household!” He bent down and pulled Alfred up by his hair again. “You WILL learn to follow my rules!” Ivan brought his arm around to backhand him when Alfred threw his own arm up to block him.

“STOP IT!” He hissed at him and narrowed his trembling, damp eyes at Ivan. Ivan blinked first then his mouth grew into a treacherous smirk.

“Oooo…I see now, my Little Rose.” He let go of Alfred’s hair and when he tried to back away, Ivan’s hand shot out and gripped his throat. Alfred gasped for air and clawed at the hand that slowly began to lift him off the ground. “Now that you have all your friends here you have no reason to bow and kiss my ass…you have nothing to work for now…you don’t even have to watch your words. You know all this now…because not long ago you would have never raised a hand to me.” He squeezed his neck tighter.

“N-NO! ST-STOP IT!” He gasped out, kicking his feet in a useless attempt to get away.

“Don’t worry, my Little Rose! I find this fighting side of you just as interesting as the shy side! Keep challenging me then, my rose, for I will break you! Whether it be by force or by love...well, that will be for you to decide now, won’t it?” He let go of him and Alfred fell to the floor again. He gasped for air and clutched his throat, a few tears streaming down his cheeks.

“Now, tell me the truth. Did you sleep with Arthur while you were away?” he said a deep, dark tone and Alfred shook his head.

“N-NO! I DIDN’T! AHH!” Ivan answered him with another kick to his gut.

“TELL ME THE TRUTH!” He pushed Alfred over with his boot.

“I SWEAR I DIDN’T!” He was meat with another gut wrenching kick and he spit up some bail before him.

“How could you NOT have?! You were all alone in the woods with him! It would be a perfect time to fuck him!” Ivan shouted down at him.

“PLEASE STOP! PLEASE! I DIDN’T DO ANYTHING!” He lied loudly, covering his head as he felt his hip being kicked next. “PLEASE STOP!”

“You damn little viper! Who knows what you were doing alone with that man! Running around a dangerous city with hundreds of gangs and robbers!? Do you know how many disgusting things those creatures would have done to you?! YOU SHOULD HAVE WAITED FOR ME INSTEAD OF SNEAKING OFF WITH ARTHUR!”

And that’s when the black rage overtook him and he started to drag Alfred away from the bed by his feet. Alfred was trying to hold on to the sheets but he was no match for Ivan’s strength. Alfred’s whole body was trembling with fear and his arm was met with a harsh blow by Ivan’s fist. He cried out and screamed for help as Ivan’s slaps and punches rained over his body with powerful speed.

A servant girl was walking by the room when she heard Alfred’s cries and Ivan’s shouts of rage. She quickly dropped her water pitcher and lifted her skirts, running as fast as she could to Yao’s room. She banged on the door and called for him until he opened the door.

“What is it?” He asked her, seeing the worry on her face and the tears in her eyes. Kiku was in the room with him, patching up Berwald and Tino when they all turned to look at the servant girl.

“Lady Yao you must come quickly! Lord Ivan is beating Lady Alfred in his room! He’s crying for help!” Yao listened for a second and he could clearly hear Alfred’s cries for help.

“Thank you!” He told her quickly as he ran down the hall and towards Alfred’s room. He ran up the stairs and threw open the door, seeing a struggling Alfred clawing and scratching at Ivan.

“HELP ME! STOP! PLEASE STOP IVAN!”

“IVAN!” Yao shouted his name and ran over to them. Ivan had heard him and he looked up from his assault to see Yao crouching before him. Yao immediately forced his small body to try and shove Ivan away. “STOP THIS RIGHT NOW!” Ivan just growled and attempted to strike Alfred again when Yao caught his wrist. “STOP IT! WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?!”

Ivan stood up and quickly and backed away from them, panting softly, his fists still clenched in front of him. Yao glared at him and stood above Alfred’s battered body as the bruised man just looked at Ivan with wide tear filled eyes.

“Back off, Ivan!” Yao said firmly, standing aloof and alert with his own smaller fists ready to defend. “You had no right to act the way you just did!” Ivan just smirked at Yao and folded his arms behind his back, smiling sweetly.

“I guess I got a little carried away. Oopsie!” He grinned. “But Alfred just made me very angry with his disobedience and that is something I will not tolerate. I will find out if he slept with that Arthur. The two of them off in the woods all by themselves with only Gilbert as an escort and witness does little to prove their case.” He smiled at Alfred who cringed under Yao’s legs. “We will continue this later, wife. Right now I have…another matter to deal with.” Ivan walked past them and left the room, softly closing the door behind them.

“Here…lets get you up.” Yao said kindly to Alfred as he helped him stand. Alfred hissed in pain and his legs buckled beneath him. Yao did his best to walk him over to the bed so he wouldn’t hit the floor again.

“W-What ju-just happened?” Alfred asked him with a shaky voice.

“Ivan happened…that’s all you need to know.”

He said calmly and helped Alfred lift his tunic over his head. He looked at the various bruises that now littered Alfred’s body and they were growing worse minute by minute. Yao noticed that Ivan never once touched Alfred’s face. This way no one would know he had beaten him unless Alfred stripped for the nobles and the king. Alfred brought his hands to his face and started to cry silently. Yao sighed and stroked Alfred’s leg soothingly.

“You did what you thought was right. It was noble but it was stupid…and you paid the price.”

“I didn’t know he’s beatings would feel like that…he was an animal!” Alfred wheezed out, his voice having gone hoarse from crying for help.

“That’s who he is…he gets that way some times you just have to learn how to NOT ignite his fury.”

“Y-yes…Yao, thank you for coming to my rescue…”

“You’re welcome. I couldn’t just stand by and let him continue to beat you.”

Alfred’s thoughts went immediately to Arthur, fearing for his life. Ivan didn’t seem to believe him that they didn’t sleep with each other. They did, but Gilbert promised he would vouch for them. Alfred clenched his eyes shut and prayed to whatever god there was that Gilbert would cover for them. If not…he feared that he was going to loose Arthur forever.

‘Arthur…’ He said to himself as he turned to weep into the pillow with Yao sitting beside him, stroking his hair.

Arthur sat on Francis’ bed, his hands folded between his knees as he bent forward, staring at the floor. He recognized the sounds of Alfred’s screams and he knew something was horrible was happening between him and Ivan. Perhaps they had underestimated Ivan’s actual rage. In all fairness, neither one of them were actually thinking ahead of what was to come AFTER they returned.

“I fear for Alfred…” Francis said softly, closing his eyes and slowly shaking his head. “Ivan will not take this likely. You can bet the upcoming days will be hard for Alfred.

“It’s all my fault…I wasn’t thinking straight…I want to believe that leaving to find Berwald and Tino was a mistake…but I just can’t. They are my family as much as Alfred and Matthew.”

“If you had told me you were planning to leave I could have warned you about facing Ivan’s wrath when you returned home. I a bit hurt that you didn’t ask me to go with you.”

Arthur lifted his head to look at him. Now that he thought about it, he should have brought Francis with him as well. That way, should the question of their ‘love making’ come up they would have Francis’ testimony as well. Of course, if Francis was there in the first place he would have never lain between Alfred’s legs and share the pleasures of his body. Thinking about that now and looking up at a concerned Francis made him feel a stab of guilt to his heart. He had betrayed Francis as well as himself and Alfred. Damn his lust and jealousy…he should have had more control.

“Damn it…DAMN IT!”

He hollered and then they heard a knock at Francis’ door. Francis would have opened it but the person decided to let themselves in. It was Ludwig, alone, looking anxious and uneasy but remained as dignified as he could. Both men looked at him, silently asking him what he wanted. Ludwig cleared his throat.

“Arthur Kirkland, you are under arrest for the suspicion of having intimate contact with the second Lady Braginski. By the orders of Lord Ivan, I am to escort you to the dungeons until your name is cleared.”

“W-WHAT?!” Francis shouted. “Ludwig, you can’t be serious! You just got back and the first thing you do is arrest Arthur?!”

“I’m just following my orders.” Ludwig said flatly. “I have no idea what’s going on and believe me this is not something I want to be doing right now. Arthur, get up. We have to go.”

“No! This is ridiculous! Arthur wouldn’t sleep with Alfred! The guy is like his son!” Francis defended him and to help himself, he attempted to try and plea with Ludwig not to take him away. In all honesty, he would have gone with Ludwig without a word but considering the situation they were all in, this act was necessary.

“No! No I don’t want to go! I am innocent! INNOCENT!” Ludwig sighed and stormed over to him.

“I have my orders!” Francis tried to stop him but Ludwig just pushed him out of the way. Arthur tried to run but Ludwig grabbed his arm and yanked him back. Arthur hissed in pain as he was lifted and thrown over Ludwig’s shoulder.

“NO! I SWEAR I AM INNOCENT!” Arthur pleaded and reached for Francis. “HELP ME, FRANCIS!”

“I promise I will speak to Lord Ivan on your behalf, Arthur! Stay strong love! I will help you in any way I can!” Francis knew he was powerless against Ludwig and if he was going to help Arthur clear his name he would have to do some searching and begging of his own. As Arthur was carried out the door, Francis plopped himself on the bed and buried his face in his hands. “Why do I have a feeling that Ivan may be right?”

Gilbert hummed a merry tune as he fed his tiny fireplace with more wood. He had to admit that coming home to someone who was waiting for you with a smile was a wonderfully warm feeling. The more time he spent with Matthew the more he was growing to enjoy his company. The younger man was so unlike his brother, soft spoken and sweet. Matthew was the complete opposite of himself and maybe that was what attracted him to the boy in the first place. The first time he had seen him on the farm he looked just like Alfred and Gilbert wanted an ‘Alfred’ of his own. But he was beginning to see the inside was more important than the outside.

Gilbert went over to Matthew’s sleeping form on his bed, tucked tightly under the covers. Matthew’s light snores could only be heard if you were sitting close to him and Gilbert was. He gave a little smile down at the sleeping form and twirled a curl between his fingers. Matthew gave a satisfied little ‘mmm’ at Gilbert’s motions and smiled in his sleep. The peaceful moment was shattered when Gilbert heard his door open and Ivan was standing there, one hand still planted firmly on the door. Matthew didn’t wake up but Gilbert stood up right away and saluted.

“L-Lord Ivan, sir. Wh-what brings you here?” Gilbert knew it had to do with Arthur and Alfred. Ivan just smiled at him and closed the door behind him.

“I’m just here to ask about your journey, of course.” He went over to the fireplace, picking up the black iron poker. “You escorted my wife and Arthur to the city, correct?”

“Ye-Yes sir, I did.” Gilbert’s eyes wouldn’t leave the poker in the man’s hand as it started poking at the logs.

“And while you were with them…did they ever couple together?” Ivan locked his eyes with Gilbert’s pink ones, looking for any signs of flinching.

“Nothing, sir. I can safely say nothing had happened between them. I made sure to stay by them at all times and I kept a swift eye on them!”

“Hmm…you see, I’m having a hard time believing all this because the opportunity was SO PERFECT. They would be foolish not to take it.” Gilbert started to notice that Ivan kept the poker still in the flames. “Everything depends on you, General Gilbert.” Ivan said dangerously and Gilbert gulped. Ivan took the now orange tipped poker from the fire and walked over to the bed where Matthew slept.

“W-What are you doing!?”

“This is a VERY important matter to me! If you let me burn him then I will know Arthur and Alfred did not make love. If you stop me, then I will know. So tell me, Gilbert, will you save your friends or your little love here?”

Gilbert was frozen in place at the dangerous decision he had to make. What was he to do? If he let Matthew get burned then he would have hurt him for the sake of his brother! But if he protected Matthew then that would mean big trouble for Alfred for Arthur! What was he to do? What could he do? He had promised to cover for them but the poker was getting closer and closer to Matthew’s bare shoulder. Either way he couldn’t win so what was he to do? He clenched his eyes shut…

And it was then that anyone outside the castle or near the guards’ barracks heard a scream rip through the air.

End Chapter 20 TBC
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A Storm of Sunflowers