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

Chapter List
- 19
- 20
- 21
***Warning: Hardcore Yaoi, angst, violence, language
***Disclaimer: I do not own Hetalia. I am making no money off this fic
"I'm going to tell you something I didn't find out until I became a father.
You don't just love your children; you fall in love with them.
It's that same rush; that same overwhelming desire to see them, to hold them.
Bore other people to tears with everything about them." –Frasier Crane
Chapter 20- Hear Me Roar- Part 2
"What do we do? Do we go after him?" Gilbert asked, looking at the stunned faces of the others. They were all looking up into the large hole in the ceiling left by Arthur's monstrous form.
Alfred answered him. "We have to go! He needs us!"
Ludwig threw his arm in front of Alfred to keep the fairy male from flying off. "No! We need to think about this first! Did you see the size of your father? He can handle himself until we get there with a plan! We can't just go charging in! Roderich knew this would happen and I bet you that he is WELL prepared for it! There has to be a different way, an easier way."
Alfred growled at him. "Then hurry up and think of something, damn it! My father could be killed out there!"
"This is exactly what your papa and Roderich feared in the first place!" Ludwig hollered back. "They feared this would happen and believe me when I say that I do not condone Roderich's choice to keep Francis' body from your father! But I will say this; Roderich wouldn't keep it without reason!"
"Listen to Ludwig, Alfred." Gilbert said and readied his sword. "He knows Roderich much better than you do and I know him well enough too. That rose-loving fancy pants fairy is always one step ahead of all of us."
"Which suggests," Ludwig starting, holding his chin in thought "We play right into him."
Alfred was shaking with rage. "Hurry up and talk!"
Ludwig looked from Alfred and then to a weeping Matthew. "I need Matthew. Just him."
"What the hell for?" Gilbert asked, starting to sound annoyed with Ludwig's slow planning.
"I need to get into the Light Court. They won't let either of you in, but they will permit me entrance, and Matthew will go as my hostage."
Matthew looked frightened and concerned as he stared at the three men talking about him.
"My guess would be that he is using Francis' body as a hostage, simply because he couldn't trust Arthur's mental state and fairy heart. Of this, we have proof that Roderich was right. Now, he will use Francis' body to control Arthur's form, whatever it is. So long as he has Francis, Roderich and the Light Court are untouchable."
"What does my brother have to do with all this?" Alfred asked. "How can he help?"
Ludwig sighed. "He is going to be my hostage."
Gilbert flicked his lover's ear. "Ludwig, just what in hell are you trying to say?"
The blonde batted his hand away. "Let me finish! We're short on time! We need to calm Arthur's rage. Right now he is a mad beast with one thought on his mind; revenge. He wants his lover's body back. What we need to do is redirect his attention and that's where we'll use Matthew. I want to avoid physically fighting him at all costs so-"
Alfred shoved him. "So you'll negotiate while holding my brother at sword point? Do you want my father to eat you?"
Gilbert aimed his sword at Alfred. "Shove him again and you'll have me to deal with!"
Matthew wiped his eyes and said softly, "Do I get a say in this?" His plea was ignored.
"Please, be calm." Ludwig pushed his way between the two fairies. "One problem at a time! I plan to use Matthew as a way for Arthur to realize what he still has to live and care for. Once Arthur has returned to his fairy form and seems in better mental health, then I am certain Roderich will return Francis' body." Gilbert and Alfred were silent. "Now, both of you, I want you to battle Arthur. Keep him occupied while I try to get to him with Matthew. I want to talk him down from his rage."
Gilbert took his hands. "But Ludwig, you are only human! Arthur's body is full of venom on a regular day! You'll be killed if he chooses not to listen to you."
"Well, that's where Matthew comes in."
Matthew raised his hand again. "May I suggest something?" He was ignored once again, and now he was growing angry.
Alfred gasped. "You're using Matthew as a shield?"
"Basically."
"May I-?" Matthew was cut off.
"You could be killed!" Gilbert pointed out again. "If you die then I'll have to kill Arthur for killing you!"
Alfred snapped his fangs at Gilbert. "I'll kill you first!"
Matthew spoke louder this time. "Listen to me!" No one heard him.
"Stop it!" Ludwig ordered. "This is the best we have so we're going with it! Keep Arthur under control, which is your job. Now let me get Matt-" Matthew was gone. Ludwig looked up at the hole and into the dark sky where a bright form of light suddenly took off. Ludwig clutched his head and let out a cry of frustrated anguish.
/
The Light Court Fairy Knights were scrambling and flying along the bottom of the magic dome, preparing for the large beast that was drawling nearer. From atop their mountain castle, Roderich and Elizaveta watched as the darkened form landed on the dome with a thunderous quake that shook the entire court. The Fairy Knights almost fell out of the air as the sound echoed throughout the kingdom. What they saw above them was a gigantic black beast, massive in length, with only two talon-like claws. No one could make out the head, but the body was long and snake-like, with the very tail end having the appearance of a centipede or caterpillar. Roderich squinted his eyes, yet from his spot he could not see how long the beasts' body was. It seemed to stretch much further than their eyes could see. However, Arthur's monstrous body was slashing, smashing, and clawing at the magic dome viciously. The large serpentine body lifted and slammed continuously on the dome, the echoing sound shattering windows and stunning flying fairies.
"The magic shield is holding up well." Elizaveta said to her husband. "But we can't keep it up for long."
Roderich nodded. "Find Berwald and Vash. I want all my Fairy Knights ready when this dome breaks."
"Yes, be careful." She said quickly before flying off, leaving Roderich alone on the castle top.
He looked up at Arthur's form and slowly shook his head. "I hope to never have to see your demonic offspring like this." Roderich couldn't lie to himself, he did feel frightful of Arthur's new form; a form that had been used only once centuries ago after the death of his mother and the uprising of his people. Back then, Roderich had watched the beast from afar and it was something he always kept in his mind when speaking or working with Arthur. Right now, his only saving grace was Francis' body, which he would use should Arthur defeat his forces. Giving the Dark King Francis' body now would only further his rage for revenge, wanting to punish Roderich and all his people for denying him his mate. He was never certain of when Arthur would snap. To Roderich, Arthur's monstrous form seemed overly dramatic and unnecessary, but the fairy heart was still, in some ways, a mystery within itself. Not every fairy bond worked exactly the same and Arthur was a different type of mutated being altogether.
Leaping up into the air, Roderich flew along the length of Arthur's body, searching for either the head or the tail. The thunderous sounds were less ear shattering at the top, yet Roderich still found himself shuddering. Just how long was this monster? He had already past two sets of arms and talons, so was he nearing the front? A sudden loud, wailing roar shook the dome violently, forcing Roderich to pause in his flight and cover his ears. When the sound stopped, he looked up into a large pair of green snake eyes, the slits yellow and the rest solid. They were focused right on him and Roderich could see his own reflection shining in the green. The slits dilated for a moment and then quickly narrowed as the beast focused on his prey. Yet there was something strange about Arthur's eyes that Roderich noticed and that was the bloody tears pooling at the lids. A large drop of blood dripped and splattered on the magic dome making an echo. When Roderich looked up at the face again, he was unable to make out any clear features other than the head growing smaller as it raised out of sight, just like a serpent. Seconds later the head came crashing down onto the dome with two sets of large purple curved horns creating hair line cracks in the dome. The head came down again and again, forcing the cracks to become larger. Roderich readied his invisible blade for when Arthur broke through the barrier. The strength of the dome was unable to protect them in length, so he would have to rely on Arthur's own rage to beat the beast. If he could strike Arthur's head as it entered the dome then he could buy himself and the kingdom some time.
/
'It's already started!' Ludwig said as he flew through the trees with Gilbert beside him. Alfred was already up ahead, shouting out battle cries and curses. Ludwig was wearing his fairy armor and magic chainmail, along with Roderich's cloak. He was fully prepared for a fairy battle.
"I see him!" Gilbert said, pointing to Arthur's form atop the dome. Both he and Ludwig paused in their flight while Alfred continued on. Panting heavily, both men looked at each other for a moment before returning their gaze to the monster on the dome. Gilbert couldn't believe what he was looking at. Arthur's form looked to be a large snake with six bat wings, its entire body coiled around the dome. "Ludwig…by the Goddess…he is massive!"
Ludwig just stared dumbly at the image of Arthur's form. How could he expect to face that? Was Arthur even functioning as a fairy anymore? Could his brain listen to logic?
"Ludwig…I don't think the Goddess has made a club big enough to bash him."
"Now is not the time for your humor, Gilbert!" Ludwig hissed at him. "This is all your fault, you know!"
Gilbert's mouth dropped open. "My fault? How is it my fault?"
"You told me to tell him!"
"You agreed!"
"You forced me!"
"I did not!"
"Yes, you did!"
"Don't get mad at me because your stupid little plan isn't working out the way you want it to! Welcome to the real world, Ludwig!" Gilbert gave him a raspberry.
"Oh, come off it!" Ludwig hissed again. "Gilbert, fly me straight to Arthur's form and dropped me on his back!"
"What do you plan to do?"
"You'll see! Just get me over to him! Hurry! And stay by my side!"
Gilbert sheathed his sword and lifted Ludwig under his shoulders to fly him towards Arthur. "You really can't reason with a monster!"
"We have no other choice right now! We have to take the chance!" Ludwig could see Arthur's spiked back coming closer into view. His plan was to use Alfred's speeding boots to dart up the length of Arthur's back and reach the head. As they got closer, Ludwig shouted for Gilbert to drop him, and the fairy did. Ludwig landed on Arthur's black body and immediately began the swift race to the head. Above him he could see Gilbert flying with him, matching his speed and endurance. "GET YOUR SWORD READY!" Ludwig called up to his lover, taking the sheath off of his own staff to reveal the crystal blade.
Gilbert readied his sword and grinned. "I LIKE US FIGHTING TOGETHER LIKE THIS!" He let out a loud whoop and did a flip in the air. "LET'S KICK SOME KINGLY ASS!"
'Why do I care so much?' Ludwig briefly asked himself as he saw the head of the beast coming into view. But they weren't alone, for he could see Roderich and Elizaveta teaming up on Arthur's head, slashing at his snapping jaws as they struck with lighting speed. Ludwig came to a skidding halt as he looked upon the face that was once King Arthur. Arthur's head was completely black and had the look of a snake with two sets of purple horns and various sized black spikes surrounding them. The fangs would bend back every time Arthur closed his mouth and when his jaws opened they appeared big enough to swallow something four times his size. Ludwig was far off in his own mental description of Arthur's snake form. The Light king and queen looked to be nothing more than the size of bugs compared to Arthur's form.
"I'm here, Ludwig." Gilbert said from behind, wrapping his arms around Ludwig's neck and kissing him on the cheek. "Don't be scared. We'll do this together."
"I don't know what we can do…" Arthur's form let out a roar as Elizaveta slashed a long gash across his face. "But we have to stop this attack on Arthur first!"
Gilbert smirked. "Leave that to me!" He suddenly took off in the direction of Roderich. "RODERICH!" The fairy king turned at the sound of his name just in time to block Gilbert's blow. Roderich was too stunned to act quickly and Gilbert shoved him as far away from Arthur's head as he could, leaving Elizaveta to fend for herself. "I GOT A HUGE FUCKING BONE TO PICK WITH YOU!"
Roderich sneered. "AND I DON'T HAVE TIME FOR YOUR NONSENSE!" He shoved Gilbert back with a magic force field that stunned the Winter Fairy momentarily. As Roderich tried to fly back to his wife, Gilbert knocked him away again, sending them both spiraling through the air. "INSOLENT BRAT!"
With Roderich out of the way and Elizaveta by herself, the fairy queen was unable to center her attacked on Arthur's face. The monster saw this and took the advantage of breaking through the barrier completely. The magic dome shattered into a million sparkling pieces, leaving the full court and kingdom open for attack. The Fairy Knights soared through the air and straight on into Arthur, surrounding him completely with their weapons slashing at the armor thick scales. Arthur swung his snake body all around rapidly in the air, taking out a few Fairy Knights and killing some. He grabbed one in his claw and crushed the knight completely, throwing the remains out into the air. Ludwig found he had to hold on tight to one of Arthur's back spikes to keep from being thrown off. He had only one shot at this and he hoped his balance would hold true. Jumping up, he dashed up the length of Arthur just as the serpent rest his upper body on top of the Light Court castle. Arthur gave a mighty roar that stunned the fairies and made the stars shudder in their own fear. Even the moon seemed to hide itself from the scene behind the clouds, forcing its light to diminish. It was now or never, and he had to work fast.
/
"STOP! DEMON!"
Alfred turned and slashed the Fairy Knight with his sword, but it did little good against the supreme armor. Alfred had found his way in after the dome had shattered, but the Fairy Knights got to him first before he could reach the castle. His goal was to find Francis' body and take it while the others were fighting his father. But fearing the same fate as his papa, Alfred made sure to use his speed efficiently and aim for vital parts of the bodies, such as the eyes and mouth. His black blade blinded one fairy and sliced off the nose of another, but the moves were not to last. The Fairy Knights grew too numerous for him to face alone without the superior magic of the Light Court weapons. He tried to fly away, but the knights tackled him to the ground and held him still while some others bounded his limbs with golden rope. Alfred bit his lip and tongue to keep from crying out as the rope burned at his skin, having been made of some of the same magic found in Ludwig's staff. It was like slow torture to him and he swallowed his cries to where they became small whimpers. The knights surrounding him couldn't hear, but someone else did.
/
Arthur heard the sound of his eldest son crying in pain. He paused in his battle to pinpoint where the sound was coming from, completely ignoring the other fairies around him. With a set of black pointed ears and smoking nostrils, Arthur listened closely to the cries. His child was in danger and throwing all thoughts of his own safety to the wind, Arthur scurried down the length of the castle and towards the cries of his son. The serpentine body slithered behind him, taking out houses, fairies, and animals. His movements were swift, and soon he could see Alfred's form bound and gagged, being held down by four Fairy Knights. Arthur's eyes turned red, picturing the same image but with Francis in Alfred's place. Did they do this to his lover too? With a mighty, earth shattering roar, Arthur opened his jaws and sprayed out a greenish cloud of his venom. While it would not kill the fairies, the venom would weaken and blind them, giving him enough time to rescue his son. They may be using Francis against him, but he wouldn't dare let them further harm his children. But before he could rescue Alfred, a towering wall of flame blocked his way. Arthur screeched and turned away from the burning blaze as the heat scourged his skin in a way unlike true fire. There was ancient magic in the fire, and Arthur was unable to pass through or fly over it. He was forced to slither back a few paces to avoid the burn.
/
Ludwig saw this as his chance, but when he fluttered down to the ground he ended up on the opposite side of the fire wall. Cursing, he searched frantically for Gilbert in hopes that the fairy could fly him over to Arthur.
"Looking for something?"
Ludwig heard Sadiq's voice from somewhere near. "Where are you?" He shouted.
"I'm here!" Ludwig looked around but couldn't see anything but the towering wall of flame. "Look on the fire!"
Ludwig saw the butterfly fairy's shadow among the flame, yet there was no sight of his actual body or form. "Is this wall your doing? Let me pass!"
"Whatever for?" His shadow turned to face Ludwig.
"I need to get to Arthur! I need to speak with him!"
"He's a monster right now! He won't be able to comprehend!"
"We have to try!" Ludwig hollered at the shadow. "Just let me pass! I can stop him! I know I can! Quickly! Before many more are hurt!"
Sadiq's shadow was still for a moment, but then an opening in the wall appeared where he stood. "Hurry then! And try not to be melted by his venom!"
Ludwig raced through the opening, using his boots to make his way to the front of Arthur's face. "ARTHUR!" Ludwig shouted the name, but the monster did not seem to register.
"LUDWIG!" Gilbert appeared from above, landing in front of his lover with his sword drawn. "I won't let him hurt you!"
Arthur roared at them, rearing his head high with a sickening hiss, ready to strike.
"No, stand down, Gilbert!" Ludwig pushed in front of him. "Lay down your blade!"
"But-"
"JUST DO IT!" At Ludwig's forceful command, Gilbert lowered the blade. "Forget about me! Stop the other fairies from attacking Arthur! Tell Sadiq to keep everyone behind the wall! Just do as I say! Please! Find him in the fire!"
Gilbert looked at him and then, "Take care!" He flew off. He would have to trust his mate.
Ludwig looked up at Arthur as the snake's head slowly came down towards him, as if he recognized who he was. Putting aside all fears, Ludwig stood firm as the length of his body was reflected in Arthur's red eyes. "Arthur, stop this." Ludwig said loudly. "Your revenge is pointless! It is doing nothing but causing pain and suffering to innocent people! It's making more trouble!" Arthur hissed at him, sticking out his snake tongue. "They killed your mate, yes, but Francis is still dead and destroying something he worked so hard for is an insult to his memory!" Arthur's head moved back, his tongue falling limp out of his mouth. "Francis came here to seek peace between the kingdoms! He did not want to see his sons or his mate suffer any longer! He did not want to bury another child or you, so he left the safety of the kingdom to come here and seek peace!" Arthur lowered his head to the ground so his large nose facing Ludwig. Ludwig reached his hand out and put it on the scaly top, stroking the surface gently. "This is doing nothing but causing more trouble for yourself, your sons and your people. Are you seeking death to be with your lover?"
Snake eyes widened.
"Francis would hate you for that and you know it. Stop taking your anger of his death out on these fairies! Calm your rage and I will see to it that Roderich returns Francis' body to you! You must promise that you will not take this form again to seek your revenge when Francis was offering peace! Is this worth having your sons killed? Is it worth risking your life? Stop this foolishness or you will disgrace Francis' memory!" 'Did it work?' Ludwig stared into the huge pair of red eyes that stared back. "Arthur…do this for the memory of Francis…and for your sons."
To his surprise and awe, he watched Arthur's form glow brightly as his entire monster form slowly faded away, leaving only an exhausted fairy king where the massive head once was. Arthur's skin and eyes were pale with blood leaking down his cheeks. There was a scar from his ear down to his chin, but all other parts of him were unscathed. Ludwig reached down to touch him, but his eyes caught the movement of a Fairy Knight coming towards them. The fairy was set to bring his sword down on Arthur's back. Ludwig moved to stand over Arthur and blocked the blow with his staff blade. The knight swung at him again, but Ludwig ducked out of the way and gave his own a mighty swing. The magic crystal blade slashed straight through the armor, as well as the fairy's stomach. Ludwig watched in horror as the smoking entrails spilled from between the armor cut and the fairy fell to his knees before collapsing to the ground. The monk stood there, frightened, for he had no idea the staff's blade was that powerful, or that his strike was straight on. He had meant it as a warning strike; but never meant to do actual harm. It was against his Code of Order to kill.
"TRAITOR!" Someone shouted.
Ludwig spun around yet was still too stunned by his kill to act. Luckily, Gilbert had sensed Ludwig's distress and came over just in time to block the blow from a fairy soldier. "Snap out of it!" Gilbert shouted to his lover. "It's kill or be killed now!" The Winter Fairy killed the guard that came after him again.
"But I- " Ludwig couldn't finish his words when a guard came flying at him with a spearhead pointed for his heart. The instinct to survive switched on, so with brows furrowed and the staff in his hand, Ludwig lunged forward. Using his staff blade as a spear he pierced the armored chest through the heart, instantly killing the guard. He had to use his foot to push the body off of his blade, and then readied it for more. Gilbert was having no issues behind him, since Ludwig could hear all the pained cries of death wringing from soldiers' throats. He looked up just in time to see a fairy soldier descending upon him. Ludwig swung his blade and it was powerful enough to knock the sword from the soldier's grasp, along with his gloved hand. The blood splattered on his face with the soldier clutching his bleeding wrist. Ludwig turned his attention to a knight giving Gilbert a hard time. Swinging his staff blade, Ludwig was able to help his lover overpower the knight by knocking the sword from his hand.
"AWESOME LUDWIG!" Gilbert shouted, grinning with bloodlust after having been denied the pleasure of a good battle.
But the Fairy Knight had another trick to display and leaping into the air, spread his wings and let forth a bright blinding light. Gilbert and Ludwig had to avert their eyes yet stand guard for a sneak attack that could come from any angle. Ludwig realized quickly that this bloodshed needed to stop or else they would be in even more trouble than they were. He remembered the staff's power within the glass ball. Closing his eyes, he took the staff and jammed the blade's end into the dirt. The crystal ball grew brightly and burst out an assortment of colored rays, all in which destroyed the blinding light and sent numerous soldiers flying out of sight. Even Gilbert was knocked to his knees by the force of the magical blast.
"Holy shit, Ludwig! What was THAT?"
Ludwig looked at his staff. "I don't know…but we should leave this place! Quickly! Or we'll be a matching set of candle stands for Roderich!"
"What about Arthur?"
"He'll have to fend for himself!" He took Gilbert's hand. "Come on! We need to hide!"
Gilbert instead lifted Ludwig under the arms and flew them away from the scene.
/
Matthew had been flying through the battle quietly, going unnoticed as he tried to make his way to the castle where his papa's body was. He was going to prove to everyone that he could be so much more than they thought he could be! But the echoing roars from his father had frightened him and he was completely unarmed should he have to face a Light Court fairy. But all those fears changed when he saw his brother, bound and gagged, alone on the ground. With a gasp he flew over to Alfred, turning his brother over so he could see that it was him.
"Alfie! It's me!" His brother struggled to talk but only held up his bound wrists.
Matthew took the dagger he knew Alfred carried on his belt and used it to slice off the ropes. He could see the burn marks left by the ropes. "Oh Alfie…what happened to you? Where's father?"
"I can hear him calling for us. Don't bother healing me now! We need to get father and leave this place!"
"But…papa!"
"We can't worry about that now! Not with father in this state!" Alfred jumped up and took Matthew's hand. "You shouldn't even be here…but I'm glad that you are." He gave his little brother a thumbs up before dragging the fairy behind him in search of their father. Alfred followed the faint aura of their family bond and it led them right to their father's form, which was shielded with bat wings. "Father!" Alfred called to him.
"Father!" Matthew fell to his knees and shook his father's body. "Hurry, father! We have to go home!"
"Mattie? Alfie?" Arthur's voice was hoarse. "You're all right…"
"We're going home." Alfred was bigger than Arthur and he easily lifted his father up in his arms.
"But Francis…"
Alfred flew off with Mathew closely behind, leaving the battle behind them. "We'll think of something else. Right now we all need to regroup and rest."
"Alfie, what about Ludwig?" Matthew asked.
"He's on his own. He and Gilbert. They can handle themselves."
"I sure hope so."
/
They flew far out of reach, not stopping until Gilbert's wings fell limp with exhaustion. He landed Ludwig near an old thick tree and plopped himself down on the ground, panting. Gilbert was certain now, without a doubt, that muscle weighs more than fat. He glanced down at himself, noting the splotches of blood smeared all over his clothes. Gilbert knew he had lost control at the battle, but fighting the Fairy Knights, who on occasions snuffed or mocked him, gave him an odd sense of achievement. They deserved it and it was kill or be killed. Which reminded him of Ludwig. He turned to look up at his lover leaning against the tree, his own robes spotted in blood. Ludwig's hair was ruffled and frizzy, his face flushed with exhaustion, and the crystal blade stained with enemy blood. A battle weary Ludwig was, in Gilbert's opinion, dangerously attractive. But Ludwig was staring at the ground with large blue eyes, his chest heaving with exhaustion or anxiety. Gilbert didn't know which. So he got up from the ground and placed a hand on Ludwig's shoulder.
"Hey, you okay?"
"I…yes, I'm okay. I think?" Ludwig turned to look at his fairy lover, who's white face was dotted with blood. "Your lip is swollen."
"I got punched by Roderich. Guy wields a wicked right when he wants to." Gilbert smirked. "Nice skills yourself, Luddy. You were wavin' that thing all around like you do it naturally!"
"I killed others."
"Who wanted to kill you and wouldn't have hesitated."
Ludwig looked away from him. "It's against my vows."
"So is fucking." Ludwig returned to his gaze. "It had to be done, Ludwig. You and I fought side by side, just like we promised in our vows. We defended each other and trust me, I would have killed anyone who tried to hurt you. You did nothing wrong. You were protecting me and yourself and you looked damn good doing it too!" He said with a grin. "The life of a monk is wasted on you, Ludwig. You are so much more than that! You can hold true to some of the monks' customs and values, but that doesn't mean you have to cut out everything!"
Gilbert saw the suddenly wild look in Ludwig's blue eyes, and a shiver of pleasure tingled his whole body. He knew the type of emotion Ludwig was feeling right now. The rush of a warrior's first real kill ignited a primitive sense of power and dominance. And if Ludwig could read their bond auras yet, then the monk would know of the lustful feelings Gilbert was having right now. He didn't want to pass an opportunity like this up. With the way things were going now they may not have another chance for a long while. So he gave his swollen lip a lick with his tongue and tilted his head to the side just slightly, wondering if Ludwig would take the bait.
And he did.
Gilbert found himself pressed up against the tree with both his wrists held tightly beside his head as his mouth was ravished. Ludwig's erection was pressed hard against his own and Gilbert moaned into the other's mouth. The monk eventually let go of his wrists to tug and pull at the belt buckle. Gilbert helped him unbuckle it and the belt fell to the ground beside them. The fairy let out a yelp and blushed softly when he heard and felt, the tearing of his pants. Ludwig didn't even bother to push them down but chose to tear them off, at least the most important part. Gilbert wasn't wearing any armor (he was seen himself as indestructible) so along with his pants, the monk ripped open his tunic. Now that the fairy's most important parts were showing they could move on.
Ludwig kissed him again, pressing up against Gilbert's form to demonstrate his dominance. What a rush he was feeling in both his heart and body! He had never lusted after Gilbert so intensely before; it was almost shameful. Except when he felt Gilbert's own erection pressing against his clothed one; then all rational thoughts and values faded away. With a low growl he threw Gilbert to the ground, watching as the pale form landed on his stomach with a grunt. Ludwig fell on his knees behind the fairy and gripped the narrow hips to lift Gilbert into a better position. He wanted to open and lift his under robe to thrust in to the writhing, willing body, but hissed at the thought of taking his mate dry. Instead, he pulled Gilbert's body along the ground and lifted that perfect ass to his lips where he could begin prepping his mate for penetration. He had never done it before, but right now he was relying on his instincts and Gilbert wasn't resisting. The gasps and wanton moans from his mate while his tongue swirled and lapped at the tender skin was enough proof that he was doing something right. Of course, his lust got the better of him, so he let Gilbert's body drop back to the ground while he tore open his robes to free his erection. He grabbed Gilbert's hips again, lifted him, and pushed completely inside.
The Winter Fairy let out a strangled cry and arched his neck at the rough penetration that wracked his body and made him cum instantly. His body was unable to enjoy the afterglow of orgasm due to the swift, solid thrusting of Ludwig's cock. His pale fingers became a dark brown as he was forced to claw at the dirt to keep his body from rocking too much. Ludwig wasn't stopping, and the rock solid movements were threatening to rip him open. Each time the cockhead rammed straight on into his sweet spot, making him scream out in pleasure and his eyes well with tears of ecstasy. He felt the build up of another orgasm tickling his lower belly with each thrust that rushed it on. However, Ludwig suddenly pulled out of him, leaving him cold, aching, and worse of all, empty. Pink eyes flew open and turned to look at Ludwig over his shoulder, silently questioning him as to why he had stopped. Gilbert's limbs were shaking with desire and want for more of Ludwig's newfound lust. But he wasn't disappointed, for a second later he was roughly flipped onto his back with blood stained hands holding his legs open. Ludwig thrust into him again with the same speed as before. Gilbert cried out, reached his arms up and forced Ludwig into an embrace. The tender motion only ignited the monk's lust further and once again Gilbert was crying out in ecstasy. Ludwig's thrusts were intensely harsh and rapid, which now brought forth a new type of ache within his bowels. Gilbert's muscles were growing tender and pleasurably aching from such constant rough use. The hurt was enjoyable and along with his mate's newfound dominance (not to mention the heavy armor pressing down on him while the chainmail rang beautifully with each thrust) Gilbert found himself shuddering to orgasm again.
Ludwig couldn't hold off any longer when he felt Gilbert climax for him for a second time; those tight, willing muscles clamping down beautifully around him as if begging him to never leave. Throughout all his rapid thrusting he never ceased looking at Gilbert's body with a hungry stare. The fairy's clothes were delightfully torn, speckled with enemy blood and smudged with dirt. His white body was like a perfect patch of bright snow on the dark ground beneath them. Gilbert's body writhed, arched, rolled and even shook with each thrust. Ludwig let his eyes focus on the white muscle and the pink nipples rock hard with desire as his body rocked the other along the ground. And when those trusting arms reached up to embrace him, Ludwig fell in love with his mate all over again. He loved this fairy with all his heart and soul; and if everyone will curse him for doing so, then so be it. The Winter Fairy was his and only his. Another hard thrust sent his lover's head arching back and his body shuddering, the voice crying out for more; harder, faster. He wanted to mold himself to Gilbert's body and be consumed by him so they could stay connected like this for eternity. He wasn't afraid or hesitant to fight now; not with the strong need to keep his mate safe, secure, and protected. If anyone ever hurt Gilbert in any way or take this body as their own, then Ludwig vowed, while reaching his climax, to murder them in cold blood. His back arched, his body shuddered and his throat let out a growl as he felt the essence of his love pooling out around him. His blue eyes met his lover's glazed over pink, and he gave a hard thrust again into Gilbert's already overly stimulated pleasure spot. The fairy gasped and arched his hips with Ludwig's cock still buried inside, licking his lips wantonly while squeezing around the thick, pulsating member. Ludwig stared at him and then a snap second later his hand found its way to Gilbert's throat. He didn't squeeze hard, but it was enough to make Gilbert's writhing body fall still.
"Say you are mine." Ludwig demanded, his voice harsh but soft.
Gilbert gave a breathless smile. "You know I am."
"No, that is the fairy way. I want to hear the words from your lips…as a human would say to another human. Say you are mine."
"I am yours."
"And you will never let anyone else have you."
Gilbert smirked. "I will never let anyone else fuck me." He chuckled. "That's what you MEANT to say, isn't it?"
Ludwig's brow twitched.
"Go ahead and say it the proper way. The dirty way." He grinned.
Ludwig removed his hand from Gilbert's throat. "Never let anyone else…fuck you." He removed himself from the warmth of Gilbert's body, fixed his robes, and hurried away to shield his shame. Damn that fairy and the power he wields!
Gilbert continued to lay flat on his back, arms stretched out above his head, chest heaving, legs propped up but closed and of course, his large goofy grin. He knew he could do it! 'I have successfully corrupted a celibate monk to a lustful beast of a barbarian!' He rolled over onto his belly, covering his mouth to muffle his intense snickering. "Keseeseseese!" He kicked his feet excitedly. 'Damn I'm awesome!'
Although their love making had been perfect, the situation back at the Dark Court had shattered the moment. They had to hurry back, or risk being caught.
/
Two days later
Ludwig and Gilbert walked side by side as they approached Arthur's bedchambers. Two guards were posted outside and Matthew was just coming out, looking worn, saddened, and exhausted. Alfred was still playing 'king' while his father was bedridden. Kiku was by his side offering guidance and support to ruling the kingdom. Two days had passed since the attack on the Light Court and Arthur gave strict orders not to be bothered unless it were his sons. Now he had summoned Ludwig.
"Matthew." He said the name softly. "I'm here now. How is he?"
Matthew looked at them both with sad eyes. "He wishes only to see you right now, Ludwig." Gilbert looked a bit annoyed but kept his mouth shut. "Gilbert, why don't you come with me and we'll see how Alfred is doing. After all, you are basically the Queen Regent. Well, in a vague manner of speaking."
"Fair enough." He looked at Ludwig. "I'll talk to you later, okay? My chambers?"
Ludwig nodded and squeezed Gilbert's hand as the fairy flew off with Matthew down the hall. He took a deep breath and entered the room, softly shutting the doors behind him. The room was pitch black with all the windows covered by a heavy curtain. Hundreds of candles were lit but it was still hard to navigate around the room. Arthur was laying in his large bed, wearing only a simple frilled night shirt and buried under the covers. His head was propped up on pillows with hands laying limp across his midsection. Ludwig moved closer to the bed so he could see Arthur's face, which was deathly pale as if all the life and hope had been drained from him. Arthur's current state defined the word sorrowful. The Dark King just lay there like a lifeless doll and looking smaller than Ludwig remembered. For a second he pictured Gilbert in the same position as Arthur, questioning just how powerful the fairy heart and bond can be; if it could take down a powerful individual like the king.
But Arthur had sensed his presence, and slowly opened clouded eyes to gaze tiredly at him. "Monk." He whispered.
Ludwig bowed. "I am here as requested. How are you feeling?"
Arthur narrowed his large brows. "Don't ask such a stupid question when you're anything but stupid."
"I'm sorry, it was only common courtesy. How may I assist you?"
The king took a shallow breath. "What news of Francis' body?"
"None at the moment. When you are better, we can-" Arthur cut him off.
"What I am going to tell you…you must swear not to tell ANYONE until the time is right." He beckoned Ludwig closer with his hand and made the monk sit on the bed next to him. "There's nothing left for me anymore, as king. And so, I'm going to forfeit all my titles and my realm to Roderich."
Blue eyes widened. "Your majesty, don't speak such things when you are not well. You cannot give up your kingdom and all your realm because your mate has died."
Arthur closed his eyes. "Alfred doesn't want to be king…the people hate us…Roderich wants to own us. The one thing holding me together was Francis and now that he is gone…there is nothing more for me here. If I surrender everything to Roderich, then in exchange I want Francis' body."
Ludwig balled his hands into fists. "And just where will you go? What of your sons?"
Tired green eyes opened again. "We sail away on Francis' boat." He smiled softly. "I've always wanted to sail away with Francis…to see the big wide world outside of this accursed realm. To be free of all chains and responsibilities; to make my own rules, let my sons govern themselves and maybe even make some new discoveries." His smile faded as he looked to Ludwig. "Francis would want me to be happy and what better way to carry on his spirit then to sail his ship for him?"
Ludwig looked down at his clenched hands resting on his lap. He felt the urge to strike Arthur for talking such nonsense. It was hard for him to comprehend Arthur's true feelings for Francis. And if Arthur were to give up his entire realm it would solve a number of problems. Roderich would deliver Francis' body to him personally. Yet Ludwig did not want to see this happen and wondered if there could be a better way. The first step was to speak to Roderich about it and then try to negotiate a way to get Francis' body back.
"Your highness, let me speak with King Roderich first of this matter. Perhaps I can have him change his mind."
"Don't bother. I don't want to be king anymore."
"Well, I think you should continue to be king! Let me speak to Roderich first before you make any real decision!"
Arthur managed a smile and even a small laugh. "You're a good kid, Ludwig. I bet your mother and father would be proud of you."
Ludwig pressed his lips tightly together, unsure of how to respond to that. "I…don't know how they would feel about me now. They weren't very loving to begin with."
"Not even your mother?"
Ludwig raised his brows. "Especially not my mother. I think…after watching other children with their mothers and seeing how you treat your boys…I think my mother 'loved me' only because she felt obligated too. She just looked at me as her duty and nothing more. She was 'supposed' to take care of me, but I don't think she ever really wanted to. The pressures of society." He looked at the concerned face Arthur was giving him. "There is something that I've never told anyone…and I would like it if it never left this room." Arthur blinked slowly but gave a nod. "It was told to me many times as a young boy, by the other women in the village and the general teasing of cruel children. She…tried to get rid of me while I was still in the womb, but it was a failed abortion. She went through with it, but I survived."
Arthur furrowed his brows. "There's a saying, Ludwig, about women like your mother. Any woman can give birth, but not every woman can be a mother. I was terrified of Alfred when I first held him in my arms. Terrified. The midwives were so thrilled for me…saying what a wonderful occasion this was when it didn't feel like that to me. I wasn't happy like everyone said I would be. And I wouldn't let anyone near him, not even Francis. It took me a little while to realize that I'd be loving something my whole life, even if he is a troublesome and ungrateful annoying brat. I never regretted having Alfred after that. I cursed myself for ever thinking it…but no one's perfect." He let out a breath. "It's a shame your mother didn't experience all that happiness with you. You are something special, Ludwig."
Ludwig decided to try and raise the king's spirits as well as his own. The whole conversation was depressing him, strangely enough. "I would have liked to have you as a mother, seeing as how your sons love and adore you regardless of everything."
Arthur laughed out loud at that and then coughed before speaking again. "Would you like me to adopt you into my family?"
"NO!" Ludwig was embarrassed.
"Then marry one of my sons. Take Matthew, he's sweet and kind. He'll fold all your robes."
He blushed dark red. "It's against my faith and values to marry!"
"Relax, I'm just kidding." Arthur chuckled softly. "Thanks for that, though. I need a bit of a laugh." He cleared his throat. "Talk to Roderich, then. See what you can do. If he'll even talk to you…since you took my side during that battle." He turned over onto his side. "That was all pent up rage…and I just snapped. That form you saw…you will never see again. No one will. I just need to get away from here."
"Your majesty?" Ludwig glanced at Arthur's to see that the king had fallen asleep, his face a mask of exhaustion and grief. He stood up slowly from the bed and quietly exited the chambers. The guards looked at him with worry of their own and Ludwig passed by them without a word. Regardless of his promise, speaking to Roderich would have to wait for now. Ludwig had to return to his temple in the human realm and make sure things were going smoothly. After seeing Jasper's shape-shifting form, he had reason to fear for the lives of his fellow monks and the children. If he could become an animal, then the man could easily slip inside the temple and hide there. Jasper would probably be searching the temple and his chambers, for the fairy baby skeleton. The wise thing to do would be to remain here, where there is no time and wait until he had more information about Jasper and his relationship with the Pure Bloods. But the welfare of his temple was more important. The other monks were looking to him for protection from Jasper, so he couldn't abandon them.
"Monk Ludwig."
Ludwig turned to see Ivan, in his human form, walking up to him. "Hello Ivan. How are you feeling?"
Ivan was naked from the waist up, covered in bandages from his head to his belly. "Better today. Matthew and Kiku worked together to put a magic healing spell on my bandages. So far it appears to be helping."
"I'm glad to hear it. I will be heading back to the human realm soon. Are you well enough to come with me? I know it is asking a lot of you, after what has had happened, but-"
"Yes. I'll come with you." He answered softly. 'For Gilbert.' "I've been cooped up in this castle for too long. A creature like me must be out in the world or I'll go crazy."
Ludwig nodded. "Well, we wouldn't want that to happen. Take your time coming to the human realm. Don't push yourself too hard. I need to find Gilbert to tell him I am leaving."
Ivan crossed his arms. "He's probably with Alfred playing 'King and Queen'." He sucked his teeth.
The monk rolled his eyes. "They're both harmless." He started to walk again and waved Ivan on to follow him.
They traveled to the throne room where Alfred sat on his father's throne, looking bored, as he lay his body lazily along it. Alfred's head was hanging over the armrest, looking at the world upside down. Kiku was present with them, sitting at the small writing desk and working on papers. Gilbert sat on the dais steps polishing his crystal sword, but lifted his head when he heard them come in. His pink eyes lit up as he smiled at Ludwig, his mate.
"Hey! How'd it go?" Gilbert asked Ludwig. "Hi Ivan."
Ivan silently gave him a nod.
"How's my father?" Alfred sat up in the throne. "Did he say anything to you?"
"Your father is…to put it plainly, he's not doing well."
Gilbert looked at Alfred whose hands were gripping the armrests. "How do you mean?" Alfred questioned. "If you're talking of his condition then yes, he looks like shit. That's all part of his bond with my papa, and now that the bond is broken his fairy heart is aching." Gilbert got up to walk over to the throne and place a comforting hand on Alfred's shoulder.
Ludwig's brow twitched slightly. Ivan had to look away.
"He's so weak right now that I barely recognize him." Alfred said angrily, but only out of grief. "I had to carry him from the Light Court in my arms, like a child." He fell silent for a moment. "I have to say, I'm rather relieved to have seen what the fairy heart and bond can do to a fairy." Alfred turned to look at Kiku with a hurt but disapproving expression, forcing the older fairy to shy away. "I'm glad I don't have a bond so I don't end up like my father some day."
"Prince Alfred, I do not understand the workings of a fairy heart, but I do understand the bond between two mates." His eyes met Gilbert's smiling pink ones. "Just like any relationship, human or fairy, it's just a chance you take. Some have long lasting, uneventful relationships while others are burdened with things like disease, poverty, unfortunate events. But you should never not try something because you're afraid."
"Afraid?" Alfred growled. "Who's afraid?" He shouted.
Gilbert quickly calmed him. "Ludwig meant no harm and you know that. Settle down." Alfred sneered and looked away from the others.
"My prince, I meant no disrespect. This is a hard time for all of us and we each grieve with you in our own way." Ludwig spoke plainly and calmly. "Right now your job is to run the kingdom while your father regains his health. We are all here to help you in whatever way we can. Now, your father asked me to go to the Light Court and speak with King Roderich about obtaining your papa's body. I will be going in peace, so-"
"You killed Light Court Fairy Knights and guards." Alfred pointed out. "What makes you think Roderich will forgive you? Or even listen to a word you say? In his eyes, you've betrayed him."
Ludwig shook his head. "I betrayed no one. I am a neutral envoy…during that battle, it was kill or be killed." He glanced at Gilbert who winked at him.
"Stop looking at my queen." Alfred smirked and leaned forward in the throne. "You KILLED Light Court fairies."
"I was trying to stop your father from going on a rampage and possibly losing his life! Those fairies attacked us without permission or orders from Roderich. Some probably didn't even know who I was. I'm not afraid to face Roderich or the Light Court. However, I do need to return to the human realm for a bit."
"Why?" Gilbert asked quickly.
"I have business there. With Jasper running around free as an animal and my temple alone…I can't just remain here for all my days. I know there is no time here, but in my world there is. Jasper is a strange fairy and who knows what kind of power he has. He may be able to slow time and attack my temple looking for me."
"Then let me come with you!" Gilbert asked.
"No, it's better if I go alone. Ivan will be with me. Besides, you are better off here with Alfred and Matthew." Ludwig smiled at him.
Alfred took Gilbert's hand. "Yeah, stay here. Like Ludwig said, we don't know what's going to happen. The last thing we need is for that weirdo to snag a real fairy."
Ivan stepped forward with a limp. "I promise to watch over and protect Ludwig while he is at his temple."
Gilbert didn't want to stay behind, but he knew that Alfred needed him just as much. If not for Alfred then for Matthew. Should something go wrong, Gilbert's fairy heart and bond would let him know and he will go racing to the rescue. "Ludwig, Ivan, be careful out there, okay?"
"We will." Ludwig smiled.
Ivan's tail wagged.
/
At the temple
"MASTER! YOU'RE BACK!" Said one monk who was sweeping the snow off of the main entrance steps. "EVERYONE! MASTER MONK LUDWIG IS BACK!"
Ludwig allowed a faint smile as he ascended the steps, thanking the monk for his work and entering into the temple. He had been in the fairy realm for so long that he had forgotten how cold it was here, but the temple was warm. Many monks came to greet him and soon the children came running to welcome him back. All of the children looked well, even Rosa, who was smiling happily with the color back in her cheeks. Ludwig greeted them all kindly and then sent them back on their way to continue with their studies or chores. The second elder monk came up beside him, with Monk Derrick on his other side. They accompanied him on the way to his office.
"Any news or concerns to report?"
The old monk shook his head. "None, sir. The temple has been quiet and peaceful."
Derrick spoke next. "Yeah, except for the ghost."
Ludwig stopped and looked at him. "Ghost? What ghost?"
The old monk sighed. "Children's ghost stories, Master Monk Ludwig. Nothing more than stories."
Derrick scoffed. "It's not a story, old man! I've seen the ghost myself!"
"Tell me of this ghost? Do the children see it?"
"All the time." Derrick answered. "They aren't afraid of it. It's really more of a shadow that travels all along the walls and ceilings. The kids call it 'Bug Man', whatever that means."
"Bug Man?" Ludwig immediately thought of Sadiq and how the children had seen him. But he erased their memories of him with the mushrooms, so why do they still call him 'Bug Man'? Unless the shadow was just like the one he saw in the fire wall, which was a perfect outline of the butterfly fairy. That night in the chambers, Ludwig remembered Jasper having been frightened by something behind him. Only Jasper could see him, and he couldn't. Perhaps the shadow is what Jasper saw. After all, Sadiq had told him that the temple and the children will be safe. And his assumptions were confirmed as the shadow form of Sadiq fluttered along the wall beside them. "Interesting. Well, whatever it is, there is no harm being done. Has Supreme Monk Jasper been here?"
"We haven't heard anything from him yet." Said the old monk. "And let us pray it stays that way."
Two days had passed in the human realm and all was quiet. Ludwig was able to peacefully get his work done and even continue working on his book. It was a little side project that wouldn't amount to anything, but it passed the time. He sat in the lower level library by the window, calmly watching the light snowfall outside and thinking of Gilbert. His Frosty Snowflake. His Winter Wonderland. Ludwig mentally slapped himself for thinking such sappy nonsense. Returning his gaze to the window, Ludwig let his mind and body relax to the silent sound of falling snow. The snow made everything quiet and after the time he has been having, the silence was much appreciated. He smiled in thought as he pictured himself and Gilbert strolling hand and hand through the snowy wonderland of the temple grounds. If only.
'Hm? What's that?' Ludwig's eyes squinted to see one of his monks running frantically towards the temple. "Derrick! Go see what's wrong!" Derrick had been with him in the library organizing some books. The monk saw the other running in the snow and hurried to do as he was told. Ludwig feared something terrible was about to happen and he slowly gazed down at Sadiq's ring to see it filling with black smoke. 'Remain calm, Ludwig.'
Derrick opened up the temple door to meet the other monk. "What is happening? What's wrong?"
The monk panted, trying to catch his breath as he pointed to the road behind him. "Th-They're coming!"
"Who's coming?"
"Monk Jasper!" He started to panic. "He's coming with a group of the townspeople and strange armed men! Even the king's royal advisor is with him! They're coming here for Master Ludwig!"
Derrick looked down the dark road where the faint glow of torches and lanterns started to come into view. "Goddess be merciful." He ushered the other monk in and closed the doors. "Alert the others! Tell everyone to lock all the doors and get the children into their bedroom! I'll go alert Ludwig!"
Ludwig could see a group of people from his place at the window coming up the road. He drummed his fingers on the stone windowsill, feeling his heartbeat increase. The door burst opened and he turned to see Derrick, who wore an expression of panic. Calmly, Ludwig asked, "What is it?"
"Supreme Monk Jasper and the townspeople are coming here… for you."
He closed his eyes for a moment and then opened them. "It'll be alright. Tell everyone to remain calm. I will go out and meet with them once they're here."
"Yes sir."
Ludwig sat by the fire in the library, calmly waiting for the sound of pounding on the temple door to echo through the halls. He was forcing himself to remain calm in fear of Gilbert sensing his distress. He didn't want his mate coming here to save him. Nothing good will come of this mob approaching his home. Sure enough, the echoing pounding on the door made his heart skip a beat.
"MASTER MONK LUDWIG! SINNER!" Someone cried from outside the temple walls.
Ludwig stood up and exited the library, for that was his cue to go out and meet with the crowd. Many of the monks were standing near the door, looking concerned, frightened and panicked. Ludwig took a deep breath and silently assured them that everything would be all right, even if he didn't believe it himself. So he took a cloak offered to him by a fellow monk, threw it around his shoulders, and opened the door to a large crowd. Standing at the top of the steps, Ludwig looked around at the mass of people, most of them Goddess fearing villagers accompanied by none other than Jasper on horseback. Behind Jasper was a group of ten strangely clad men also on horseback, having the appearance of monks but wearing armor and carrying weapons. They were not the king's guards or knights. Beside Jasper stood the king's royal advisor, who was looking upon him with disgust and distain.
"May I ask what brings you all out on a snowy evening such as this one?" Ludwig called to the crowd as he descended the stairs with Derrick and the elder monk following behind.
"Master Monk Ludwig," the advisor started and unrolled a document. "Our honorable and glorious Supreme Monk Jasper, has informed his majesty of your heretic ways and your corruption of this good temple with your immoral codes and sinful imagination! To preach and teach about beings other than the ones the Goddess created in her image is sacrilege! By accepting such mythical and false ideals is a crime against the Goddess and a crime upon the king himself! Magic is a sin punishable by death and all those who associate themselves with it! By order of the king, you are to be arrested without a chance trial and public hung by the neck until dead!"
Ludwig just stood there, his body frozen as his eyes focused in a dead stare on Jasper. It has finally happened. After all this time the noose had finally caught up with him. He never thought that Jasper would act like a human and have him committed of a crime. He was expecting to fight the half-blood monk. But Jasper sat atop his horse, looking proud and smug as he smirked. The townspeople were yelling insults and jeering at him, but Ludwig barely paid them any mind. He was desperately hoping for Ivan or Sadiq's shadow to intervene.
"Guards!" Shouted the advisor. "Arrest him!"
The guards moved towards Ludwig, who stood perfectly still. He could hear Derrick and the other monks shouting and begging for the guards not to take him. One guard grabbed him and yanked hard, but Ludwig pulled back. He yelled at the guard not to touch him, but he was easily overpowered by the many hands grabbing his arms. He cursed himself for enjoying the peace of the temple and not wearing any of his fairy gear that may have helped to protect him. Now he started to struggle against the holds of the men. He looked around for Ivan, but saw that the creature was nowhere in sight. More guards had to hold off his fellow monks trying to come to his rescue, still begging for him to be let go and not to take him. Ludwig made the mistake of turning his head to look behind him at the temple where, in the large upper window, stood the children banging on the window, screaming as they watched. He was then tossed into a covered barred wagon where the door was shut and locked behind him. Ludwig scrambled into a sitting position to stare at all the people shouting for his death and marking him a sinner. Whether these people believed his 'crime' true or not, the poor always liked to see a noble, a royal, or a monk be put to death or jailed. It gave them a sense of satisfaction; a moment to believe that they are finally better than those above them. Ludwig just shook his head and looked for Ivan.
'Ivan, where are you?' The wagon jerked into motion and Ludwig was forced to grip the bars. He couldn't hide that he was panicking, for tonight, this very night, he might die. 'Please don't come for me, Gilbert.' He silently begged. 'I don't want you to see what will happen…I don't want you to grieve! I don't want Jasper to find you! Stay away!'
/
Ivan watched from the woods as Ludwig's crime was announced and the monk was being taken away to die. He looked at the wagon being pulled away, heard the screams of the monks and the cries of the children. Ivan knew he should go and save the monk, but something was holding him back; his jealousy. His jealousy for Ludwig and Gilbert's special bond, for their secret marriage and their undying love for each other. If Ludwig is killed, then Gilbert will forever grieve. BUT, it would mean that Gilbert could not and would not, love again. This would work to Ivan's advantage, for he knew that Gilbert will never love him, but at least he will love no one else. He backed away into the shadows.
'But can I really do that to Gilbert? To Ludwig?'
/
Jasper watched as the wagon pulled away with the crowd. Only his men stood behind him in a perfect row of ten. He looked down at the elder monk standing beside him. "You've done well. Consider yourself saved, old man." He dropped a small sack of gold into the monk's hands.
"Thank you, sir!" The old monk bowed. 'Forgive me, Ludwig.' He said to the retreating carriage. "What do you plan to do now that you have him? What purpose does his death serve?"
Jasper smirked and gave a chuckle. "Oh, many things. He has something of mine, something I desperately need to continue on. If I don't have this item, then I will slowly lose my power. He is a threat to me and my destiny. That little boy will destroy everything I've worked for!" Jasper hissed. "How dare the Goddess chose someone like him! Some stupid little boy over me! Me! Who has slaved for decades to find his place in this world, to please her, to serve her. To rise out of nothing and become a god on earth! Instead I am cast aside for that boy!" Jasper growled dangerously. "Ludwig must not live. He knows too much. Should the telling of my secret reach certain ears I'll be done for!"
"Sir…what are you speaking of? What are you saying?" The old man asked, his voice trembling.
Jasper suddenly smiled. "Oh, wouldn't you like to know. Doesn't matter, though. I have one more trick up my sleeve; one that will guarantee my revenge on Little Luddy! The Goddess gave me the gift of sight and I saw just what I needed to see! You don't see it, but upon Ludwig's finger is a red thread binding him to a fairy mate. By now I am certain that his mate knows of his distress and will come to his aid. That's when I'll catch him. I'm always one step ahead of the game." He chuckled. "Do you know what I plan to do with his fairy mate when I catch it?"
The old man's face was a mask of horror and shock.
"I'm going to kill him, and then I'm going to eat him." He looked over his shoulder at his men. "He's ONLY for me, boys. You'll have plenty in the days to come." He looked down at the old man again. "After Ludwig is dead, I'm going to eat his heart and eyes. BUT! Should some of Ludwig's fairy friends come to save him from death, I will have his fairy lover in my possession. I will be able to control him." He laughed out loud. "I have everything planned perfectly! That's what comes with age, old man! WISDOM!" he tapped his head.
"But…but you are-"
"MUCH older than you!" He took out a fairy crystal sword. "Your information was helpful, but now your silence will be even better." He stabbed his blade through the old monk's chest, letting the limp body fall to the snow. He put the sword away and waved for his men to follow him. 'Come on out, little snowflake. Come and rescue your human mate. Ludwig takes from me, I take from him.'
/
Gilbert woke up in a cold sweat with his fairy heart beating rapidly and aching painfully.
'Gilbert! Don't come! Stay away!'
He heard Ludwig's voice echoing through their bond. His mate was in trouble and Ludwig was frightened! Gilbert jumped out of bed and quickly dressed into his regular white fairy clothes. Grabbing his sword, he flew out of the room.
"Hang on, Ludwig! Hang on! I'm coming for you!" All he needed to do was follow the red thread that would lead him to where Ludwig was. "If anyone so much as harms a single blonde hair on your head I will nail their intestine to a tree and make them walk around the trunk until they drop dead!"
End Chapter 20 Part 2 TBC
*** (sits upon my throne of evil) I haven't even begun to spin this web of chaos yet!***
- 19
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Tempus Vernum