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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
- 23
- 24
- 25
***Warnings: Much political and war talk. Some torture and uncomfortable scenes in this chapter.

***Disclaimer: I do not own Hetalia.

Chapter 24

“Francis, you don’t think they are enemy ships?” Arthur followed after him, the sand making it harder to run. He looked out at the fleet of ships that just seemed to keep coming closer with more appearing from behind.

“I don’t know! Regardless we must get off this beach and report it to the king!” They saw the bonfire come into view and Francis started to wave his arms. “HEY!” He shouted to get their attention. “WE’VE GOT TROUBLE!” The others heard Francis’ shouting and him and Arthur running towards them. Ivan stood up immediately, followed by Ludwig.

“What are you going on about? What trouble is there?” Ivan asked once Francis and Arthur stopped before them, panting and out of breath.

“Ships!” Arthur panted out and pointed to the water where the ships were slowly starting to come in to view. Everyone turned their eyes to the ocean and the fleet of ships.

“Do you know the symbol on the sails?” Francis asked Ivan who had to squint a bit to make out the strange markings on the sail.

“Can’t say that I do. But whoever they are, best we not be here when they make port! Everyone, gather your things quickly!”

The group gathered only their personal belongings, choosing to leave the blankets and basket there on the sand. As everyone headed back to the carriages, Alfred backed up slowly to keep his eyes focused on the ships. He would have never been able to see before without his glasses but he could clearly make out the strange symbol on the sails. Alfred knew he had seen it somewhere before but he couldn’t put his finger on it. The symbol was some strange type of tool with lines behind it, almost representing sunrays. Where had he seen it before?

“ALFRED! HURRY UP!”

He heard his brother shout his name and he turned from the view to run and join the others. It was bothering him that he could not remember where he had saw that symbol and he spent the ride back to the castle thinking about it.

When they pulled up to the carriage house, Ivan wasted no time in calling Toris and Ludwig with him to go and warn the king of the possible invasion. Ivan gave strict orders for his wives to stay together in one room with Gilbert and Berwald watching over them. Matthew gripped Alfred’s hand as they made their way up to Yao’s room since it was bigger than Alfred’s.

“What do you think is going to happen?” Feliciano said out loud to anyone in the room.

“Ceasefires aren’t always a good thing.” Gilbert pointed out as he leaned back against the door. “Sometimes they can be an used as an excuse so the warring nations can work out different plans without interruption of force.” Yao went to the balcony window doors and opened them, stepping out onto the stone surface.

“Alfred, could you come here?” Yao asked him and Alfred joined him on the balcony. “Close the doors, too.” Alfred raised an eyebrow but did so, seeing the confused and curious faces of the others.

“What is it, Yao?” Yao folded his arms on the balcony railing as he watched the ships sailing in. They were nearly impossible to see if you didn’t already know they were there.

“This may very well be an invasion. The king didn’t mention anything about new allies to Ivan or myself. Toris would have told us too if he knew. I don’t know who those ships belong to but I can tell you right now that they aren’t friends of ours.” Alfred nodded and looked out at the sea.

“That symbol on some of their sails? I’ve seen it before…right now I’m picking my brain for any inkling about that damn symbol! I remember when I first saw it saying ‘geez, that sure is one hell of a picture!’ but when and where I can’t fucking remember!” Yao sighed.

“Do you know what this means? This means that the king will send Ivan out with an army to lead and fight in any battles that are to come.” Alfred looked at him in shock.

“W-what? Send him out to fight? Are you sure?”

“He is one of the king’s most trusted and prized lords in all his realm and Ivan has never lost a battle. Surely you can’t think that he wouldn’t have Ivan lead an army since he was right here under his roof, right?”

“I…I guess you’re right.”

“Ludwig and Gilbert will have to go as well…and possible your friend Berwald as well. Ivan enrolled him into his guard so that makes him officially a soldier of the king as well.”

“Tino won’t take well to Berwald leaving…and Matthew will be just as sad about Gilbert. B-But hey, we don’t have to worry about Ivan, right?” He forced a smile. “I-I mean, he’s never lost a battle, right? So he should be able to whoop these guys easily and still come home while his soup is still hot!” He started to laugh but seeing Yao’s troubled expression made the laughter die quickly. “Yao?” Alfred moved closer to him.

“We can’t go by that, Alfred. Wars are full of so many uncertainties and unpredictable outcomes. I mean look at Ludwig in the last battle. He is a top general and even he got struck down…so you can see why I’m worried about Ivan, right?” Yao looked at him and Alfred gave a slow nod.

“I…I guess I wasn’t trying to think about that…about Ivan going off to battle.”

Now he was just as worried as Yao and he felt his heart sink to his stomach. The idea of Ivan going off to war sent chills down his spine. The thought about going with him popped into his mind but he shot it down immediately. Ivan would never take him to battle with him. Alfred would want to go not to fight per say, but rather to just know what was happening and how Ivan was doing. The idea of not knowing would slowly drive him crazy and he knew that. But before he started to let his mind wander into the future ahead he had to first see what the plan of action was and whom these ‘invaders’ were. He knew Yao was just as frightened and worried as he was so he took Yao’s hand in his own.

“We have to stick together, Yao. I know the relationship we have is…well…awkward…but we have to really meet on common ground for whatever lies ahead. We both share Ivan so neither one of us should worry alone, right?” Yao smiled softly at him and squeezed his hand.

“Yes, you’re right. We are in a very strange position so it is best we stick together. But…when Ivan has to leave…d-do you want private time with him? I would want that.” Alfred nodded.

“Sure, I would like that too. He would see both of us separately without trouble. We both share something different with him so it makes sense.”

“Everything was working out so nice…what happened? We were having a fun filled, stress free day and now this.” Alfred shrugged his shoulders.

“I just wish this war would end so everyone can go back to peaceful lives.”

“I hope for that as well. Come on; let’s go back inside to the others. The ships are dropping anchor.”

Ivan had told the king about the fleet of ships and he had sent out scouts right away. The king also called an emergency meeting of all his councilors so Ivan had to go back to his and Alfred’s room to change. For any type of royal meeting with the council he had to wear a heavy black robe made of velvet that usually had him sweating to death, especially in this hot weather. He slipped on his chain of office and gave himself a quick look over before leaving the room.

Toris and Ludwig were waiting together outside of the room and followed behind him. Ivan would need Toris there as an extra set of ears and Ludwig would be needed in case the meeting got heated. It wouldn’t be the first time Ivan had a dagger pulled on him during a meeting. But he knew that nothing good could come of this meeting and it meant that he would have to serve the king in battle once again. He thought about Alfred and Yao being left alone here in the palace without any trustworthy guards to protect them. Ludwig, Gilbert, and Berwald would be called on to fight as well. After the meeting he would have to think about what to do with them to keep them safe in his absence.

When they arrived at the meeting room, lesser lords and ladies bowed to him as he passed by, entering the hall. The king was already sitting at the head of the table with one of his personal advisors standing by his side. At the moment only three other lords were there and they were awaiting the arrival of the others. They probably had to be risen from their beds and were taking their sweet time coming to the late night meeting.

Ivan took his seat nearest to the king and took the goblet of water that was offered to him by a groom. Ludwig and Toris stood in the back of the room with the royal scribe who was setting out his ink and paper on the desk. Toris had his own portable writing box to take his own notes. Little by little the other lords trickled in, greeting each other and taking their seats. When all the chairs were filled, the king thumped his cane loudly on the floor to gain their attention and silence their talk.

“Good evening, gentlemen. I apologize for having called you all here so late at night and on such short notice. But as you are aware there is a fleet of strange ships making port on our shores. I have already sent out scouts and the army is being gathered as we speak. Now lets get down to business. Has any one heard anything or know anything about these ships?” The lords shook their heads and murmured to one another until Ivan put his hand up. “Speak, Lord Ivan.”

“Gentlemen, my advisor has a sketch of the symbol that we saw on some of the sails. Perhaps if you all see it you may know something more.”

Ivan waved Toris over and the brown haired man balanced the box on his forearm as he lifted the lid to pull out the paper with the symbol. Ivan took it from him and passed it to his right, handing the paper to the first lord. The paper made it’s way around the table but no one could make anything of it. When the king received the paper, he studied it carefully before handing it back to Ivan.

“Everyone, we have cause to assume that these ships are no friends but enemies. We will not know for sure until my scouts return but rest assure that another battle is close at hand.” One of the lords spoke up.

“Should we assume that they are with our enemy kingdom?”

“Yes.” The king said and nodded to the lord. “This may be why he called for a cease fire. He may have already had this all planned out. Invaders from the sea are not something I expected.” Ivan spoke up next.

“We are unsure and unclear of what other countries and nations and kingdoms live beyond the horizon. Our traders and explorers have only found a small number of places but there are more out there that our enemy may have come across before us.”

“I agree with his majesty and Lord Ivan.” Said one of the lords. “These invaders are a cause for concern and we must act with haste!”

“Hang on, friend, lets not rush into things!” Argued another lord.

“First we must listen to what the scouts have to say and then we will continue on from there.” Said the king. “However, I would like to start going over war preparations and battle tactics.” Ivan rubbed his temples, as he knew it was going to be a very long night.

Back up in the room, everyone had pretty much fallen asleep either against the wall or in a chair. Alfred was the only one awake and he had Matthew’s sleeping head on his lap as they rest on the sofa. Gilbert was on the side of Alfred with his head back against the sofa’s pillows. Alfred was too troubled to sleep because he kept thinking about that symbol in his mind.

He was close to giving himself an actual headache when a little red flag finally went up in his mind. Of course! Now he remembers where he saw that symbol! It was one day at the market a couple of years ago when he and Arthur were selling fresh eggs and milk. Alfred remembered these three large men with suntanned skin and dark hair with strange markings on their bare chests. The three were unlike anything he had seen before and they drew a lot of attention from the crowd that day. They had stopped at their table and spoke in a strange language as they pointed to the eggs. As he was putting the eggs they bought into one of their pouches, Alfred noticed a strange symbol on the man’s wrist. The other two had the same symbol on theirs as well and it matched the one the sails.

“That’s it!” Alfred said in a hushed voice. “That’s where I’ve seen the symbol before! I must tell Ivan and the king!” Carefully, Alfred lifted Matthew’s head off his lap and laid it on the sofa gently. He tip-toed around the room and quickly threw on his clothes from today before slipping silently through the door.

Alfred grinned from ear to ear at the information he held and was eager to share it with the king. The palace was too large for him to find his way so he asked a groom to lead him to the king. The groom did so, bringing him to the courtroom and pointing to a large door where a few lords stood around it talking. Alfred nodded and cleared his throat as he walked up to them, poised and dignified. The men turned to look at him and gave little humorous smiles or smirks. There were about five of them.

“Good evening, my lords.”

“Lady Braginski, how strange of you to be wandering around at this time of night without an escort.” One said to him and Alfred frowned.

“I don’t need an escort. I am perfectly capable of taking care of myself, sir.” He said proudly. “I would like to see my husband and the king.” They chuckled.

“Little boys like you have no business playing war council with the king. You don’t just walk in there.”

“First off, I am not a ‘boy’! I’m nineteen summers (he thinks), hardly a child! And I just happen to have VERY important information regarding these ships! I need to let them know right away!”

“You’ll have to wait until they are done. Women don’t belong in the war counseling chambers.” Said one.

“I’m not a woman.” Alfred narrowed his eyes. “And if I was who the hell cares! Information is information no matter WHO it comes from! Now let me pass!” The blocked his way.

“You’re close enough to one. You do go by ‘lady’ don’t you?” Said another and Alfred growled low before shoving the man away.

“Get out of my way you old fart sack!” Alfred had had enough of their insults and he barged his way into the room anyway. Everyone stopped their discussion to look at the door where Alfred now stood.

“Alfred?” Ivan stood up, confused as to why Alfred was here. The king stood up as well.

“Lady Alfred.” He greeted him and three more lords stood to greet him in respect while the others gave him dirty looks or crossed their arms. Ivan narrowed his eyes at the men still sitting and before he could voice his displeasure the king did it for him. “Rise, gentlemen.” The king demanded softly and the rest of them did so but they weren’t please about it.

“Wife, what brings you here?” Ivan said calmly and Alfred walked up to the other end of the table and bowed.

“Husband. Your majesty, and…um…men of the council?” He was not sure of his wording but the king nodded at him and motioned for everyone to sit back down. “I know something about the ships! About the symbol that is on the sails!” The men whispered to one another and the king exchanged looks with Ivan.

“How do you know this?” The king asked him. Alfred quickly told them the story of the men in the market and the matching symbol tattoos.

“From the south.” Toris suddenly chimed in after Alfred was done.

“Elaborate, Toris.” Ivan told his advisor and Toris handed his box to Ludwig before going over to stand next to Alfred.

“Lady Alfred’s words make sense. The way he described the men tells us that they are from more tropical climates.” Ivan leaned over the table to look at one of the lords to his right.

“Lord Starkling, you own one of the biggest trading boats in this kingdom. Any idea on where these ‘invaders’ are from?”

“We are too far north to travel southward. Most of our trades come from the west.” Replied Lord Starkling.

“Our enemy is much closer to the south then we are.” The king said, stroking his bearded chin.

“Hold on, how can we even be sure Lady Braginski is right?” Said another lord, sounding displeased. “Doesn’t anyone else see the irony in this story? What are the odds of this boy knowing something like that!” Ivan stood up from his chair then, staring the man down.

“Are you calling my wife a liar, Lord Avery?” Ivan said dangerously. “What reason would he have to lie?” The man gulped a bit and another lord spoke up, sensing the heavy tension. It was one of the lords who stood up first when Alfred entered the room.

“L-Lady Alfred, would you describe these men as civilized or barbaric?” Alfred looked at the man and thought for a second.

“W-Well I can’t really say for sure. I only met with them for a very short time. They looked VERY barbaric in their dress and body decoration but they could be civilized, wherever they are from.”

“Then it’s simple. Send a barbarian to fight barbarians.” Said Lord Avery, looking at Ivan when he said that. Ivan was ready to run around the table and strangle the man when the king thumped his cane loudly on the floor again to silence everyone.

“Lord Avery! Hold your tongue!” The king looked at Alfred then. “Lady Alfred, I apologize for the rudeness of my men. Your words are all we have to go on right now until my scouts return. I appreciate you coming to tell us what you know. Is there anything else?” Alfred shook his head.

“No sir.”

“Then you are dismissed, thank you.” Said the king and Ivan ushered Ludwig forward, silently telling him to escort Alfred back to the room. Alfred looked at Ivan before he left and hoped his husband wasn’t angry with him. Ivan was hard to read at the moment. Once Alfred was escorted out of the room they continued the meeting.

“We have no reason to disbelieve my wife.” Ivan said, sweeping his eyes over all the lords at the table making some of them cringe.

“I agree with Lord Ivan.” Said the king. “I find solid evidence in Lady Alfred’s words. To further this investigation, I have a general from our opposing kingdom in my dungeon as we speak. If anyone would know the reasoning behind these ‘barbarians’ it would be him.” He turned to Ivan then. “Lord Ivan, can I entrust you to find this information out from him by any ‘means’ necessary?” Ivan smirked and rests his elbows on the table, lacing his fingers together lazily.

“It would be my pleasure, your majesty.”

“Sire, why do you entrust so much to Lord Ivan? Do we not hold your trust enough to carry out missions?” The king sat back in his chair.

“Lord Haywood, sounding like a jealous child is not becoming of a high councilman.” The king stated. “I trust these types of matters to Lord Ivan because I know he will not chicken out and will follow through to the very end. He has offered to do things that many of you are quick to decline. But do not fret for you are all very helpful in your own ways and I do recognize that. Now, Lord Ivan, I know it is very late in the evening but this can’t wait.”

“I fully agree, your highness.” Ivan smirked. “I will need someone to show me where the dungeon is.”

“Oh, of course. You will find ‘everything’ you may need there to get the answers I require. I want you to come to me the moment you find out. My advisor here shall escort you there.” Ivan smiled and bowed to him.

“I do have one or two things to do quickly before I head there, your grace.”

“I trust you, Lord Ivan. Meeting is adjourned. We will meet back here the moment we get the answers we need.”

The men got up and began to leave one by one. Ivan told Toris to go the room and check on everyone there while he sought to the said business. Toris gulped, knowing what was in store for the poor man in the dungeon but did as he was told. Ivan stayed behind for a bit in the court waiting to catch a moment alone with Lord Avery. Threatening the man would get him ready for his long night of torture with the general in the dungeon. He caught sight of Lord Avery heading to one of the many hallways that lead to guest rooms and Ivan quickly followed. He could be very light on his feet when needed. Just as Lord Avery entered his room Ivan was a few short steps behind him and stopped the closing of the door with his foot.

“What in the world-?” Lord Avery’s questioning voice did not prepare him for the sudden peeking violet orb of Ivan’s eye between the door and the frame. “AH!” Ivan just invited himself in and closed the door behind him.

“Boo!”

“Lord Ivan?! What are you doing in my room! Get out before I call the guard!”

“Aw. I’m pissing myself I’m so terrified. Go ahead, scream like a little girl because the big bad wolf is going to eat you up.” Lord Avery kept his eyes carefully on him as he backed up.

“I-I’m warning you, Ivan! S-Stay aw-away from me!” Ivan pouted and closed his eyes, holding a hand to his chest.

“My friend, you wound me. I just came here to talk with you. I was only joking before!” Ivan smiled at him and folded his hands behind his back. “I know you have a lot to say about me and you didn’t want to say any more in front of everyone. So now I am here, we are all alone. Speak your mind, comrade.”

“Is this because I didn’t stand for your whore wife?” Ivan’s smiled only grew wider.

“Mind your tongue before you loose it, friend. I won’t hesitate to just rip it out with my teeth.” He started rocking back and forth on his heels.

“You wouldn’t dare!”

“Try me.” He clicked his teeth together and he saw the chill that ran down Avery’s spine. “I don’t care what you have to say about me, little man, but I will not tolerate any of my wives being spoken about in such a manner. You have just doomed yourself, friend.” Lord Avery backed up further, never taking his eyes off of Ivan’s.

“How dare you threaten me? I am of the king’s high council!”

“As am I. What does that have to do with anything?”

“I will report you!” Ivan scoffed.

“The king would never believe you. And even if he did I doubt he would do much but tell me ‘don’t do it again’. This face of mine holds nothing but sweet smiles.”

“My father has always warned me to be wary of people who smile too much.” Ivan clicked his tongue and then laughed.

“A wise man, your father! There is full truth in that, Lord Avery.” Ivan started walking towards him and Avery was clearly beginning to panic. “You see, Lord Avery, when I said you ‘doomed’ yourself, I meant it.” He backed Avery into a corner and the man started to cower a bit. “I’m not going to tell you when or how. It will just…happen.” He grinned. “Could be tomorrow, could be a month from now. It may be me or it may be someone else. But I promise you that your demise will come with a smile.” Ivan pats him on the head and Avery flinches.

“F-Forgive my words, Lord Ivan! I’ve spoken out of term!” He said and slid to the floor.

“Oh yes, you have. Didn’t your parents ever tell you, if you can’t say something nice don’t say anything at all? Pity you don’t think before you speak. I like this hat.” Ivan said and took Avery’s floppy hat from his head and placed it on his own. “I think I’ll keep it.”

“I-It’s yours! A gift!” Avery said with a trembling voice.

“You are too kind. Enjoy the rest of your night, Lord Avery. We have some busy days ahead of us.” Ivan smirked. “And you’d best start wearing only black pants.” Ivan pointed downward to the small puddle and stain in the front of Avery’s navy blue leggings. “Sleep tight!”

Ivan left the room with a happy whistle as he went back to the meeting room where the advisor was patiently waiting for him. He followed the man through various halls and down steps until they came to a heavy locked door. The advisor knocked loudly the wood and the door opened to revel one of the over seers of the dungeon.

“The king has requested that Lord Ivan speak to the war general we caught not so long ago. He is free to do what he wants with the man to get information that is needed.” The advisor told the elderly man who nodded.

“Yes, I will show you to him.”

The man waved Ivan in and the advisor took his leave, assuming Ivan would be able to find his way back. Ivan looked around at the dungeon since it was his first time here. It was rather large and well cleaned for a dungeon. There were various doors with bared windows and people shouting for mercy and for help. The man finally stopped at a door and took out his keys, searching for the correct one. Ivan waited patiently as the man unlocked door to show a huddled mass on the haystack in the corner.

“General Roker, you have a visitor.” Said the man and stood aside so Lord Ivan could step in. Ivan smirked at the brown haired man with a heavily stubble beard and stringy hair. The man had been here for awhile and usually it would be a lot easier to get them to speak.

“General Roker, I would like to ask you about some fleet of ships that have just landed on our shore.”

“I won’t tell you anything.” The man said in a hoarse voice and Ivan just smirked, crouching down to his level.

“I will get the information I need at any cost. I will ask you one more time. Do you know anything about the fleet of ships that are storming our beaches?” The man looked away with his lips pressed tight. Ivan sighed and looked back at the man at the door. “Call your boys. Have them bring General Roker here to torture chamber.” The man bowed.

“Yes sir Lord Ivan.”

The general had to be half drug from the cell being too weak to walk steadily upright by himself. Ivan followed behind the man who was hiding his fear quite well and he would enjoy forcing this man to give him the information he wanted to know. Once they got to the torture chamber Ivan was very impressed with how big it was compared to his. But they both served the same purpose and Ivan was going to start out simple with the general.

“Hold him down on his knees at that table over there. I can tell he’s right handed so I want that hand spread out on the surface.”

While the men prepared the general Ivan busied himself with picking out the cleanest leather apron and gloves he could find on the hooks after removing his robe. He walked over to the man as he was tying the apron behind him. Ivan smiled at the man who glared up at him, challenging him to do his worst.

“Are you going to tell me what I want to hear? I’m assuming you know something about this because of how you responded to me in the dungeon when I first asked. You know my question so tell me what I want to hear.” The man stayed silent but Ivan could see his fingers trembling a bit on the table.

“Mallets and hammers are over there, sir.” Said one of the men, jerking his head to another long table with various devices on it. Ivan went over to the table to pick up a decent mallet that would easily do the job he wanted. He twirled it in his fingers as he walked back over to the man.

“Last chance.” Ivan offered but the man still remained silent. “Very well. Pick a finger for me smash first, General Roker.” Roker looked at him with a sneer and Ivan smiled sweetly. “Come on, you don’t want me to have to pick for you, do you? At least with your own choice you will still have a functioning hand. If you want me to pick you won’t have a hand left. Don’t be stubborn now, just tell me what I want to hear and everything will go smoothly.”

“Fuck you.” Ivan grinned.

“Last chance to pick a finger before I do it for you.” Ivan said in a sing-song voice but he didn’t give the man a chance to answer this time but instead just brought the mallet down with lightening speed smashing the thumb and index finger. The scream the man let out was music to his ears. “Ah, I have an impulse problem, sorry.” He joked happily. “Care to go again?” The man was trembling and hissing in pain but still would not speak. Even after Ivan had completely destroyed all ten fingers beyond healing the general still wouldn’t talk.

“Sir, we have the rack fixed up and working again.”

“Yes, we’ll do that next. Ugh…it’s going to be a loooooong night.”

And it was. Ivan did not get out of the dungeon with the information he needed until early dawn. It had been quite a while since he last tortured someone like that for such a long period of time. However, he did get all the information on the fleet that he needed. He desperately wanted to go check on Yao and Alfred but his duty had to bring him to the king’s sleeping chambers. The guards posted there knocked on the door for him and he was immediately granted entrance.

“Sorry to disturb you at this hour, your highness.” Ivan said and bowed to the king who was sitting in one of the room chairs by his desk.

“It’s quite alright for I haven’t been able to sleep. Did you find out what we need to know?” Ivan nodded.

“Yes. It took some heavy work to get the information needed but I have a full report for you. The fleet of ships are hired warriors from a large tribal kingdom located far south of our enemy, as we suspected. The ceasefire was to ensure that our guard would be down as their boats headed our way. It is said that when the enemy king heard the ships had pass by would be when he called for the ceasefire to ensure their safe journey. He is paying these barbarians with gold from his own treasury. We can be assured that these barbarians will be an unruly bunch who are afraid of nothing. We will have quite a battle ahead of us.”

“Damn it all…my scouts have yet to return but we can’t keep waiting for long for they may be on their way to storm our city right now.”

“Even barbarians won’t attack head on without fully knowing about their enemy first. Maybe they are waiting for us to make the first move.” Ivan suggested.

“We will give the scouts until the morning to come back to us with a full report. Start preparing yourself for battle, Lord Ivan. You will be one of my warlords, however, I would want you to stay here to help defend the city walls before I send you out to the field.”

“Ah, thank you sir.” That would be good for him so he could make sure Yao and Alfred were protected.

“Go rest up with what little time you have right now, Lord Ivan. Thank you for your services.”

“You’re welcome, your majesty. Rest well.” Ivan bowed and left the room to hurriedly make his way to Yao’s room where everyone was.

Alfred still could not sleep and he was once again out on the balcony by himself. His gaze was focused on the large mass of ships that were filling the horizon and more were coming into view as the sun began to rise. There had been no movement at all and the shore was still empty of any men, so far anyway. They must still be on the boats.

It was then that Alfred got the strangest feeling that he was being watched. He looked behind him but he could see everyone was still asleep. He scanned the courtyard but it was completely deserted. The feeling was beginning to creep him out and he kept looking all around for the sight of anyone or anything.

Meanwhile, inside a flowering tree within the courtyard perched a black cloaked and hooded man. He smirked as he watched Alfred carefully up on the balcony. The man was a spy hired by the enemy king to live among the people at this court and learn everything he could that would prove helpful for their cause. He had watched Lord Ivan very carefully since he was the most trusted and most dangerous of all the lords here. Aside from the massive number of soldiers, the man knew that Ivan was their biggest threat and had to find a way to control and subdue him.

That’s where the wives came in. The man noticed that Ivan paid equal attention to both of them but seemed to favor the one on the balcony, Lady Alfred. He was the ‘new’ wife that has the court in an uproar and Ivan was infatuated with him. He would have to wait for the perfect moment to snatch the man away and bring him to the tribal leader’s ship to be held captive there. If he had an open opportunity to snatch the other, Lady Yao, then he would. Either one would bring Ivan to his knees but they would have a better chance if he caught Alfred. And from what he observed about the wives, Yao was the smartest of the two and Alfred would be the one that could be fooled.

The man sat still when he saw Lord Ivan come out onto the balcony and startle Alfred. He watched as Ivan embraced him and spoke to him. He smirked as Ivan stroked Alfred’s face and kissed him numerous times. Yes, that would be the one he had to get. He remembered overhearing that Alfred liked to take bathes in the elaborate tubs that this king always had by the windows for the view. That would be his best chance to strike. Now that he had a plan he just had to wait for the right moment.

“Is there anything I can do to help, Ivan?” Alfred asked in his arms.

“The best way you can help me is to remain here where you can be safe. I will be at the wall so knowing you are safe in this room or your own is more than enough to help me. I know from Arthur that you can be quite the wonderer but I insist that you stay put here!”

“Right…but I just feel so useless sitting around doing nothing.” Ivan smiled and rests his forehead against Alfred’s.

“You will be doing something. You will be giving me peace of mind while I am out there fighting.”

“Yao and I will be worried sick about you. You know that, right?”

“I know but I can assure you that nothing will happen to me. Now come inside, my little rose. You really should rest.”

“You should do the same…you’ll probably be called away very soon.” Ivan gave a small smile.

“Why don’t we go wake up Yao and the three of us can go to your room to catch some shut-eye?”

“Will Yao like that?”

“He won’t have a choice. Come on.”

Ivan lead him back inside the room and Gilbert had woken up hearing the balcony door close. Ivan let him know that he was taking them to Alfred’s room and that he was to stay here with all the others. Ivan carefully picked up the sleeping Yao from the bed and carried him bridal style out of the room with Alfred close behind. Alfred’s room wasn’t far from Yao’s so the sleeping man never knew he had switched beds. Ivan stripped down to his just his leggings and undershirt incase he had to get up quickly. He would be sleeping in the middle of the bed of course so Alfred would get in last.

Once Ivan slid under the covers and settled in the middle he held his arm open for Alfred to join him. Alfred removed his boots and joined them in the bed, snuggling up into Ivan and resting his head on his chest. Yao had sensed Ivan’s body near his and he rolled into him as well, tucking his head under Ivan’s chin. His arms were wrapped protectively around them both but Alfred was a tad bit jealous of Yao being next to them right now. Alfred liked being held in Ivan’s arms and it actually felt lonely with only one. Ever since that night they skated on the ice and Ivan held him with those powerful arms he couldn’t get enough of it. Even though Ivan’s hands and arms could bring mass amounts of pain they could be very protective and tender when they needed to be. Alfred decided that when they got a chance, he and Yao would have to work out some sort of schedule of taking turns with Ivan when it came time for bed. They would probably just have to alternate their nights or leave it up to Ivan who he wanted to sleep next to that night.

“Stop thinking.” Ivan suddenly whispered to Alfred, startling him a bit.

“What?”

“Stop thinking. When you think to hard you tend to grind your teeth and I can feel you doing it on my chest. Rest my rose…you’re going to need to strength for the days to come. There is no telling how long I will be defending the royal city walls.”

“Sorry…I’ll sleep now.” Alfred said softly and closed his eyes but sleep would not come easily to him. It was a few more hours before the sun had risen but to Alfred it felt like a few minutes. It was all too soon that a knock came at their door.

“Lord Ivan?” It was Toris. “Lord Ivan, are you awake?”

“I am.” Ivan called and yawned loudly, slipping his arms out from under both of his wives. Yao had woken up due to the movement and he was confused with his surroundings for a moment but then pieced it together.

“The scouts have returned with a full report. You are needed right away in the war meeting room.”

“I’ll be there shortly.”

Ivan responded and Alfred got out of bed first so Ivan could start dressing. Yao remained sitting up in the bed with his knees up to his chest, resting his folded arms on them. Alfred slipped on his robe and looked outside the balcony doors towards the sea where all the ships were still anchored. Ivan quickly threw on his clothes and smoothed out his bed head hair in the body mirror before turning to his wives.

“I want you two to go about the day as you would normally. As of now life hasn’t changed in the castle so keep yourself busy. I will let you know how things are going throughout the day.”

“Do you think you will ride out to the wall today?” Yao asked him, pushing a few strands of loose hair away from his face.

“It’s a strong possibility.” Ivan responded. “Instead of staying cooped up in these rooms all day why don’t you two join the other wives in all their…well, whatever they do in their spare time. Try to make friends.” Ivan walked over to Alfred first and kissed his cheek before going over to Yao and kissing the top of his head.

“You know how I feel about those cackling hens.” Yao frowned at him and Ivan chuckled.

“I’ll leave it up for you two to decided but I’m afraid I really must dash. I’ll see you both later.”

He smiled at them as he left the room and followed Toris back down to the meeting hall where the other lords of the royal council were gathering. Ivan saw Lord Avery ahead of him and flashed the man a smile that in turn made the color drain from his face in fright. Ivan chose to sit down next to Lord Avery on purpose just so he could get some kind of sick enjoyment out of the day. Once everyone was seated and accounted for the king was announced as he made his entrance into the room. Everyone stood up with soft words of ‘Your Majesty’ shared among them and the king nodded his head to them. As the king took his seat Ivan could immediately tell that he was troubled.

“Gentlemen, my scouts have returned with a full report on these invaders. Lord Ivan has obtained information from one of our captured generals that these barbarians were hired by our enemy to aid in this dispute. Lady Alfred was correct in his description of the men for they all have some sort of tribal markings and share the same symbolic tattoo. They have not set up any camps but are remaining on their boats. The scouts have noticed that these men carry tons of different weapons that are all very large in size and some aren’t even recognizable. We can assume that this hired tribe is a strong army of pure bloodied warriors and we may not know how to fight this enemy.”

“Do they wear armor?” A lord asked.

“No they do not.” The king responded.

“Then they can easily be killed.”

“But if they are some savage uncivilized tribe they may host some strange force of magic or the like.” Another lord pointed out.

“Could we not…well…do you think maybe we could try to reason with them by offering to pay them MORE to fight on our side?” Asked Lord Owen who was one of the few lords that had stood for Alfred yesterday.

“That won’t do.” Ivan spoke up. “The general told me that they are very strong willed and loyal so getting them to change sides would be an impossible task. And who’s to say our enemy won’t offer them even more if we do?”

“I second Lord Ivan.” Said Lord Haywood. “Should we still attempt terms with them?”

“My scouts said that the warriors show no signs of attacking yet but they have been preparing. We have to decide if we should meet them head on in a surprise attack or exchange terms first. Let’s decided on-“

“YOUR MAJESTY!” They were interrupted as a man burst through the door, panting heavily. “S-SIRE! WE HAVE MOVEMENT FROM THE SHORE!” The lords started talking madly among themselves and the king had to bang his cane on the floor.

“Are you sure of this?”

“Yes! Our tower guards have spotted the men moving in large groups!”

“Send the word for our army to meet them head on outside the walls! Lord Ivan will command the army on the walls should they make it here!”

“YES SIR!” The man said and rushed from the room.

“Everyone! Prepare yourselves for battle and stay on alert!” The men started to get up in a crowded rush but Ivan remained behind with the king. “Ivan…most of my army is posted all over the kingdom and having them leave their camps will leave us open to more attacks.”

“I know. The enemy may be expecting that.”

“Yes. So I desperately need you told hold off these barbarians beyond the wall! I have sent out messages to a few neighboring cities who hopefully should send us some aid but I can’t promise they will be here soon. I have even sent word to my son and I hope his army will be ready to travel for they have yet to see battle where they are posted now.” Ivan smiled.

“Sire, we have more than enough weapons to fight at the wall. I have no fear that we won’t be able to hold them off. Your walls are heavy stone and they are very high. You have catapults, archers, oil boiling pots, rocks, and fire powder. I can assure you that we will hold them off until some reinforcements arrive.” The king smiled and slapped Ivan on the back.

“I know I can count on you! The army is already at the wall awaiting your orders! Ready yourself in the armory and I will send word to your wives to see you off. We must make haste!”

“Yes, your majesty. And call upon Ludwig and Gilbert as well. I want Gilbert out on the ground battle to help lead the men and Ludwig I want at the wall with me. The other guard I have in the room, Berwald, he can stay with my wives.”

“It shall be done!”

“Toris, you are to act as regent for me while I am at the wall. Keep our house in check.” Toris bowed.

“Of course.

Ivan nodded and bowed his goodbye before leaving the room and quickly finding his way to the barracks and the armory. His jousting armor would be useless in this battle so he had to search through the various types of armor. He first slipped on a long hooded chainmail shirt that fell to mid thigh. Next he covered it with his normal tunic of the day before having assistance with the chest and lower body plates. He finished it off with some shoulder armor and borrowed a sword belt. Instead of a sword he chose to slip in a spiked mace and a small battleaxe. Anyone who tried to storm the wall in his presence would loose a hand or be sporting a cracked skull. Ivan smirked at the thought and he was actually looking forward to it. The last thing he needed was a helmet so he chose one that didn’t fully cover his face but would protect his head. After he was suited up and prepared for battle he left the armor to meet with his men outside.

Alfred and Yao, along with Feliciano and Matthew were the only ones from Wolf Hall outside the courtyard. Ivan had yet to appear since he had a few quick things to go over with the king but Ludwig and Gilbert were ready and prepared. Ludwig was trying to calm a weeping Feliciano who clung to him like a parasite. Matthew on the other hand didn’t quite know how to react but he knew he didn’t want Gilbert to go. He had some tears in his eyes as he watched Gilbert slide his sword into its sheath.

“I’ll be back soon, Mattie. I’m not afraid of these assholes with tattoos.”

“H-have you ever fought anyone like them?”

“Nope.”

“Then how-“

“Sh! They are men like anyone else and I can take them down easily with my Dick Stick.”

“That will send them running…” Matthew tried to joke about it but he didn’t feel like laughing and lowered his eyes to the ground.

“Hey, think of it this way. When I come back I think it will be time to introduce you to my REAL-“

“I get it!” Matthew squealed out and blushed brightly.

“And don’t let your brother know! Not until AFTER the fact, okay?”

“O-Okay.” Matthew said softly and Gilbert brought him into a tight hug.

“I’m nearly impossible to get rid of so don’t worry for me. I promise I will return with only some bumps and cuts. I have to ride out now to join the others.” He said as he leapt up onto his horse.

“Be careful out there, Gilbie.” Matthew said, his voice breaking a little bit as he choked back tears.

“Here, give me your hand.” Matthew lifted his hand to Gilbert who took it in his gloved one and kissed the top. “ ‘My lady’.” Matthew smiled at that and flushed prettily. He watched with a heavy heart as Gilbert kicked his horse into a run to leave the courtyard.

Ivan finally came out of the main door with his helmet under his right arm and he searched for his wives. He spotted them both at the bottom of the stairs on either side of the banisters. Ivan chuckled as he figured they purposefully separated themselves so he could say goodbye to them privately. Since he was in tons of royal and noble company he stopped at Yao, taking a moment to admire his spring green silk robe.

“You look lovely today.” Ivan said softly and smiled at him. Yao on the other hand did not return the smile and Ivan knew he was both annoyed and saddened by his leaving.

“Take care of yourself out there. Don’t leave me alone here with all these phony bastards.” Ivan chuckled.

“I would never do that to you.” He stroked Yao’s cheek with the back of his gloved hand. “You’re second in command now after Toris so I’m expecting you to hold things together as well.”

“I would be honored.” Yao responded and Ivan bent his head down to kiss the shorter man. Ivan knew that Yao was very uncomfortable with the current situation so he didn’t take his somber attitude as an insult. He knew that deep down Yao was very distraught over his leaving but he didn’t want to show it, especially not in public. “Be careful on that wall.” Yao reminded him. Ivan nodded and took his hand to kiss the top.

“I will see you shortly, my precious little orange blossom.” He gave Yao a wink before turning to the other end and walking to wear Alfred stood. Alfred greeted him with a sweet smile but he could tell his little rose was just as sad as Yao.

“That chain stuff looks heavy.” Alfred said softly as he looked Ivan up and down.

“It is called ‘chainmail’. It will help protect my body from things like arrows and sword points. I see you really favor that blue tunic I bought you. It does suit you with those beautiful eyes.” His rose smiled at him again and Ivan took his chin gently in his hand. “I love all your smiles, Alfred. Right now I wish I could see one of your cheerful happy ones then the saddened one you are giving me.”

“You can’t honestly expect me to be happy about you leaving to fight in a battle, Ivan.”

“I don’t expect that from you, my sweet rose. I just enjoy seeing your happy face and large grins. Now, I want you to be on your best behavior and don’t do anything you will regret later. I want you to stay here where I know you are safe. No sneaking off to see me or leaving the palace, got it?”

“I understand. I promise I won’t leave the palace!” Alfred grinned and Ivan leaned forward to kiss him.

“I really must be off now.”

“Watch your back, okay? And come back to us.” Alfred had a sudden image of watching his father walk off and leave them at the farm. Alfred remembered hoping that his father would come back to pick them up but he never did. The feeling of abandonment was mixing with his fear of Ivan’s departure and it was leaving a sickening feeling in the pit of his stomach.

“I will come back to you, I promise. You best watch your back here too. Go to Toris with any questions or concerns you may have and he will advise you, okay?” Alfred smiled and nodded. “Good boy.”

With that, Ivan bowed to them both before going over to one of the horses supplied for him. As he mounted the stallion he gave another glance at his wives and flashed them a happy smile with a wave. Yao remained still but returned the smile with open sadness but Alfred had his arm stretched up high as he waved happily. The two waited by the stairs until the very last line of soldiers exited the courtyard. Matthew had come up to stand beside him and they held hands tightly. Feliciano took his place next to Yao but had already seemed to calm down more quickly than he did the last time Ludwig rode to battle.

As the four continued to watch the army until they were clear out of sight down the main city rode, another figure was watching closely from his perch and awaiting just the right moment to carry out his plan.

End Chapter 24 TBC

***Fast Note: It may take me a little longer to update the next chapter since battle scenes can be tricky and difficult to write. I will do my best though! XOXOXO
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A Storm of Sunflowers