Adult-FanFiction.org : Anime

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

Chapter List
- 2
- 3
- 4
Chapter 3

Ludwig looked around at the small room he'd be staying in for the night. Gilbert was allowed to stay with him, which was the most nerve-wracking part of the whole sleeping arrangement. The Winter Fairy was a flirt and a tease, one that took great joy in making him uncomfortable. Ludwig could only focus on the bed, big enough for two, made of solid wood and laced with vines. He found it strange for there to be no windows in the room. He had to light the candle stands himself while Gilbert lounged on the bed, whistling merrily. Ludwig tried to keep himself from blushing but could feel the heat in his cheeks. How was he to share a bed with a lustful fairy? The winter creature made him weak in the knees and ignited his own lust, which he thought he was able to control. Ludwig went almost all of his life without any sexual urges until the fairy came along. Now they were to share a bed

"Luddy, come to bed already!" Gilbert called to him. "Do you mind if I sleep naked?"

Ludwig's face grew bright red and he roared his answer. "OF COURSE I DO!"

White brows rose and pink lips purged. "Oh my, someone is cranky!" he smirked. "What's wrong? You're not nervous, are you?"

"It just is not necessary!" Ludwig muttered angrily, finally lighting the last candle. "Besides, I am not ready for bed yet."

Gilbert started to undress anyway. "Why not? What could you possibly have to do?

"My evening prayers."

"Instead of coming to bed with me?" Gilbert pouted and gave a little whimper.

Ludwig growled low in his throat. "Are all Winter Fairies like you?"

"HA!" Gilbert let out. "Hell no! I am the one and only awesome Winter Fairy out of the bunch! I'm the strongest fighter, the best looking, and also, the most sought after!

"Then why are you not a Fairy Knight?" He heard Gilbert gasp from the bed.

"For a stupid, stupid reason! It's because I'm not an All-Seasons fairy, that's why! I can only be a fairy soldier, not a knight. It's an old stupid rule that should be done away with! Don't you agree?"

Ludwig straightened his robes and went to the far corner of the room, away from Gilbert, to begin his prayers. "I don't know much of the fairy customs, so please forgive me. Knights in my world are made differently. Now be silent. I have my prayers."

Gilbert, ignoring Ludwig's protest, took off all his clothes and lay naked on the bed. He watched with curiosity as the human remained kneeling on the ground with his back towards the bed. Gilbert could faintly hear Ludwig's voice chanting some words. Fairies were closest to the Green Deity and yet they didn't have to pray like that. Maybe that was the only way humans could become close to the nature they worship? 'What an interesting creature you are, Ludwig.' Gilbert grew bored watching Ludwig pray and ended up falling asleep on the bed.

'Finally!' Ludwig thought, when he heard the fairy's snoring.

Now it was safe to get into bed without the Winter Fairy teasing him. He growled when he saw the pile of white clothes of the floor, indicating that Gilbert was completely naked under those covers. Twitching slightly, Ludwig kept EVERYTHIG on except for his shoes and belt. Carefully, he shifted himself under the covers, tucked the robes between his legs, and lay far away on the edge until he was teetering. The fairy was still snoring beside him, so Ludwig knew he was safe for now. He was still in the fairy realm, a place he thought did not exist until a short time ago. No one back in the human realm would believe him nor would he even say anything about it. For a child to see fairies, it was sweet and innocent, almost expected. If a grown man sees and speaks to fairies…then it's witchcraft. Something about feeling that noose around his neck for a ridiculous notion such as 'witchcraft' left a bad taste in his mouth. Ludwig knew there was no such thing in the human realm, but people would believe anything. This place was full of magic and none of it appeared evil, yet Arthur's magic seemed questionable. Ludwig wondered if Roderich held the same type of power, or if Arthur was strictly the one with dark powers? This led to another question: how did fairies fight? With magic and weapons? With dragons and spells? Gilbert carried a sword with him, and those Light Fairy Knights were dressed in armor so were they similar to human in that aspect? And why did it suddenly get very warm?

Ludwig froze at the feel of a warm body pressed up against his back. A hand slipped around his waist to hold him close and a nose was nuzzling the back of his neck. He heard Gilbert give a soft moan, and then there was a nip at his earlobe. "Gilbert, stop."

"Mmm…why? You obviously enjoy being around me like this."

"I'm not allowed to engage in such acts. Now stop."

Gilbert smirked. "You're in the fairy world now. The law of monks doesn't matter here."

"But a union between fairy and man does matter! Even in your world."

"Then why aren't you pushing me away?"

Ludwig didn't have an answer for that but responded with a soft blush, one he hoped Gilbert didn't see and would go away fast. However, his fears were heightened when he felt himself being rolled over onto his back and a white, shining weight straddled his lap. Ludwig's blue eyes stared up at the fairy perched atop of him, his body paralyzed with adoration. He should be pushing the fairy off of him but instead allowed himself to lie helplessly beneath the other. His eyes trailed over the statuesque body and form with skin of the palest marble. Ludwig dared to let his eyes travel further down, but looked back up when he saw a tuff of pure white hair by Gilbert's groin. Then, his blue eyes were forced (on their own accord) to stare at the pert pink nipples, which had grown tight and erect. But the visual torture didn't stop there, for Gilbert suddenly spread those frosty wings behind him. In a manner meant to be coy, Gilbert brought the top wings around to hide his face and peek out between them. Ludwig swallowed the lump in his throat.

"Do all fairy soldiers act like this?" Ludwig asked. "Are you really a fairy, or an incubus?"

"Keesesesee! I'm something all my own." He spread his wings again and rocked his hips above Ludwig's groin. "It doesn't hurt to master as many techniques as you can!" He kept his rocking slow and sensual. "I'm deadly with a sword and sharp at the tongue. I pull any fairy into a brawl and win if they mock or challenge me. I'm the best gambler in the courts." He arched his back for a second, and then bent himself over to place his hands beside Ludwig's head, peering down at him. "Sometimes sex is more powerful than a sword. I walk in a room and heads turn, male or female. Even other species. You see, Ludwig, human morals mean very little here." With that, he brought Ludwig's lips into a kiss.

Ludwig felt his body responding to the kiss, and though clumsy at it, he kissed back. Gilbert's mouth was warm against his own. He brought his hands up to cup the narrow waist, feeling toned muscle beneath smooth skin. They moved up along Gilbert's body to touch the ends of the wings, which made the fairy pull away to moan and shiver. Ludwig's hands quickly pulled away, but his palms were decorated with sparkling snow that quickly melted away. The snow was enough to break him from the trance and he sat up with Gilbert in his lap. "Stop this! I've let myself go too far already! We can't do this!"

Gilbert smirked. "There's something big and hard pressing against my ass right now. I wonder what that could be?"

Ludwig blushed furiously. "It's nothing! I am a holy monk! I will not give in to such earthy desires!" He shoved the fairy off of him. "Now please…I ask of you, stop with this."

The fairy just rolled his pink eyes and went to the pile of clothes to put on his undershirt, getting back into the bed. "You're such a prude. But no worries. Soon you'll be pumping into me and licking me all over, like you can't get enough of me." He smirked. "It's only a matter of time."

The monk rolled over. "We shall see about that. Goodnight, Gilbert."

"Night."

Gilbert lay awake until he was certain Ludwig was sleeping before getting up and dressed to go out. He knew the dark castle well, having spent a lot of time here as a child playing with Alfred and Matthew. Matthew was really his friend and Alfred would just pop in to play sometimes. There was even a time, when they were younger, that Gilbert proposed to Matthew. He and Alfred ended up in a fistfight with Matthew screaming for them to stop. But over the years Gilbert's feelings changed to that of mutual friendship. Yet he wasn't on his way to see Matthew, whom he knew would be asleep and locked away tight in his chambers. Instead, Gilbert made his way out into the black gardens to roam the grounds. There was a particular someone he was searching for but the said person found him first.

"Out for a night stroll, Gilbert?"

The fairy turned to narrow his eyes at Ivan. "I came to seek you out."

"Oh?" Ivan grinned. "Splendid! I caught the scent of you on the night breeze and followed." He licked his lips. Gilbert wasn't fazed by it.

"Like that will ever happen again. I saw the look you gave me earlier tonight. I fucked you once on a whim; don't think I'll do it again. You've been hot on my trail like a simple mutt in heat. It's pitiful."

Ivan smiled dangerously at him. "Forgive me if I like to mark and mate what is mine."

Gilbert threw his head back and laughed. "Yours? Hell, like I would let THAT happen. I belong to no one but myself! I choose what to do with my body because it's mine!

"So does a whore." Ivan smiled when Gilbert's sword aimed at his throat.

"Sprout such a term to me again and it'll be the last time you speak."

Ivan wagged his black bushy tail. "You can't kill me. I pose no actual threat to the fairy realm. I am a neutral being, doing no more than I have to. I just like a little meat on the side, yes?" He wiggled his brows. Gilbert lowered the sword. "Far be it from me to judge you, Gilbert. Since you cannot become a Fairy Knight, you must make up for that lack of power in other ways."

"This is true." Gilbert sheathed his sword. "One day I will have my chance to change this realm and do away with its old rules."

Ivan transformed back into the phantom dog form. 'Then let's hope that day comes, for then I will be able to court you properly.'

"You're barking up the wrong tree, pal." Gilbert smirked. "Off with you."

'So cruel. You heart is as cold as the frost on your wings.'

Gilbert flew off into the air. 'I'm not a cold person. I have a warm heart like the summer. I have a gentle side, like the spring. Sometimes I feel sad and lonely, like trees in autumn. But I can be cruel and harsh just like winter.' He perched on top of a dark tree, looking out into the fairy world. 'Just because I do not wield all the elements does not mean I can't feel like them. Shouldn't that count for something?' He shimmied his wings. 'I hope that monk can help me out with this a bit. I get the feeling he's the type of guy who can properly change things without even knowing it.' He snickered. 'He's the first male to ever dismiss my advances. We'll have to work on that.' He laughed out loud and tore up into the night sky. "I love breaking in new toys!"

/

Arthur sat his desk in the main chambers writing up the document for Roderich. The candles had all burned down to the very bottom as the night drew on in silence, save for the scratching of a quill. Arthur heard the curtains shaking as a large shadow fell upon him, growing even larger on the wall ahead. The king smiled and dipped his quill into the ink, flashing his eyes purple to change the liquid to green. He always wrote in green. "Coming back a little late, aren't we, Francis?"

"Forgive me, but I was romancing a buxom brunette with green eyes." Francis chuckled when Arthur's green eyes glared at him. "I'm joking, Arthur." He floated over to his lover and hugged his neck. "You're the only one for me. The love of my life…the mother of my children…the brightest star in-"

"I get it, Francis. Just stop before I get sick of the sweetness." He turned his head around to kiss the other's lips.

"Hmm…what are you writing?"

"A marriage proposal." Arthur signed the document. "We spoke to that monk today and he brought papers from Roderich. The monk had some interesting ideas that I am curious to explore."

"Who's going to be married? Not you, I hope. I don't want to share you with anyone! I'd duel them!"

"No, not me." He picked the wax holder up and off the flame to pour a small circle of the red substance under his signature. "It's for our son, Alfred." He took the stamp and pressed the imprint of their family seal into the wax.

Francis backed up, surprised. "Alfred? Our Alfred?"

Arthur blew on the drying wax. "Yes, our eldest."

"But Queen Elizaveta has no children."

"Then they will offer up someone instead. If a marriage proposal goes over well, then our courts have reasons to be on…shall we say…mutual speaking terms? If I play my cards right, and Alfred doesn't screw this up, our son will obtain two thrones. Two, Francis." He stood up with a grin. "Both Dark and Light will become one kingdom. As long as I am still alive I will rule through Alfred and help to train him to be a true king. Isn't that what you want for your son?"

Francis sat down on the bed, crossing his arms. "Alfred is not fit for a proper marriage, Arthur. You know this. He's too young and ambitious to settle down with a wife. Or a husband."

"Husband, most certainly. Alfred enjoys women, but he prefers men." Arthur smirked, returning to his desk to fold the document. "Which is good, for women are more vindictive than men. Or rather, they're more sneaky and tricky about it. I'll not have my son led around by an ambitious woman. She can only rule through Alfred, and to do that, she needs to control him and women certainly have that power."

Francis chuckled. "While that is true in some cases, it's not the real reason behind your methods. The female part of you just can't bear the thought of another woman cuddling your son." Arthur turned to glare lizard-like eyes at him, the pupils glowing bright green. "It's the truth. A son is a son until he takes a wife."

"Silence, you old fool!" He sealed the folded paper with the wax seal.

He sighed. "But why Alfred? Why not Matthew?"

"As if you would let me give Matthew over to a marriage so easily." Arthur went over to the curtains, pulling them closed. "Matthew is your favorite son. He is more like you, but the only difference is, is that he is shy. Matthew is my youngest son…my little songbird." Arthur turned to Francis and smiled sweetly. "He may have nearly killed me at birth, but the end result is all worth it." He sat next to Francis. "Matthew is too trusting for something like this. He'd be eaten alive. Alfred needs less protection, while I'll have to destroy anyone and everyone who threatens my Mattie. Our Mattie."

Francis let his lover's blonde head rest on his shoulder. "But Alfred is more troublesome and rash. Very, very rash. Yet you seem to downplay Matthew a lot. Just because he is quiet and well behaved does not mean he can't fend for himself. It's always the quiet and shy ones to watch out for. Matthew may end up being the most dangerous one of all." Francis smiled.

"Never. Not my little Mattie. But Alfred has always been difficult. He was trouble in the womb, he was trouble coming out, and he drove me nuts every single day of his life. Yet he is able to handle this sort of mission. Alfred I know will be safe while playing the field. Matthew is too gullible and can be tricked. And Matthew IS, after all, your favorite.

"I love Alfred just a much."

Arthur pulled away to look at him. "But you love Matthew more. It's okay, Francis. Both our boys are polar opposites. I can't help but love them both dearly, even troublesome Alfred, who deserves to be taken over my knee daily and spanked for his antics. How many times have I threatened to put little Alfred in a basket and send him down river?"

"If anyone other than you said that about Alfred, you'd have their tongues cut out." Arthur rolled his eyes and Francis kissed his lovers forehead. "I'm closer to Matthew because I was allowed to hold and care for him. When Alfred was born, your first born, I wasn't allowed near him or you!" Francis' features grew sad then. "Matthew was the only one you let me near when I came back…after he was just a few days old. The others…never." He was referring to the two miscarriages and one stillbirth Arthur had had in between Alfred and Matthew. Francis had never been there for any of the births, and every day he regretted it. Arthur tried to never speak of those three horrible times.

"Why speak of those times, Francis?" Arthur pushed away from him and stood up, walking back to the desk. "I try to push them out of my mind." He wiped the tears from his eyes, and then took a deep breath. "Ludwig, the monk, and Gilbert, leave tomorrow to bring back our terms. Alfred has agreed to a marriage, so let us hope for the best."

Francis got up and went over to him, placing both hands on the other's shoulders. "Our boys are growing up. Soon they won't need us anymore." He nipped at Arthur's ear. "Let's have another baby…after a year or two."

Arthur scoffed. "I think I'm too old for that. Labor is very hard for me…downright destructive…and with all the shit that is going on now…I won't have time to raise another baby. You even said so yourself."

Francis smiled and moved his arms to wrap around Arthur's waist. "Well, things change. I want a little girl, a princess. My little princess. Daddy's little girl. That's what I want." He said dreamily.

"So you can spoil her rotten? I think not. If you need a princess then put Matthew in a dress."

Francis laughed. "Just think about, love. Okay?"

Arthur rolled his eyes, but smiled. "Okay."

/

The next morning, Gilbert led them back to the Light Court where the fairy nobility eagerly greeted them. Ludwig carried the document from King Arthur safely tucked in his robes, telling the knights Vash and Berwald that he would deliver the paper to Roderich's hands only. Both knights appeared annoyed and insulted at the command, but nonetheless summoned the king to the meeting hall. Only Ludwig was allowed into the meeting hall and not Gilbert. The Winter Fairy protested and complained loudly, but Berwald simply dragged him off, saying the fairy had winter work to start. Ludwig watched as Gilbert was carried away but thrilled to have the tempting being away from him. He couldn't stop thinking about last night, and how perfect Gilbert's body was. Ludwig even had a short dream where Gilbert was beckoning him over to a bed made entirely of stuffed swans set in front of a massive marble fountain. When he awoke from the dream, he found himself to be rock hard and his balls were aching. Luckily, Gilbert had not been next to him when he awoke, so praying for forgiveness, he took 'care' of his little sin.

Ludwig took a seat at the head of the meeting table, opposite of the larger chair that was for the king. Strangely, Ludwig did not see a chair for the queen beside or near the king's. He preferred the queen's company to the king's. Roderich was a little stiff while Elizaveta was more easy-going. Ludwig sat patiently at the table with the parchment in his hand while a cup of wine and some cheese were offered to him. One of the doors opened and Ludwig stood up only to see another person enter the room. The fairy had shoulder length brown hair and green eyes. Judging by the color of his golden sheer wings, he was a summer fairy. The other main door opened as well, yet only Vash and Berwald entered. The new fairy came over to him with a light smile and reached out to shake his hand.

"Hello Ludwig, I'm Toris, Roderich's advisor. Vash and Berwald will be joining us as well. It shall be only us four."

"Nice to meet you. What about the queen?"

"She's out with a patrol party right now. King Roderich will be here very shortly so I'll take the document and start reading it over." Toris reached his hand out to take it but Ludwig pulled it away.

"I would like to hand it to King Roderich himself. Those were my orders from King Arthur."

Berwald gave a soft grunt. "You take orders from the Dark King very well."

"That's his job as the envoy, don't forget." Vash pointed out. "He has to be neutral for both sides so we don't have to."

The other door opened again and a guard banged his spear bottom on the floor. "Make way for the king!" The guard called. Toris, Vash, and Berwald bowed right away, and Ludwig followed dutifully after. Roderich took his seat and summoned over a servant to bring him some nectar. The knights and Toris took their seats along the table.

"Did King Arthur send back word?" Roderich asked.

"He did, sir. Here is the document, still sealed." Ludwig held up the paper and Roderich told Toris to bring it to him. Ludwig handed it over without protest and waited patiently for the king to finish reading it. He found himself staring at the king's strange cup, which was floating by itself an inch above the table and resembled some kind of horn. Roderich took a break in reading to drink, and then noticed Ludwig's curious stare. Ludwig turned away quickly.

"Are you interested in my cup?" The king asked

"It's floating, sir." Ludwig replied. "It's a curious thing."

Roderich smiled. "Indeed it is. This is a unicorn horn. Extremely rare, and a mortal sin to even kill one. It has been in my family for generations. But there is something very unique and special about this particular horn. It purifies any liquid poured into it. That includes all poisons and spells."

Ludwig's eyes widened. "Amazing…and it, never fails? It never runs out of magic?"

"Unicorn magic is immortal. It is one of my most prized possessions." He sipped from the horn and went back to reading. Toris was writing some things down on paper and the knights were sitting silent and poised. Ludwig felt a little uncomfortable in the silence, and usually he was the silent one. As Roderich read through he gave a few huffs and snorts from time to time. Once done, the king handed the document over to Toris to read next. "The Dark King suspects MY SUBJECTS of luring that boy into the woods? How preposterous! We of the Light Court take care of and defend children, not wish them harm."

Berwald spoke first. "Should we send out a party to look for rogue fairies, then? If neither court lured that boy, then maybe other forces are at work."

Roderich gave a nod. "Ask around the city town for information of anything suspicious before moving out." The knight gave a curt bow.

"But there is an even more remarkable proposition in that document, one that I am quite surprised about." Roderich turned his purple eyes on Ludwig. "Apparently, you had a hand in this offer of marriage?"

"Marriage?" Vash slammed his fist on the table. "What marriage can King Arthur possibly offer? He has two sons and you have no children!"

Ludwig cleared his throat. "Permission to speak?" Roderich waved his hand. "I offered this proposition because it has worked in my world to help end feuds and territorial wars. King Arthur appeared to like the idea and offers his eldest son in marriage to…a fairy of your choosing?"

"Hmph." Roderich tapped his index finger on the table. "No nobleman would give up their son or daughter to marry a Dark Court rogue."

Toris looked up at Roderich. "Are you considering the notion of a royal marriage?

"Arthur makes a few good points." Roderich answered. "Our only issue is that we have no one to offer on a noble or royal level."

Ludwig was about to speak but then Vash interfered. "We shouldn't need to offer a noble fairy to the Dark Court. It is well rumored that Prince Alfred and Prince Matthew are not of true royal blood, that their birth father is a commoner."

"It shouldn't matter." Ludwig stated plainly.

"But Knight Vash may be on to something." Toris said, stroking his chin. "Not offering over a noble fairy might be to our advantage."

Roderich took a sip from his cup. "Explain further, but I think I see where you're heading."

"King Arthur knows about those rumors very well." Toris started. "He's been defending himself almost every day to his own people as well ours throughout the years. He'll know that our king is aware of said rumors and must act accordingly to code. We shall offer up a fairy commoner of good name, one just slightly above the peasants. We must find a way to word this nicely so to not offend King Arthur in any way."

Ludwig spoke next. "The Dark Court just wants a mutual peace between you. He hopes that it will be a safe way to share that holy land you've all been fighting for. Perhaps the younger generation can fix what the elders couldn't. This marriage is intended to keep the fighting at bay while negotiations are met."

"We are well aware of that, Ludwig." Roderich replied. "I do agree with the marriage proposal, and I would like to go with Toris' idea of a commoner. The fairy we pick will be granted the privilege of being my ward, which would give a part of a noble title. Prince Alfred requests a male, so we will give him one. And if something bad should befall the marriage then there will be no noble family to get upset and rally the fairies. I will be able to handle it peacefully and cleanly."

"Can we wait for a true royal marriage?" Berwald asked flatly. "It will please the old blood of the nobility on both sides if we were to do that. The nobility will even be more willing to make peace and cooperate."

Roderich cleared his throat. "If that happens, then we will offer up a new marriage proposal when our child comes of proper age. By that time, I'm sure Arthur would have popped out another child. Each time I've seen him, or rather HER, she's been pregnant. For now, a commoner is what we have to work with. Now, we must think of a commoner that will be useful to our cause. Does anyone have any nominees?"

Ludwig raised his hand. "Prince Alfred is very vain and…difficult to deal with. He will need a fairy male that can match his level of activity as well as handle his brash and rash attitude. I met Alfred only one night, and I know he'll need someone tough and harsh who will be able to handle him."

Roderich smirked. "Someone like you?" Ludwig nearly swallowed his tongue and turned bright red. "I'm joking."

Vash offered a name next. "Gilbert wanders around that place a lot. He always has. Gilbert is just as loud, obnoxious, playful, and vain as Alfred is. Let's offer up him, and get the Winter Fairy out of our hair."

Ludwig stared at the blonde knight, feeling a strong wave of jealousy wash over him at the mention of Gilbert. Would Roderich agree to this? And why was he so concerned over whom Gilbert was going to be married to? Was he truly jealous of a person he cannot have because of taboo? He barely knew Gilbert, so how could he feel so strongly about the fairy lying with another intimately?

"Gilbert would be able to handle the harshness of Dark Court living." Toris offered. "Gilbert is very pretty and most likely Alfred wouldn't mind having him as a wife."

"Gilbert representing the Light Court?" Berwald raised a curious brow. "Is that wise? Gilbert is a known rebel and troublemaker. If everyone is marching left, he'll march right. I vote 'no' for Gilbert."

Ludwig gave a little smile

"I vote 'yes' for Gilbert." Vash crossed his arms.

Toris looked at Roderich. "Your highness? What are your thoughts?"

Roderich sighed softly. "Yes, it is true that Gilbert is a rebel and very, very complicated to deal with." He rolled his eyes. "Just like Alfred is. However, Gilbert and I have grown up together since we were young. He was and still is a well-to-do commoner while I am royalty. One thing about that Winter Fairy, despite all his flaws, is that he is fiercely loyal to our court as were his fathers before him. While the man may be hard to handle and even more difficult to understand, he would NEVER betray us. I wouldn't say all this if I did not believe it was true.

"Then it's settled. We'll offer Gilbert to Prince Alfred." Toris stood from the table. "I will begin writing up the papers for a marriage proposal tonight."

Ludwig stood. "Shouldn't we ask Gilbert first?"

"He'll have to do it." Roderich answered calmly. "His king commands it."

Ludwig's blonde brows drew together. "That's not fair. Gilbert should be allowed to make his own decision as well as have a say in it."

The king sighed. "Very well, we'll get this done now. Knight Berwald, go and fetch Gilbert. Bring him here."

The larger fairy left without a word and shortly came back with Gilbert flying behind him. Ludwig looked at the Winter Fairy who appeared extremely suspicion by all the eyes that were set upon him. The monk knew this was not going to go over so well, once Gilbert heard the news. The fairy was a mighty rebel, and chances are he was opposed to arranged marriages. Gilbert wants to be a knight, not a 'wife'. But the worse of it was Ludwig did not want to see Gilbert with anyone else. That feeling of jealousy reared its ugly head again, and he didn't like it. He seemed to be losing control of his body, something he always kept well reserved while living in the temple. Meeting Gilbert had begun to change all that.

"Alright, why am I here now when I wasn't allowed earlier?" Gilbert asked in annoyance and crossed his arms at Roderich.

"We have a mission for you." The king responded simply. "I have agreed to King Arthur's terms for a marriage between our courts, and the five of us have already decided who it will be."

Gilbert uncrossed his arms. "Oh, that's good news then! It'll probably work out good and we can- " he froze when realization struck him "just whom are we speaking of?"

"You're well suited for the job." Roderich replied. "You've know the dark princes for years and they are familiar with you. I know you've shared dinners at King Arthur's table as a young boy. We are certain that King Arthur's sons aren't of royal blood, so we cannot offer someone on our side with noble blood. It needs to be a commoner of good name and fierce loyalty." Purple eyes narrowed in Gilbert's direction. "Your family has always served the fairy kings well, and I hope you would continue to carry on the loyalty."

Gilbert's face grew red with anger. "I can't believe this! My family has served as fiercely loyal FIGHTERS! On my waist I carry the sword of my family, passed down to each son since the beginning of time!" He drew out his sword. "I'm a soldier! A fighter! I make my own choices and I will not accept something so…so…meaningless as an arranged marriage to a punk prince I've fought with!"

Ludwig had to turn his face to hide the little smile on his lips. He knew Gilbert would act like this, but the big question was would Roderich dismiss the marriage or push for it?

"Gilbert," Toris started calmly "you have always wanted to be a Fairy Knight, everyone knows that. Since you do not share all of the elements such a title is restricted for you. But look at the opportunity we are giving you! The only thing higher than a knight is a prince, and being married to one makes you a noble. Isn't that more appealing?" He smiled.

"No, Toris, it's not! I belong on the battlefield with my brothers in arms defending the Light Court from our enemies! Not sitting around in a sewing circle while eating teacakes and singing and playing music and…and whatever else it is ladies do!"

Ludwig couldn't help but picture the image Gilbert doing all the things he had just spoke of.

"That's basically what you're sending me off to! And to MARRY Alfred?" He stuck his tongue out and made a gagging noise. "I rather have Matthew."

"Matthew is not an option." Roderich quickly stated. "I'm also choosing you for this because I know you can handle it well. Correct me if I'm wrong, Gilbert, but you aren't exactly innocent in these matters of affairs." He folded his hands on the table, waiting for Gilbert's answer that never came. "See? Don't think I'm not aware of your antics, Gilbert. You will do this for us because your king commands it."

Gilbert was about to protest again when Ludwig stepped in. "Your highness, it seems you are leaving out a big chunk of what Gilbert's true mission is." Roderich just waved his hand to let Ludwig continue on. "Gilbert," the fairy looked at him "aside from this marriage, we need you to not only keep the peace between the kingdoms, but also to be a spy for us. As long as you are engaged to Alfred and doing…whatever it is you're to do, you will be protecting everyone here in your kingdom. You may not be doing it with a sword and bloodshed like you want, but think of all the innocent lives that will be spared thanks to your sacrifice. Also, you have a much better advantage because you know the Dark Fairy family. Plus-"

"You will be the next king or queen of the Dark Court." Vash said quickly. "And remember, there is nothing written ANYWHERE that says you HAVE to remain married to Alfred. Marriage can always find a way to become null and void when everything needed is gained. Understand?" The knight stared intently at Gilbert, daring the fairy to say otherwise.

"Wisely stated, Sir Vash." Toris said, rubbing his forehead.

"Play your cards right and you'll come out on top." Berwald turned to speak to Gilbert. "But don't think you're in the clear. Chances are the Dark Court has their own agendas and plots within this marriage, so you have to be alert and aware. This is why we have Ludwig, to safely deliver messages back and forth."

Gilbert looked at Ludwig with a glare. "I see we took the monk's advice in this matter."

"I didn't know who the king was going to pick, Gilbert." Ludwig replied. "Do not blame me. I had nothing to do with the choosing."

"By doing this you will become King Roderich's ward." Toris stated. "You will have a title to your name, Gilbert."

"Yeah, only by marriage and nothing else!" Gilbert sneered. "While I don't like the sound of any of this…Ludwig's words have helped to make my choice." He crossed his arms. "I will be protecting the fairy folk of our court, and that is a very important aspect." He narrowed his gaze at Roderich. "I will not be doing this for anything else other than the safety of our court." He looked at Ludwig. "It's a sacrifice as you said…but an honorable one." Gilbert turned back to Roderich. "But I have a few demands of my own if I am going to do this willingly."

Roderich rolled his eyes. "What are they?"

"First, I want to read the document you send to the king to make sure you aren't sneaking anything in I don't agree with. Second, the Light Court, not the Dark Court, will judge me should things go wrong. Third, I have every right to agree or disagree with whatever strange marriage ceremony or words the Dark Court has. And fourth, after all this is over," he smirked "you will make me a fairy knight.'

"Those certainly are a lot of terms." Toris chuckled nervously. "Your majesty?"

"Hmph. Why not? Toris, write up a contract stating Gilbert's demands for us to sign. Knight Vash, start preparing an entourage for the tradeoff. No doubt King Arthur will want a gift along with Gilbert, so go to Sadiq and have him making something out of gold. I don't care what it is. Ludwig, after you see your little boy I want you to wait patiently in your world until a message is sent for your return. You will be delivering the papers to the Dark Court and share our terms. Knight Berwald will see you safely through the portal to the human realm. Gilbert will remain with Toris and I to speak further on this marriage issue. Meeting adjourned."

Ludwig kept his gaze on Gilbert as Berwald led him from the room, but the Winter Fairy never turned to see him leave. The monk couldn't really fault Gilbert for the fairy was just handed life-changing news. Returning to the human world was quicker than leaving it, and the fairy knight made sure to guide him all the way through. Ludwig continued to look at the large green cloud sparkling bright, briefly wondering if this was a dream. To find out if all this really happened, Ludwig reached into his pouch to search for the vial. When his fingers touched the small bottle, Ludwig knew right then that everything he witnessed had actually happened and now was part of the fairy conflict. The moon was still out in this realm, which meant the fairies were right in saying that there was no time in their world. Ludwig remembered Daniel then and knew he had to get this blood to the boy. However, when he turned from the green cloud, fear washed over him. He did not know which way Gilbert had come from nor did he know how to get back to the temple.

Grunting in annoyance and hating himself for not watching when Gilbert pulled him along, Ludwig figured if he just kept straight then he would find his way out of the forest. Just as he started to walk he got the feeling that he wasn't alone. Did Berwald come back? Or maybe it was Gilbert? He looked around the dark woods, searching for anyone or anything that might be out there. Ludwig was unable to hear anything other than the wind brushing leaves from the trees and ground. Still, he felt as though he was being watch, like there was a presence with him. Taking one shaking step forward, Ludwig caught sight of the phantom black dog some feet in front of him. "Ivan." He whispered the name, as his blue eyes remained focused on the red saucers. The large beast kept his eyes on Ludwig as it walked towards him. Ludwig clutched the belt sack tightly to his waist, fearing that the creature had come to take back the blood that was given. Then, the black dog stopped in front of him completely silent and still. Ludwig swallowed and asked, "why are you following me?"

'I sense an amazing amount of fear from you, monk. What has you frightened so?'

"A servant of death and disease stands before me. What am I suppose to feel?"

'I do no more than what is needed of me. I do not always warn of death and sickness for I have other duties as well. I am here to accompany you safely back to your temple.'

Ludwig looked into the red eyes. "Why would you want to help me?"

'I rarely give up my blood to save another, but I fear that young boy is growing nearer to death if you don't arrive soon. So swallow your fear and follow me.

"How do I know you are speaking the truth? How do I know you aren't secretly angry that King Arthur made you offer up your blood and have come to take it back?"

Ivan went up on his hind legs then and his form stood taller than Ludwig. 'Aren't you a clever little human.' Ivan's dog lips curled into a horrifying grin of sharp fangs and teeth. 'I may serve the dark king, yet I still have my own ambitions and rules. So either follow me and take the chance, or end up lost in the woods with the death of young boy on your mind. Your choice.' Ivan lowered himself back onto on fours, turned, and began to walk away.

Ludwig bit his lip, trying to make his knees stop shaking before following after Ivan. He still had his doubts, but he also had no choice. Ivan had made a valid point. Daniel was depending on him. "I'm following."

Ivan had been true to his word and soon they were out of the woods and looking at the temple. 'I have seen you safely home.'

"Thank you. I apologize for doubting you."

The creature smiled again. 'I'm not good, but I'm not evil either. I'm something very special all together.' He giggled. 'I'm sure I'll be seeing you soon? In the fairy realm, I mean.'

"Yes. I am to wait for a messenger to bring me back. Thank you for seeing me home."

'Consider yourself lucky, monk. I normally only accompany women on their way home this late at night.'

"That is very noble of you. I must get to Daniel. Thank you again.

Ludwig was relieved to get away from Ivan even if the creature was true to his word. Something about being around a creature of death unnerved him, as it would any human! But right now, saving Daniel's life was his only concern. Not the fairy realm, not

Gilbert, and not Ivan.

The temple was completely dark, which meant that everyone had gone to bed. Entering through the kitchens, Ludwig lit one of the lanterns to help light his way through the dark halls. He froze when he heard some voices, but they were coming from inside the dormitories. The other monks were still awake but in their beds. There was no time for him to put the blood in soup or bread without being found out, so Ludwig would have to give it to the boy straight. Reaching the children's room, he first listened to see if anyone was up. Hearing silence, he slowly turned the knob and entered the dark room. Seeing that everyone was asleep he tiptoed to Daniel's bed where the boy was whimpering with a heavy fever. His brow and face were dotted with sweat and his sleep was clearly plagued with distress.

Keeping his back to the others incase of any peekers, Ludwig pulled the boy into his lap and took out the vial. Popping the cork, he carefully tilted the boys' head back and poured the blood down his throat. He did it in small bouts so as to not force the boy to choke. The sleeping child easily took the blood and answered with only a moan of pain, and then fell back to sleep. Ludwig's eyes widened, seeing as the beet red face turned back to a healthy tan and the beads of sweat melted away. The boy gave a yawn and snuggled into Ludwig's chest, smiling sweetly as he continued to sleep. It had worked! Pure magic! Ludwig gave the boy a gentle hug and sighed in relief, grateful that the boy will live. He placed Daniel back on the bed and covered him up, stroking the now cool forehead. But his happiness was cut short when, upon leaving, he noticed a child's bed was empty. Worriedly, Ludwig counted the children in the bed, recognizing each one except for the youngest little girl, Rosa. "Rosa?" he whispered her name, looking under the bed and around the room. "Rosa!" He called, a bit harsher this time.

He finally caught sight of the three year old in the far back of the room, talking gibberish to one of the large potted plants. Ludwig furrowed his brows and walked over to her, holding the lantern up high to get a better look. From inside the plant, a pair of small eyes reflected in the flame of the light. Ludwig gasped in shock, nearly dropping the lantern. The little girl turned to see him after he gasped, but his eyes were focused on that potted plant…and the leaves shaking slightly. Was it a rat? A raccoon?

"Rosa," he whispered, "come to me. Right now." The little girl stood up and went to him, clutching the bottom of his robes silently. "What's in the plant?" He didn't expect an answer for the little girl could barely talk clearly. Whatever it was in the plant it could understand Rosa's gargled speech. 'A fairy?' Ludwig narrowed his eyes. 'One that Daniel speaks of?' Holding his breath, Ludwig reached for the plant and pressed the thick stems aside to glimpse at an ugly, child-sized creature that immediately poofed out of sight. 'No!' He heard a giggling sound and turned to the door, where the creature had reappeared. "Rosa, stay here!"

Ludwig ran towards the creature, which already took off in a hopping run like a rabbit. He followed it through the halls and down the steps while the grueling giggles were threatening to drive him mad. The creature was too fast for him and the darkness of the temple slowed him down. He had chased it all the way to the back doors where it simply jumped through the thick wood. Ludwig dropped the lantern to throw the doors open, looking left and right for signs of the creature. There was nothing but darkness and silence. 'What was that thing? Why is it in the children's room?' He sneered. 'Filthy little beast! I must tell Roderich about this immediately when I see him! That was no fairy just now.'

"Ludwig!" The monk nearly jumped out of his skin when he heard his name from behind. Three fellow monks were in their sleeping robes with candles, looking at him with curious stares. "We heard noise and running, what's going on?"

"Um…it was a…a rat. Yes, a rat in the children's room." He cleared his throat. "I went to check on Daniel and the others, happening to find it in the potted plant. I chased it out."

The second monk looked impressed. "Wow. Job well done. I guess we'll go into town tomorrow and buy some traps. Rats carry deadly diseases."

"Right." Ludwig picked up the lantern. "I think I'll spend a little more time in the children's room tonight. Make sure there aren't any others."

"You're a good man, Ludwig." Said the third. "Good work."

Ludwig bid them all goodnight and went back to the children's room. Rosa was back in bed and already asleep. The other children were asleep as well so Ludwig took the chance to search the room. This creature must be what the fairy kings were speaking of. Both men said that they did not send any fairies to kidnap or speak to children. Ludwig only wished there was a way to get a message back to the kings immediately. If he was going to help them with their war, then they can help him protect this temple and its children. They were already giving Gilbert away, and he'd be damned if he'd let something horrible befall these innocent children. 'Gilbert?' Ludwig froze, quickly recalling the words he had just said about the Winter Fairy. 'I'm speaking of him as if he is my lover, or my intended.' He turned bright red.

'Just yesterday I was happily fetching water from the well and raking up leaves. How could so much happen and go so wrong so quickly?' What was happening?

/

"Your majesty, I find it very strange that you are having me write up demands for Gilbert." Toris said, dipping his quill in the ink to keep writing.

"His demands are ridiculous." Roderich popped a grape in his mouth. "I won't actually honor them."

Toris turned to look at the king sitting in front of the fireplace. "You won't? But why not?"

"I'm sure things will have changed by the time all this is done. I'm hoping for Gilbert to actually fall in love and remain there. Or even better hope that he can charm Alfred enough to where he can have complete control. Gilbert has the ability to do this, but I won't allow him to become a Fairy Knight. He isn't capable of the job and I must follow the fairy code of conduct. I just have to keep him happy for a short while until all this is over."

Toris frowned at the contract before him. "I think you really should honor these terms, Roderich." He said casually. "We are forcing a lot on Gilbert. How do we know if the young prince will be kind to him? Gilbert IS sacrificing a lot on his end."

Roderich ate another grape. "Arthur would put an end to it right away should his son attempt such brutality. The man is our enemy but he is not a barbarian. I can even see him looking at Gilbert as another son. We have nothing to fear. Gilbert will be fine. Now continue writing. We have to prepare for a royal wedding."

End Chapter 3 TBC
- 2
- 3
- 4
You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.
Report Story

Tempus Vernum