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Storm of War	By : FlayraDowitcher Category: +G to L > Hetalia: Axis Powers Views: 1886 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own Hetalia. This fic is for fun. I'm not making any money off of this fanfiction

Chapter List
- 5
- 6
- 7
***This is my longest chapter for this story so far and a lot of things happen! Be warned…not all of them are nice.

***Warnings: Hardcore yaoi, blood and violence, foul language, some disturbing images and scenes (There is some lighthearted fluff too so don’t worry! <3)

***Disclaimer: I do not own Hetalia.

Chapter 6

Later in the evening, Alfred and Ivan were getting ready for bed after the long day. Alfred had still wanted time to think before he spoke to Ivan and was able to avoid him for most of the day. The news from Lovino reached his ears and that had brought a small smile to his face. Ivan was preoccupied with the content of Lovino’s letter and had been searching for the young queen. But the man was seemed impossible to see since Sadik appeared to keep him on a tight leash. He noticed how quiet Alfred was as he was tucking Gabe into the crib. Usually he would be babbling and singing some lullaby off-tune but tonight he appeared troubled. Ivan was certain it had to do with Alfred’s meeting today and the man had been avoiding him. He decided it was best to talk about it with Alfred now since he had nowhere to escape to. Taking off the vest and leaving just the pants on, Ivan made his way to the bed. The air was warm and Alfred had kept just his pants on as well. The pure look of lost and concern on Alfred’s face meant that something other than talking had happened at the meeting and Ivan was growing angry. He quickly took a deep breath to calm himself before sitting next his rose.

“How was the meeting today?”

“Interesting.”

“Just interesting?” Ivan rubbed his lover’s thigh. “What did he say? I haven’t really had the chance to talk to you.”

“Lots of things…he managed to make me question my own philosophy…and he has offered to share half of his land. However, he’d still be in charge of what we did with it and I can bet he would want a percentage for it. He’s very secretive as well…it’s almost as if he’s playing a game with us. I don’t know how to read him.”

“That’s all he had to say? I find that hard to believe.”

“Well, I can’t remember every word that was passed but he did offer up a marriage proposal to keep peace between our kingdoms. He would want either Kiku, Yao, Vash, or Heracles.”

“Out of the question. All four of them would never agree to it and there is no guarantee that it will keep ‘peace’. What else did he say?” Alfred turned from him and settled himself more comfortably on the bed now that Gabe was asleep. “Alfred? You’re not telling me something…what happened? What else did he say?”

“So Francis hasn’t spoken to you?”

“Francis? No not at all. Why?” Alfred sighed and decided it was best for it to come from him anyway.

“Promise you won’t get mad?”

“Fuck, Alfred…” he hissed. “What did he do to you?”

“I said don’t get angry!” He slapped his palms on the bed.

“Just tell me! I won’t go crazy, okay? I promise! Just tell me.” Alfred gripped the silk sheets in his fists and grit his teeth.

“I wanted to punch the bastard in that smirking mouth of his and shatter all those white teeth!” Ivan blinked in surprise at Alfred’s harsh words.

“I haven’t seen this side of you in a long time…not counting our scuffle some months ago.”

“Ivan, I swear to you that all I was doing in that meeting was trying to come to logical conclusions dealing with our kingdoms! He made a total of three offers and I have already spoken of the first two. He said…he said he…oh, to hell with it! He said that if I spent one night with him ‘passionately’ that he would agree to all our proposals! I took it as a very inappropriate statement and if he weren’t threatening my friends I would have socked him one! Tell me how ridiculous that sounds? Just for ONE night of sex he can just toss caution to the wind and listen to what we say? Well say something, Ivan!” Ivan was still in his spot on the bed as he heard Alfred’s words. He narrowed his eyes at Alfred before he stood up and placed his hands on his hips with his back facing his wife.

“It’s not that ridiculous.” Alfred gasped.

“Are you insane? What the hell do you mean by that? You don’t think I should have said ‘yes’, do you?”

“No, I’m not saying that. I’m saying that using sex to gain power isn’t an unusual thing. Sadik offered that to you because he knows how possessive I am. Knowing that he has had you is something he can hold over me. And it would start a war, Alfred. If he ever made you lay with him I would declare war the second I got word of it.”

“I’m starting to think he wants war, Ivan.” Alfred said seriously. “I don’t like how he is laughing and scoffing at my methods for a peaceful compromise. I have been more patient with him than I should be but now he is starting to rub me the wrong way.” Ivan turned and his crossed his arms, staring at his rose with surprised eyes. “He insists that you and I have had countless numbers of affairs and we both know that it’s not true! I acted very calmly and kept my principles, doing what I could to keep it professional. I was not going to sink to his level and start talking in the same manner of perverted tongue! I’m above that! He’s kidnapped our son, he’s threatening our friends, and he’s toying with us! I want to just take that rat bastard and smash his head into a wall! Or you know what? If I did choose to fuck him like he offered I could have just easily slit his throat and we could be on our merry way!”

“If I didn’t know any better, my rose, I would think YOU are declaring war.” Alfred looked away from him. “No matter how many times I prune my precious rose more thorns just keep popping up…each one bigger than the last.”

“Ivan…” He rubbed his eyes in frustration. “I…I don’t like acting rash and making decisions that could have horrible consequences! All my life I have fucked things up because I don’t think before I take action.” Ivan sat back down on the bed and took Alfred’s face in his hands.

“You’re of higher status now, Alfred. Yes, as a peasant and a servant you had to be careful of what you said and did. You had the farm to worry about and your friends there. But all that is behind you now. You can say what you want. You have no trouble saying what you want to me.” Alfred smiled at that and gave a huffed laugh. “Alfred, listen to me carefully. I believe you have done everything you can to make things go smoothly. Sadik is a difficult man and not everyone can be swayed by words and documents. I think you’ve just had so many successful events in your life with other kingdoms that you’ve grown accustomed to winning.” Ivan grinned. “Admit it, you don’t like to lose. You never did.”

“Shut up.” Alfred pushed away from him and looked down at the bed sheets. “No one LIKES to lose…but…you’re not angry about what he said to me?”

“If I didn’t have Lovino’s plan as an ace up my sleeve I would be knocking down his door right now. However, he would be expecting that. We’ve already given him the satisfaction he wants so…lets ‘surprise’ him instead.” Ivan smirked and pushed Alfred onto the bed, resting his weight on top of him. “He apparently fears this Antonio’s ships so much that he had to kidnap Lovino to use as a shield. If he surrenders that’s great. If not-“

“We wipe the floor with him.” Ivan blinked in surprise again and let his straight lips curve slowly into a mad grin. “And I want to lead one of the armies…or ships…or whatever.” His grin kept widening. “If we stay here much longer I fear more bad things will happen to all of us.”

“If he didn’t want war he would have never given you an offer like that. He wants to fight, Alfred.”

“Then we’ll overthrow him and obtain his kingdom. We’ll- whoa! Ivan? What the hell?” Ivan’s obvious erection was pressing hard enough to break through the pants.

“Keep talking of war and conquest like that and I’ll be painfully hard for hours to come.”

“But…it’s so hot out tonight…and the baby’s asleep-“

“So? We have enough sashes around the posts!” Ivan tore down three of the ones decorating the bedposts. “We’ll just have to gag you so as to not wake the baby. And since you’re suddenly so dangerous…I’ll have to tie you up as well!”

He let the sashes fall onto the bed around Alfred and crushed his lips hard to the other. Alfred gasped into the kiss and felt Ivan’s hand snake around to the back of his head, pressing him closer. It had been a long while since the last time Ivan was so forceful and barbaric during sex that Alfred couldn’t pass it up. Sex always did help to relieve his stress and with Sadik’s words earlier he wanted nothing more than to be taken by Ivan. He had to pull his mouth away to gasp for air but it was quickly brought back to meet his once again with thick probing tongue. Alfred wrapped his arms around Ivan and let his hands travel down the contours of his back, arms, and shoulders. He quickly pictured Sadik’s muscular torso and what it would feel like beneath his hands. The thought was quickly discarded as he let his hands continue to admire Ivan’s body. His body felt more natural and real, unlike Sadik’s that had the appearance of a perfectly carved statue. He didn’t need to experiment with anybody else for the sake of pleasure. In the right mood Ivan could make him shudder and melt with wanton desire with a glance. Even when he was with Arthur it was nothing like what he had with Ivan.

“It’s going to be a long night, my rose.” Ivan said when he finally pulled away, leaving Alfred’s lips swollen and red. He took a green sash from the bed and stroked Alfred’s cheek and lips with it before grabbing both his wrists. Alfred attempted a mock struggle but Ivan’s physical strength always surpassed his own. Of course, there was always the chance that Alfred could overpower him in the bedroom. Ivan may be ungodly strong in battle but in the sanctity of the bedroom Alfred may just be able to win a struggle. “What’s that smirk for?” Ivan wrapped his wrists together tightly.

“Oh…just thinking…about topping you one day.”

“HA! As if.”

“I surprised you tonight, haven’t I?”

“You still would never be able to top me, Alfred. You wouldn’t even be able to hold me down. Don’t speak of such rubbish.” Ivan finished with a harsh bite to Alfred’s neck, leaving a swollen red mark. “I’ll mark this precious body so much that he will KNOW what you were doing tonight. Let us remind him just who you belong to- OW!” Alfred had lifted himself up to sink his teeth into Ivan’s shoulder, drawling blood.

“Then I shall mark you as well…because I can.” Ivan growled low in his throat and took a yellow sash this time.

“Naughty wife. Tsk tsk. And I did so want to hear your voice for a bit longer.” Ivan smirked and pressed the sash between Alfred’s teeth, tying it tightly around the back of his head. Alfred grunted through the material and pressed his legs together in attempts to squeeze Ivan’s waist. His legs and feet were the only defense he had right now. He shrieked when he felt Ivan’s hands grip the top of his pants and tear them from his body. Alfred feared that the loud tearing of the material would wake Gabe but there were no sounds of crying from the cradle. “Now you’ve done it…using these gorgeous legs to attack.” Ivan sat on his haunches and lovingly slid his tongue along one of Alfred’s thighs. “Must I tie them too?”

Alfred muttered something through the sash and used his fists to pound at Ivan’s chest and shoulders in mock protest. Ivan took a purple sash and shifted further down on the bed to tie Alfred’s ankles together. He placed his hands on his hips and smiled proudly as he looked at the perfect display before him. When they declare war on Madylia, Ivan decided that he would use these three colors on a flag as their armies marched onto the land. Only he would know what the colors really meant and it gave him a childish feeling of joy. If he weren’t painfully hard and erect he would have danced happily around the room while clapping his hands in joyous glee. But he had more important things to do, like pound his precious war hungry rose into the silk sheets. He ripped off his own pants in the same manner as Alfred’s and shivered in delight when his cock finally sprang free. Ivan ignored Alfred’s muffled protests as he lifted the bound legs over his head and rests them against his waist.

Alfred’s face was flushed with desire and warmth, his own erection twitching with anticipation. Ivan’s massive cock rubbed teasingly against Alfred’s, making the smaller man whip his head from side to side. He moaned through the material and closed his eyes as he felt Ivan’s member begin to poke at his entrance. He hoped that Ivan would stop and find something to lubricate him with or he would be walking crooked tomorrow. That was something he wished to avoid so he could spare himself the baffled looks from strangers. To his relief, he opened his eyes just as Ivan was heavily coating his fingers with saliva. Alfred thought they were going to his backside to stretch him but instead Ivan’s slick hand started stroking his own erection. Alfred wiggled his bound body and mumbled incoherent words that Ivan happily ignored.

“I want that fucker to recognize whom you belong to…whose bed you occupy every night…and who’s cock you love to fuck yourself on.” He grinned. “I want you walking sideways tomorrow. I want you to have trouble sitting! I want that bastard to know whose cock you were impaled on and how he can NEVER match up!”

Alfred squeezed his eyes shut and cried out into the fabric as Ivan’s slick, rock hard cock slammed into him. His anal muscles contracted and protested against the swift entry but Alfred had felt no real pain. The pain was always mixed with pleasure and if he didn’t have both to collide with the other he would never be able to reach orgasm. His lower back twitched in pain as it was forcefully arched and his lower belly felt full. Alfred thought he could feel his pelvic and hipbones spreading apart to accommodate the massive length. Ivan’s fingernails dug into his soft hips before he began his slow yet solid thrusting. Alfred twisted his body to the side, burying his face into the sheets as the muscles of his insides tingled with excitement. He always loved when Ivan started off with slow, heavy pumps because it helped Alfred picture that thick cock forcing its way deep inside his body. He was able to feel the engorged length slipping in and out of his body; pressing deeper each time it reclaimed his lower regions. He turned his lust-filled eyes to Ivan’s, silently begging him to speed up his thrusts.

“Aw, do you want more?” Ivan pulled himself from Alfred’s body and the smaller man whimpered in protest. “Get on to your hands and knees. Go on, get moving!” He slapped Alfred’s hip before he lifted the legs over his head. He chuckled as the man struggled to twist his bound body around on the bed to get into the said position. Ivan pulled Alfred’s body back onto his erection but remained still. Alfred whimpered and whined as he wiggled his hips to entice some much needed movement. “Fuck yourself on me.” Ivan said with a delightful smirk. “Rock yourself backwards onto me. Go on. Get to it.” Alfred tried to do as he was told but the silk kept making his body slip and with bound limbs it was near impossible to do as he was commanded. It was also slow, agonizing torture knowing and feeling that throbbing cock so close to his sweet spot. He wanted to cry tears of frustration as his body demanded pleasure and completion. “Having some trouble, are we?” Ivan taunted. “No worries…I shall pity you.”

Alfred bit down hard on the makeshift gag as Ivan’s member started its brutal assault. His eyes rolled back in his head as his prostate was hit on the first thrust and continued in the same manner. His body felt as if it were going to break apart and explode. Ivan’s hands gripped his hips perfectly and he even lifted the smaller body higher. Ivan stood on his knees so he could thrust deeper into Alfred’s bowels, wringing pleasured cries from his throat. Alfred was powerless to do anything but just lie there and let his body be deliciously abused from behind. Either Ivan’s cock was oozing with pre-cum or that was blood trickling down his thighs. If it were blood he didn’t care and all he wanted was the white-hot pleasure inside of him to never stop. His inner muscles had quickly grown accustomed to the thrusts and there was no restraint, only pleasure. Alfred was so caught up in the thrusting that he failed to notice Ivan reaching behind him to pull another sash from the posts. He became aware of it, however, when the scratchy fabric looped around his neck twice. Alfred let out a gasp as his airway was squeezed painfully but the pleasure shot straight to his aching erection.

Ivan had the sash in both hands and licked his lips as he crossed them, tightening the hold on Alfred’s neck. Alfred’s muscles clenched around the driving erection, his body greedily taking in all of Ivan it could fit. His body seemed to want to keep said cock inside of it with the squeezing and it succeeded in bringing Ivan closer to orgasm. Alfred’s mind and body couldn’t take it any longer and with all the mixed sensations, his body shuddered and ejaculated onto the sheets beneath him. His own arousal seemed to continuously leak its juices while Ivan finished up with his thrusts. The sash around his neck was loosened and Alfred sniffed air heavily through his nose. With the pressure off of his neck he lifted his upper body onto his forearms so he could look underneath him. Alfred could see only bits of Ivan’s thighs but knew the man was close to coming as his movements became jerky. Alfred’s lust lidded eyes continue to stare beneath him as Ivan’s strangled roar filled the room with his orgasm. Alfred could feel the liquid heat pouring inside of him and the sash in his mouth was soaked through with drool. The essence pooling inside of him had his body twitching with aftershocks and tremors. He watched as heavy drops of Ivan’s cum split from his body and hit loudly against the sheets. It was like a trickling waterfall between his legs, his body unable to hold all of Ivan’s seed within it. He moaned at the slick sound of Ivan’s sated cock vacating his body. Once the sashes were removed Alfred flopped down onto the soiled sheets panting with afterglow. Ivan lay down beside him and their eyes met before they shared a smile.

“How was that?” Ivan asked in a breathless pant.

“I don’t think I’ll be walking much tomorrow.” He replied and Ivan shifted in the bed to pull their sweat-covered bodies together.

Alfred wrapped his arms tightly around Ivan and laced entwined their legs. Even though it was hot Alfred just wanted to feel Ivan’s body close to his. As his body came down from its pleasure high Alfred thought about his own sudden change in thought about going to war with Sadik. He wanted to avoid war as much as he could for he knew better than anyone what trials and troubles war can bring to a kingdom. There would have to be higher taxes, food shortages, job losses, and not to mention innocent lives being taken away. For many years his farm struggled and toiled to make a small living for the five of them. Once the war had started they had to work extra hard just to make ends meet and most of the time they wouldn’t make that. He had always assumed that the nobles and royals were just greedy with power and cared not for the lives they destroy because of it. But what Sadik had said to him had gotten him thinking and coming to the conclusion of going to war didn’t bother him in the slightest. Ivan was right he did try all that was in his power to persuade Sadik to join them and their mass empire. Alfred, in no way, was helping Ivan expand their realm just for the power and wealth it brought. The more allies, territories, and land they had only succeeded in helping the whole of the realm. Everyone could benefit from their peaceful coexistence by working together for the greater good. Sadik was being greedy with his kingdom and Alfred started to understand that if they did not take care of Sadik now there was a chance they would get attacked. It was against his personal judgment but it was for the good of everyone, a necessary evil.

The next morning, Sadik had some business to take care of with his own advisors so the others were free to simply enjoy themselves. They had free reign of the gardens and gaming courts but despite Sadik’s absence they were all planning to remain together in the same area. Alfred, being unable to walk properly, sat on a blanket with Ivan and Gabe under a flowering tree. Toris and Feliks had joined them since the blonde man was unable to participate in much. He wore a pink veil over his nose to cover his bruised and swollen mouth. He had refused to speak since movement pulled at the stitches. They were having a little picnic while watching Francis and Arthur play a game of badminton. Currently Francis was in the lead and his constant mocking was angering Arthur. It was getting to the point where Arthur’s serves were aimed more for Francis’ head and not for points.

“Arthur, my love! It’s all in the wrist!” Francis laughed happily as he bounced the birdie off his racket and over the net.

“I KNOW THAT!” Arthur whacked the birdie hard and it hit the net. “Damnation!”

“I’m waiting.” Francis cooed softly and twiddled his fingers in a wave at Arthur. Arthur grumbled and grit his teeth as he served the birdie over the net. Francis hopped around on his tiptoes to gently bounce it back. Arthur was able to hit it this time and they had a perfect rhythm going until Arthur stumbled and missed. “Score one for me!” Arthur twirled his racket menacingly and Francis cowered just slightly. “I love you…”

Further out in the in garden but still in eyesight of the others, Gilbert, Ludwig, Matthew and Feliciano were entertaining themselves on a large swing. Ludwig was the only one not on the swing, claiming he had to constantly stand guard when in reality he could not see himself on the flowery vine covered swing. Gilbert was standing in the middle with Matthew and Feliciano on either side of him, using his weight to swing them back and forth. Feliciano was whining to Ludwig to join them but his pleas fell on deaf ears.

“Ah! Gilbert, don’t go too high!” Matthew squeaked softly, clutching the thick rope in his hands.

“But doesn’t it feel awesome? The breeze against your skin…”

“Ve~ if you close your eyes you feel like you’re flying! Come on, Wiggy! Come push us!”

“Yeah brother! Come push us! You know, this would make for a great painting! The four of us together like this and me in my awesome awesomeness!”

“I refuse. I am the highest ranking knight in the realm and our kingdom’s champion. My solemn duty to guard and protect the-“

“Stop your small dick mumbo-jumbo and lighten up a bit!” Gilbert scolded him with a laugh. “Get over here and have some fun with us! We have nothing else better to do at the moment!”

“No.” He refused again and Feliciano sighed softly, slipping off of the swing.

“You two can swing, I’ll go and sit with Ludwig for awhile.”

Gilbert wasted no time in sitting next to Matthew on the swing and letting the smaller man rest his head on his shoulder. He looked over Matthew’s blonde head to the back of harem entrance where he saw Heracles coming out. His hair was all disheveled and he had what looked like some body paint marks on his chest. His face was covered in lipstick marks and the man even had to untangle a woman’s arms from his neck so he could leave. Gilbert let a tiny whimper of jealousy escape his throat but Matthew did not hear it. Gilbert watched as Heracles walked away from the harem to meet up with Vash, Yao, and Kiku at a nearby gazebo. He felt Matthew’s hand slip into his free one and his attention was brought back to his current position. Matthew tilted his head to look up at Gilbert through his lashes and the red-eyed man smiled softly at the gentle features.

“It’s so beautiful here, Gilbert. The flowers and the trees…it’s like a paradise!”

“It is very nice…but it’s not run properly.” Matthew sighed softly.

“I know. It’s such a shame that a place so beautiful could be run by a horrible man.” Matthew whispered. “I’m scared of this war, Gilbert.”

“Hush. Don’t speak of that here. Tonight in bed we can talk about it, okay?”

“Okay. Hey, look at Feli! What a beautiful flower he has!” Feliciano had plucked a large, red-orange blossom off a bush and put it behind his ear. He was nuzzling Ludwig’s cheek and the larger man had a slight blush across his nose. From either the flower contrasting the shade of Feliciano’s hair or the nuzzling they couldn’t tell but it was a sweet sight nonetheless. “Your brother can be a big softy when he wants to.”

“Yup. That’s my little brother. Whoa, hello! What have we here?” Matthew followed Gilbert’s gaze and they saw Lovino walking onto the grounds to join them. “Lets go see what’s up! He’s stopping at Ivan and Alfred!” The two jumped off the swing and pulled the other two with them.

“Queen Lovino! What a surprise!” Alfred said and bowed his head in greeting.

“Yeah, whatever. I have documents to deliver from King Sadik.” He turned to the guards who were escorting him. “You can go now. Royal business. Just watch from the wall.” The guards glared at him but did as they were told and stood out of earshot. Arthur and Francis had stopped in their game to join them, along with the other four. “Whom can I give these to?” Lovino asked.

“I will take them.” Toris said and took the pile of documents, splitting them up between Vash and Heracles.

“Please, sit and join us in some fresh fruit.” Ivan smiled at him and motioned for him to sit. Lovino did so and he pulled from his belt another small stack of papers.

“We are safe to talk here. These papers contain a marked map of Sadik’s kingdom, my plan of escape, and the names of my undercover men here in the palace. Antonio has assigned them and they are trustworthy.”

“What can you tell us about Antonio’s ‘firepower’?” Ivan asked. “I want to know more about that.”

“I don’t know the fundamentals of it but I don’t care about that right now. Write yourself a letter for King Antonio asking him and I will have my private falconer send the message. I don’t have a lot of time to talk about this. My bastard of a husband keeps me locked up a lot so we have to do this stuff fast.”
“What is your plan of escape? Just give us a brief overview.” Ludwig asked.

“Basically we have to travel east along the shore to almost the opposite end of the kingdom. There we will see a large walled gate with a drawbridge. It is the gate separating this kingdom from Antonio’s. Sadik’s men can’t cross through because some of the firepower weapons are there. The guards there will let us through and then we cross the narrow land bridge. Once you read over the map and escape plan, we’ll try to meet up to discuss things further. Once I know what your ideas and actions are I will send word to all my spies and loyalists.”

“So we will be protected once we are across the border?” Vash confirmed.

“Yes. Very much so.”

“And we can proceed with battle plans from there?” Ivan asked.

“Absolutely. Please, I want to see this fuck fall and crumble more than any of you. I will get you the army, the manpower, and the firepower as long as YOU get me out of this hellhole and back to my kingdom.” He looked back at the guards. “They’re getting suspicious. We’ll pass messages and notes along as we pass in the palace. Please, remember to burn each message once you are done!”

“Thank you so much for your help.” Alfred said to him.

“Yeah. As of now we are all at risk and I advise you all to be as quiet as you can. Should anything get out about this his elite soldiers will kill us all.”

“Elite soldiers?” Ludwig repeated. “Who are they?”

“I’ll talk later. I have to go.” He stood up from the blanket. “Visit the barracks. I promise, you CAN’T miss them. We’ll be in touch.” He said with a final quick wave before heading back to his escorts.

“I can’t get over how much he looks like you, Feli.” Said Yao. “It can’t be a coincidence.”

“One thing is for certain though, he’s not nearly as cowardice as Feli is!” Gilbert teased and Feliciano whined at him.

“You’re mean!”

“Alright everyone lets gather in my room and discuss these documents.” Ivan said. “We have a lot of work to do.”

Inside the chamber, everyone was passing the documents around and reading some them. It had taken almost all of the morning for everyone to get through the papers. Once they were done everyone agreed to vote ‘no’ on each document. Heracles was first to veto the judicial document.

“He wants whatever men we have stationed here to follow his code of punishment, which I don’t agree with. Our men will answer to our own code.”

“And what do you propose?” Ivan asked.

“We build our own judicial branch here, a small one, to answer for any crimes or troubles that may come to pass.”

“He won’t like that.” Said Alfred with a huff while keeping Gabe from grabbing every piece of paper.

“That’s why we’re going to war.” Vash said with an angry frown. “Our finances can handle a war but we will have to rely strongly on Antonio’s firepower and warships of his.”

“Shouldn’t that cut our spending in half though?” Arthur asked him.

“It would, but that all depends on what agreement we can come to with Antonio. We may have to pay a sum of money for the privilege of using his forces. He may even ask to use our own forces before an attack.”

“I will write that in the proposal to him.” Toris said, jotting down as many notes and words as he could. Once they were done the meeting he would have to write a final copy.

“Any other concerns?” Ivan asked his men. “I know we are all turning down these documents.”

“I don’t approve of his percentage numbers.” Francis stated for he was looking at the map of the kingdom along with Ludwig, who was focusing on the escape root. “From the map here, the area of land he would offer to us wouldn’t bring a profit at all.”

“Don’t get me started on that one!” Vash warned. “I don’t know how he came up with those numbers but it’s ludicrous!”

“So basically we’re just shitting all over his proposals.” Gilbert said with a smirk. “I like it!”

“He also wants to remain neutral in the event of an invasion or conflict with any of our other allies.” Alfred stated. “That doesn’t fly with me.”

“Don’t use such terms like that.” Arthur lightly scolded him.

“Oh, I’m sorry. I mean I don’t ‘approve’ of it.” Alfred rolled his eyes.

“Now that we know we’re vetoing all the documents, what about the escape plan?” Yao asked. “Are Kiku and I still traveling ahead to the bridge?”

“I’d rather you not.” Ludwig answered them. “Looking over this escape plan I think it would be best to remain together. It would prove to be too suspicious if some of our party were ‘missing’.”

“And since Lovino has his own falconer we can just send our terms to Antonio instead.” Matthew smiled at them.

“But the question is, how do we leave here without being noticed?” Feliciano asked in worry. “They’ll have guards following our every move for sure.”

“I have a suggestion for that.” Arthur said and raised his hand. “I overheard some of the guards talking about the ‘rains’ coming and they fear the heavy fog that the weather brings with it. Upon reading the escape plan, I think our best chance would be to sneak out during the fog so we can’t be seen.”

“But if they can’t see us then how can we move effectively through the fog?” Francis pointed out. “We’re more likely to get lost and end up being caught or-”

“Arthur is on to something.” Ivan interrupted. “We’ll ask Lovino for one of his men to lead us through the fog. He wrote that they have been here for as long as he as and travel in and out of the kingdom. They should know the safest way.”

“Plus, the royal city is very small and we can easily rush through it.” Ludwig pointed out, tapping his finger on the map where a large field was. “Our biggest issue will be the massive field. The fog will settle heavily there and we would be wise not to use torches. Once we get through the city gates we have to head east around the walls and try to make it to the forests.” Gilbert got up from his cushion and walked around to kneel behind Ludwig.

“So basically, we’re on foot until we reach the quarter mark where that horse farm is.” Gilbert pointed to the red ‘x’ on the other side of the forest.

“Yes.” Ludwig agreed. “Also, I suggest we ALL take a weapon of choice along with us. We don’t know what kind of strange creatures lurk in these woods and we may even come upon soldiers or guards. Those who can’t fight well are best to stay out of the way or hide.”

“What about provisions?” Kiku asked.

“The horse farm has everything for us already.” Ludwig answered. “Once we get there we should have everything we need. But stopping for a rest wouldn’t be a wise option for they will notice we are gone and come after us. This is a non-stop journey for us so stuff yourselves full as often as you can.”

“But, what about Gabe?” Matthew pointed out, looking at his nephew. “He will need to rest.”

“I forgot about the kid.” Vash said with a heavy sigh. “He’s bound to cry or make noise and give us away.”

“Not if you keep stuffing his face.” Heracles tickled the boy under his chin and he giggled happily.

“We’ll just take turns carrying him.” Francis offered. “But then that leaves one of us without our hands free.” Feliks then raised his hand and they looked at him but he still couldn’t talk. Instead, he quickly took a piece of paper and Toris’ quill to write something down. Toris looked at it and smiled.

“Feliks said he can make a carrying harness for Gabe.”

“So we can still take turns and have our hands free! Thank you, Feliks!” Alfred smiled at him. “I’ll start stashing some food for him so he’s less likely to cry. I tend to help fight if he run in to trouble so who’s less likely to fight?” Everyone turned to Feliciano.

“He’ll turn tail and run!” Gilbert said with a laugh.

“But that’s perfect! I’ll give you Gabe if trouble comes our way and you can hide with him.” Alfred offered but Feliciano had to raise his hand in a soft protest.

“Alfred…Gabe doesn’t listen to me very well…”

“So Matthew will stay with you as well. He listens to his uncle.” Alfred said and Matthew looked at him with a frown.

“But I want to help.”

“You will help us by keeping an eye on Gabe with Feliciano.” Ivan said. “That’s an order, Matthew.” Matthew puffed his cheeks in annoyance but Gilbert came over and ruffled his hair.

“I agree with Ivan. I don’t want to have to worry about you getting hurt while I’m protecting everybody! Dick Stick and I won’t fail any of you.”

“Good, then you and your dick can take the back of the group and Ludwig and I can take the front.” Ivan offered with a smile. Gilbert was going to protest but Ludwig intervened.

“I rather us both bring up the rear since we will be followed. You and Alfred can follow along with Lovino in the front.”

“Wait, what about this mountain range here? It comes right before the horse farm.” Francis pointed to it on the map. “Lovino’s trail line goes over it or…through it? There’s two lines going in the same direction but one is cut off and continues on the other side.”

“We’re not going through a mountain cave!” Yao protested right away. “Caves are dark with holes and other obstacles. We’ll lose more time going through the mountain than over it. Going around it is out of the question.”

“But that will take forever to climb a mountain!” Feliciano pointed out.

“It’s not a large mountain range.” Kiku answered for them as he was read through Lovino’s escape plan. “He said we could climb it easily since it’s practically made up of individual boulders and ground. I agree with Yao to climb over it.” Everyone agreed to climb over it.

“We will have to climb fast though.” Ludwig pointed out. “No breaks.”

“Slave driver.” Gilbert said to him. “One more thing. Lovino said something about ‘elite’ soldiers. Has anyone seen them? He said they would be noticeable.” Everyone looked at the other and shook their heads.

“It might be a lot to ask,” Alfred started, looking to the brothers. “But I think you and Ludwig should spend some time in their barracks. Perhaps those elite soldiers are there and if anything you can both get a sense of how they are trained and how they fight. If you think it’s too dangerous then-“

“Sounds like a plan to me!” Gilbert grinned and slapped Ludwig on the back. “I’ve been itching to see how those chicken heads go about their business!”

“It’s a fair idea. When would you like us to go?” He asked Alfred.

“Tonight would be best, when they are all winding down for the evening.” Ivan suggested then smiled at Alfred. “Good idea, love.” He then turned to Arthur. “Do we know when the ‘rain’ is coming? Did you hear?”

“In a weeks time or so. It’s suppose to be the rainy season soon.”

“Shit, that means we’re stuck here for a longer period of time.” Alfred cursed.

“Everyone should be safe as long as we stick to one another and never go anywhere alone.” Toris said. “I will need some time to write up the proposal so Feliks and I will take dinner in our room.”

“Should we all do that?” Asked Feliciano.

“Best we share the feasting table with Sadik.” Heracles offered. “The more we stay away the more suspicious he may get. We have to act like nothing is wrong.”

“Then meeting is adjourned.” Ivan dismissed them to go their own ways.

Later into the evening, Ludwig and Gilbert met outside the barracks like they had planned. Both were armed with their swords and a dagger or two. As the walked in Ludwig wore a straight, stern face while Gilbert’s prideful smirk already caught the eye of Madylia soldiers. Their feasting hall was a series of benches with hay lining the stone floors. Large torches lined the wall and there was a single fireplace at the far end. To their left was a small wooden bar with large barrels stacked up behind it. The bartender himself appeared to be a soldier as well. Their presence did not fail to catch the eye of ever soldier in the room with their light skin and hair. The soldiers talked and whispered about them in their own language but it didn’t bother the two brothers. Gilbert left Ludwig and headed over to the bar, eager for a mug of ale.”

“Hey, barkeep! Two mugs of your best for my brother and I!” The man looked at him and smirked, showing his yellow teeth.

“You foreigners couldn’t handle our best.” The soldiers near the bar laughed at his comment.

“Ha ha! That’s real funny. I’ve been drinking long before you discovered your own cock. Now give me the ale I asked for.” The soldiers around them still laughed as the bartender poured two mugs of ale for him.

“On the house.” He smirked and then said something in their language, making the others roar loudly with laughter and clink their mugs together.

“Yeah, and a cock-a-doodle-do to you too.” Gilbert took the mugs and brought them over to Ludwig, handing him one. “It came right out of the tap so it’s safe. The guy before me got a drink from the same one.”

“Should we really be drinking?” Ludwig looked at the foam gathering around the rim of the mug and he couldn’t resist. “I guess a few wouldn’t hurt.”

“That’s the spirit!” Gilbert clanked his mug with Ludwig’s and took a heavy gulp. “This shit’s good!” Ludwig nodded after he took his first sip, wiping the foam from his lips. “Let’s take a seat.”

The two sat on a bench to enjoy their drink and observe their surroundings when the door burst open. Everyone paused in their drinking to look at the swarm of soldiers that entered the barrack hall. There were at least ten of them and they were dressed differently than the other soldiers. All of them were about the size of Ludwig if not taller and brawn in the shoulders. They were obviously well trained for their similar muscular stature dwarfed the body of any other soldier in the room. They carried no swords, only small daggers and some claw-like object in their belts. The soldiers even bowed their heads and raised their mugs or swords to the men. Ludwig and Gilbert exchanged glances and knew right away that these men must be the elite soldiers Lovino had spoken of. The elite soldiers paid no mind to any of the others and went to the bar to get their drinks. There was one elite soldier Ludwig pointed out that wore a different colored sash than the others, meaning that he must be the general or the leader.

“Ah, they’re coming over here.” Gilbert smirked and drank more his ale as the men stood in front of them. “Greetings gentlemen.” Ludwig just gave a curt nod of acknowledgement to them.

“You must be the soldiers from the north.” Said the leader.

“Knights, not soldiers.” Gilbert had to correct him.

“We have no ‘knights’ here, only warriors.”

“We’re warriors then. Top of our game!” He chugged his ale, finishing it off.

“You like to drink?” Asked the leader.

“Do I ever!” The leader looked to Ludwig who was looking away in embarrassment from his brother.

“You. You are their champion, are you not? You are their…’elite’ knight, then?”

“I am.” Ludwig answered and the leader started to laugh and so did the other elites. Ludwig’s brows narrowed and Gilbert stood up from his place on the bench.

“Find something funny?”

“Yes. Your kingdom must be very weak to appoint such little men as masters of their realm!” Gilbert grit his teeth, not liking the fact that he DID have to tilt his head up a bit to look at them. Ludwig stood up after the comment, coming just nose to nose with the leader.

“We both are trained in the art of battle.”

“Not likely. Your methods could never match up to ours. We’ve been training since we could walk! What were YOU doing at that time?”

“Hey, listen here, Chicken Head! If you’re looking to rumble with us just say the word and I’ll introduce you to the floor!”

“Gilbert, contain yourself.” Ludwig held his arm out in front of his brother.

“Yes, listen to your boyfriend, little man.” The leader mocked and Gilbert tried to push through Ludwig’s arm but the man held him back.

“That’s it! You and me! Out back! NOW!”

“There is no fighting in the barracks after dark. It is law.”

“You’re just scared I’ll shove that ale mug right up your ass!”

“If you still wish to prove yourself and protect your boyfriend then how about a drinking contest?” The leader offered and Gilbert let out a mighty laugh.

“You’re on! Let the Beilschmidt Brothers show you how it’s done!” Ludwig looked angrily at his brother and was close to smashing his head in with the ale mug.

“Let’s get to drinking.”

Ludwig had no choice but to join in with the drinking game. It was the two of them verses the leader and a soldier of his choice. The barkeep continued filling their mugs and serving them as they took turns drinking. By the fifth or sixth mug, all four of them were starting to show the effects of the alcohol. One of the elite soldiers went over to the barkeep and spoke something to him. The two shared a devious smirk and the barkeep picked up four new mugs from the shelf. He showed one to the soldier that had some white powder in the bottom and he nodded. The soldier made sure that the barkeep knew the powdered mug was for Ludwig, who they already knew was their second threat after Ivan. The barkeep filled all the mugs with different ale, holding three in one hand and the drugged one in the other. He walked over to them and stomped his foot to get their attention.

“Time to end this game, boys! This is our most powerful ale!” The other soldiers cheered loudly at that, raising their mugs. “Whoever is left standing, that team is the winner!”

“Tha’z gonna be us.” Gilbert slurred out with a hiccup, his face flushed and red from the alcohol. The barkeep handed the mugs two the soldiers before handing over the other two. Ludwig reached for his but Gilbert took both mugs. “Me’z showz yoouz how it’s done, kidzzz!”

“Brother! I don’t think-“ Gilbert had already chugged the drugged one, making the other two soldiers quickly down theirs as well. Ludwig tried to pull the other mug away from his brother but Gilbert just elbowed him.

“Fuck off!” Halfway through the second one he dropped the mug on the floor, spilling its contents to the floor. “WE WIN!” He stood up and violently swayed but steadied himself. “Fuck youz and your mothers!” The two soldiers stood up and the first lunged at Gilbert, bringing him into a violent, drunken fistfight.

“BROTHER!”

Ludwig wanted to aid his brother but the leader took a swing at him. Due to the alcohol his reflexes were slow so he took a hit to the cheek. The alcohol fueled his adrenaline and anger so he attacked back, forgetting about Gilbert. Since he and leader were engaged in combat, two more of the elite soldiers ganged up on Gilbert. The effects of the drug were slowly blacking out Gilbert’s vision to the point where he no longer knew where he was or what he was doing. Ludwig was having no trouble in taking out the leader, meeting him punch for punch. The two of them were at an equal standing and they broke away, panting, bleeding, and bruised. Ludwig took a second to remember his brother and looked over to where Gilbert was sprawled out on the floor. He was being assaulted from all ends and it took a moment for Ludwig’s mind to register the blood surrounding his brother.

“GILBERT!” He hurried over to him but the leader quickly whistled and the men broke away from their assault. The leader shouted in their language and they moved away from Gilbert’s twitching body to leave the barracks. “Gilbert!”

Ludwig ignored the other soldiers watching them as he carefully lifted his brother from the floor. Gilbert groaned as Ludwig slung his arm over his shoulders to help carry him out of the barrack. Ludwig had slight trouble with Gilbert’s drunken weight for his brother’s feet kept slipping out from him. With his own hazed mind he almost sent them both tumbling to the ground. Ludwig tried to gather his surrounding to find the way back to the guesthouse. He blindly continued on, blinking his eyes rapidly to try and clear the blur from them. He heard Gilbert gurgle and looked over to see the slew of pale vomit bitsdripping from his brother’s mouth. Ludwig held them still and bent his brother forward so he could continue to throw up. His brother was still bleeding all over and it looked as if those claw-like weapons were used on him. There were various gashes on his chest and arms, even his face was bruised and bleeding. Ludwig just noticed the large scratch over his left eye and he knew he had to get Gilbert to their apothecary as soon as possible. He continued further onto the path and Gilbert’s weight just seemed to triple the further they went.

‘This ending badly…where the hell am I?’ He looked around, trying to recognize something, anything that would tell him where he was. ‘I will never drink again…I swear it!’

“Ludwig?” Ludwig’s eyes widened when he heard a familiar voice up ahead. He blinked his eyes to see a blurred form running up to him. “Ludwig, what happened?”

“Hn…who are you?”

“It’s Vash. What happened to Gilbert?” He asked in slight panic. “Nevermind, we need to get him help!” Vash took Gilbert’s other arm and slung it over his shoulder to burden some of the weight.

With Vash’s help they were able to bring Gilbert to the apothecary’s room. When the apothecary saw the state of Gilbert he didn’t even bother to ask questions but helped bring the bleeding man to the small cot. He quickly stripped Gilbert of his tattered clothes and proceeded with cleaning the gashes. Ludwig had slumped against the wall and slid to the floor, rubbing his face with his hands. Vash mumbled something about being proud of the fact that he rarely drank while looking over Gilbert’s battered body. The man had been beaten quite severely and he appeared to have bruised or damaged ribs. Gilbert coughed violently and the apothecary paused in his cleaning to tilt his head to the side, allowing the vomit to splatter on the floor before he choked on it. Vash made sure to step away just in time before the vomit decorated his shoes. He decided to go over to Ludwig and see if he could get a coherent answer from the drunken man.

“Ludwig…can you tell me what happened?”

“Hn…um…yeah, we were talked into a…drinking contest…by the elite soldiers…Gilbert’s idea…then we got into a brawl with them.”

“Well it would appear that you both lost and Gilbert is severely injured. Alfred assigned you there to observe how things are done, not join in with the local crowd and drink yourselves drunk! I have to let Ivan know what happened and I will have to send word of this to Sadik as well. His men should be punished for even involving themselves in something so ridiculous! Where would you two have been if I hadn’t decided to take a late night stroll and happen upon you?”

“Hn…I can’t talk about this right now…I need to sleep it off…”

“Just go.” The apothecary said to Vash. “I’ll take care of them both.” Vash went back over to Gilbert.

“How does he look?”

“Well, the gashes and bruises will heal. It’s his bruised ribs that will take some time. He’s lucky the scratch missed his eye. Hmm…” He turned Gilbert’s head to the right to look at his bleeding, swollen ear. “This may prove troublesome for him. Let King Ivan know what has happened. I’ll take over from here.”

Vash left the room and made his way back to the guesthouse to wake Ivan. He stopped outside the door and wondered if he should bother them. Technically, it wasn’t an emergency and their attack was provoked by alcohol. If anyone needed to know, it had to be Matthew for it was his husband that was broken and bleeding. Vash turned from their room and went to Matthew’s, softly rapping on the door. He listened for a sound but when he heard nothing he knocked again.

“Vash? What’s wrong?” Vash turned to see Kiku who was up for a midnight walk of his own. Going out by themselves wasn’t allowed but it was too nice of a night to let it pass. Kiku held a cup in his hand and offered it to Vash. “Would you like some water?”

“No thank you. Is Matthew in here? Do you know?”

“Matthew? He should be. I spoke to him a short while ago. Why?”

“Well, Ludwig and Gilbert got into a little drunken brawl in the barracks. Gilbert is badly injured and the apothecary is treating him now. Both of them are drunk off their asses and if things weren’t rowdy in those barracks I’d go to test that ale. I’ve seen Gilbert drink and he’s never been this bad before. I need to let Matthew know.”

“Then you should wake Feliciano as well. He would want to know about Ludwig.”

“Alright, go wake him up then and I’ll bring all of us to the apothecary.” Kiku nodded and went to wake up Feliciano while Vash knocked once again on Matthew’s door. He finally heard a soft voice from inside.

“Gilbie? Is that you?”

“It’s Vash. Let me in, Matthew.” He heard a click of the lock and Matthew opened the door, blinking the sleep from his eyes.

“Good evening, Vash…what brings you here?”

“I’ve come to tell you that Gilbert has been badly wounded in a fight. He is at the apothecary’s now with Ludwig.” Matthew gasped, worry clearly written on his face.

“Is he going to be alright?”

“Yes, he is just blind drunk and badly beaten. Kiku just went to wake up Feliciano so we can all go together.”

“Let me get dressed!”

Once the four of them were together, Vash led them to the apothecary’s room. Matthew immediately ran to Gilbert when he saw him on the bed, his eyes full of tears as he took in the battered body of his lover. Feliciano knelt next to Ludwig who appeared to be in a drunken sleep. Feliciano helped Ludwig slide into a laying position and rest the blonde head in his lap. Many times he has had Ludwig like this after too much drinking. Matthew was holding Gilbert’s swollen hand gently in his own, whispering his name.

“He’s out cold, Lord Matthew. He can’t hear you right now.”

“Is it because of his ear?” Matthew looked to the fresh bandage that was wrapped around Gilbert’s head and left ear.

“I can’t be sure of that until he wakes up. He took a heavy beating to the left side of his head. There doesn’t appear to be any permanent damage but it will take a while for him to heal.”

“My poor Gilbie...” Kiku came over and rest his hand on Matthew’s shoulder, giving him some emotional support. “But he’s going to be alright?”

“Yes, he will be fine after some long rest and proper care.”

“What about Ludwig?” Matthew asked.

“He appears fine, just drunk. He’ll be hung over tomorrow but I already have something for that.”

“I guess we’ll be staying here tonight.” Feliciano said from his spot on the floor. “I don’t want to leave Wiggy…” Matthew looked back at him.

“I’m staying too.”

“I’ll stay for some extra assistance.” Kiku offered and then turned to Vash. “You don’t have to stay. You can go. You have a lot of work to do.” Vash thought about it for a moment then shook his head.

“It’s best I stay here…in case something happens. I’ll wait to tell Ivan and Alfred tomorrow morning once Gilbert is properly bandaged and Ludwig wakes up.”

“Then you best settle in for a long night, Lord Vash.”

In another part of the palace, Sadik was in his bedchamber with Lovino while awaiting the news from the barracks. He had been told that Ludwig and Gilbert had visited there and the barkeep knew ahead of time to have a ‘special’ drink made for whenever they showed up. He smirked to himself as he slipped a robe around his naked body and looked at Lovino who’s back was facing him. They had just finished having sex and Lovino always turned away from him but Sadik expected nothing less. The lithe shoulders were trembling slightly and that meant Lovino was close to crying but fighting back his tears.

“When are you going to learn to just give in? It’s so much easier that way. Fighting only makes it harder on your body…and when will you realize that you can’t overpower me?”

“Shut up, you bastard.” He said softly from the bed.

“Tsk, tsk. You always speak so rudely to me. If I were a different kind of husband I would beat you senseless until you obeyed. You should be grateful that I am kind to you.”

“I love how you think this is ‘kind’.” He pulled the sheets up over his shoulder.

“You know, there are hundreds of harem women and men that I could have any time I want and here I am trying to pleasure you.”

“Then fucking go to them and leave me alone! I don’t understand why you even try to make me like you! After what you did to me how can I ever enjoy your company? You know damn well the reason you took me away from my home…and yet you still think I will fall for you. Pigheaded barbarian.”

“One of these days, Lovino, you’ll be singing a different tune. I have more uses for you and I would rather not have you in my torture chamber for your disobedience and impudent manners.” Lovino’s eyes widened as he turned to look at Sadik over his shoulder. “Don’t make me have to do it, Lovino. I’ve given you more than enough leeway but even I have my limits. All it would take is one word to that idiot Antonio about your torture and the man will give up his kingdom in a heartbeat to save you. But where is the fun in that? That’s too easy and there’s no honor in it…but it is still a valuable option.” Before Lovino could respond there came a knock at his door.

“Your majesty. I come with news.” Sadik turned to Lovino.

“Get dressed and go to your room. I’ll speak with you later.” Lovino slid from the bed and wrapped his green robe around his body before he rushed out of the room. Sadik smirked at Lovino’s retreated form. The man was all talk but with just the right threatening words he would become the biggest coward. The elite soldier that came to speak to him looked at Lovino as he ran off and Sadik gave him a warning glare. “You will loose your eyes if you look at him again.”

“Forgive me, sir.” The soldier bowed to him.

“Close the door. What news do you bring?”

“Your majesty…I came to inform you that a nasty drunken brawl has occurred in the barracks between the two northern knights and our leader.”

“I don’t care about the brawl. I want to know if the drink got to Ludwig. Did it?”

“No sir…you see, his brother took the mugs unexpectedly and drank both. Our men attacked and beat the red-eyed brother but the blue-eyed one was only drunk.”

“Idiots!” Sadik hissed. “It’s Ludwig I want taken down, not the other! He is our second biggest issue next to Ivan! He is their champion and head knight! Taking him down will cripple them enough for us to make a move.”

“Forgive your faithful servants, majesty.”

“I was suppose to pretend to punish them for their wicked ‘deed’ against Ludwig but now that they failed I believe I will punish them. A day or two in dungeons should do it.”

“Yes, my king. But shall we proceed with the next plan even though this one did not go accordingly?”

“Absolutely. Going after Ivan will cripple them more than Ludwig. He still poses a threat but not such a one like Ivan. I need to get him out of the picture so Alfred can act as regent in his place. He’s easier to control and manipulate than Ivan.”

“My lord…are you sure Queen Alfred is as meek as you say he is? What if he proves to be more dangerous than King Ivan?” Sadik scoffed.

“Nonsense. I’m not afraid of that skittish little stag. He may think his antlers are big but compared to mine he is only a yearling. Easily beaten and broken. Alfred knows he can hide behind Ivan but once he’s down the ‘queen’ will have nowhere to hide. I don’t want to kill Ivan because that will send at least five kingdoms onto me with ships and swords. But with a little help from ‘Mother Nature’ I can have him down and out for a while. And it will still look like an accident.” Sadik crossed his arms with a devious smile. “One foul-up isn’t the end all.”

The next morning when Ludwig woke up his throat was on fire and his head felt twice its size. He made the mistake of trying to open his eyes to the bright light shining in the room. The pain shot through his eyes, up to his eyebrows, then all through his forehead and temples. He groaned loudly and slapped both hands to his face. Ludwig had no clue where he was or how he got there but he did remember dragging a drunken Gilbert around in the dark. There was a familiar smell near him and he turned his head into the floral scent, hitting something soft. The softness moved and Ludwig peeked an eye open.

“Ludwig? Are you awake?”

“Hn…Feli?”

“Thank the stars you’re awake!” Feliciano hugged his head to his chest and rocked happily but Ludwig pushed his arms away.

“No…please. My head…” Ludwig sat up and blinked his eyes some more to try and take in his surroundings. He was met instead with a pair of amber eyes looking back at him with worry.

“Wiggy, you shouldn’t be moving around too much! You drank a lot of ale last night!”

“Ale? Drank? Oh! Oh that’s right…yeah…I-Gilbert!” Ludwig remembered the fight and Gilbert’s bleeding body. “Where is Gilbert?”

“He’s all right now. Both of you are in the apothecary’s room. Vash found you two wandering around and he brought you here.”

“I…don’t remember any of that.”

“Kiku was here too but he left with Vash to tell Ivan and Alfred what happened.” Ludwig just rubbed his eyes and looked past Feliciano to the cot where Gilbert was. “He’s hasn’t woken up since he was brought here. Matthew hasn’t left his side.” Matthew was sleep next to the bed, his folded arms up on the cot to rest his head.

“Brother…” Ludwig started to stand up and Feliciano helped steady him as they walked over to his brother. Gilbert was bandaged up and resting peacefully on the bed. The apothecary was nearby, heating some so herbs and liquids in his small cauldron.

“He’ll be alright, don’t worry. It will just take him a while to fully heal. I’m mixing some fresh herbal salve for his gashes. Lord Matthew demanded a batch for himself so he can change the bandages. But how are you feeling this morning, Sir Ludwig?”

“Been better…” He replied flatly, still looking at his battered brother.

“Here, drink this herbal tea. It will help clear your head and get rid of the aches and pains.” Ludwig took the cup and gave it a heavy blow before drinking as much of it as he could. “It won’t be long before their majesties are here so you better have a story made up and quick.”

“Here love, come sit down.” Feliciano helped him over to a chair and Ludwig flopped heavily into it, letting out a sigh.

“I’m never drinking again…”

“You always say that, Wiggy.”

“I mean it this time.”

“And you always say that too!”

“Uh oh, look lively everyone. Here they come.”

The apothecary said as he saw Ivan and Alfred approaching figures from the window. The door flew open and the said two walked in, both looking none to happy. Alfred had Gabe in his arms and he hurried over to Matthew to shake him awake. Ivan crossed his arms and looked from Ludwig, to Gilbert, then back to Ludwig again. Feliciano squeaked and moved around the chair to hide behind Ludwig. Matthew blinked his eyes open and whispered Gilbert’s name.

“Mattie, it’s Alfred.” Alfred said to him and stroked the light blonde hair. Matthew looked up to his brother and nephew leaning over him. “How are you doing?” Matthew wiped a few tears from his eyes.

“Gilbert got really hurt last night, Alfred…”

“I know…I heard what had happened. At least we know he will heal and just needs time.” Alfred put Gabe down on the cot so he could kneel alongside of Matthew.

“Alright Ludwig, tell me what happened.” Ivan asked firmly. “How did this come to be?”

“Well…we met the elite soldiers. I’m not sure if there are more than the number we’ve seen but…they look almost like bred warriors. The ale was very strong and you know Gilbert…when he is egged on and challenged he doesn’t want to back down.”

“I thought you were the mature one, Ludwig.”

“I got roped into it. I couldn’t let Gilbert go it alone and as you know I’m no stranger to ales. Apparently, they aren’t either. And one thing led to another…we all started drinking…then something happened…and we got into a fight…and I woke up here.”

“It was planned.” Came a wheezed voice from the cot.

“Gilbert?” Matthew said his name with a gasp and Gilbert rolled his head to face them.

“I don’t remember much…but I remember that. It was a setup.”

“How so?” Alfred asked. “And if you knew that then you should have just left!” He scolded.

“I didn’t know it was a setup until the barkeep brought those four mugs over. Before I blacked out and got beat up, I noticed one soldier talking to the barkeep. I know from past tavern hopping the three-handed mug trick.”

“What the hell are you talking about, Gilbert?” Ivan hissed softly, his patience growing thin. Gilbert took a moment to regain his thoughts before speaking.

“Normally, a person carrying an equal number of mugs will hold two in one and two in the other. The barkeep had three in one and one in the other. That’s a universal sign of ‘don’t drink the single mug’. There was more than ale in that mug and…it was intended for Ludwig.”

“Are you sure?” Ludwig asked him.

“Yes, he was trying to hand it to you. So I snatched it instead and drank it.”

“You’re an idiot!” Alfred stood up from the bed and hollered at him. “You should have just dropped everything and left that barrack if you knew!”

“I was mostly drunk by then, Alfred. I didn’t fully make the connection and I wasn’t going to back down. You’ve been with me many times in taverns and you’re almost the same way. Alcohol is good at that…”

“Gilbie…” Matthew gently stroked Gilbert hair. “I forgive you…you were just trying to help your brother and I know my big brother would do the same for me.” Matthew looked up at Alfred who gave a slight snobbish look and turned away.

“If you say it was a plan then who set it up?” Ivan asked. “Just the soldiers?”

“They didn’t like us the moment we walked in there.” Gilbert replied. “Everyone hates us here.”

“They know I’m a threat to them.” Ludwig finally spoke. “But I don’t think it’s a well thought out plan from one source. Feliks is no threat and he was attacked so…”

“Something’s going on.” Alfred said and lifted Gabe from the bed. “I suggest we both go and speak to Sadik about this and see what he plans to do with his men. For the way I hear it is that they started it.” Gilbert nodded.

“Then lets go see Sadik, Alfred.” Ivan said. “Leave Gabe here.”

Alfred looked at Matthew, asking if it was all right and it was. Matthew was thankful to have something to cuddle and hold while he stayed with Gilbert. After the two left they went straight to the dining hall to confront Sadik on his men and what they did. Once they walked up onto the feasting dais to join all the others Sadik was the first to speak with them.

“The men who drank with and hurt your knights are serving a two day jail sentence without food or water.”

“Is that so?” Alfred narrowed his eyes at him and Sadik nodded.

“Yes, I will have my men take you down to the dungeon and see for yourself if don’t believe me.”

“That won’t be necessary.” Ivan stated and took a seat on one of the cushions. “Our knights should have known better as well.” Alfred took a seat next to him.

“Boys will be boys.” Sadik said with a chuckle and looked over at Lovino. “Love, say ‘good morning’ to our guest.”

“Good morning.” He mumbled around the rim of his cup.

“Don’t be offended. Lovino doesn’t like anyone.” Sadik teased politely and then clapped his hands. “Let us eat!”

Various meats, eggs, and fruits were brought out for them to begin their breakfast. Sadik personally tasted their food once again to show that none of it was poisonous. As they began eating, Sadik glanced over to the kitchen hall archway where a chef and servant were standing. They took the visual cue as their sign to go ahead with the plan. In the kitchen there was a silver plate covered with a tower of fresh sliced fruits, ranging from apples, to cantaloupe, to pomegranates just to name a few. The chef snapped his fingers and the servant pulled out a small sack and opened the top. The man pulled out a glass vile that contained a yellowish colored centipede the size of an index finger. The chef took a step back as the servant uncorked the vile and shoved the top of it into the tower of fruit. He pulled it away just in time to see the tail end of it crawl into the fruit.

It was a chance Sadik was willing to take in hopes that the small creature would bite and poison Ivan while he was picking through the fruit. Ivan had taken a particular liking to pomegranates so the chef made sure to strategically put less pomegranates in the tower so Ivan would have to pick through the other fruits more, thus gaining the chance of being bitten. The centipede would hide inside the fruit and not come out unless it felt threatened. It was not the deadliest centipede they had here in the kingdom but its venom was powerful enough to keep one extremely ill for a length of time if treated right away.

When the servant brought out the tray of fruit, he bowed to Ivan and Alfred before setting it between them on the table. Sadik took a big chance himself and plucked an apple from the tower to test it for them. Alfred took a slice of apple and missed the yellow legs that quickly ducked back into the fruit. Sadik ate the apple and continued to speak to them about simple, daily occurrences but all the while watching for Ivan’s hand to pick the ‘wrong’ piece of fruit. Ivan reached through the fruit to get a particularly big slice of pomegranate when he felt something small pierce the skin near his thumb. He hissed slightly and pulled his right hand back, looking at the small but quickly swelling red spot there. Alfred let out a surprised shriek as the centipede quickly crawled out of the fruit and onto the table to make an escape. Everyone at the table jumped back at the sight of the small terror. Lovino took the bottom of his cup and squashed the centipede quickly before it could get away. He slammed his cup down a few more times to make sure it was dead.

“Ivan, are you alright?” Alfred asked him as he held the hand that was bit.

“Y-Yes…I think I’m okay…”

“But it’s swelling like mad!” Alfred gasped.

“We need to get him to my apothecary and quickly!” Sadik said. “We’ll send for your own as well to meet us there. Mine has the necessary plants and animals to drain the venom!”

“Then lets get you there quickly!”

Alfred stood up and saw that Ivan was having a bit of trouble standing on his own. His breathing was rapidly increasing and his face started to grow a bit hot. Sadik offered to help carry him but Ivan refused his help, claiming he could walk on his own. Their friends, after seeing the commotion, ran to join and help them bring Ivan to the apothecary. The apothecary’s room was not too far from the feasting hall and they had gotten there just in time as Ivan’s legs gave out from beneath him. It was Sadik, Alfred, and Heracles who had caught him and it took all three to drag him over to the bed. Sadik quickly explained to the apothecary what had happened and the man started to gather the necessary plants.

“Ivan…Ivan please speak to me!” Alfred stroked the round cheeks with his hands, trying to get Ivan to respond to him.

“Everyone out.” Sadik said to the others. “We need room.”

“I’m staying…but I would like you out as well!” Alfred turned to Sadik. “I want everyone out including you!”

“Are you sure, Queen Alfred?” Sadik asked.

“Yes! Just go!” He didn’t want everyone to see Ivan like this and he had a feeling that his condition was only going to get worse.

“I’m staying too.” Said Yao, pushing through the others. Alfred was going to protest but a cough from Ivan redirected his attention. Yao shooed everyone out and let them know that he would bring them news of Ivan’s health later.

“I’ll make sure your apothecary gets here.” Sadik said to them before leaving with the others. He immediately broke away from the group to hurry back to his hall and calm the court. He couldn’t help but smirk as his plan had gone especially well. For a second he thought the bug was going to bite Alfred but fate had worked in his favor.

Back inside the room, Yao was wiping the sweat from Ivan’s brow while Alfred whispered words of encouragement to keep him conscience. Ivan’s eyes rolled back in his head and he began to choke up some white foam. Alfred did his best to remain calm and shouted for the man to hurry with the herbs. The apothecary brought a wooden bowl over and shoved Alfred out of the way to see Ivan’s hand. He scooped some of the greenish salve and rubbed it over the bite mark. Ivan’s body jerked violently and he let out a choked cough of pain. Yao used all of his weight to push Ivan back down onto the bed and hold him there while the salve was covered with a yellow leaf. The man squeezed down on the leaf and Ivan hissed in pain.

“What as that thing?” Yao asked him as the man started to wrap the leaf and hand with a bandage.

“We tend to call it a Fruit Centipede since it likes to hide in bushels of fruit. When you first brought him in I thought it was one of the spiders for we have them too. Sometimes the fruit crates carry the creatures inside and the men don’t always notice them.” He finished with the bandage and started working on mixing a liquid.

“So this happens all the time?” Alfred asked.

“We just had it happen maybe a week ago dealing with a spider bite. It is not uncommon. This centipede that bit him won’t cause death. You got him here just in time but it will take some time to get the poison cleaned from his body. That salve will have to be replaced every two or three hours. I will have to bleed and leech him at least once a day. We want to get the poison out of the blood stream.”

“I don’t believe in leeches or bloodletting.” Yao stated firmly. “They do more harm than good!”

“But the bloodletting will help cure him faster than the salve. The salve has to constantly travel through his body and eat away at the venom. My queen, what would you have me do?” Yao looked at Alfred and shook his head. Alfred looked down at Ivan body sweating with heavy fever but he had to trust Yao’s words.

“I will see what our apothecary says when he comes but I agree with my friend. No bloodletting. No leeches.” The man bowed.

“As you wish.” He said and brought the liquid over to Ivan, lifting his head so he could drink it. “This will help keep the fever down.”

“What should we expect from all this? What type of symptoms and what do we need to feed him?” Yao asked.

“He will tend to have cold sweats and high fever often. He will have coughing fits and possible vomiting. Everyone handles the venom differently. He may even have fits, no more than one or two.”

“Fits?” Alfred looked at Yao.

“You mean seizures.”

“Whatever your people call it.” The door opened and they turned to see their own apothecary rush in.

“I was told!” He said quickly and looked over Ivan. He noticed his bandaged hand and went over to the other man. “What did you use for the venom?”

“Mint, rue, myrrh, thyme, and rosemary boiled down with cow urine.”

“Brilliant!”

“Your queen does not wish to let me leech or bleed him to quicken the healing process.”

“I don’t believe in it.” Yao stated firmly once again.

“Yao, it would help.” He said but Yao still said no. “I think it’s up to Queen Alfred to make that decision, Yao.”

“He already has and the decision is ‘no’.” Alfred looked at their apothecary.

“I have to trust Yao on this. He’s been halfway around the world…he’s seen this stuff before.”

“Yes, your highness.”

“Do you wish to transport him to his room? He is stable enough now to travel. I trust your healer can take over from here.”

“Yes, I can make the same salve mixture. Hm…he’s going to be heavy…Yao, go fetch Ludwig. He’ll be able to carry Ivan to his room. He’s sober enough now.” Yao went to do so and Alfred turned worried eyes on to Ivan.

“He will be alright…won’t he?”

“Yes. From what I was told it is just going to be a very difficult healing process. He’s going to need constant care and looking after. I’ll bring a bed into the chamber and-“

“No.” The apothecary looked at him. “I can take care of him.”

“But, your majesty…this is beyond a cold or the flu. This is-“

“I said I could care for him! Stop questioning my orders!”

“Yes, your majesty.”

Ludwig came in with Yao and he said nothing as he carefully gathered Ivan up in his arms. He lifted from his knees and let out a few grunts at Ivan’s weight. He had to shift him around a bit but finally got a solid hold on him. For Ludwig, it was a VERY long walk back to Ivan’s chamber but everyone helped him along the way. Once again, everyone was ushered out except for Alfred, Yao, and the apothecary. He stayed for only a few moments while he helped get Ivan comfortable before he had to leave and make some of the medicine. Alfred sat on the bed beside Ivan, stroking the silver bangs away from his face. Yao stood behind him and placed his hands on his shoulders.

“Are you going to be alright, Alfred?”

“Y-yeah…I’ll be alright. Yao…everything happened so fast! Ivan could have DIED if we were out in that jungle! Now I’m worried about our plan. What if Ivan doesn’t get better before the rainy season comes?”

“That is still some time away, Alfred. We have at least a week and a half and he will be better by then. Both him and Gilbert. You know how stubborn he is and he won’t stay down for long.”

Alfred nodded sadly and stroked the top of Ivan’s swollen hand. He sat there in silence while he played over the events in his head. His eyes narrowed as he began to piece together the incidents, starting with Feliks, then Gilbert and Ludwig, and now Ivan. Everything appeared to be accidental and logical but he still had a funny feeling in his gut. He took a deep breath and stood up, clenching his fists at his sides.

“Yao, stay with Ivan until I get back.”

“Where are you going?”

“Don’t question your queen!”

“Hey! Since when do you get off speaking-“ Alfred ignored him and left the room without another word.

Something wasn’t right and Alfred was going to get to the bottom of it. He didn’t like how things were just ‘happening’ like this and he had to confront Sadik on it. He ignored his friends as they asked where he was going and put his hand up to keep them from following him. What happened to Feliks and Gilbert was horrible within itself but now that his husband was in the mix he couldn’t keep still. Trouble comes in threes and he would be damned before he let a forth come to light. Alfred shouted at each guards and servant for someone to tell him where Sadik was. He continued to walk the halls of the palace for someone to lead him to the bastard. He was getting fed up with the silence of the palace inhabitants and wondering around aimlessly. He was on a mission and he would tear down the walls of the palace to find Sadik if he could.

“Hey! Lovino!” Alfred saw him walking up the hall and waved him down.

“What is it?” Lovino looked wary of Alfred’s determined face. “What’s wrong?”

“Where is Sadik? I wish to see him!”

“He’s in the meeting room, where you first met with him.”

“Thank you!” Alfred remembered where that was and he wasn’t far from it at his current spot. His walk slowly turned into a run and soon he was dashing around the corridors to the meeting room. When he arrived their, two guards tried to stop him but he shoved them to the side and threw the door open. “SADIK!” He shouted his name.

“Alfred?” Sadik stood up from his place at the head of the table. He was surrounded by papers but was alone in the room. “What’s going on-“ Alfred’s fist met with his cheek and the punch set Sadik stumbling back.

“I’ve had about enough of you!” Alfred punched him again and continued to do so until Sadik finally grabbed his wrists to stop him.

“Be still! What is the meaning of this?” He twisted Alfred’s wrist painfully and he wanted to cry out but he wouldn’t give Sadik the satisfaction.

“I’m starting to think you’re behind all these horrible events! After the way you spoke to me during our first meeting has told me a lot about you!”

“How dare you accuse me of such tasks! Who do you think you are, little boy?”

“Take your hands off of me!”

“You attacked me fir- OOF!” Alfred brought his knee up to connect with Sadik’s stomach, making him hunch over. Alfred broke free and gave the man a swift kick in the chest to send him stumbling back.

“YOU’RE NOT FOOLING ME! MESSING WITH MY IVAN WAS THE WORST THING YOU COULD DO!” Sadik smirked and stood full erect, cracking his neck and knuckles.

“I like this side of you better. I still take no responsibility for what has befallen your husband and friends. However, I will not take kindly to you disrespecting my hospitality.”

“You best keep your distance from me, Sadik. Those blows I just showed you are only a small portion of what I can do.”

“Hmph.” Sadik smirked. “Normally I would have you decapitated for this disrespect. But I am a fair ruler…I claim innocent to all you accuse me of.” He took a step forward but Alfred didn’t move.

“I think you are lying.”

“Think whatever you like.” He struck his fist out and Alfred blocked it but he was unprepared for the punch that met with his gut. “I can give back tenfold!”

“Bastard!” Alfred gasped out and threw himself into Sadik, hoping to knock him over. Sadik was stronger than him and kept his balance before shoving Alfred to the floor.

“Cute trick.” Sadik was unprepared for Alfred roundhouse kick that knocked him from his feet and he crashed into his chair. “Shit…!” Alfred stood up, holding his stomach for a moment and then getting into another fighting stance. “You were hiding all this, weren’t you?”

“I was trying to be proper and play the role that is required of me. But now you’ve gone to far!” Sadik stood up, using the chair as an aide.

“Is this little fight all because I asked you to share my bed?” He gave him a teasing look. “Are you trying to regain your pride by using these false accusations against me? You’re quite rash, Queen Alfred.” Alfred paused for a second as he remembered Arthur shouting that word at him many times. Sadik noticed his sudden pause and used this opportunity to reach out and grab his arms. Alfred hollered and tried to kick him but Sadik twisted his arms painfully around his back. “Be still!”

“LET GO!” Alfred hooked his foot around Sadik’s ankle but only succeeded in tumbling them both to the floor. Sadik’s weight fell heavily on his back and almost knocked the wind from his lungs. He struggled to get out from under him but his weight and the pressure on his arms kept him from doing so. What did he get himself in to?

Outside the room, Lovino had rushed after Alfred when the man asked him where Sadik was. He wanted to find out what was going but was unprepared for the sounds he heard beyond the door. There was struggling and cursing with only Alfred’s voice filling the air. The man was yelling and shouting the words ‘stop’ or ‘let go’. More crashes were met with Alfred’s shouts and Lovino’s hand gripped the doorknob. Just was he was ready to go in and try to stop what was happening he remembered Sadik’s threat about the ‘torture chamber’. Lovino gulped and trembled with fear, slowly pulling his hand away from the doorknob. Alfred’s angry cries could still be heard and with a deep breath, Lovino turned and ran.

End Chapter 6 TBC

***I know I left it at quite a suggestive cliffhanger, didn’t I? (teehee!) Am I in trouble??? ^^’
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Storm of War