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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
- 7
- 8
- 9
***We’re nearing the end, folks! I’m not sure how many chapters there will be but this is the climax of the story. The beginning is a bit slow but it gets more excited and adventurous, I promise! Some parts may seem rushed but that is because I have SO MANY CHARACTERS to write so please bear with me!

***EXTRA! EXTRA! By popular demand on ff.net, I have the back-story of Lovino and Antonio at the end of this chapter. There was no need for it in the actual story but for those who are interested in their relationship, feel free to read!

***EXTRA! EXTRA! By popular demand on ff.net, Gilbert and Alfred’s ‘Scarface’ Moment is at the END of this chapter as well, right after the Lovino and Antonio story. If you don’t like spoofs and want to keep this story serious the way it is, then PLEASE DO NOT READ THE ‘SCARFACE’ SPOOF AT THE END! I don’t want any emails or reviews saying it’s stupid or immature. I am giving you fair warning! It is PURELY for FUN by popular demand through many reviews and emails! I hope I please those who are looking forward to it. ^^ It is short, mostly quotes set up just right.

***Warnings: Foul language, minimal drug use, some yaoi, slapstick humor, suspense! ^o^

***Disclaimer: I do not own Hetalia or ‘Scarface’. I do not own the title for this chapter!

Chapter 8: The Great Escape

“For the sake of all of us, Feli, PLEASE keep your mouth shut about our plan!” Ludwig said with his hands digging painfully into Feliciano’s shoulders. “You will kill us all if you blab! Please.”

“I…I won’t tell…” Feliciano said with a heavy gulp.

“I don’t know what they want to see you for but…I…” Ludwig growled in frustration. “Damn it!”

“Please don’t be mad at me!”

“I’m not mad at you! I’m mad at how you are! I don’t want you to give us away!”

“But I won’t!”

“And what if he threatens you with pain or death? What if he has a sword pointed at your heart?” Feliciano whined and trembled. “See, this is what I mean! This is what I’m worried about! He may not even do anything but I wouldn’t put it past him. He may even try to trick you with saying he already knows our plans. You just…have to try and not say anything about our plans, okay? Sadik will have us all killed.” Feliciano gulped again.

“I’ll…I’ll do my best. I promise.”

“Please, my lords, you must make haste.” Came the voice from the door. Ludwig sighed and looped his arm with Feli’s.

“I will escort you there and if I can I will stay outside the door.”

Ludwig followed to the servant who had come to deliver the message. He could feel Feliciano trembling as the smaller man moved closer to him. They were escorted out of the guesthouse and into the palace where they brought to Sadik’s main presentation room. The servant bowed to them before leaving the two outside the door. Feliciano gulped and looked at Ludwig, noticing the bead of sweat that had formed at his temple. He wiped it away from his husband’s face and Ludwig attempted a forced smile before knocking.

“Remember what we said. I’ll be right outside the door.” Feliciano was announced in and he gave a worried look back to Ludwig as he stepped into the room. Ludwig closed the door and let out a sigh of frustration. He moved to rest his head against the wall and thump it softly. “We’re doomed.”

“Good morning, Lord Feliciano.” Greeted Sadik from his spot on the red chase lounge. Lovino was on the other but propped up with pillows.

“G-Good morning, your majesties.” He gave a bow. Feliciano noticed that Lovino was sporting two black eyes and a bruised cheek while Sadik had a bandage around his head. The left side of the bandage had a heavy wad of cloth underneath it where something must have hit him. Both of them wore heavy frowns on their faces as they looked upon him. Feliciano felt his anxiety skyrocket instantly. “Y-You called for me?”

“We did.” Replied Sadik. “I have a new position I would like you to consider.”

“A position?”

“Yes. I would like you to be Queen Lovino’s groom for the reminder of your time here in my kingdom.”

“His groom? Why me?”

“You make him feel comfortable.” Sadik said flatly and glanced at Lovino, who simply turned his head away. “I rather him not be alone anymore and I know I can trust a person like you.” Sadik turned his gaze back to Feliciano. “You wouldn’t try to anything ‘bad’, yes?” Feliciano quickly shook his head.

“No! No not at all!”

“Good. As you can see the queen is a bit…indisposed due to our quarrel last night. I cannot trust my own men to stay with him. I can tell you are not a threat to either my queen or myself so naturally I allowed him to choose you. Do you accept?”

“Um…well, yes, I would accept but I think I would have to check with my own queen first.”

“I doubt Alfred will say ‘no’.”

“But…I should really check with him first. Then I will get back to you with my answer after I have his permission.”

“Then do it quickly.” Sadik said with a frown. “I want to keep my beloved wife ‘happy’. You’re dismissed. Go.”

“Yes, your majesty.” Feliciano bowed quickly and hurried out of the room. He let out a breath of relief and noticed his husband nearby. “Ludwig!” Ludwig rushed over to him and pulled him away by his wrist.

“We will speak in our room. But quick answer: ‘did you’?”

“No.”

“Thank the gods!” Ludwig said under his breath as they rushed back to the room. He locked the door behind them before turning to Feli. “Okay, what happened?”

“They want me to be Lovino’s groom, that’s all.”

“What? Groom? What the hell for?”

“Sadik just that Lovino felt comfortable with me and I wasn’t a threat to him, something like that. He said nothing about our plans.” Ludwig gave a curt nod and stroked his chin in thought. “I need to ask Alfred though. If I can be the groom.”

“This may actually work to our advantage. Come. Lets pay them a visit.”

It has been three days since Alfred last got a proper amount of sleep. Two sleepless nights and the start of the third day. It was starting to show on his face with the bags under his eyes and his slightly tangled hair. Gabe had been sent to Matthew to babysit and Yao had since given up on getting Alfred out of the room. Ivan had started to get some feeling back into his limbs and was able to lift his arms. Even Ivan had softly pleaded with Alfred to get some rest but he would not leave his bedside. It was getting harder to even reason with the sleep-deprived man and he snapped easily at everyone. The others would try to avoid him if they could.

“My rose…you’re starting to worry me. Please go and get some proper sleep.” Ivan said softly, propped up by pillows. Ludwig had since moved the bed up against the wall so the man was able to finally sit up.

“I can’t, Ivan! Every time I try my mind just wanders with a million things and I can’t sleep!”

“You’re not helping any of us being snippy like this.” Yao stated as he folded the towels from Ivan’s last herbal sponge bath.

“Shut up, Yao.” Alfred hissed at him.

“Can we come in?” All three men turned to the door when they heard Ludwig’s voice.

“Come in.” Yao called to them and the two walked in, locking the door.

“We don’t have to worry so much!” Ludwig said immediately. “Sadik called Feliciano to his audience room and asked him to be a groom for Queen Lovino!”

“What the hell does this have to do with anything?” Alfred said in a huff.

“I thought that if he takes the job then he can relay our messages verbally to Lovino! Whatever word or news we get from Lovino’s spies we’ll just have Feliciano tell him. What do you think?”

“I say do it.” Ivan said with a weak smile. “Right now we are out of options so this will be our best choice. You don’t mind doing it, right Feli?” Feliciano shook his head.

“No, I don’t mind. I like Lovino…even though he is a little mean at times. And I think they got into a fight last night too! Lovino had two black eyes and his cheek was bruised! And Sadik had a bandage around his head! He wants me to be groom to Lovino because he wants to see him happy.”

“Lovino doesn’t seem the type to not fight back.” Yao suggested. “Well, I can see him hitting and running, that’s more likely.”

Alfred ignored the other four as he thought about the last few lines that were spoken. Maybe it was just his sleep-deprived mind that gave him this idea but it might just work. Perhaps it was also because he was sexually frustrated with Ivan being indisposed. Going for a couple of days without sleep and sex can really do a number on your brain. Which brought him back to his current idea. Alfred had previously wondered how they were going to get Lovino away from Sadik on the morning when they leave. Hearing Feliciano’s words about Sadik wanting to make Lovino happy just added more pieces to the puzzle. He couldn’t help but smirk at how ridiculous his idea was. He would first talk to Lovino to make sure the other man would be okay with it. First, he would gather some of that special herb Sadik’s apothecary has that helps to ‘relax’ a person. Their own apothecary said it was more of a drug that shouldn’t be used for fun but only for things like surgery and amputations. It made a person extremely tired and relaxed, which is what he wanted to do for the bastard. First he would have to trick Sadik into letting his guard down. The man was a pervert so that shouldn’t be too hard to accomplish. Alfred was certain that Sadik found him attractive and only said those words about Ivan to hurt him. He was also certain that a loving Lovino would please him beyond measure. The scenario would be that Sadik walks in to his bedchamber and sees Alfred and Lovino together on the bed. They would imply that they had been fooling around with one another and to make it more believable, they would also have to have some of that drug beforehand. All he would have to do is find some way to get Sadik to take a higher dose of the herbal drug so he would be ‘pleasantly’ out cold. With the man asleep in his room no one would find it suspicious and it would give all them the time they needed to escape.

“IT’S PERFECT!” Alfred shouted out, startling the others who thought he had been listening to them. “I just had the best idea and I know it will work! I don’t have to have you guys all vote on it or discuss it with you because it’s my superb idea! So I don’t care what any of you say, not even you, Ivan! You’ll see! I’ve got this all figured out!” Ivan reached his hand up and yanked Yao down closer to whisper to him.

“He needs sleep, desperately. Get him some wine and make sure a heavy dose of sleeping powder is tossed inside.”

“Where should I let him sleep?”

“Throw him on Arthur. He can deal with him.” Yao nodded and quickly left the room

“So in other words, Feli, I think you SHOULD be Lovino’s groom and act as a messenger for us.” Alfred pat the man on the back and Feliciano looked at little uncomfortable with the current level of activity from the other.

“Yes, well, now that we have permission from Ivan and Alfred lets get you back to Lovino.” Ludwig wrapped his arm around Feliciano’s shoulders and led him out. Ivan looked to Alfred then and gave him an amused yet worried smile.

“Sweetheart…why do you come sit here with me.”

“Don’t call me sweetheart! That’s a term for a woman! I’m a man and deserve respect for my rights!” He said proudly and with determination. Ivan just chuckled softly and silently begged for Yao to hurry up with that wine. Alfred was starting to talk more nonsense than usual.

“Alright, I won’t call you that anymore. I know how much you love me by the devoted way you are caring for me but…but I’m starting to feel better so…you can go rest, right?”

“Rest? HA! Alfred F. Jones doesn’t know the meaning of the word sleep! There’s too much to do! I have to make sure you are cared for and Sadik is dealt with and Gabe is comfortable; A HERO CAN NEVER REST!”

‘And they say I’m insane?’ Ivan said to himself but grinned when Yao finally came in a wine cup. “Oh, marvelous! A drink to toast to our wonderful hero!” Ivan clapped weakly.

“For you, your majesty!” Yao bowed and handed him the cup.

“Yeah! That’s right! A toast to your Keenig! It’s like ‘king’ and ‘queen’ but not! That’s my new title!”

“And it’s a very befitting one.” Yao whispered to Ivan who chuckled humorously. Alfred ignored them and gulped down his wine, using the back of his wrist to dry his mouth.

“See! See how it’s done? That’s how a real man drinks! Okay, now lets get your salve swabbed on!”

“Why don’t we let Yao do it this time? I do believe it’s his turn.”

“Yeah well, I’m the keeing! I say who goes-“ Alfred wobbled a bit and gave a heavy yawn. “Wow…I’m suddenly so…so tired…” he rubbed his eyes and Yao went over to him, taking his had gently.

“Come on now, Alfred. Why don’t you follow me?”

Yao winked at Ivan and the man smiled as he watched Alfred get pulled out of the room. Yao walked him to the next room, which was inhabited by Francis and Arthur. He knocked on the door while trying to hold up and leaning Alfred. The door opened and they were greeted by Francis’ confused face. He raised a blonde eyebrow at the duo before picking up on the situation.

“Bring him in.” Francis stepped aside and let Yao drug in a slumping Alfred. Arthur jumped up from the desk immediately and went to him.

“What’s happened?” He asked.

“Nothing, he’s just ready to sleep.” Yao replied and Francis lifted the weight of Alfred from him. He carried the man over to their bed and laid him on the pillows. Alfred was already sound asleep and snoring lightly. “We gave him some sleeping powder in his wine so he would be forced to sleep. He’s been driving Ivan and I crazy with his lack of sleep energy! You would think someone with so little sleep would be slugging along and not bouncing off of walls.” Arthur laughed as he covered Alfred.

“That’s my Alfred! When he was little he would be all over the place. The lad couldn’t sit still or stay focused on one thing without needing to do something else. His attention span hasn’t changed that much since.” Arthur removed the secondary crown from his head and brushed the bangs away from Alfred’s face. “Poor Alfred. He’s under a lot of stress recently and he’s not sure how to handle it yet.”

“So I can trust you guys to take care of him. I’m going to get back to Ivan, okay? Let me know if he wakes up or something happens.”

“Don’t worry, we’ll take good care of him.” Francis smiled. “Let Matthew know that Alfred is with us.” Yao nodded and waved goodbye before he left.

“I’m going to go ask for a sleeping mat or something to be brought in for us. Well, one of us anyway. Most likely you.” Arthur said with a smirk.

“Why should I get the bed mat?” Francis pouted.

“Because I’m used to sleeping next to Alfred. Trust me, it’s no easy task to lie next to this man.”

“Aside from that, I rather you not go walking around this place by yourself.” Francis said seriously and Arthur rolled his eyes, giving him a snobby look.

“Francis, I’m not a target, okay? Some of the others are, yes. But they have nothing to gain by doing anything to me so I’m not worried in the least. Remember, I grew up on the streets where I’ve run in to many challenges and dangers.” Francis still looked uneasy. “I’ll be fine.”

“Then let me go and you can stay here with Alfred.”

“I’m not useless, Francis! I can take care of myself! I’ve been doing it since I could walk!” Francis immediately put his hands up.

“Alright, alright, fine. That infamous line of yours.” He shook his head and crossed his arms. “Why don’t you ever take my feelings into consideration for things like this? Who are you trying to impress?” Arthur glared and put his finger up to stop any more words coming from Francis’ mouth.

“Don’t bring this up again. I nearly divorced you last time you mentioned something like that! And I know you remember what those two weeks were like for you!” Francis rubbed his temples in frustration.

“Just go and do what you have to do and stop being so damn difficult.”

“You’re the difficult on, Francis!” Arthur stormed out of the room and slammed the door.

“Right…I’m the difficult one.”

Toris and Vash were walking to their apothecary’s room where Kiku was busy at work with the man trying to make the firepower. Luckily, before Lovino’s love notes were found out, Toris was able to get his papers passed on to the spies to get to Antonio. They were well set in the escape plan and knew where they had to go to reach the land bridge. If Kiku was able to make this firepower than they could use that to help them on their journey. Feliks was hard at work healing himself and working on the special harness for Alfred and Gabe. Heracles was in charge of slowly gathering up weapons and anything else he thought would be useful. Vash and Toris had also come to a conclusion about their ship and the sailors who helped get them here. They couldn’t very well leave the men and guards here in this kingdom where they would be executed. Everything was set and ready so all they had to wait for was the right moment to leave.

“Vash, why are you wearing that hat? It’s so hot out and hats trap the heat radiating off your head. Aren’t you hot?” Vash was sporting a matching green floppy hat with a couple of pheasant feathers.

“I’d rather be hot than get my scalp burned.” Vash said with a sour look. “I’m not used to all this sun all the time! You have darker hair so the sun doesn’t effect you as much.” Toris raised an eyebrow at him.

“Dark colors attract the heat more than light colors.”

“In other words, your skin is used to it. So I rest my case.”

“But-“

“Just drop it. We’re here.” Toris did so and knocked on the door before slipping inside.

“Good morning, gentlemen.” Toris greeted sweetly as they entered the room. “How are we doing?” Kiku and the apothecary had a variety of different objects and herbs scattered all over the table. Kiku was currently staring into a ceramic pot while holding a small pitcher of liquid.

“Not very well.” Replied the apothecary. “We keep coming up empty handed with this firepower. I think we’re missing some ingredients that can’t be found here.”

“And substituting them base on the similar makeup of other ingredients aren’t working either.” Kiku said. “I need just the right amount…”

“Anyway, what can I help you men with?” The apothecary asked.

“We have a plan for you, the guards and the crewmen on the day we make our escape.” Vash said. “I would hand you a paper but at this dangerous time it is best we relay our messages verbally. Lord Toris and I are putting you in charge of relaying the messages to the others.”

“Yes, my lord.”

“On the day we leave, I would like-“ Vash was cut off when a loud ‘whooshing’ sound and puff of gray smoke shot out from the ceramic pot and blasted Kiku in the face. The strange dusting gave Kiku a shade of ‘raccoon’ eyes and the front bangs of his black hair were sticking straight up. The other three stood silently as Kiku slowly turned to face them. Vash cleared his throat and removed his hat, placing it on Kiku’s head to cover his hair. “As I was saying, on the day we escape, you will take the guards and bring them to the ship. They won’t be after any of you for it is us Sadik will want. Once you get to the ship, have the men leave port immediately and set sail for Ozcliff for it is the nearest kingdom. Remain there until we send word to you and the others. Do you understand?” The apothecary bowed.

“I do, my lord. I will see all this done and it will be successful.” Vash nodded.

“Thank you kindly.”

“I don’t understand…I thought for sure this would at least get us a step closer.” Kiku said softly as he gazed down into his failure compound mix. Toris rubbed his back.

“Kiku, you are doing a fantastic job and no one is judging you. Try not to overwork yourself, okay? Antonio will show you how to make it when we get there. Don’t stress over this.”

“I know…but I don’t like not being able to figure something out.” Kiku frowned.

“Just be more careful and try not to burn off your eyebrows.” Said Vash. “If you need anything else just let us know, okay?”

“I will. How are the others? How is Ivan?”

“As well as can be expected.” Replied Vash. “He’s actually healing a lot faster than we thought. I don’t know how reliable or easy the escape will be for him, though.”

“He’s extremely stubborn and rash.” Toris stated flatly. “He’ll do just fine, trust me.”

Arthur carried a large bedroll in his arms as he made his way back to the guesthouse. He couldn’t wait to rub in Francis’ face that nothing had happened to him on his quest for a bedroll. Just before he could enter the doorway to the guesthouse, a group of elite soldiers blocked his way. Arthur narrowed his eyes as he counted them, six in total. He had a slight sinking feeling in his gut but kept his composure, even as they circled him. Now he was surrounded.

“Excuse me, gentlemen, but I need to get back to my room.”

“We want to see the red-eyed man.” One stated firmly.

“I’m sorry but he is still recovering from a bar fight.”

“We said we want to see the red-eyed man!” The same man repeated.

“And I said that he is indisposed at the moment!” Arthur glared at the man. “You have no right to be in our guesthouse without proper permission from your king.”

“We don’t need his permission. We are elite soldiers, not like the others. We follow different rules. We have more freedom.”

“If I may ask, what is the reason for needing to see our ‘red-eyed’ man? And just so you know, they are more pink than red.”

“Don’t get smart with us. He attacked our leader! He hit him from behind like a coward! He beat him up! When one of our own is attacked we attack back with more force.”

“Gilbert didn’t attack your leader! He’s been bandaged and in bed this whole time. Your leader must have him mixed up with someone else.”

“Our leader is never wrong.” They started to close in on him. “Take us to the red-eyed man now.”

“I’m not taking you anywhere! Get out of my way!” Arthur attempted to push past them but they blocked his way. “I said move!” He was suddenly grabbed from behind and pulled back, dropping the bedroll. Arthur responded immediately with a high kick to one of the men in front of him, nailing him in his chest. “LET ME GO!” One of the men to his right landed a punch to his cheek and he was thrown from the one holding him.

“We will fight through all of your men to seek the one we want.” Arthur wiped the blood from his mouth and tried to clear his head. It had been a very long time since he was last hit like that. “Last chance.” The man warned but another voice stopped their brawl from going any further.

“Stand down!” It was Sadik and the men fell to one knee. “I will handle the one you seek. Be gone.” The man did as they were told and Sadik walked over to Arthur, holding out his hand for assistance.

“I’m fine.” Arthur said and stood up on his own. ‘Shit, now Francis will see this bruise and I’ll never live it down! Just my luck!’

“I’m on my way to see Gilbert. I got word that he brutally beat one of my elite soldiers so I must find out for myself if this happened.” Arthur looked at him.

“Gilbert is bandaged up and can hardly move. It wasn’t him.”

“Regardless, I need to see for myself. I will accompany you so you don’t run in to any more trouble.”

Arthur said nothing as Sadik walked beside him and stopped outside of Gilbert’s room. Arthur figured he should stay with them for Matthew’s sake. Sadik knocked and announced his presence. It took a few moments but the door creaked open and Matthew peeked out to make sure it was him. Sadik gave a soft smile and asked if he could come in to see Gilbert. Arthur announced that he was there as well so Matthew was less nervous. He nodded and opened the door wider for the two of them to enter. Gilbert was asleep on the bed, still wrapped in various bandages. His breathing was labored and his brows were thrust up in pain.

“Is there something you wish of us, your majesty?” Matthew asked softly with a bow.

“I just came to see the status of your husband. I got word that he attacked one of my elite soldiers.” Sadik stared at Gilbert on the bed, his eyes narrowing slightly.

“Gilbert? Oh no, your majesty! He has hardly been out of bed! He can’t stand well due to his bruised rib! He has many restless nights and as you can see he has a hard time breathing. It couldn’t have been my Gilbie.”

“Hmm…perhaps my men had been mistaken. I should have known better than to actually think he could beat my elite soldiers. A beating from them leaves any man battered for weeks!” It was a good thing Gilbert’s hands were under the sheets because they were clenching. “I’m sorry to bother you, Matthew.” He took Matthew’s hand and kissed it, making the smaller man blush brightly. “Enjoy the rest of your stay.” He said ‘goodbye’ to Arthur as well and when he was gone they quickly locked the door. Gilbert sat up from the bed.

“I almost jumped up to punch the bastard!” Gilbert said in a whispered hiss.

“So it was you!” Arthur said in surprise.

“Yeah, it was! Those losers can’t keep the awesome me down! I tore that guy a new one! But isn’t my acting great?” He grinned.

“Supurb.” Arthur rolled his eyes.

“Arthur, what happened to your face?” Matthew asked, looking at the bruise.

“Those elite soldiers were looking for Gilbert but I wouldn’t tell them where he was.”

“Thanks Artie.” Gilbert gave him a thumbs up.

“Don’t call me ‘Artie’.” He sighed. “Now I have to go explain this to Francis. Take care.” He kissed Matthew on the forehead and then left, crossing the hall to his own room. He entered the room and Francis looked straight at him from the bed next to Alfred. “Hey…”

“I’m not saying a word.” Francis said as he stared at the bruised cheek. “I see you got your bedroll?”

“Y-Yeah…did he wake up at all?”

“No, he’s still out cold. He’s been mumbling a lot.”

“He always does that in his sleep.”

Arthur was surprised that Francis chose not to say anything about his bruise. In a way he was glad for that meant Francis was choosing to respect him and his choices. Arthur had to live with the fact that he would have gotten beaten up by those men even after Francis’ warning. Even though it annoyed him to no end he would have to walk with another person when he leaves the room.

“Toris came in while you were gone. The day is drawing nearer and we should all start preparing ourselves.” Arthur nodded.

“Alfred said something about having a plan to help us escape. I wonder what it could be? I hope it doesn’t involve dragons or something.” Arthur watched as Francis stood up and went over to him, gently touching his bruised cheek. “It’s nothing…” Francis just gave him a small smile before turning away.

“I ordered dinner for us so it should be here shortly.”

“Thanks.” Arthur could tell that Francis was upset with him even if the man was smiling. He was probably waiting for Arthur to tell him what happened but Arthur figured it wasn’t necessary and kept their conversations off the topic. Best not to regenerate an ‘old’ fight.

A full day had passed until Alfred finally woke up, feeling both refreshed and utterly confused. He sat up in the bed and looked around, noticing that he was alone and not in his room with Ivan. He recognized it as Arthur and Francis’ room but why was he here? Where were Ivan and Yao? Was everything all right? Alfred quickly jumped from the bed but immediately felt dizzy and had to balance himself. He rubbed his eyes and tried to remember how he got here. The last thing he could recall was drinking some wine from Yao, feeling sleepy, and then he woke up here. However, before that he had thought of an idea for their escape and that he could remember in full. He had to find Ivan and tell him but feared his answer. If no one had any other ideas then they would have to go with his because it was the most effective to get Lovino away from Sadik. Alfred slipped on his shoes and left the room, looking both ways to make sure it was safe. He hurried down the hall to his room with Ivan and jiggled the handle. The door was locked so he knocked instead and announced himself.

“One minute, Alfred!” He heard Yao call from the other side. Alfred tapped his foot impatiently until he heard the door click open. “Glad to see you are awake. How was your sleep?” Yao asked him as Alfred walked in.

“Good I guess.” He gasped softly when he saw Ivan sitting at the writing desk. Ivan smiled at him and twiddles his fingers in a wave. “Ivan! Ivan you’re out of bed!”

“For a little while.” Ivan replied, accepting the tight hug from his wife. “I’m starting to get some feeling back in my limbs and I can walk a short distance. Yao has been helping me.”

“But why wasn’t I here with you?”

“Alfred, you desperately needed sleep.” Ivan replied. “You were talking nonsense and babbling a lot. You were more of a help to me asleep than awake. But now that you are well rested I am glad to have you back at my side.”

“I’m relieved to see you up, but I will get straight to the point because this is very important!”

“Is this in regards to your ‘plan’ you kept going on about?” Yao asked with amusement.

“I wasn’t going ‘on’ about it! But anyway, I thought of a very brilliant idea that will help us get close to Lovino so we can take him and escape. You may not like it, Ivan, but I am standing firm on this.” Ivan saw the seriousness in his lovers face and he pat his lap with a smile.

“Sit on my lap and tell me all about it. I haven’t held you in quite a while.” Alfred eagerly flopping onto Ivan’s lap and nuzzled his cheek. Yao just rolled his eyes and stuck his tongue out at the cute factor of the room. Alfred told him his plan and why it would have the best outcome for them. Ivan narrowed his eyes as he listened through to the end. “I have strong doubts about this, Alfred.”

“I know love. But think about how easy it will be? Sadik is a pervert and I know he finds me attractive. I’m sure he would be extra excited if Lovino was actually ‘in the mood’. I’m very good at seduction, Ivan. You know that better than anybody. There is some small risks but I know I can pull it off.”

“I trust you, my rose. It’s the other I do not trust. Sometimes you wield too much power in that area…as I have come to find out many, many times. He may get carried away.”

“Not with the right drug he won’t.” Alfred smiled. “I can handle the drug, no problem.” Ivan gave an uncertain grunt and turned to Yao.

“What do you make of this?”

“I actually have to agree with Alfred on this one, Ivan. I know it’s hard but I’ve seen the way Sadik looks at him and he would make a great decoy. If Alfred can knock him out with that drug then we’ll be in the clear to make our escape. Now that Lovino is under the watchful eye of Sadik things are twice as hard. And I know better than anyone how Alfred’s seduction can completely turn a man.” Yao crossed his arms as he said the last part and Alfred just rolled his eyes.

“Hm…I don’t know about this, Alfred. Letting another man put his hands and lips all over you drive me wild with extreme rage and jealousy.” His grip tightened on Alfred. “If I give you the ‘okay’ to do this that may just happen.”

“Ivan, listen to me and listen to me VERY carefully.” He let his blue eyes stare into violet ones. “Need I remind you that we are in this situation because you so desperately want to expand. A lot of shit has happened since then and right now we have no other options. It is either a bit of seduction and false words or we’re all killed. Simple as that. Remember, the moment we get to Antonio’s kingdom we hold ALL the cards! Sadik won’t be able to touch us and with Antonio’s forces we can blow the bastard away! We need Lovino to have any of this work out the way we want it. He is locked away in Sadik’s room for the most part and this is the best way to go about getting him out. You don’t have to like it but you should understand why. It will work to our advantage…and it’s not like I actually care about Sadik in any manner. The idea does make me sick but I balance it out with necessity and logic. Now, do I have your permission to do this?”

“Would you have done it anyway without my consent?”

“For the sake of our child, our friends and family, and kingdom, of course I would. That is what is important right now. Not whose hands are all over me, right?” Ivan continued to frown at him. Alfred smirked and leaned down to whisper to him. “Just think…once we have Antonio’s forces you will be able to conquer and destroy all of Sadik and his kingdom…we just need to ‘get’ there first. I know how much you LOVE to conquer…and I want to help you do it. Imagine you and I…riding into battle side by side and taking down all who stand in our way. Just let me do this…and then we hold all the power.” He kissed his cheek.

“Damn you…why can I never deny you? Especially when you talk like that?” Alfred bats his eyelashes mockingly. “Alright…I’ll let you carry out this plan under ONE condition.” Ivan grinned at him.

“Uh oh, I know that grin. Yao, shield your ears!” Yao gladly did as he was told.

“When we are finally back in our castle…lets give everyone the day off, close off a section of the palace, and play a little game of Hide-and Go Fuck?”

“But I hate that game! Last time we played I got a rash in a place I didn’t know I had!” He pouted but then perked up as a thought occurred to him. “And this means that I can be ‘it’ as well and fuck you too!”

“HA! Do you want my permission for this plan or no?” Alfred scoffed.

“You’re mean! You really are, Ivan!” He pouted.

“So, do we have a deal?” Ivan wiggled his eyebrows.

“Fine. Deal.” They shook on it. “Now I should summon Feliciano to tell him the plan so he can relay it to Lovino. The rains will be here soon, right?” Ivan nodded. “Then lets get this show on the road!” He kissed his husband deeply before slipping off of his lap. “I have the best husband in the whole world!”

“Yes, yes. You always win…most of the time.”

A couple of days later the rainy season had finally come. Most of the popular were inside their homes until the rain would let up. The first rainfall usually lasted two days or more so the guesthouse inhabitants were just lounging around with nothing to do. They were all anxious for the morning when the rain would stop and the fog would lie heavy along the ground. Lovino’s spies had everything set up and ready for the escape. One spy whispered to Toris that the rain would stop by the late leaving and they could escape tomorrow morning. Toris quickly relayed the message to the others so everyone can begin packing. Feliciano had already spoken to Lovino about Alfred’s idea and he was skeptical at first but finally agreed to do it. Kiku was able to get hold of the proper drug and a pipe for Alfred, even though he was against it for anything other then medical needs. Ivan was trying to not look anxious and angry as he watched Alfred leave to carry out the plan. He was not fully cured of the poison but he was able to run, walk, and jump, just enough to travel. Knowing that Alfred would be in bed with Sadik was giving him more energy than anything else. Everyone sat patiently in their rooms, waiting for the knocking symbol that would come Alfred when he was done.

Inside Sadik’s chambers, Lovino and Alfred had done their part of smoking the drug just to make it more believable to Sadik. They would have to act as if they had smoked at lot. Alfred had been worried if Lovino was able to pull it off but with the drug in his system he was more relaxed. They had argued for a few minutes about which of them would be the ‘lead’ dominant one. Alfred had won after convincing Lovino that he was more forceful and outgoing than the dark haired man. Beside them on the table was a tray of decorated truffles, one possessing the necessary drug along with a peanut. It had been Kiku’s idea to put the compressed powder pill into the chocolate next to a peanut so Sadik wouldn’t become suspicious of the crunching. The said truffle was the only white dotted one. It seemed like a lot of work but they couldn’t take any chances. One of them would have to force feed Sadik the truffle and Alfred had offered to do so. Lovino decided that he wanted to be the one give him the truffle just so he could have a little bit of his own revenge.

“And I will do it with my lips.” Lovino tapped at his lips. “I will pass it to him and kiss him so he will be forced to swallow it. It’s the most disgusting thing Antonio ever did to me but right now it’s going to come in handy. I just have to keep myself from vomiting.”

“Good, now are you prepared to have me fondling you a bit?” Alfred asked with a relaxed smile. “I won’t do anything other than touching and feeling. He may ask to-“

“Yeah, yeah, I get the picture and I rather be touched by you than by him. Good thing we have this pipe.” He took another puff. “This all seems so much…easier.”

“I know! I would have it more often but Ivan gets angry when he sees me smoking it with some of the others. And if my friend Arthur sees me smoking it, he’ll kick the shit out of me.”

“He must be like a buzz kill mother, huh?”

“The number one!” They both chuckled softly then gasped when they heard the handle clicking and turning. “Here we go!” Alfred whispered and laid his body along the length of Lovino’s and starting kissing his neck.

“WHOA!” Sadik voiced loudly as he saw the scene before him. He was unprepared for the sight but it did make him crack a smile. “Well, well, when little Feli said that my wife tossed him out because ‘Alfred’ was here, I didn’t think this would be going on?” he sniffed the air. “Lovino, my love, since when did you start smoking this stuff?”

“I introduced it to him.” Alfred said softly. “I always noticed how stressed out and sad he was so I thought I would help him relax…you know, enjoy life a little. Problem is, I didn’t know he would get so excited while smoking it.” Alfred moved his lips down to Lovino’s exposed shoulder.

“Care to join us, husband?” Lovino asked with another puff of the pipe.

“Well, I haven’t smoked this stuff in awhile but with this gorgeous scene before me, how can I resist?” Sadik joined them on the bed and took the pipe from Lovino. Alfred pretended to giggle as he continued with kissing along Lovino’s chest. Sadik smoked the pipe while he watched Alfred’s lips rain over Lovino’s tanned skin. “I’m surprised at you, Lovino. All this time I wanted you to lay like that under me I just had to pump some drugs into you.”

“Hmph. Alfred’s gentle, you’re not.” He took the pipe from Sadik and puffed at it. “I hate rough kisses.”

“I love rough.” Alfred whispered out against Lovino’s skin. “With Ivan being poisoned I haven’t had any fun in a while…and Lovino was lonely so-“ Alfred’s words were cut off when Sadik gripped his chin and pulled his lips to meet his own.

Alfred’s eyes widen at the sudden kiss and his first reaction was to pull away but that would be disastrous. Instead, he wrapped his arms around Sadik’s shoulders and opened his mouth to the probing tongue. Sadik kissed him deeply and ran his hands all over his body, tugging at his clothes. Alfred managed to pull his lips away for air.

“T-this isn’t fair to your queen…giving me all the attention…”

“Nah, go ahead.” Lovino’s shocking statement almost made Alfred give away their act. The man really couldn’t control his drug intake!

‘Guess it’s up to me.’ He let Sadik’s mouth latch on to his neck. ‘I’ll be the hero.’

This was working out better than he though, minus the mellow-out Lovino on the edge of the bed. Sadik had fallen for their act much quicker than he had thought he would. Now he just had to get to those truffles and keep himself from being penetrated. Although with the drug in his lungs and the smell in the air it wasn’t an unpleasant idea. However, he needed to fight his basic human instincts and pull himself together. He gasped when Sadik’s hands shoved themselves past the waistband of his pants and grips his ass to press him closer. Alfred blushed hotly when he felt Sadik’s erection rub against his soft one. At the moment he was thankful for his body responding to Sadik’s attention for if he found that Alfred was soft it would make him suspicious. But he had to do something quick or he’d be on his back in a few moments and not by force.

“Wait!” Alfred shoved Sadik back against the bed and sat on his chest, holding him down. He licked his lips and smiled seductively down at him. “Don’t you think you are going to fast? You should be enjoying this.” He now stood up Sadik on all fours, close enough to the table with truffles.

“You really are tall…” Sadik ran his hands along the skin of Alfred’s waist. Alfred winked at him and reached over to take one of the clean truffles, slowly taking a bite.

“Mmm…chocolates are my favorite.” He pressed the other half against Sadik’s lips and the man eagerly ate it.

“Chocolate is my favorite as well. We have something in common.” He nuzzled the soft spot between Alfred’s neck and shoulder, forcing him to let out a little moan of pleasure. He reached for another clean chocolate and popped it in his mouth.

“It can make me even more excited, you know.” He purred and kissed the man’s lips before taking the drugged truffle. “And I bet it could make you twice as hard, hmm?” He gripped the chocolate between his teeth and pressed it to Sadik’s lips. Sadik growled in lust at Alfred’s words and he took the chocolate, giving a few chews before he swallowed. Alfred made sure he let out another purr along with his grin so Sadik wouldn’t question. He couldn’t believe it! It had worked! He pulled it off! If it was this easy to take down an empire who needed armed forces? So maybe it wasn’t the most heroic or honorable way to get the job done but it worked for the situation.

“I don’t care if Ivan’s been in you a hundred times! I’ll show you how much better it is with me!”

Sadik heavy shove surprised Alfred as his back hit the silk sheets. He yelped when his pants were torn from him and his lower half was exposed. Sadik’s weight crushed down atop of him and Alfred nudged Lovino with his foot frantically to get his attention. Lovino slowly turned to the sight before him and he cocked his head at the long legs wrapped around Sadik’s waist. Lovino shook his head and looked again before a little red flag went up.

‘Oh shit!’ he said to himself and reached out to grip Sadik’s hair and pull him back. Sadik hissed and grabbed at his hair.

“What the hell are you doing, Lovino?” Sadik shouted at him.

“You don’t fuck a floozy in front of your wife unless you have permission. Which you DON’T.” Alfred’s jaw dropped at Lovino’s choice of term to describe him. He made a mental note to smack the amber-eyed man when he had the chance.

“All of a sudden you’re my wife now?” Sadik narrowed his eyes but they softened with Lovino leaned forward and kissed him. He had to pull away to yawn suddenly and Alfred’s ears perked up when he heard it. “Hmm…I’m a little sleepy…wow…really sleepy…must be the rain.” Alfred watched as Sadik lay down on the bed, resting his head on the pillow. A moment later they heard a snore and Alfred grinned.

“We did it!” He whispered to Lovino. “He’s asleep!” Alfred got up and went to the window, looking out at the heavy mist that littered the ground as far as the eye can see. Even better! The rain had stopped and that meant that they could leave right now! “Lovino, lets go!”

Alfred fixed his clothes and grabbed them both cloaks from the wardrobe. He helped Lovino put his on before pulling him out of the room. The two had to sneak through the corridors and halls, pausing every now and again to avoid some night patrols. They finally made it to the guesthouse and Alfred began to knock on the doors. Lovino went in with Feli and Ludwig while Alfred rushed into his own room. Ivan and Yao were packed and ready to go. Gabe was nestled safely in the leather harness Feliks had made.

“It was a success!” Alfred said with a grin. Ivan rushed over to him and hugged him tightly.

“I see love bites all over you neck! Are you alright?”

“I’m fine, I-VAN!” He shrieked when Ivan’s fingers pressed against his entrance. “HOW DARE YOU!” Alfred grit his teeth and used his elbow to sock Ivan in the jaw. “I didn’t sleep with him!”

“I’m just checking! Geez!” Ivan rubbed at his now aching jaw.

“Stop your complaining you two!” Yao said. “Hurry up and get dressed, Alfred! We need to get a move on! I told the others to meet outside one by one. I’m going to go there now and start gathering everyone.”

“Okay, thanks.” Alfred dressed as quickly as he could while Ivan bounced Gabe in his arms.

“Your lips are swollen…”

“He’s a strong kisser. Not as strong as you, though.” Ivan walked over to him and pulled Alfred into a hug. Gabe cooed and joined in, holding his chubby arms straight out to hug as well.

“This is the big moment, Alfred…”

“I know, Ivan…I know. I’m nervous and excited at the same time. I just hope you are well enough to travel.”

“I’ll manage. If anything, it’s more important to get you and Gabe safely to the border.” Ivan lowered his head and met Alfred’s lips with a kiss. It would have lasted longer but Gabe gurgled with jealously and smooched his hand between their mouths. “I believe our son is trying to tell us something.”

“Yes. Let’s get moving.”

Silently, the group met outside the guesthouse walls couple by couple. They all crouched low to the ground where the mist was thick. Yao did a head count to make sure everyone was accounted for. The guide waited quietly for them to finish and when they were all ready he started to lead the way. He told them that he had memorized the walk from here and to the woods but they all had to walk as low to the ground as they could. The group of escapees stepped lightly as they spread out a few feet from other couples. Everyone was advised to hold hands with at least one person so they wouldn’t get lost. The mist was heavy this time of night and they could barely see the watch guards moving along the tower walls. It was scarier then most of them had thought it was going to be. They were sneaking along the ground like common criminals, knowing they could be caught at any second if they weren’t careful. Creeping through the mist took the rest of the night for they had much ground to cover. By dawn the mist had cleared as they arrived at the mouth of the forest.

“This is as far as I was said to go.” The guide said.

“You did more than enough for us. Thank you.” Toris gave him a few coins and sent the man on his way. “Okay…who’s in charge of the map?”

“That would be me.” Vash said and reached into his sack to pull out the map. “We are right where we’re suppose to be. We just have to keep walking straight through woods until we hit the hills. And we travel without stopping! Is everyone ready?”

“I’ll lead the way!” Gilbert said proudly and took out his sword. “My Dick Stick always leads me to the right spot!”

“I will take the rear.” Said Ludwig. “Everyone stay close together…we have a long walk ahead of us.”

The group proceeded into the strange woods, staying close to their friend or significant other. The trees were tall and wet with moss and mushrooms. Long branches and vines stretched above them for as far ahead as they could see. Strange sounds and noises echoed through the trees but the group continued forward. During their walk, Vash’s leg fell into a hole and he let out a surprised wail, alerting the others. Shouts of ‘what!’ sprang from all ends and Vash pulled his foot out easily, looking down at the hole.

“Groundhog hole.” He said softly and cleared his throat.

“Garden destroyers.” Kiku said with a hint of darkness in his voice.

“Afraid of a little stumble, Vashy?” Gilbert mocked him.

“Like I wanted to walk into that burrow, right?” Vash gave a little sneer.

“Come on, everyone. Keep walking.” Ludwig ushered them on.

The humidity rose along with the sun and mixed with the rainfall it was almost unbearable. They could taste the heat in their mouths as they trudged forward, tripping here and there. Feliciano spotted a large snake hanging from a tree and latched himself to Ludwig. Lovino joined his look-alike a second later and Ludwig just sighed in defeat. Ivan wasn’t coping well with the heat and he was growing tired. Alfred was using a piece of paper to fan Gabe, trying to keep the boy cool. Half of them had stripped themselves of their cloaks and shirts for some hope of relief. Feliks was getting frustrated since he seemed to be the only one walking into spider webs. Yao and Kiku were up ahead along with Gilbert, the three who had the most energy. Feliciano, Lovino, and Matthew were slowly trailing behind. Ludwig was growing frustrated with all three of them. Matthew he knew always had health issues so he had an excuse. The other two were just whimpy and lazy. Arthur was doing well in keeping up speed with the others. Francis appeared to be on the verge of a breakdown as he constantly batted at the circle of white tiny flies that plagued him. Arthur tried to use encouraging words to help him but once Francis’ hair was plastered flat to his head with sweat you’ve lost him.

“You noble city boys don’t know how to rough it!” Arthur boasted.

“Yeah, when we lived on the farm we worked all day in the heat!” Alfred seconded him.

“Hey, us knights trained in all weather! From rain to heat to snow!” Gilbert defended himself and Ludwig.

“Um…hello? I was a warlord for half of my adult life.” Ivan pointed out. “I’m used to this stuff too…”

“So why are you heaving with your tongue out like a dog?” Gilbert smirked.

“You jackass! He was poisoned, remember?” Feliks yelled at him.

“Vash, I say we take a rest.” Heracles offered and pointed at the map. “Right over this incline here there appears to be a stream of some kind. Or perhaps a creek?”

“I agree. All right everyone! Lets make this incline and there is a stream on the other side! We can take a short rest there!”

The promise of a rest and running water gave everyone an extra boost of energy to make it over the muddy incline. Sure enough, there was a small stream and the group rushed to it. They wet their faces and hair, enjoying the cold water on their skin. Yao assured them that running water was clean so everyone gulped down as much as they could. Francis had to sit down and take out his comb to brush his frizzy hair. His normal wavy locks were now straight and flat. Arthur had to keep smacking his face with water before his ever-vain husband flipped out from being ‘dirty’. Alfred was rubbing the cool water on Ivan’s skin as he rested, trying to catch his breath. Gilbert filled his canteen and brought it over to Matthew, making sure he drank as much as he could. Heracles was off to the side with Kiku, both admiring indented stones in the stream. There was one rock that had a hole straight through it where water had hit endless for hundreds of years. Kiku wished he could take it with them but they had to travel light. Heracles took it for him instead, saying he had nothing of importance in his bag. Vash, Toris, and Ludwig were going over the map, making sure they were still going in the right direction.

“So, are we going through the hills or over the hills?” Gilbert asked them.

“Over.” All three stated in unison.

“Why not through it? It’s obviously been discovered before since it’s mapped out. Why take everyone OVER it? Where’s your sense of adventure, guys?” Gilbert grinned.

“It’s been conquered by my sense of logic!” Vash hissed at him.

“Going through a dark cave would be dangerous.” Started Toris. “If we climb over it, Sadik’s horses wont’ be able to follow us. They should be realizing we’re gone about now.” Ludwig nodded and took the map.

“I’m going to go show Alfred and Ivan.”

“I’ll start rounding everyone up!” Gilbert said and turned to give everyone a one-minute warning. Vash’s eyes widened when he saw a large black spider slowly crawling up Gilbert’s back. It must have crawled on him when he was resting his back against the mud bank. Vash quickly picked up a stick and aimed it at the spider, giving a hard swing. He missed the first time and Gilbert let out a shout of pain. Vash swatted at it again and managed to knock it off of his tunic. He had swung to recklessly and hit Gilbert again. “IT HURTS! WHAT THE HELL MAN?!” Gilbert was forced to his knees and looked back at Vash with a death glare.

“There was a spider. On your back!” Vash defended himself. “It was REALLY big.”

“You could have just brushed it off.” Toris said softly for he had seen the spider too. Gilbert moved away from him with a heavy grumble, going over to the waiting arms of his Matthew who cuddled him. “That was a bit unnecessary.” Toris said and looked at Vash who only gave him a smug smile.

“Alright everyone! Regroup! We don’t stop again until we are up and over the hills!” Ludwig ordered and with heavy sighs, they proceeded on their way.

By early afternoon they had arrived at the foot of the rocky hills. They were tall layers upon layers of white rocks and bits of ground. They all looked up at the height together and Ivan estimated that it wouldn’t take them long to climb. Alfred made sure that Gabe was strapped in tight to his back harness. He would climb beside Ivan because his husband looked winded and ready to pass out. Their hearts sank when they heard the distant sound of a war horn.

“They’re coming for us!” Yao said. “They know we left!”

“EVERYONE! START CLIMBING! FAST!” Ludwig ordered and they began their climb.

Sadik and his men would cover more ground quickly because they were on horses most likely. Gilbert and Feliks were ahead of everyone. Ludwig was stuck with Feliciano, Lovino, and Matthew, which he may as well be carrying all three of them. A few of the others up ahead lost their footing but managed to catch themselves. Kiku had a particularly nasty slip and fell back. Luckily, Heracles was a few steps behind and he caught him before he fell. Ivan was slowing down to the point where he had to stop and take a few breaths before climbing another rock. Alfred tried his best to pull him along but Gabe was proving to be rather heavy. The boy was kicking a lot out of restlessness and it would throw off Alfred’s balance. Matthew was very far behind to the where Feliciano and Lovino were even ahead of him. Gilbert was going to climb down and help him but Ludwig took over instead. He would rather have Gilbert reach the top first and scan the area. Ludwig could hear the shouts of men and horses in the woods behind them.

“THEY’RE GETTING CLOSER! CLIMB FASTER!”

Ludwig didn’t even ask but gripped Matthew’s wrist and forced the small man to get on his back. Matthew latched on tightly to his neck and closed his eyes. When Feliciano and Lovino also heard the sound of the men, they screamed in unison and climbed faster than all the others. Ludwig cursed under his breath but with those two ‘running’ away he could speed up his own climbing.

“We’re almost there, Ivan!” Alfred urged him on and Ivan gave him a tired smile.

“Come on you lazy frog!” Arthur was practically pushing Francis the rest of the way up.

“But…the balls of my fingers have aching red spots on them…it’s from all the rock climbing!”

“I’m divorcing you once we reach the top!” It was a joke of course but it made Francis give a little yelp of worry. By the time everyone had reached or neared the top, Sadik and his men on horseback burst through the woods.

“THEY WENT UP THERE!” Sadik shouted and his elite soldiers all aimed their arrows.

“CLIMB DOWN!” Ludwig shouted and everyone began to descend.

The arrows flew over the hilltops and everyone had to continuously look up in hopes of not getting hit. Climbing down was much easier and soon the arrows had stopped. They were going to have to either climb on foot or take the horses through the cave. Right now it was a matter of getting down safely and running to the horse farm. Gilbert and Feliks were also the first ones down and they helped the others land safely on their feet. Yao did another quick recount before they took off running. With the fear of Sadik’s men so close behind everyone was running at top speed. There were no longer woods but rather fields and a road.

“LOOK!” Yao shouted and they saw a man riding up to them.

“QUEEN LOVINO!” The man called.

“It’s alright everyone! He’s one of us!” Lovino panted out. The man rode up to them and pulled his horse to a stop.

“I have all your horses ready! Follow me, quickly!” Everyone ran behind the man on horseback as he led them to the horse farm. Everyone gave a little cheer when the horse farm came into view. “They are the fastest horses King Antonio could send! And there is enough for all of you!” Ludwig looked back and saw that the horsemen were coming out through the mountain cave pass.

“Shit! Everyone don’t dilly-dally! Get on your horses and ride!”

“Just follow the road!” The man said and stopped his horse when they arrived at the farm. Everyone claimed a horse and prepared to ride. “I will send my falcon with a message to King Antonio at the bridge! He is waiting there now and he will meet you a quarter of the way!” The man ran to his falcon and proceeded to do so. Once the falcon was sent off he remounted. “I will arrive at the kingdom shortly!”

“And you will be rewarded!” Lovino said.

“RIDE OFF EVERYONE!” Ivan ordered and he took the lead this time with Gilbert and Ludwig in the back.

The man wasn’t lying when he said they had fast horses for them. The horses were outrunning Sadik’s, which were probably tired from riding through the cave. With the open path and the fast horses they would make it to the bridge in no time. Of course, Sadik’s men were shooting arrows in their direction and they had to duck. Toris’ horse was hit with an arrow and it went crashing to the ground. Toris jumped up quickly and Heracles held out his hand, easily pulling him up onto his horse. Alfred had Gabe’s harness moved in the front so to protect him from the arrows. The horse chase continued until early sunset and Sadik’s men were out of arrows. They were still trailing behind but the others’ horses were beginning to slow as well.

“Look there!” Feliks shouted and they saw a man riding up to them with a small army of armed soldiers.

“That’s Antonio! Keep going everyone!” Lovino hollered, feeling himself smiling at the sight of his true husband. Antonio and his men stopped way before the others reached them.

“Keep going straight!” Antonio called to them. “My men will hold them off!” Antonio watched as they all rode past him and only Lovino and Ludwig stopped to speak quickly with him. “Is that everyone?”

“Yes! Reunion later!” Lovino said and Antonio joined them in the back. His men rode straight into Sadik’s and proceeded to hold them off.

“How much further?” Ivan shouted behind him, directed towards Antonio.

“We still have a bit of a ways to go! Once we pass that rock formation in the distance you will see the wall and the bridge! The gates are already opened for us! Just ride on through and stop when you see a portion of my army! They are armed with firepower!”

“I don’t think the horses can go on much longer!” Toris shouted behind them.

“Don’t worry! They’re racehorses! Bred from the very best!” The rock formation was getting closer and Kiku looked back to see Sadik and his remaining men catching up to them. Kiku realized that all of the soldiers were accounted for but he couldn’t see any of Antonio’s.

“They’re gaining on us!” Kiku called to the others. Gilbert looked back and gave them the finger.

“LICK MY BALLS YOU YELLOW LIVERED-“

“SHUT UP, BROTHER!” Ludwig shouted at him.

Once they reached the rock formation they could see the large wall and gate. There was a lineup of armed men in the middle of the road with large, strange contraptions. Antonio shouted for everyone to keep going and to ride around the men. Ivan lead everyone through the large gate and onto the land bridge where more armed men were waiting for them. When Ludwig, Gilbert, and Antonio rode in some guards quickly closed the heavy doors and cranked the large latch across its length. Everyone cheered and hugged each other, congratulating the other with handshakes or high fives or kisses. The loud, shocking sounds of the firepower cut their celebration short and hurt their ears. One of the guards said that those were cannons the men were using to hold off Sadik and his men. The firepower had worked and Sadik’s men could proceed no further. Now that they were safe, Antonio came up to them in full greeting.

“Well…welcome to my kingdom. I am King Antonio of Soviana. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for bringing my little tomato back to me!”

“Don’t call me that!” Lovino said angrily but that didn’t stop him from running and jumping into Antonio’s open arms. Antonio laughed happily and swung him around, ignoring his mantra of protests. He finally put him down and smiled at the others but kept his arm around his waist.

“Come, let us travel to my castle! We will feast to our success and welcome new friendships!”

“We did it, Ivan.” Alfred said, leaning up to give him a soft kiss.

“It’s not over yet, my rose. We still have Sadik’s kingdom to conquer.”

“Um…I think Gilbert beat us to it.” Alfred pointed to Gilbert, who was now mooning Sadik’s retreating men.

“Check this ass, guys! It’s saying ‘tough shit! You lose’!” He laughed full heartedly but was smacked by Matthew. “Sorry…just got caught up in the moment…”

End Chapter 8 TBC

Extra 1: Antonio and Lovino’s Story (warnings: some bad language, fluff, romantic stuff)

Lovino had just come to Antonio’s court as a young man seeking a job on the council. He wore his best, most expensive attire to prove his wealth and family status. His body adorned the simple fabric of green linen but it was decorated with a paisley design of burgundy and gold. His cape was black and made of pure satin. Despite the heat of the summer he chose a matching floppy hat with a great green plume. He may have overdone it a bit but he desperately wanted this job. Already people at court were staring at the ‘new face’ and he kept a stern, unbothered look on his face. He had to admit that all the looks were a little unnerving but he would drown himself in some good food and wine to forget it.

Lovino mingled around the courtroom with his plate of noodles and tomato sauce, not caring if it was socially unacceptable. He was a noble and he was hungry. After a while of mingling with some who cared not to speak with him, Lovino lounged on a windowsill and stared out into the gardens. Little did he know that a pair of green eyes were curiously watching him.

‘Who is that?’ Antonio leaned over his throne and asked a fellow advisor.

‘I believe that is young Lord Lovino. I received word that he would be coming to your majesty’s court seeking a position.’ Antonio smiled.

‘A position, you say? He is quite the rebel rouser! I can already see many of the nobles snuffing him. And to lounge so lazily on MY windowsill in MY presence is equally amusing! Summon him to me. I wish to speak with him.’ Antonio smiled and fiddled with one of his heavy amber necklace pendants.

‘Certainly, your majesty.’

Antonio watched as his advisor approached Lovino at the window. They spoke for a few moments until Lovino followed the advisor to Antonio’s throne. The king smiled at Lovino when the young man lowered himself to one knee on the carpeted dais before him.

‘Rise. Rise, good sir.’ Lovino did so, meeting Antonio’s eyes. ‘Hmm…are you not familiar with the customs of my kingdom? When speaking to the king you must keep your eyes lowered at all times.’

‘Why?’ Lovino asked him.

‘Why?’ Antonio chuckled. ‘You’re funny! Those are the ancient customs, of course! However silly they may be or sound. Tell me, what is your name, young man?’

‘I am Lord Lovino Vargas of House Soviana. I have come seeking employment from your majesty.’

‘Employment? I fear I have more than enough men in my council and realm.’ He enjoyed seeing Lovino’s face turn to an angry hurt.

‘That’s not fair! I’m better than half of these guys you have already hired!’ At the sound of his outburst the court inhabitants all gasped and stood in silence. Antonio smiled at Lovino’s flushed face and he clapped.

‘Perhaps I may have a spot for you yet.’ He clapped his hands and a groom hurried over to him. ‘See to it that a guest room is prepared for young Lord Lovino.’ The groom bowed and hurried off to do so. ‘I have many guests to attend to but I do so very wish to find a position for you. I will have a servant of mine summon you later this eve when I have finished my work.’ Lovino gave a bow and quickly left the dais to hide in the crowd.

Later that evening when Antonio had summoned for him, a servant came and said that Lovino had refused to come. Lovino hired a carriage to take him back to his house and he sends his regards to Antonio. Antonio was saddened by his sudden abandonment of the cute amber-eyed man but another feeling started to build up inside of him. This young man was playing hard to get and if it was a chase he wanted than that was what he was going to get. Lovino was now at the top of his courting list.

“Lord Lovino! A gift came for you!” Announced a servant. Lovino was in the study at his writing desk and gave the servant a puzzled look.

“A gift?”

“Yes! One of the king’s groomsmen is here with it!” Lovino put his quill down and stood from his desk to follow the servant. He entered the main room of his house and saw the smiling face of a groomsman. The man bowed low to him and present Lovino with a velvet wrapped bundle in his arms tied with a gold tassel rope.

“Good afternoon to you, Lord Lovino. I come on behalf of our sovereign, bearing you gifts.”

“And why would the king wish to send me gifts?”

“You will be pleased to know that the king has decided to court you and these gifts are his first token of appreciation and he hopes you accept them.” The man placed the package on the table and bowed low before backing up.

Lovino frowned at the decorative bundle on his table but he proceeded to open it. Good thing his parents were out or they would be ecstatic knowing their son has caught the eye of the king. He untied the heavy tassel rope and carefully unfolded the velvet material. The first item he saw was a small silk pouch wrapped with another tassel. He untied it and revealed a thick golden necklace with the royal gems of ruby and amber. Three brocade medallion pendants hung from the front of it and it looked as heavy as it felt. He placed the necklace aside and removed the next gift, which was a decorative sash to wear across his chest. The last was a red riding cloak with gold tassel trim and hood tie. Lovino looked upon all the gifts and they made him feel extremely uncomfortable. He was not excited about the gifts at all and the king hardly knew him! Why would he be choosing to court him after just one short meeting?

“My Lord Lovino, do you accept these gifts?”

“I’m afraid I can’t.” The groomsman and the servant both looked surprised. “Tell the king that I’m not ready to accept such gifts and I am not ready to be courted. Please take the gifts back for I am not interested.”

“But…but my lord, these are gifts straight from the king himself! You may very well be our next queen!”

“I am honestly not interested. I’m sorry you had to travel all this way but my servant will see you out. Good day, sir.” The man gathered up the gifts and left. Lovino made all the servants swear that they would not mention this visit to his parents.

Back at the palace…

“My king, Lord Lovino does not accept your gifts nor does he give you permission to court him.” The groomsman said with a low bow. Antonio looked at the returned gifts and gave a smile.

“Hm, it’s only the first batch of gifts. Things will get better as we go along. Continue with the gift giving.”

The next courting day…

“No! Bring them back!” Lovino rejected the decorative ceramic pots.

The next courting day…

“Send them back!” Lovino rejected the love letters.

The next courting day…

“Take them away!” Lovino rejected the pair of horses.

The next courting day…

“I don’t like animals in the house! Send it back!” Lovino rejected the exotic singing bird.

The next courting day…

Antonio and his entourage appeared on the hilltop overlooking Lovino’s house and lands. He smiled in delight and reared his horse.

“Alright Lovino, lets see how well you can reject me now. Lets ride!” He ordered his men.

Lovino was in his room snacking on a tomato when his eyes caught something colorful outside his window. He looked out and saw the entourage of men flying the Soviana royal family banners high as they rode towards his house. Lovino spit out the piece of tomato he was currently chewing and rushed out onto his balcony. He glared at Antonio when he saw the man on horseback waving to him. Today his parents were home and wouldn’t they enjoy seeing this. He did admit that everything was flattering but he was too prideful to give in to it.

“My darling, why have you rejected my gifts?” He asked as he pulled his horse to a halt beneath Lovino’s balcony.

“I rejected them because I don’t want them! You can’t just expect people to like you by giving them gifts!”

“But I sent love letters as well!”

“You hardly know me! You shouldn’t be sending those sorts of things in the first place! Now why are you here? I’m just going to tell you ‘no’ again and again!” Antonio grinned.

“That’s what keeps me coming back! I want to win your heart and I promise you that I will have it!”

“Not in a hundred years!” Antonio just laughed and summoned one of his men over who brought him a lute. “Now what are you going to do with that?” Was he going to sing? “Oh for the love of-“

“Let me sing to you the song in my heart, my sweet Lovino.”

“I don’t want to hear you sing! My answer is still ‘no’!”

Antonio ignored him and began playing a song on his lute. He smiled up at Lovino and began to sing a song he had written for him. Lovino had to admit that the song was sweet and lyrical, as much as he wanted to hate it. The king had a talent for writing but he seemed to need a little work on his singing. Once his song was done the others clapped for him and he gave a bow from atop his horse.

“My love, did you enjoy that song? I wrote it especially for you and it sums up all my feelings!”

“I wasn’t sure if that was you singing or the bullfrogs in my garden pond!” The others all gasped in shock at the insult but Antonio just laughed.

“You’re quite the spitfire, aren’t you? Perhaps you are not the type who can be wooed by sweet words and pretty gifts!”

“Damn straight!”

“Then you leave me no choice!” Antonio got off his horse and untied his cloak.

“What are you doing?” Lovino asked.

“I’m coming up there! Some people need to just be grabbed and kissed to understand passion!” Lovino gasped angrily and glared daggers at the king as the man proceeded to climb up the ivy along the wall. “Prepare yourself!”

“DON’T YOU DARE!”

“You’re majesty! What if you fall?” One of his men asked with concern.

“I won’t fall! Don’t worry!” He climbed higher.

“GO AWAY!” Lovino shouted. “GET OFF MY HOUSE!” Lovino rushed back into his room and took his plate of two remaining tomatoes to bring them out. “I SAID STOP!” He threw one of the tomatoes at him but it bounced off Antonio’s head and he kept climbing. “PERSISTANT BASTARD!”

“Yup! That I am!” Antonio grinned as he neared the balcony ledge.

“DON’T YOU DARE COME ANY CLOSER!” He threw the last tomato and the fruit hit Antonio in the face. “GOTCHA!” Lovino grinned. Antonio paused in his climbing but only to wipe the red gooey mess from his eyes. “Our mighty king was taken down by a single tomato!”

“Hardly!”

Antonio began to climb again and Lovino gasped. He was completely out of tomatoes. He would show he found all this ridiculous and turned to go back into his room but found the doors locked. He jiggled the handles again and saw his mother and nursemaid hurrying out of his room. Lovino nearly seethed with anger and he was forced to turn back to Antonio. He vowed he would get his revenge somehow! Now he had nowhere to run as Antonio climbed over the balcony rail. Now he had no means of escape!

“No! Get off my balcony right now!”

“It is not wise to deny the king what he wants. Give me a chance!”

“NO!”

“I see that you’re blushing! You really do like me!”

“NO!”

The balcony was small and Lovino hardly had anywhere to run to be out of grabbing range. Antonio reached out and managed to grab him and bring him into a tight hug. He pressed Lovino against his chest and held him still through all the struggling. Lovino tried to wiggle his way free but Antonio was surprisingly strong. Instead, he used his hands and forearms to try and block the kiss that he knew was going to come. Antonio eventually broke through the finger barrier and pressed his lips to Lovino’s. Lovino froze in place, his eyes wide for a moment before he tried to push him away again. Lovino muttered and grunted as Antonio turned his kiss more passionate, running his hands all along his back. He started to feel his face heat up with a blush and his knees buckle at the pleasant feeling of the kiss. Why he was enjoying it made him angry but at the same time he never wanted it to stop. He felt Antonio take his arms and wrap them around his neck so he could be pulled closer. But when he felt that tongue push through his lips he hit the roof and shoved himself away.

“No! What the hell were you doing?”

“You were so excited about my kiss I thought I’d take it a step further! Your lips are just as sweet as I imagined they were!”

“W-Well I didn’t like it! Not one bit!”

“But you are blushing like a springtime bud and your arm is littered in goosepimples.” He took Lovino’s arm and pushed the sleeve up to his elbow to begin a series of soft kisses up its length.

“Grrrrrr!”

The entourage below started to hear yelling and ‘things’ slamming…or rather ‘banging’, up on the balcony. They all twitched with each sound they heard coming from above. When everything fell silent, they looked up to see Lovino climbing down the ivy vines. A shaky hand of their king planted itself on the balcony rail, and then was joined by the other. Antonio’s head slowly appeared by the time Lovino had made it all the way down. The others shouted up to him and he just waved them off, smiling stupidly. Lovino brushed his hands together and stuck his nose in the air as he made his way through the entourage.

“See to it that your king is removed from my balcony!”

“Wow…what a wildcat!” Antonio said with a cheerful smile. “Try and try again I always say!”

So after a long three months of painful courting with love letters and pretty songs, Lovino finally moved into the castle with Antonio by the fourth month. There the courting continued until Lovino started to fall ‘somewhat’ in love with the king. He looked forward to his new songs or poems and took pleasure in sitting beside him at the throne. He wasn’t queen yet but he knew a marriage proposal was on its way. And he was right when his 23^rd birthday came around. Antonio had held a large feast full of decorations, dancing, food, wine, and entertainment. He surprised Lovino with four milk white horses as gifts, a large sugar cake, and the engagement ring. Antonio went down on one knee before him and slipped the ring on his finger.

“Lovino, in the presence of my court and relatives, I humbly ask if you would be my queen? I promise to give you the freedom and respect that you deserve and let you rule by my side. Do you accept?” Lovino looked at the engagement ring and gulped. He wanted to say ‘yes’ but there was a lot to consider! “Lovino?”

“Um…there’s so much to think about. I mean marriage is a big step and to be a QUEEN is an even bigger one!” He looked slightly embarrassed. “May I have a few days to think about it? I know I’m most likely going to say ‘yes’ but I still need some time.” Antonio looked at the ring in his hand and nodded, giving him a soft smile.

“I understand. I will eagerly await your answer.”

Lovino stirred over the decision for three days until he had finally come to a conclusion. He decided that he would accept Antonio’s engagement but did not want to have a wedding right away. He told Antonio that he wanted to see how well they do together first and if he would be a decent queen. Antonio was overjoyed with his answer and he threw another celebration in Lovino’s honor. After his decision was made Lovino had moved in to Antonio’s room, even though the sleeping arrangements we’re changed. If Antonio ever tried to touch him in a sexual manner the man would be forced to sleep on the sofa in the room. This went on for many nights the first week they began sharing a bed, Antonio always thinking that Lovino would eventually give in. Too many nights on a stiff sofa was showing it’s crippling effect on the man and he decided to let Lovino win this fight. It appeared that he would have to wait for the wedding night to express his love further. Antonio was certain that if Lovino’s body could sprout porcupine quills to block his advances then he would. However often this happened, Antonio always remained patient and kind to his love.

Then came the night that haunts them both. The night Lovino was taken from him by Sadik and his men.

Sadik had been staying at their palace for a few days while he and Antonio had very heated political discussions. Lovino was often surprised by his future husband’s change of personality and attitude when he was finished with Sadik. Lovino would try to talk and comfort him but he wasn’t very good at those types of emotions. Antonio seemed fine with it, almost as if he didn’t want to bother Lovino with any of it in the first place. One night Lovino pushed himself to be intimate with Antonio in hopes of relieving the man of stress from Sadik’s visit. However, before Antonio got too far Lovino chickened out and forced him to stop. Antonio had actually left the room that night without saying a word to him. Never had Antonio left him like that so he knew he must have really hurt him. He had gotten so use to how flakey, fun, and annoying Antonio could be but when the man was like this he found he preferred the usual Antonio. Lovino was familiar with the age-old feud between their two kingdoms but it had never affected him this closely. He just wanted the other king to leave so things could go back to normal.

Then one night before Sadik was ready to leave, Lovino had been lured out of his room and jumped by Sadik’s men. All he could remember was something covering his head and his body being roughly carried away. He knew he had been thrown onto a horse and someone got on behind him. The mocking laugh was that of Sadik and if he wasn’t scared before he definably was now. When the horse took off Lovino could hear the war horn being sounded, which meant that Antonio knew this had happened and was retaliating.

When Antonio had gotten the note of Lovino’s abduction he nearly went into a blind rage. He summoned all of his horsemen to ride after Sadik’s men. The army of horsemen was about twenty men or more. Antonio ran up to the tallest part of his castle to watch as his horsemen took off into the night with their naked swords raised high. Sadly, by morning the horsemen had come back empty handed and Lovino had been taken away. An empty ship was found at the port, which meant they must have had another ship somewhere. Antonio was heartbroken and went into a short depression when Lovino was taken from him. It was a few days later when he got a letter and a package from Sadik. The letter held the various things that would happen to Lovino if Antonio retaliated in any way, including death. The package held the blood-speckled sheets of their ‘wedding night’ with another note resting on top. The note was heavily detailed with what Sadik did with Lovino just to mock him…and it worked. Antonio couldn’t take the chance of something happening to Lovino so he would have to think of something else. He only hoped that his lover would hold on long enough until he could be saved. He would think of Lovino every waking moment and his fear would just continue to grow until he would fall sick.

Lovino spent a week locked up in Sadik’s chambers because he wouldn’t behave. But that was fine for he despised Sadik in all manners that he didn’t want to be around the man. All he could do was brood over the mistakes he had made with Antonio. Maybe things would have been different if they were married earlier and he was crowned queen. The consummating, or rather ‘raping’ as Lovino saw it, wouldn’t have been as brutal if he had given himself to Antonio that night. He hated to admit it to himself because of his pride but now that he had lost everything he realized what he had. There was no way he could have known something like this would happen to him so logically he wouldn’t be feeling sorry for himself. Yet that’s just what he was feeling. He tried not to show it but he was terrified being in Sadik’s presence and trapped in his kingdom. The man was completely opposite of Antonio and his frequent fighting back only enticed Sadik to do more at a greater level. As the days went on he found it easier to just lie there and take it until Sadik grew bored. The ‘raping’ grew less frequent and Sadik found pleasure with his harem, which didn’t both Lovino in the least. He was only married to the man to keep Antonio’s forces from raging war on his kingdom. Even his ‘subjects’ were displeased with their new ‘queen’, as if he wanted to be there. He was never shown any respect unless Sadik was beside him. Oh how he wished he had married Antonio when he had the chance. And just as he thought all hope was lost an undercover Soviana servant delivered a special letter to him. When Lovino read the letter he felt a spark in his heart unlike he had ever felt before and he was never happier to read Antonio’s stupid words.

Extra 2: Gilbert and Alfred’s ‘Scarface’ Moment

(THIS IS A SPOOF! DON’T LIKE DON’T READ!)

After everyone was safely inside, Gilbert and Alfred, to everyone’s surprise, rode back out to join the men with the cannons and guns. Gilbert was the first to take one of the guns and lit the fuse, pointing it at one of the elite soldiers.

“Who the hell are you?” The man shouted to him.

“I’m Gilbert Beilschmidt! You fuck with me, you fuckin’ with the best!” Gilbert held the gun as the fuse lit and shot the elite soldier off his horse. Alfred took one as well and aimed it at another soldier with Gilbert lighting the fuse. The soldier started to draw his bow.

“You think you can take me? You need a fucking army if you gonna take me!” Alfred said and let his fire before the man could aim his arrow, shooting him off the horse. Gilbert stole another gun from the soldiers so now he was wielding two, both fully lit. One soldier shot an arrow in his direction but missed.

“You wanna play rough? Okay! Say ‘hello’ to my little friends!” With the two rounds he shot he was able to take down three of the soldiers. Sadik and the few remaining quickly rode away leaving only one that was wounded by the gunfire. Alfred and Gilbert rushed over to him and he put his hands up.

“Don’t kill me, please!” The man begged and Gilbert just chuckled.

“I’m not gonna kill ya.

“Thank you! Thank you!”

“Alfred, shoot this piece of shit!” Alfred had already lit his fuse and finished the man off.

“That’s for chasing us all over the goddamn place!”

-Fin. Spoof

***It was short, I know. But I think I picked some good parts! It probably makes more sense to those who have seen the movie but there are enough take-offs of it out there that everyone should be able to recognize something. ^^v***
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Storm of War