Frosted Sunflowers

by PHYSCHOCHIC3

Yao must marry the rich Russian Ivan Braginsky to save all of China. Yaoi, bad sex scene, and OOC in AU

1. Part 1

Frosted Sunflowers-by PS

Part One

This was a mistake. This had to be a really huge, messed up mistake.

But it wasn't.

Here, in front of him stood his father, telling him the news, "Yao, you're going to marry the Russian leader, Ivan Braginsky. You must for all of China and her people."

So that was how Wang Yao's life was decided for him. He was going to marry a man whom he had never met, and live away from his family in icy terrain.

In one week…

"A party? This marriage is hardly good news, you're doing it to help China, Father and Braginsky agreed on this arrangement for reasons unknown! This is ridiculous!" Kiku, Yao's little brother paced, ranting, in the enclosed space of Yao's large room.

Yao sighed, staring at his reflection in the mirror, "why couldn't Father pick someone different? I mean, Alfred has money, and he's my friend. That would have been better."

The shorter man turned to him, "Alfred's not as rich as Braginsky though, and plus, the Russian has more power than any American does. He has spies in America!"

Yao drooped in his chair, "what am I going to do Kiku?"

His little brother sat down next to him on the large bench seat, "well, you're sadly going to have to marry him. If you don't China may as well starve, and I'm sorry to say that but it's true. You're going to have to spend at least one night with him and hope he gets off on whores the rest of the time."

Yao blushed and stared at his brother, "Kiku! Who has been teaching you these things?"

Kiku smiled, "Francis, but that doesn't matter. You do have to consummate the marriage, and then, you spend some of your time in his household and the rest sitting among friends and family as you would. I mean, he's not exactly going to refuse you that, right?"

Yao sighed, "I suppose you're right…but I don't want him Kiku, I don't love him…"

The younger smiled sadly, "I know, but this is for all of China. If it were up to me, it would be different."

Yao swallowed roughly, "I know."

And then, he leaned his head on his brother's shoulder, grateful that Kiku let him…

Yao was dressed in his best outfit, silk and finery that showed his wealth and status in one sitting. The betrothal party was grand, everyone had come, everyone it seemed, but Ivan Braginsky himself.

Yao's father stood next to him, "Slimy bastard. His own party and he can't even be here!"

Yao heaved a small sigh as his father walked away and turned to look out at the crowd.

Alfred and Arthur stood next to one another talking angrily; Ludwig and Feliciano sat close together, the latter smiling up at the blonde and trying to persuade him into conversation; and Gilbert and Roderich stood by a fountain, presumably fussing at one another while staring at each other lustfully.

Pressing his lips together Yao held back tears.

"What is the matter little one, da?"

Yao spun around and came face to face with a tall man with a scarf tied around his neck. His hair was light, nearly all the way white, and his eyes were fiercely violet, drawing Yao in. The man cocked his head to the side, obviously waiting for an answer.

Yao sputtered, "I-I'm just waiting for someone, though, I don't think they'll be coming at all."

The man regarded him silently, "and why is that?"

Yao looked to the side for a moment, "I'm not sure. This party was for him, but he probably won't show up, though I can't imagine why."

The man blinked down at him, eyes sparking with mysterious light, "I see. How do you know that he is not here already?"

Yao tilted his head up slightly, "well, he probably would have gone and seen my father by now to show him that he arrived. And plus, I'm pretty sure he's good at drawing attention."

The other man raised a light brow, "pretty sure? Do you not know him?"

Yao bit his lip, "we've never met actually."

The taller of the two nodded, "mhm. Well consider that you have now. Hello Wang Yao, I am Ivan Braginsky. It is a pleasure to meet my fair and beautiful fiancé."

Yao flushed, confused, "w-what?"

The Russian in front of him smiled darkly, "I am Braginsky; you are much more beautiful than they told me you would be."

Yao's blush remained in place, "but we didn't think you would come!"

Ivan smiled mysteriously, "well, here I am. Now, tell me, where is your family, I would very much like to meet them."

Yao stared at him dumbly for a second before turning around to look out into the crowd. He spotted his father and brother fussing behind a oriental tree.

"Come on, they're over there." He went on, not bothering to look to see if the Russian was following or not, he knew that he was, he had a feeling that Ivan Braginsky would follow his anywhere.

After weaving through the crowd they came to the garden section of the courtyard where Yao's small family was.

He cleared his throat and waiting until the two mean noticed him, Kiku saw him first, "Yao! And…who is this?" The tone is his voice said that he thought he already knew.

Yao glanced at Ivan, "this is Ivan Braginsky, my engaged." It pained him to say the title, but he choked it out and watched his father greet the taller man.

"How nice to see you Braginsky, for a while we didn't think you'd show up." His voiced edged on vicious and Ivan smiled coldly at him, clearly unaffected.

"I know, but I turned up. I just couldn't resist." He looked over at Yao on the last part and the Asian man flushed lightly, blinking wide eyes. Kiku watched this exchange curiously.

"I am Kiku, Yao's younger brother, it is an honor to meet my future family member." Kiku approached the Russian with reverence, knowing that if he could crack through this man's armor by respect than he could find out what game he was playing.

Ivan raised a brow, but nodded at him anyway, "the honor is all mine. I have heard much about you. Now, tell me, what are the events for the evening?"

Ivan led his betrothed's father away towards the center of the party, leaving the two brothers alone.

Kiku watched his brother, "be careful Yao, I cannot tell what game this man is playing."

Yao watched his brother walk away, unease stirring within him…

The night progressed on slowly, Yao having to say hello to everyone that came to the party, and having to make polite conversation that lasted for no more than five minutes at a time.

He was exhausted by dinner time, and still he had to make several toasts and thank everyone graciously for coming to 'celebrate' with him and all of his family.

"Hey man, what's up?"

It was after dinner and everyone was still mulling around together when Alfred, Yao's best friend, finally approached him. The American's blue eyes shone with concern.

Yao sighed and leaned against the railing of the balcony that they were on, "I'm tired aru, and concerned."

Alfred tilted his head to the side, "concerned about what?"

Yao gave him a mild glare, "this party, this marriage, my people and all of China. I do not wish to marry someone that I do not know or love."

Alfred was uncomfortable, he shifted to the side, "well you're going to have to get to know him, after all, this whole week you'll be seeing each other; and maybe you can grow to love him Yao."

The smaller man huffed, "fat chance. But it is true that we will have to spend some time together, on that you are right Alfred."

The blonde haired man grinned widely, "of course I am! I'm the hero!"

Yao rolled his eyes and turned slightly, "I suppose I should go mingle some more, no doubt Father is worried. See you later Alfred."

The American waved at his friend as he left; Alfred leaned on the railing and glanced down at the party goers, but on in particular interested him at the moment. The Russian leader, Ivan Braginsky, whom was glaring up at Alfred with dark eyes…

Kiku and Yao stood together and waved slowly as the guests took their leave, entering their cars that were pulling up the driveway, or taking a taxi to catch their plane.

Kiku leaned closer to his brother to whisper to him, "the Russian has not stopped looking at you the whole night." His voice was low and dark, Yao didn't even have to look at him to know that he was glaring at the Braginsky man.

Yao licked his lips, "most people have not stopped watching me, or you this evening Kiku."

His younger brother narrowed his eyes, "not the same Yao. He has been looking at you like a predator would look at its next meal. It's unnerving."

Yao glanced over to where his betrothed and Father stood, engaged in conversation; like Kiku said, the Russian leader was staring at him even as his Father talked, his eyes gleaming darkly, a small smirk playing at his lips.

Yao flushed and looked away, happy to see Alfred coming up to him, "hey Yao, hey Kiku."

Kiku smiled at the American and politely went away, seeing that this conversation was to be private.

Yao watched him go for a moment then he turned back to his close friend, "yes Alfred?"

The American looked beyond him for a moment, then, his eyes became wide, "look, Yao, I don't want to worry you or anything, but that Ivan guy hasn't stopped staring at you the whole time. And whenever somebody who isn't him gets near you he glares like there's no tomorrow!"

Yao cocked his head to the side, "why would he do such a thing?"

Alfred shrugged, putting his hands in his coat pockets, "I don't really know. But the guy is creepy as hell and is starting to scare me. Maybe somebody should talk to him or something…?"

Yao's spine stiffened, "I'm not talking to him about any such matters Alfred, I have not seen it for myself so it would be unjust, and I do not want to make him angry or uncomfortable."

Alfred stared at his friend for a moment, his eyes tired and weary looking, "you're scared."

Yao bit the inside of his cheek, "not of him. Of my situation. I'm sorry Alfred, but it is late and I don't want you to miss your flight-"

"I'm staying for the wedding," Alfred said looking off into the night sky.

Yao raised a brow, "you are staying the whole week? Why? Do you not have business to attend to back home?"

Alfred flushed for reasons unknown, "I can do my work from here, plus I don't want you to be alone with that creep and with all of your problems."

Yao mulled over this for a moment, then, a smile played around the corners of his lips, "another reason as well then Alfred. If I remember correctly a certain English gentleman is staying for business here until the wedding as well."

Alfred bit his lip, "w-what? Wow, that's weird."

Yao laughed, "of course, of course. You would have no idea that Arthur was staying here. Tell me, did you track down his hotel as well?"

Alfred flushed even darker, "what's that matter? I-I mean, no! Who does that?"

Yao leaned closer to his friend, "skittish American suitors perhaps?"

Alfred opened his mouth, but no sound came out and Yao laughed even harder, "alright then Alfred, you had no idea that Arthur was staying. Go on to your hotel or wherever you are staying. I will see you tomorrow, lunch perhaps?"

Alfred ran a gloved hand through his hair, "yeah okay, usual place?"

Yao smiled at him and nodded, "of course. Good-night Alfred."

The American turned away and waved his goodbye over his shoulder, making Yao chuckle.

"Who was that?"

Yao gasped, and whirled around, coming face to face with his engaged whom was staring at him with an alarmingly frightening expression.

Yao's laughter died in his throat, "my friend, Alfred, I was just seeing him off."

Braginsky stared down at him, hands clasped lightly behind his back, "friend hm? Seems like…interesting company."

Yao stared up at him, eyes wide, "um…yes, he is." He glanced behind the tall man to see that his father and brother were no where to be seen. He gulped, "where has my family gone aru?"

At the endearment Ivan's eyes widened, after a moment he answered, "your father went inside. Your brother went off with some man to the gardens."

Yao glared at the gardens, "of course he did. I suppose I should bid you goodnight then Mr. Braginsky."

The Russian smiled down at him oddly, "so formal. Please, call me Ivan, we are to be married after all."

A sick feeling sparked in Yao's stomach, "yes. Of course…Ivan. Well, goodnight, I suppose we shall see each other tomorrow at the dinner party."

Ivan smiled again and nodded his head, "good night my pretty Yao, good dreams to you, da?"

Yao nodded his head and walked quickly passed the Russian and up the never-ending steps to the doorway into safety…

Kiku finally came inside just before twelve. Yao was on the couch waiting for him, a book clutched in his hand.

"Where have you been?" He asked his brother, looking at his appearance, trying to find anything wrong with him at all.

Kiku raised a brow, "I was walking around in the gardens with Heracles. We were simply talking."

Yao relaxed, "oh, thank goodness, I thought that is was that Turkish brute."

Kiku rolled his eyes and shifted his weight to his right leg, "no. Sadiq was with Gupta all evening; they seemed to be serenading by the moonlight, or simply making out under it."

Yao flushed, "Kiku! Don't pry, its rude!"

His brother frowned at him, "I wasn't prying. Everyone knows that they are getting married in three months. It seems like everyone is getting married this year."

The sick feeling was back in the pit of Yao's stomach; he got up from his seat, "I'm going to bed, I was simply waiting to see if you were alright."

Kiku watched him go up the polished staircase, "alright…sleep well Yao, good dreams, yes?"

Yao nodded down at him, the familiar words making his stomach clench…

After a restless nights sleep Yao headed down to breakfast with a heavy heart.

His brother and father were already down at the breakfast table eating porridge and toast with tea. Yao sluggishly sat in his spot at the table and snagged a piece of toast, spreading some marmalade on it and letting one of the servants serve him tea.

"Braginsky is a political man," his father suddenly said as he continued to read his newspaper.

Yao glanced up at him, mouth full of toast; he swallowed quickly and replied warily, "oh, how interesting."

His father looked up at him over the paper, "it is interesting, since you have nothing to do with politics whatsoever. I'm sure you two will make a fine pair, balancing one another out."

Kiku snorted, "yeah, while having nothing in common."

The older man glared at his youngest son, "some of us don't need similarities to fall in love Kiku."

Yao knew that his father was talking about Yao's mother and himself, but it was enough to make Yao put down his half-eaten toast in disgust.

Kiku glared back, "I think that Yao would like someone who has some similar interests with him, after all, he is going to be living with them for some time, oh, like, the rest of his life perhaps!"

Yao wrapped his arms around himself and stood up, making the chair screech against the floor, the two other men at the table looked at him.

"May I be excused?" He asked, his brown eyes wide.

His father nodded his head and went back to glaring at Kiku.

Yao quickly went out of the dining area and out onto the pavilion, sucking in the fresh morning air to appease his aching body.

"Why is everything so mixed up?" He asked himself as he stared off at the mountains beyond.

A polite cough interrupted his thoughts and he turned around, half expecting his fiancé to be standing there, but to his delight, it was Heracles, the Greek man.

"Oh, hello Heracles. What can I do for you?"

The taller man smiled at him happily, and held out a flower, "here you go Yao, to make you smile. But I was wondering, have you seen Kiku? We were going to go for a horseback ride, but I think he may have forgotten."

Yao took the flower, a lovely purple one, and looked up at the house, "he was just finishing breakfast a few minutes ago. Shall I go get him for you?"

Heracles smiled softly at him, putting his hands in his worn jeans pockets, "if you could, then yes, please."

Yao left the Greek man to stay there and went inside the house, happy to catch Kiku going up the stairs.

"Kiku! Heracles is outside, something about a horseback ride."

Kiku slapped a hand to his forehead, "aiya! How could I forget! Yes, thank you Yao."

He quickly retraced his steps back down the stairs and went to move past Yao but the older brother took hold of his arm.

Kiku looked at him, surprised and wary, "what is it Yao?"

The slightly taller man looked at his brother, "I wish you happiness with Heracles. He is a good, kind man, he will please Father as well."

Kiku flushed, "how long have you known?"

Yao smiled warmly at him, "since it had even begun. You two had been dancing around one another for years. I'm happy that you two are finally together. I give you my blessing for happiness and prosperity."

Kiku looked at him for a minute, then, he grabbed his brother and pulled him into a dense hug, one that brought tears to Yao's eyes with joy.

"Thank you brother," Kiku said into his ear lightly, "you bring me great happiness.'

Yao patted him on the back and let his brother move away, "go on now before he thinks you're being held prisoner."

Kiku laughed and wiped at his eyes, making Yao realize that they were both crying; both for different reasons. Kiku smiled once more at him, "I'll see you later, at lunch."

Yao furrowed his brows, "I'm having lunch with Alfred today though."

Kiku frowned then, a worried look coming to his eyes, "but…the Russian asked Father for a family lunch, he said that it was your idea."

Yao's mouth hung open, "I said no such thing! How dare he!"

Kiku scowled, "I'll go tell Father right now!" He made to move but Yao caught his arm again, "no brother, I…I must go. For China."

Kiku took a breath, then nodded, "if that is what you want."

Yao put on a false smile, nodding, "yes. Now, go enjoy the beautiful day, you only have a few hours until lunch."

Kiku's eyes were still worried but he left anyway, leaving Yao with even more troubled thoughts…

After calling Alfred to reschedule their lunch date Yao took a long shower, dressed in more formal clothing, and by that time Kiku was back from his ride, and the two brothers were rushed by their father to go to town for lunch.

The restaurant looked expensive and Yao's father frowned, "good thing he's paying for it."

Kiku rolled his eyes, it wasn't as if their family couldn't afford it or something after all; but, they all went in anyway, spotting the Russian man instantly as there was a large space between him and the rest of the customers.

Braginsky stood up to greet them, smiling in his strange way, "Ah, wonderful to see you again Mr. Wang, how are you?" He and Yao's father shook hands, the latter not returning the gleaming smile.

"Hello Mr. Braginsky, I am fine, how are you on this lovely day."

Ivan smiled even more and nodded, "just fine. Ah, Yao, Kiku, how nice to see you both." His gaze remained on Yao as he spoke, making the smaller man frown and stare back insolently.

Kiku grimaced, sinking into the chair farthest away from the Russian and to the right of Yao, "hello Braginsky." Was all he said simply as he picked up his menu.

The rest of the party took their seats, Yao in the middle of the table on one side with Kiku on his right; his father heading the table to his left, and Braginsky taking up the rest of the other side.

The Russian continued his smiling, "the food is wonderful here I've heard, what do you recommend?"

He was clearly talking to his fiancée so Yao answered quietly, "they have marvelous chicken and rice soup if you like that sort of thing; and they serve a fine spinach lasagna as well."

Braginsky watched him, "hmm…such good choices, but perhaps a look at the menu just to be sure?"

At his invitation Yao quickly put his menu in front of his face, not focusing on the delicious foods, but the way that Ivan's gaze still rested on him even as the folded, laminated paper covered his face.

After a moment a waiter came up, asking for drink and food orders. Mr. Wang went first, calling for a bottle of their best and oldest wine and some parmesan chicken; Kiku simply asked for a light meal of cabbage soup; while Yao ordered the chicken and rice soup that he so desired; Braginsky asked for a large order of stroganoff and some clams for an appetizer as they waited. The waiter quickly scurried off with their menus and orders, leaving the table in an odd silence.

After a minute Kiku, surprisingly, spoke up, "it's a nice day outside."

He was staring at his brother as he said this so Yao smiled at him, "yes, a nice day to walk in the gardens and sit by the springs."

Their father suddenly got a gleam in his eye, "yes, indeed. Braginsky, how about you come over early before dinner tonight and Yao will show you around the grounds some."

Ivan's eyes gleamed even more than Mr. Wang's, "a wonderful idea Mr. Wang, what time will be best for you?"

Yao's face flushed bright, annoyed, "Father, I must help oversee the dinner plans for tonight, then prepare, and I must entertain the guests before the dinner is finally served."

His father's eyes flashed at him in the low lighting of the restaurant, "I think that the cook's can do without your help for once; and it is a dinner party Yao, completely a formal casual event, you go walking in the gardens in even your finest clothing, so you should be fine. Besides, the crowd would love to see and Ivan come into the party together."

Yao slumped, "if you insist Father."

The tall man across from him grinned, "I shall try not to be a worry, da? I shall come over to your house around five or so, I have a meeting to attend to after we eat."

Mr. Wang nodded, as if the Russian were talking to him and not his son, "good, good. Yao will he ready by then, and you'll have plenty of time to tour as the party starts at seven."

Yao's stomach clenched, and the clams and wine arrived…

Lunch was a bit tense as they all slurped down their steaming food, Yao delicately, and Ivan almost loudly.

The taller man tried for conversation a few times, coaxing little out of his future husband.

Finally, after their meal was cleared away and they all declined desert Mr. Wang saw a business associate of his that he thought it would be polite to say hello to and Kiku went to the bathroom, finally leaving Yao alone with this intended.

He glared over at the Russian, leaning slightly forward to hiss at him, "why did you tell my father that it was my idea to have lunch together?"

Ivan leaned forward as well, farther across the table though, he smiled, "it would be advised for you to appear as eager about this marriage as I feel; after all, the public won't stop talking."

Yao narrowed his eyes at the fair-haired man, "I don't want to be eager, I don't even want to appear that way! You made me cancel plans with a friend today that I have not seen for a while!"

The Russian's eyes suddenly grew dark and angry, "the American I presume? The one you kept talking to last night?"

Yao sat back in his chair, away from the angry man, "what does that have to do with anything? But yes, it was him, and his name is Alfred by the way."

Ivan watched him through dark eyes, "stay away from any 'friends' that might cause disruption Yao, we wouldn't want any trouble, would we?"

Yao reeled, "are you threatening me?":

The Russian man smiled his scary grin again, "no, just some friendly advice for the person that will live in the same house as me for the rest of their life after this week."

Yao glanced up to see his brother by his father, whom was apparently bidding his associate good-bye. The Asian man stood up, "good-bye Ivan, my family is waiting."

Braginsky stood up as well, towering over him, "good-bye Yao, I'll see you later on."

The smaller man tensely nodded and walked away swiftly, sadly aware that Ivan was watching him go…

The rest of Yao's afternoon was filled with talking with the Cook and trying out bits of food for that night's dinner party, something that the kitchen staff was excited about.

"It'll be so much fun," one girl, she was Hungarian and apparently new said as she chopped up bits of celery, "I've never made so much food in my life!"

Yao smiled politely, but didn't see how making food for such a crowd could be fun.

After he left the kitchens he easily avoided his father and went up to his room, changing his clothing and devoting the rest of his time to reading his favorite book of poetry, a gift from Kiku some years back.

A knock on his door some time later roused him from his reading; he looked up, "come in."

The door opened and revealed Kiku, whom was leaning against the doorjamb with his arms crossed and scowl on his artistic face, "the Russian brute is here."

Yao closed his book carefully and stood up from his seat by the window, "please Kiku, it is not polite to call him such things."

His brother smiled grimly, "but it is true. Father wants you to come down immediately to show Braginsky the gardens and grounds. He says you have until the party starts to do so."

Yao sighed and hung his head, brushing past his brother and walking slowly down the stairs as to delay the inevitable.

His father and Ivan were standing near the door, chatting, assumingly, comfortably; but both Yao and Kiku could see that their father was tense next to the taller man, his shoulders hunched.

Both men looked up at Yao whom had frozen half-way down the stairs; his father's eyes sparked with relief to get away from his conversation with the Russian man, "ah, Yao, I was wondering where you had gotten off to. You've changed your clothes, good, now, please go and show Mr. Braginsky the grounds, I'm sure a nice walk will do you good."

Yao huffed a small breath to himself as he looked down at the steps as he continued his assent, "yes Father."

Mr. Wang nodded, "good. I'll leave you to alone now, much work to be done before dinner." With that he scurried off, leaving Yao to finish stepping down the stairs and to join Ivan near the door.

The Russian leader smiled softly down at him, "shall we go now?"

Yao nodded shallowly, "yes. I will show you the gardens first."

He stepped up to the door quickly and opened it, slipping out and letting Braginsky follow him…

The two walked through the gardens in quiet companionship, Ivan sometimes making small remarks or asking quick questions to which Yao responded quietly.

They were nearing one of Yao's favorite fountains when the Braginsky stopped him, "Yao, may I ask a question?"

Yao looked up at him curiously, his eyes meeting the Russian's for a moment to long and making him flush, "what is it aru?"

Ivan stared down at him, "have you ever been kissed before?"

Yao's eyes went wide, trying to comprehend the question, "w-what?"

Ivan shrugged, "it's a simple question, have you ever been kissed before, yes or no?"

Yao bit his lip, "why should it matter?"

The Russian smirked, "that's a no then. Don't worry Yao-Yao, before long you'll have your first kiss, and be deflowered as well."

Yao stumbled back a step, "you should not say such crass things."

The Russian advanced, "why not? When you live with me I will say such things, so its better to get used to them now, sooner rather than later."

Yao's back hit the fountain, making him jump; he was cornered now as the Russian took the last few steps towards him, trapping him completely, "what are you doing Ivan?"

Ivan's eyes flashed, "I like it when you say my name, I can imagine the way you'll say it later on, moan it, when I take you."

Yao's fingers clenched around the base of the cool stone behind him, "d-don't say such things!"

The Russian leaned down, coming closer to him, "Yao-Yao, I can't wait for you to be mine."

And then, with no preamble, he claimed Yao's lips with his own, stealing the smaller man's first kiss away from him easily.

Surprised, Yao pulled away quickly, his lips tingling slightly, "stop that!"

The taller of the two straightened, smiling down at him, "I'm glad that I was your first kiss Yao, I'll be your first at everything."

Yao took a deep breath, eyes wide and panicked; blessedly, a small noise came from the back of the grounds, a sound that Yao didn't think would ever come. The sound of a car horn honking.

The guests for the party were finally here…

Yao hurried back to the house, feeling Ivan's dense presence behind him, following him closely as the Asian man led them through the plant infested garden.

He was happy to see the patio and a small group of party-goers gathered there when he emerged from the lush greenery.

Alfred and Arthur were already there along with the perverted Francis and a handful of other people that Yao was certain that he barely knew.

Alfred spotted him first, "hey Yao!" He shouted so that nearly everyone turned to look at the small Asian man and the tall Russian as they stood near the entrance of the garden.

Francis laughed, "oh hon, hon! Having a pleasurable stroll through the gardens mon ami?"

Arthur rolled his eyes and gave the French man the finger, "bugger off wanker, hello Yao, how are you?"

Yao smiled at the Englishman, thankful that he had intervened on his behalf, "hello Arthur, I'm fine, how are you?"

The Brit glared over at Francis, "I've been better," he said dryly, but was pushed aside as Alfred suddenly swooped in to embrace Yao.

"Yao! Guess who showed up last night?" He shouted, squeezing the smaller man.

Yao winced, "um…I'm not sure, who?"

Alfred let go of him and called into the crowd, "Matthew! Come and say hey to Yao already!"

A timid boy pushed his way through the crowd, then was yanked over the rest of the way by Alfred. He smiled at Yao, adjusting his glasses, "hello Yao, congratulations to you and your fiancée."

Yao gasped as he remembered Ivan, he whirled around to find him glaring at Alfred. He called his name quickly, trying to avert his attention from his friend, "Ivan! Come and meet Matthew, he was just offering us his congratulations."

The hulking man walked over drearily and looked at the shorter Canadian boy that stood staring at him with wide eyes, "thank you," Ivan said, "its nice to meet a friend of Yao's."

Matthew stuttered, "y-yeah. Same here, I mean, oh gosh…"

Alfred cut in again, pushing his brother to the side, "hey, when's the food gonna be served, I'm hungry."

Arthur glared at him from where he stood next to the displeased Canadian, "you're always hungry, and apologize to your brother git!"

Alfred gave a dramatic gasp and grasped his brother in a tight embrace, "oh Mattie, I'm so sorry for pushing you!" He was fake sobbing by now, making his near twin roll his eyes.

"Yeah yeah," Matthew said, patting him on the back, "I'm used to it, now get off! Francis is calling me!"

The Frenchman was calling the boy, so Alfred let go and let his brother go off to find the older male.

He frowned to Yao, "I don't know why I let him hang around that creep."

Arthur pushed at his side, "because you can't control his life clot pole!"

Alfred pouted, about to say something when suddenly a servant came onto the patio, announcing clearly that dinner was ready.

Yao shook his head, smiling, as Alfred grabbed Arthur and ran off into the house, obviously prepared to eat; a large hand grasped his wrist suddenly and Yao gasped.

He looked up at Ivan, but the Russian man was looking away from him, staring at the rest of the party-goers whom were entering the house. "Come on," the taller man whispered and began walking towards the house, making Yao stumble in his attempt to keep up…

The rest of the week continued on as such; Yao desperately trying to keep up with the busy schedule that he been assigned to him while trying to juggle time for himself and to spend some quality time with his brother before he left to go across the country.

He and Kiku were getting along so well that Yao found himself crying at night at the thought of leaving his younger brother behind to marry a stranger.

Alfred kept him busy by telling him of his plans to woo the British Arthur and the things that they would do when Alfred visited Russia for business. "We'll go see all the famous places Yao, since you like that kind of thing, and I'll take you to the best restaurants too!"

Yao was so caught up in the swirl of events that he didn't really notice when he was whisked away for ring and suit fittings for his wedding; such things were mild compared to the parties that his father was hosting.

It was at dinner one night with the family when Yao's father brought up the painful subject of Yao leaving China and going across the ocean to some far away land.

"I think you should pack only your favorite clothes and most sentimental objects first; then, we'll have more of your things packed up and sent over to your new home."

Yao quietly played with his rice, not answering as his father went on, "and of course you'll have to take plenty of spare books, I know how you like to read, to occupy your time on the way over there…"

Yao suddenly stood up, frantic and scared, "be quiet, please Father! I can't bare to think of it now, only two more days and I will be married, and leaving China, forever! Do you even care?"

Without waiting for an answer he quickly shoved his chair away from him and stormed out of the room, letting the door slam behind him as he rushed out of the house and into the gardens.

The green surrounded area was soothing and Yao entered the garden's maze, wanting to just get lost in it thought he knew it so well, to remember when things were so sweet and innocent.

He walked through the paths, thinking of his mother, long dead and assumedly forgotten by her husband; and of the days when Alfred visited China when they were both children and dragged both Yao and Matthew off to prank people nearby.

When Yao found himself in the middle of the maze, where his favorite fountain rested he was shocked to find that tears were slowly dripping down his face, making a soft plopping sound as they landed on his hands and clothing.

He looked up at the moon, wishing things were different…

"Yao," Kiku said to him softly when he entered the library to look at his brother, "Braginsky is here to see you."

The past few days the Russian man had attended some of the parties that were hosted, but he disappeared during the day to carry on with his business; Yao had not had to spend time with him at all, except to sit with him at parties, for days.

The small man sighed, "let him in here please Kiku, I'm to tired to have to see anyone else at all."

His brother nodded and went to the door, opening it and letting the tall Russian man into the room, quickly walking past him to leave.

The door closed heavily, and Yao looked up at his betrothed with tired eyes, "yes Ivan?"

The Russian man, surprisingly, didn't smile down at him, "you're Father has told me that you are not happy, not that I didn't expect it. I wish only to make you and China happy Yao."

The Asian man looked down at the book in his hands without reading it, "Ivan…why do I have to marry you?"

The Braginsky looked surprised, "if I marry you Yao, it will save China, I am giving money to-"

"No," Yao interrupted, "why you? I could have married any other person in the world, Arthur or Alfred, they both have money and power, but for some reason my father chose you. Why?"

Ivan slumped down at sunk into a chair across from him, "do you remember, Yao, a party hosted some years ago by Francis? It was to celebrate Matthew and Gilbert breaking up, but he said that it was because of a new hit release in France that was helping the economy."

Yao thought back and nodded after a moment, "yes…"

Ivan went on, "I was standing by a table, drinking a drink, and looking out into the crowd, when suddenly, I saw the most beautiful thing ever."

Yao leaned forward, curious now, "what was it?"

Ivan looked up, meeting his eyes and holding them, "you. You and Kiku were standing under a lantern, talking and laughing, and I thought, 'that must be an angel, someone who is untouchable.' I found out your name later on, prying it from a drunk Francis, 'Wand Yao,' he said while laughing, 'beautiful and rich, no one can have him. Best get him out of your head mon ami!' But I couldn't I thought about you everyday. And then, one day, in a meeting I heard some of my co-workers talking about how China was going bankrupt and a man named Wang was offering his eldest son's hand in marriage to someone with enough power and money to help save China. I called immediately and told your father about myself, but one thing I didn't tell him Yao…"

Yao wasn't breathing but he inclined his head, "what? What didn't you tell him?"

Violet eyes wide and gleaming bright, "that I saw his son years earlier at a party, never even talked to him, but fell in love with him."

Yao gasped, "w-what?"

Ivan kept staring, "I'm in love with you Yao, I've loved you even before I knew your name." He slowly got up, "so I'm sorry that I'm torturing you. I just came here to tell you that, and to give you your engagement ring, it's finally been fitted, and its best to go ahead and put it on now."

He set a small package on the table in front of Yao and walked away, turning back when he reached the door, "I'll see you tomorrow Yao. Good-night."

The left the room then, leaving Yao breathless…

Yao didn't open the package that Ivan had left until later that night when he was in his bed, wrapped up among the blankets.

He carefully took the wrapped gift and opened it, sliding away paper and opening a blue velvet box; inside was an extraordinary ring. It was thick silver, on top of it a silver disk with tons of small diamonds heaped upon one another, making it glisten and shine. Slowly, Yao slid it onto his ring-finger, thinking of how heavy it was at first, then, of how beautiful it was.

That night, Yao slept with it on, the velvet box clutched in his hand until morning…

"Tomorrow's the big day son!" Mr. Wang reminded Yao as they sat down for breakfast the next day.

Yao sighed sadly, his hand propping his face up; he idly stirred his porridge around as his father slurped down tea, "tonight we're going to have the biggest dinner party ever! And, of course, tomorrow the wedding will be huge, and then, the banquet and after party will be quite thrilling as well!"

Kiku rolled his eyes at Yao, signaling his dislike for the subject at hand, "please Father, can't you pick something different to talk about for once, I'm sure Yao is quite stressed as it is."

Sadly, their sire went on, chattering about flowers and dress codes as he became closer and closer to saving China with his son's marriage.

Yao finally got up from his seat, "if you'll excuse me, I have to go and pack up a few more things and make sure all of my clothes are in place for tomorrow." He sent a look to his brother, clearly not wanting him to come along, but to escape to the stables where Heracles was most likely waiting.

Mr. Wang waved them both off as they left, "of course, of course, oh where's the maid…?"

Yao went up the stairs quickly, escaping to his room with ease.

Inside was a mess, boxes and luggage strewn over the floor; one suitcase in particular laid on the bed, the one that Yao would be taking with him to Russia tomorrow night when they left. All of Yao's toiletries, favorite books and clothes were stored here, along with many other personal items.

Yao sighed to himself as he moved things around in the suitcase, clothes to one side and other things placed on the other side. He paused when he reached his velvet case of picture frames.

He bit his lip as he opened it; the box had not been opened in years due to pain and misery on his behalf; inside lay an assorted number of photographs, ranging from Yao's childhood to a few years ago.

He gingerly sorted through them, eyes wide with wonder at the happiness on his face in some of the pictures, particularly the ones with Kiku of Alfred.

When he reached the last photograph he stopped, simply staring. A young woman stared back at him, her face youthful and happy as he held a small baby in her arms; her long black hair fell over the baby's blankets, and her soft brown as stared up at the camera, shining, as she clutched the bundle close.

"Is that your mother?" The voice came from the door and Yao whirled around, angry at the person for intruding. Ivan Braginsky stood there, arms crossed as he leaned against the door frame, his purple eyes young and curious.

Some of Yao's anger melted, his shoulders slumped as he turned back to look at the picture, "yes, this is my mother and I when I was just born."

Accepting the invitation, Ivan stepped forward, looking over Yao's shoulder at the picture, "she was quite beautiful, you look a bit like her, especially the eyes."

Yao's eyes filled with tears at the softness in his betrothed's voice, "I wish I was like her…she was so kind to everyone, no matter who they were or where they had come from. She accepted everyone's mistakes and wrongs…even my father's."

Ivan's presence was comforting and warm for once, rather than cold and obstructing, "do you think she would have liked me?"

Yao gave a huff of laughter, turning to look into his future husband's now serious eyes, "yes. She would have spoiled you most likely, coddled you from my father and from me, thinking I was to harsh on you and giving you special attention, she did that with Kiku too."

Ivan smiled at him, childlike and soft, "I would have been honored…you must miss her very much."

Yao sniffled, running a gentle finger down the side of his mother's face in the photograph, "more than you can imagine…you was my best friend, even more so than Alfred, she knew everything about me and accepted it…her death was a tragedy to everyone."

Ivan looked uncomfortable for a moment, "Yao, may I sit?"

The Asian man shrugged, his throat tingling with emotion; the Russian man sat across from him on the bed, staring straight at him; "Yao, I may not have known your mother, but I do know what it is like to lose a family member. When I was seven years old both of my parents were murdered violently in our home. I was away at the time, visiting my half-sister, but when I got the news I was devastated. My father, Nikolas, owned a large industry and many other companies as well, my mother, Katharina, stayed at home with me and was kind and compassionate; my parents left me everything. None of my father's other children were given anything, and I was singled out among them and with my father's enemies. I grew up quickly after that, heading many operations, then, when I was fifteen, I gained control of all of my father's companies… and then I found out, my father's murderer had been working with me the whole time. He was a top boss at one of the companies, hoping to gain my favor, somehow get me to sign him as his heir, and then, he was going to kill me afterwards."

Yao was stunned, "what did you do to him?"

Ivan smiled, a scary action that shadowed his eyes, "I killed him, I carved designs into his skin slowly, cut out his intestines, and made him watch them burn. I shot him several time, never in the heart of head though, to quick. I held him on the brink of death for hours. I did the same thing to him that he did to my parents."

His face was downcast as he finished, closed off and still slightly frightening; Yao didn't know what he was doing until he found himself wrapping his arms around the taller man, holding him closer.

"Shh, aru, its alright, he's gone, he's gone."

Ivan gave a shuddering breath, "but so are my parents…they would have like you Yao."

Yao pulled back, seeing the younger man smiling; he tilted his head to the side, "why?"

"Because, you don't just obey me, you help put me in line, give me your opinions; my father would have liked you for being independent and willful, my mother would have liked you because you look so sweet, but are not hesitant to stand up for yourself and others."

Yao bit his lip, fighting a smile, it escaped anyway, "your parents sound like they were quite the people."

Ivan smiled, a little sadly, but mostly brightly, "they were…anyway, I came to ask you if you wanted to go for a horse back ride with me. We have a few hours before dinner after all."

Yao started, turning to look out his window, the sun was past its midday point; "aye! What time is it?"

Ivan cocked his head, confused, "about three now, seems like you've been in here for a while."

Yao smacked his palm against his head, "ugh, I'm an idiot…but…a horse ride would be nice aru, I haven't go on one for quite some time."

Ivan smiled, "great! Um…one problem…where are your stables?"

Yao laughed genuinely at his expression, going and leading him outside…

The dinner party that night was huge; everyone that Yao knew was there, along with many individuals that he had never seen before.

He was introduced to many of his father's business partner's, and while he wasn't busy with that he was introducing Ivan to his friends and saying hello to everyone.

Alfred finally called him over when it was becoming to much, "hey Yao! Guess what!"The Asian man quickly walked over, escaping a conversation with Roderich, "what is it aru?"

Alfred's smile was enormous, "Iggy and I are finally going out! I asked him out yesterday, we went to lunch, and by that night he agreed to be my boyfriend!"

"It was less romantic than even that," a flustered looking Arthur commented as he approached, his arms crossed over his chest, "the brute merely grabbed me by my arms and yelled at me, 'be my boyfriend!' I half agreed so he would simply let me go."

Alfred pouted and ran at his new boyfriend, arms wide to catch him, "say its not true Artie!"

Arthur scattered, his voice carrying back to Yao as he ran away, "get away from me idiot~!"

Yao smiled after them as they went, shaking his head slightly.

"Yao! Hey Yao!" The short man turned around again, looking for the source of the voice calling his name.

Heracles stood there, waving, a smile on his face, "Kiku said that he wanted to talk to you real quickly."

Yao waved back at him, showing that he had heard, "alright, where?"

The Greek man simply pointed to the garden area, and Yao immediately knew where to look…

His brother was stationed in his favorite part of the garden, but it made Yao uneasy to be here.

Kiku's back was turned away from him when he arrived, "do you remember coming here, when Mother was still alive, and playing?"

Yao reached out to touch one of the lotus blossoms that resided in this single part of the garden, "yes, she always told you not to tear up the flowers."

He saw the edge of Kiku's smile from his profile, "I think…I think she would be happy today if she were still here."

Yao tilted his head to the side, "why is that?"

Kiku turned to him then, tears shining on his face, "because, her oldest son is about to be married, and her youngest son just got himself engaged." He held out his hand, where a large, but simple, diamond ring rested on his finger.

Yao gasped, quickly padding over to the bench where his sibling sat, "what? When?" He didn't need to ask who.

Kiku continued smiling, "Heracles asked me to walk with him a few minutes ago, and so I took him here subconsciously; I didn't know what he was doing at first, I thought he was just tying his shoe! And then, he looked into my eyes and asked, it was so romantic Yao. I said yes of course!"

Yao bit his lip, "what does Father say?"

Kiku's smile dampened a bit, "well, Heracles asked him first, his blessing and all, since he's so traditional and everything, and Father said yes…I'm sorry."

Yao frowned, "for what?"

Kiku tilted his head down, hair falling over his face and covering it, "for being able to marry someone I love, while you marry for duty."

Yao put a hand on his brother shoulder, not hesitating, "Kiku, I want you to be happy… and besides…I may not love Ivan, yet, but I think I have made a friend of him."

Kiku looked up at him in surprise, his light charcoal eyes wide, "Yao?"

Yao smiled, "come on Kiku, let's go to the party, its nearly time to eat."

He got up and went to the edge of the small chamber of the maze, stopping to look back at his brother and hold out his hand, "come on brother, your fiancée awaits."

A smile split Kiku's face and he stumbled to his feet, taking his older sibling's hand and dragging him out of the garden maze…

Dinner was filled with loud and gregarious conversation, making Yao smile at the antics of the people around him. Francis was flirting with Matthew from across the table, saying things that made the younger man blush; Alfred was trying to feed Arthur a spoonful of soup, but the British man would have nothing of it. Many other couples were having a splendid time, especially Kiku and Heracles, even Yao's father was smiling at them from time to time, the happiness that they showed was so contagious.

Yao felt a hand touch his own and turned to look at Ivan, "yes?"

His betrothed smiled at him, "I like your smile Yao."

The Asian man was startled by the random comment, but shrugged it off and smiled gave his fiancée a wide grin, then turned back to finish his soup.

After dinner everyone gathered in the ballroom where energetic music was played; various couples like Gilbert and Roderich, along with Lovino and Antonio danced around, making the crowd laugh.

Soon, to soon, though, the party was over and the guests dwindled away, returning to their homes for a good night's rest before the wedding tomorrow.

Yao showed his closest friends out the door, shooing away a nearly naked Francis and a blushing Matthew before closing the door.

He started when he turned around, not seeing his engaged, "oh! Ivan, you scared me!"

The Russian man smiled, looking down at him, "sorry. I just wanted to say good-bye to you privately."

Yao licked his bottom lip, "oh, well…I see. Thank you for coming tonight, it was a nice turn out I think."

The taller man smiled some more and nodded, "da. Yao…may I kiss you good-night?"

A blush stained his pale cheeks, "Ivan…"

The Russian leaned close, trapping the Asian man against the door, "we are to be married tomorrow da? We will do more than kiss by tomorrow night."

Yao gasped, his skin overheated in embarrassment, "aiya! Do not say such things!"

The taller man breathed lightly against his lips, "come now Yao…one kiss, it won't hurt anyone."

Yao looked into violet eyes, embarrassed and slightly afraid; before he could do anything though he felt course lips pressing against his own, two strong hands coming to rest on the door by either side of his head.

Yao squeezed his eyes closed, scared to move or do anything, hoping no one would come around the corner as the Braginsky man thoroughly kissed him.

After a minute Ivan pulled away, making Yao gasp for breath, suddenly aware that he had stopped breathing sometime. Ivan stared down at him, "sometime Yao, you'll kiss me back, and when you do, I'll be so happy."

Yao flushed even further, pushing the Russian man away and scrambling to get farther into the hallway, towards safety, "n-no! Go home Ivan."

Braginsky watched him for a moment, taking in his defensive stance and slightly bruised lips, "da. You are right, I will see you tomorrow Yao, on our wedding day, when we finally become one."

He quietly turned his back and opened the door, leaving the flushed Asian man in the hallway…

"You look so handsome." Arthur stood near Yao by the mirror, standing next to one another, looking at their reflections; they were at the temple where the wedding was being held.

Yao slumped, "I don't feel handsome aru, I feel dead inside."

Arthur looked sad for him, "I know love, but don't worry, I'm sure things will turn out right in the end."

Yao shook his head, going to sit by the window, "no. My story won't end in the happy ending that yours and Alfred's has. I suppose I'm just not fated to be happy."

Arthur sat down next to him, taking his hand, "Yao, you don't need fate to make your happy, you can do that yourself. I mean, look at me and Alfred, he and I split apart so long ago, a rift coming between us; but then, because Alfred was willing to take a daring leap, we're back together. We made ourselves happy, not fate. You can do the same."

Yao shook his head wildly, slinging his ponytail around, "no, not with someone whom I do not love."

Arthur was quiet for a moment, then, he spoke, "you may not love him Yao, but Ivan loves you, desperately. You should see how he acts around you; he looks at you so adoringly when you speak, and if someone even looks at you in a funny way he's right there, being jealous, hovering and possessive."

Yao glared at his shoes, "yes, that shows that I am a possession to him, nothing more!"

Arthur shook his head, green eyes truthful, "no, it shows that he cares. He would fight to the death if it would benefit you, I know he would. Alfred's always been possessive of me, and do you know why?" He didn't wait for Yao to answer, "because he cares about me!"

Yao bit his lip, allowing for Arthur to wind their hands together in a friendly touch, "it'll be fine Yao. And if not, you can always tell me or Alfred, you know that we would both kill for you."

Without waiting for a reply the Englishman got up, glancing back at Yao once before leaving the room, the door shutting quietly behind him.

Yao sat alone for a moment, thoughts whirling in his head when the door opened again; he looked at it, surprised to find his father standing there in a dark suit, his eyes soft for once.

"Yao…you look wonderful…your mother would be so proud." Mr. Wang's voice choked up at the last part, making Yao stare. His father went on quietly, shutting the door behind him, "I wish that she were here to see you, and Kiku as well. I-I've never told you this Yao…but I'm proud of you. I could never have asked for better children."

Yao's eyes were huge by now, and were watering up; at hearing those words he sprang from his seat, holding onto his father, cursing him for finally having the courage to say those words when Yao was leaving, leaving his life and world behind for something that he never even wanted.

"Father…" he whispered, tears trickling down his face, sniffling into his father's suit jacket.

After a minute they parted, and Yao could have sworn he say tears in his father's eyes; but he elder Wang's face was stoic as he said, "come now, dry your face, it is time."

Yao's eyes were wide again, but this time, in fear…

Yao walked down the aisle slowly, his father gripping his arm tightly as they went, people staring at him from either side of him.

He gulped as he came closer to where the priest stood, Kiku stood to one side of the man, whom, Yao was surprised to see, was Feliciano and Lovino's grandfather, the man from Rome.

Mr. Wang let go of Yao as they stopped, at the very front of the church where Ivan had insisted they be married; looking over his Father's shoulder quickly Yao could see that Alfred and Arthur sat in the first row, both staring at him with wide eyes.

Yao took a deep breath and turned to face his groom. Ivan stood there with a dark suit on, his scarf still firmly in place; the priest began talking.

The words were nonsense on Yao's ears, but when the man turned to him and asked, "do you promise to stay with Ivan for as long as you both shall live, through sickness and in health?" He promptly answered, "I do," as it was the answer people wanted to hear.

The Roman priest smiled at them both, closing his little book, "then I pronounce you as married, you may now kiss your groom."

Ivan leaned forward eagerly, pressing a slow kiss to Yao's lips, leaving him flushed and biting his tongue as the crowd cheered and clapped.

Ivan took his hand and together they led the way out of the church and out into the hall where the reception would take place…

After leading the first dance Yao remained mostly in his seat, bonesless and shaky as numerous guests came to greet and congratulate him.

The whole reception was a mess of people, food, music, and dancing.

Yao couldn't spot his brother, friends, or anyone else in particular that he knew in the crowd behind all of the swaying bodies.

He was having trouble concentrating as well; he didn't remember eating any of the food that was served, he only remembered the cutting of the cake because of Ivan licking his fingers and Francis shouting obscene things, prompting Arthur to hit him on the head.

It wasn't until Ivan tapped his shoulder, helping him to stand with an arm around his waist did he realize that it was time for them to leave. For him to leave.

Yao stumbled along through the crowd once more, smiling at them easily, not really knowing what was going on until something warm and hard slammed into him.

He looked down at his chest to see Kiku clinging onto him, his black hair shining in the moonlight that had somehow risen without Yao's knowledge.

Kiku held onto him, making Yao hug him back and whisper in his ear, "I'll be back. I'll always visit, and maybe you can come see me sometime."

Kiku looked up at him, dark eyes moist with tears, "I don't want you to leave."

Yao smiled down at him, "I don't want me to leave either. Be good and don't invade my room, some of my things are still in there."

Kiku smiled at him, wiping his eyes and backing away to let their father come up to him, "have a safe trip Yao…please, call or something when you get there…I don't want Kiku to worry after all!"

Yao smiled softly at him, "of course Father, good-bye."

Mr. Wang nodded and backed slowly away, Yao watching until his sire disappeared completely into the crowd, leaving Yao with a hollow feeling in his chest.

He turned to enter the limo that waited for him when suddenly a hand grabbed him, "wait! Yao! Hold up dude!"

He turned again, smiling up at his friend, seeing Arthur beside the American man, "good-bye Alfred, Arthur, perhaps we can visit one another sometime."

Alfred still had a grip on his shoulder, "dude, that's what I'm trying to say! I'm going to be in Moscow next week, I'll come visit you then, tell me your address later!"

Arthur smiled at him from behind Alfred, "yes Yao, please do, we can have tea sometimes, I still do want to show you around England you know."

They were offering him a way out, and Yao would be a fool not to take it. He smiled at them fondly, "yes Alfred and Arthur, thank you both very much. I have to go now though, I'll see you two later."

He entered the car waiting for him and shut the door quickly, staring through the tinted window at their worried face. He didn't dare look at Ivan who sat beside him…

They arrived at the airport in mere minutes, gathering their few bags and hopping onto the private jet that Ivan had arranged for them.

Yao chose a window seat near the back, not really caring if Ivan was following him or not.

A man put their bags away, then went up to the cockpit, making Yao realize that all of Ivan's employees served a dual purpose, he shuddered to think of what his two purposes were.

"Go to sleep now little Yao, we shall be in Moscow soon enough, then we can get you into your pajamas and into a nice warm bed."

Yao sighed and nodded, his head tilting to the side as he looked out the window, eyes falling shut…

When he woke up Yao was still on the plane, fully awake and nervous.

The moon's light shone down on them still, relaxing him a little bit.

He glanced around the plane, noting that the only light came from near the front, where Ivan sat, reading a paper.

He slowly got up and made his way over, "how long have I been asleep?"

Ivan looked up at him, "only a few hours, we are almost to Russia now, and then, we only have a short drive to my house."

Yao bit his lip, sinking down into a seat across from Ivan, "what's it like there?"

The resident Russian set aside his paper and turned his full attention to Yao, "its very cold in Russia, but my house is very big and warm. Cozy, some might say. I have a few servants, and sometimes my siblings come and stay there, though there shouldn't be any of them there this week."

Yao leaned forward a bit, "yes, you said before you had siblings. What are their names?"

Ivan was about to speak when suddenly a man's voice came over an intercom, "we have approached Russia, and are ready to land, please buckle your seatbelts."

Yao quickly strapped himself in and looked out of the nearest window, seeing only white.

He glanced over at Ivan whom was doing the same, the Braginsky saw him staring, "nothing to worry about, its only snow, it snows here all of the time."

Yao's spirits soared downwards and he looked out at the blinding whiteness of the snow again, they had finally reached Russia, his new home…