***Few Notes: This is an ALTERED HISTORY FIC! I keep all the names of the countries/kingdoms for fun but NONE, I repeat, NONE are linked to ANY historical EVENTS! If this bothers you, then please do not read this fic.
***This fic has been posted on my tumblr page for awhile now. I do not have a beta for this fic but there should be few mistakes. If this bothers you, then I'm sorry or just don't read it.
And yes, this IS a Turkey/Prussia pairing fic along with a side pairing of Fredrick/Prussia.
Summary: Gilbert, a falcon who can transform into a human, is given as a gift of war to promise peace between two kingdoms. Obeying his master, Gilbert goes to live with the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire. Stubborn, the White Falcon vows to never give in to the sweet and gentle charms of the handsome Sultan. The Sultan, however, will not give up.
***Warnings: Language, angst
***Disclaimer: I do not own Hetalia. I am making no money off of this fic.
Prologue
The war lasted four years. Four long bloody years before the Kingdom of Prussia had to surrender or face financial ruin. The war had begun over territory, with the powerful Ottoman Empire ever marching its way forward to conquer and destroy. The Ottomans had massive armies, access to trade, fertile lands, and the most important piece of their empire: gold. While the Kingdom of Prussia was rich within its realm, the country could not bare the financial toll the war had taken on their lives. Their armies grew fewer, their people weaker, and their land poorer. The King of Prussia had to tell his generals to surrender, have the enemies cease their attacks, and allow for the Ottomans to gain control. Now the Prussian people were under Ottoman Empire rule. Once they had surrendered, their daily lives slowly grew richer along with their spirit and hope. The Ottoman Empire took care of them, but not without asking for something in return. To satisfy the Sultan, the Prussian King would send gifts from every corner of his kingdom; from the pelts of a simple hunter's kill to the beautiful paintings of a rich nobleman. Everything given was to please the Sultan and keep the Empire from taking complete control of their world.
A year had passed living under the Ottoman's rule, and the Prussian people continued to flourish. However, the king was running out of gifts and goods to give to the Sultan, which every day made him grow more paranoid with the fear of an attack. So one day he gathered his councilors for an emergency meeting to discuss this matter of grave concern. One councilman offered up General Fredrick William's extremely rare and exquisite pet; a white falcon. The king was overjoyed to hear of such a beast, and that day ordered Fredrick, by royal law, to hand over his priceless bird. Such a unique gift would please the Sultan.
But only Fredrick knew of the white falcon's special ability, and the man did not want to give up his war companion to anyone.
Chapter 1
Fredrick sat in front of his fireplace, reading over the letter from the king for the hundredth time.
He knew the letter by heart after having read it so many times; and each time the ache in his heart grew heavier. The king was ordering him to give up his war companion and best friend to the Ottoman Sultan as another 'peace offering'. Fredrick frowned at the word 'peace', for the king was simply buying their protection with the people's livelihoods. Now the king wanted to take away the one person that meant the world to him; his white falcon, Gilbert.
One day while hunting in the woods some twenty years ago, on the trail of a large boar, Fredrick had come across a fat white egg. His horse nearly trampled it, but Fredrick was able to control the animal before it could be crushed. The boar had slammed into the tree while meaning to escape, which must have knocked the egg of out of its nest. After calming his horse, Fredrick dismounted to inspect the large white egg. It was unlike any bird egg he had ever seen, if that is what species it was. He had to lift the egg with two hands, its shell filling both his palms. Unlike most bird eggs, this one's surface was rough and pimply. Inside the shell, he could feel movement, which meant that whatever was inside was indeed still alive. Unable to leave it helplessly in the woods, Fredrick forgot about the boar and chose to take the egg home instead. He put the egg in a basket set upon a heavy blanket and placed it in front of the fire. It took two days for the egg to finally hatch, and when it did, Fredrick was grateful that he was present. With constant cracking and little 'peeps', the white shell eventually crumpled and out rolled a small yellow bird. Fredrick smiled down at it, crouching to get a closer look. The baby bird seemed normal enough, and it was looking up at him as well. The bird shook its head, ruffled its tiny feathers, and cheeped.
"Welcome to the world, little one." Fredrick said softly, reaching his hand out to stroke the chick's chest with the back of his finger. "My name is Fredrick."
The chick cheeped happily, puffing out its chest to further enjoy the stroking. Then, something spectacular happened! Before his eyes, the bird started to glow with a soft, gentle white light as it transformed into an entirely different being: A human boy. Fredrick stared at the now white skinned, white haired, and pink-eyed baby boy sitting amongst the blankets. The baby giggled at him, clapped chubby hands, and reached up for Fredrick. The baby even 'cheeped' like a bird! Fredrick started to panic for he was ill prepared to have a baby in his house! He had no wife, only a few servants of which there were three females. None of the women were pregnant or currently nursing, so he could not feed the baby. Where would he find a wet nurse to feed a bird and human baby? The whole situation was a complete and utter shock to him! Yet things had all worked out in the end. Fredrick put an add in the local paper for a wet nurse servant, and used the next door neighbor's milk maid to nurse the baby for the time being. Every feeding time Fredrick prayed the baby boy would not turn into a bird, and it never did.
One night, when Fredrick was seated in front of the fire with the baby in his arms, he decided that it was time to give him a name. He stared down at the sleeping boy, his little pink lips moving against themselves. He smiled fondly at the tiny bundle in his arms. Fredrick had never married but had always wanted a son. This baby in his arms was not of his blood or his seed, but it was a child of his heart. Yet the boy was still a strange and magical creature; the boy was a bird. Fredrick decided right then that he would only be a mentor and surrogate father to this baby. The boy would only call him by his name and not by the title of 'father' or 'papa'. Fredrick also did not want to answer any suspicious questions about the whereabouts of the baby's mother. His whole military career would be ruined with a scandal such as he having a love child with some magical goddess. He is simply adopting this baby, but what to name him?
"What shall I call you, little one?" He asked the baby in a whisper. The baby opened his pink eyes and gazed up at Fredrick lovingly, as a baby would its parent. Fredrick smiled down at the baby as he had finally thought of a name. He would name the baby after one of his newborn little brothers whom never saw the light of day. "I will call you Gilbert." He lightly poked the baby's nose. "If you soar through the sky then you will carry on his spirit and his name." Fredrick smiled fondly at the promise behind Gilbert's name. "Welcome to the world, Gilbert."
Twenty-four years later. Present day.
Gilbert flew in from the open window and landed on his perch, which Fredrick had made for him. The large white falcon waited patiently for his master to come, taking the time to clean his feathers and digest his latest kill. Gilbert adored his master above all other men. His master, Fredrick, was a kind and gentle man yet strong in spirit. There was an age difference between them, but Gilbert didn't care. He was a strange being already, so why not love a human man who was older than he? Gilbert squawked and flapped his large white wings, puffing out his feathered chest towards the suns warm rays. Unlike other falcons, he was larger in size and albino, meaning he had white feathers and beak, plus pink eyes. Even his talons were white. On the battlefield, while soaring through the air, his bird form appeared black, as if Death himself were descending upon the enemy. Sometimes he was even called the 'Ghost Falcon' due to his all white coloring. A ghost indeed! The thought always made him laugh. Just then, the door opened and Fredrick entered. Gilbert let out his falcon cry of welcome, flapped his wings, and perched proudly. His master smiled at him, but Gilbert could tell that the smile was forced, and that something was bothering his master. So he took the form of a human, transforming from albino falcon to an albino male.
"Master." Gilbert greeted. "What is bothering you?"
Fredrick gazed upon the human form of his beloved friend and pet. "Oh Gilbert, I fear I have some troubling and crippling news for you. For us."
Gilbert felt his heart sink, and he hurried over to his master and love. "Fritz…what is it? What troubling news do you have?"
"I think you need to be sitting down for this one, my love." Fredrick motioned to the bed, and Gilbert carefully guided him there. Together they sat side by side on the large bed. "Gilbert, my most trusted and loyal friend…" he started "I'm afraid some changes must be made."
"Changes? What kind of changes?"
Fredrick sighed. "This is so hard for me to say." He took a deep, stuttering breath. "The king has ordered me to give you over to the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire as a gift. More or less as a peace offering. A warpirze."
Gilbert's eyes widened. "No…NO! I will not do it! I recognize no other master other than you! I will not leave your side!" He couldn't leave his master! Not only did he love and honor Fredrick, but also Gilbert knew his master was failing in health and he wanted to be by his side to care for him. "I will not leave you!"
Fredrick closed his eyes. "Gilbert, you have no choice. I cannot go against the word of my king. If I do, I will be jailed, and you will be taken from me."
"Jailed? No! The king cannot do that! You have won him many battles! I have helped! Together we have served the king loyally and faithfully! He can't send you away!"
The older man turned sad, pale eyes to him. "I cannot say no. Oh Gilbert, it pains me to have to let you go, but I have no choice. If I don't, they will force you to leave. And I don't want them hurting you."
Gilbert looked at his master, and then leaned in to nuzzle him. "Fritz…I don't want to leave you. I am your friend. Your pet. Your companion. I want to always be beside you."
"I know, and I wish things could be different. However, the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire rules our kingdom. I must think about the safety of my people and my king, the same whom I swore to protect when I first took up the sword. I do have my honor and vows to consider. Gilbert, please, forgive me?" He turned pleading eyes to his war companion.
Gilbert looked into those pale, old orbs. "Fritz…if you command me to do it, then, I shall obey. Only for you, though. This man…this…'sultan' can only do so much to me. He may 'own' me, but it will only be my body and not my heart! My heart belongs to you!" He moved to kneel before his master, gazing up at him with love and adoration. "I remain forever your faithful and loving servant."
Fredrick closed his eyes and ran his hands through Gilbert's soft, white hair. "I don't want you to ever leave me…but you have your duties as well. I've heard word of the Sultan. I hear he is a fair man…who does not harm the innocent. Do not blame the Sultan for this. Blame the King of Prussia, for it is HE who insists on buying the Sultan's friendship with gifts…gifts like you."
Gilbert glared. "If I have the chance, my master, I will pick out the liver of this Sultan and free our kingdom from his reign!"
Fredrick gently cupped his falcon's beautiful face. "No, my sweet. Don't bring shame and war upon our kingdom by seeking revenge. Perhaps…perhaps you can save this kingdom! If you can make the Sultan love you as I love you, then maybe, just maybe, you can persuade him to alter his rulings and reign."
Gilbert lowered his eyes, knowing that in his heart he could never play the slave to the Sultan. But his lover, his master, was depending on him to soothe these matters over. With a gentle smile, and a nuzzle into Fredrick's palm, Gilbert purred. "I will do anything my master commands of me. If this is what you wish then…despite my protests…I will do as you say. For my heart, soul, and body belongs to you. There can be no other." Gilbert stood up from his kneeling position and loomed over Fredrick. With a soft blush, he began to undo the ties of his brown tunic top. Slipping the tunic over his head, he took Fredrick's hands and placed them on his waist. "Will my master have me? Before I am given to another as a gift?"
Fredrick quickly removed his hands from Gilbert's waist and turned his head to the side. "Gilbert…as much as I want to…I fear that I no longer have the physical ability to engage in such an act. I went to see the apothecary today and…well…he said that my heart was weak. He said I should restrain myself from strenuous activity…such as sex." Fredrick himself blushed at the word. "Don't get me wrong. I would like nothing more than to take you as my own…to mark you as mine for forever. But I am still needed in this world and I must take care of myself. The king needs me and I have pledged my life and loyalty to him before you. Oh Gilbert, it pains me to say such a thing…but you know the kind of man I am."
"I do." Gilbert knelt again and nuzzled Fredrick's belly. "You are a kind, honest, strong, and loyal man. I am honored to have you as my father and my master. I wish I could be your lover as well. I want to be YOUR lover. YOUR Gilbert. I want to enter the human world on your arm. I want to fight by your side and protect you from harm. I want to love you until the end of our days."
"Gilbert…you are my everything. The greatest day of my life was when I found you as an egg on that hunt. I raised you as my son; my friend and loyal companion. But now…I have to give you to another. It pains me to do so…but I cannot go against the orders of my king. You do understand this, right?"
Gilbert nodded. "I do. If you want me to help bring honor back to this kingdom…then I promise you I will do all that I can to persuade the Sultan to retrain himself. If I bring honor to the Kingdom of Prussia, I will bring honor to you. And your happiness, master, is all that I crave. So please…please…take my body as your own? I am an innocent…and I want no other man than you." He pleaded softly. "Allow me to do all the work! Let me be yours! Let my body bleed upon your sheets…the sheets of my home. Please, do not deny me this simple pleasure?"
Fredrick looked down at the large, pink, innocent eyes that gaze up at him with love and trust. Still, he knew that in his heart, Gilbert's virginity would be better suited for the Sultan. With such a gift of innocence, Gilbert would hold a certain special power of the Sultan; one he himself could never hold. Oh, the urge and need was strong. He felt his body respond to Gilbert's words. Those pale cheeks were flushed a pretty pink. 'He blushes for me.' Fredrick said to himself. 'I want him, yet I cannot have him.'
"Master? Will you take me? Mark me as yours?"
Fredrick slowly shook his head. "I cannot do that. I don't have the strength." He lied. "Give your innocence to the Sultan. Make him love you. Make him worship you. Use your skills, love, and wit to win him over. By freeing us from his reign can you honor me." He took Gilbert's face in his hands. "My Gilbert; My Love; My precious white falcon. You do me great honor by sacrificing yourself for me and for the Kingdom of Prussia. You have the power to rule over this Sultan. Bring honor and strength back to our kingdom! This I order of you! Do this before I die."
Gilbert gasped. "Master, you are NOT going to die! I will not permit it!" He shot up and pressed his lips to Fredrick's, forcing the man into a kiss. When they pulled away, Gilbert gently guided his master onto the bed, crawling over his bent form. "Make love to me, master. Mark me as yours! Please, I beg of you!"
Fredrick sat up and pushed him away. "No. You belong to the Sultan now. Control him, and in turn, you will control the world."
/
Today was the day. The day Gilbert had dreaded since his master first brought word of the news from the king.
Gilbert refused to remain in his falcon form, and ordered the king to place him in a large birdcage only. The king obeyed, but in turn, forced Gilbert to wear specific style clothing that would please the Sultan. The birdcage was covered with a thick velvet drape to block out the hot sun and warm climate of the Ottoman Empire. Gilbert was curious as to wait kind of world this Ottoman Empire was, so as they traveled for days, he would occasionally peek out from the cage and the drape. What he mostly saw was sand. Sand, strange trees, oasis's, and sometimes towns. But the further they got to the Empire, the more green and luscious the land became. Soon he would be presented before the Sultan in a getup that was both embarrassing and appalling. Granted, the albino had never been the type to be bashful or ashamed, but the ridiculous garment was beyond anything he's ever experienced, with it's gaudy veils and shimmering platinum beads. The fact that it had been originally tailored for a woman just made it more demeaning. He was proud! He had won his master and country victories uncountable, and he did not deserve to be stuffed into an exotic dancer's skimpy clothing and paraded into a stranger's home. The color chosen was pink, most likely to match his eyes and for the bright color to stand out against his milky white skin. Every time he moved the outfit's coins would jingle and sing. He hated having to show off his midriff; especially with the slight stomach muscles he had which showed proudly. To him, the outfit seemed ridiculous. But, if this was what the Sultan wanted, then this is what the Sultan would get.
The carriage came to a halt, and Gilbert was jerked forcefully inside the large cage. He figured they must be at their destination right now. Curious, he lifted the drapes and peeked out through the silver bars, seeing some stone buildings in front of him. He figured this was either the royal city or the courtyard of the Sultan. Quickly, he seated himself among the pillows and silks, sitting on his knees with his back perfectly straight and poised. Although he was being given away as a warprize, that did not mean he had to abandon his dignity. He would face this Sultan with wit, pride, and strength. Even if the Sultan were to beat him, Gilbert swore he would never give in. His heart, mind, and body belonged to Fredrick and no other. Let this Sultan offer him gold, food, jewels, and love; but never will Gilbert accept them out of his own free will.
"PRESENTING HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS, THE OTTOMAN EMPIRE SULTAN, SADIQ ADNAN!"
Gilbert held his breath.
"GREAT LORD AND MASTER, RULER OF ALL, WE OF THE KINGDOM OF PRUSSIA PRESENT YOU WITH A WARPRIZE MOST BEFITTING OF SUCH A GREAT MAN!"
Gilbert smirked. 'There is only one great man, and that man is Fredrick Williams.'
"BEHOLD! A GIFT FROM THE PRUSSIAN MILITARY!"
The velvet drape was ripped off of the cage.
"THE WHITE FALCON OF LEGEND!"
Gilbert slowly lifted his head.
/
Earlier that day…
Light flooded the darkened room as a servant opened the curtains to let in the morning sun through the balcony windows. In the center of a large room sat a bed, an oval shaped canopy bed surrounded by red curtains. The frame and canopy was one piece, but it was the luxurious cloths and silks that hung from it, and the sheer curtains that encircled it. The comforter was red with gold embroider designs of paisley and medallions. The edges were lined with golden tassels and hung low onto the bed's dais, which stood above the carpeted floor. The man asleep, buried within the pile of silken pillows and white silk sheets, grumbled as the light shone through the openings of the bed curtains. Grabbing the top of the comforter, he pulled the fabric up and over his head to hide from the light. He was not ready to get up just yet. Through the fabric he could hear his chamber doors opening and the soft padding of multiple bare feet as more servants flooded the room. He moaned into the pillows, for now the morning ritual was going to begin whether he wanted it to or not. It was tradition. He cringed when the sound of the scraping curtain hooks along their bars filled his ears. The servants were preparing for their morning chores. He could not fault them. So with a heavy heart, he forced himself to leave the soft comforts of his bed to begin his duties as the Sultan. Granted, he had the power to send them all away and sleep as long as he wanted, but there was always pressing matters that needed to be discussed, so he had no choice but to get up. Throwing the comforter up and off of him, the Sultan sat up in his bed, scratched the back of his head, and kept one eye closed while his vision adjusted to the sunlight.
All the servants, men and women, immediately knelt to the floor and bowed to him. Sadiq smacked his lips, rubbed the back of his head, and then snapped his fingers for the morning dressing to begin. Once out of bed, two male servants removed his sleeping shirt and replaced it with a gold undertunic. Another male held the hem of the white pants open so he could step inside. Once his under clothes were finished, the men stepped away to make room for the women. They slipped on his red overtunic; one creasing the shoulders while the other buttoned the tasseled front. As they stepped aside so came the next group, two women and one man bringing forth his jewelry. The man slipped on the black gloves, reaching his cold hands up the puffy sleeve to make sure the length of the glove lay perfectly straight. The women gingerly slipped on the rings of emeralds, rubies, and sapphires, followed by four golden chains of similar gems. The next group brought his hats, shoes, and waist sash; each servant waiting for the one he would pick. For his hat, Sadiq chose the turban with the large white-feathered plume in the front held tight by a large oval ruby. The headdress was decorated with low-slung pearls, embroidered with beads, and an alternated pattern of gold and white. The sash he chose matched his headdress, and for the shoes he chose the solid gold colored pointed ones. The servants bowed as they backed away, making room for the next servant to make her way towards the Sultan. Last but not least, his trademark symbol; his white eye-mask. Lifting the hat from his head, he let the young woman place it on his face. Sadiq returned the hat to his head and thanked them all with a wave of his hand. Bowing to him once more, the servants exited the chambers to make way for the Royal Guards and Councilmen.
Sadiq went over to the mirror and looked himself over, admiring his reflection. He'd much rather be in bed ordering his breakfast and hookah while lounging all morning long. But, duty calls. Sticking out his tongue, the young Sultan of thirty-four years exited his chambers, where he was met with his guards and councilmen. The men all bowed to him, and Sadiq did the same in return. They all scattered behind him, and would follow a few steps behind as he made his way around the palace. Sadiq folded his hands into the puffy white sleeves and turned to his nearest councilman.
"What does my agenda look like for today?"
"Sultan, we have another gift arriving for you today from the Prussian King!"
Sadiq rolled his eyes behind his mask. "Another gift? Sometimes I feel like just attacking the Prussians all over again because their king annoys me. What gift is it this time? More jewels? Pelts? Prized bred horses?"
"Something completely different this time, Sultan. This time, the Prussian King has given you their ultimate military weapon!"
Sadiq's brows lifted in curiosity. "And just what might that be?"
The man cleared his throat. "The mysterious White Falcon."
"The White Falcon?" Sadiq's jaw dropped. "They're giving me that magnificent beast? Are they out of their minds? I can use that beast against them, along with my own." He was referring to his tigers, lions, cheetahs, and elephants.
Another councilman came up to walk beside him. "Sultan, this beast is not just a rare bird of prey. This beast is magical."
"In what way?"
"It has a human male form." The second councilman answered, which made Sadiq pause his steps. Everyone immediately stopped and stood perfectly still behind him.
'A human male form?' He thought to himself. 'I own nothing of such magical skill in my treasury.' Sadiq thought back to the battle when he had first seen the White Falcon off in the distance swooping down on his men. That thing had a human form? "Where is this gift? Has it arrived yet? When will it be here?"
A third councilman answered. "We have received word early this morning from on of our scouts that they are coming down the main road and should be here by mid afternoon."
Sadiq felt the corner of his lips curl up into a smirk. 'The White Falcon as a human…hm, this should be interesting. The day is starting to look a whole lot brighter!' "And do we know who has previously owned this bird? Did the king own it?"
"No sire, one of the war generals." Answered the first councilmen.
'Hmm…he may prove to be difficult at first. Best to win the strange beast over with kindness.' He smirked. 'This should be interesting.'
/
When Gilbert first laid eyes on the Sultan, he had thought to be gazing upon a statue clad in gold. The Sultan appeared older than him, but younger than Fredrick. Gilbert looked at the rich material of dress and jewels that adorned the tall man's body. His master never wore such luxuries; Fritz said they were a waste of money to only show status and power. Fredrick always had lived modestly and discreetly despite his fortune as a first class general and nobleman. The Sultan was taller and bigger than his master, but Gilbert wondered if that was only due to the puffy clothes? The white eye mask he wore held a strange yet intriguing allure that made him curious to know what was under it. With the glare from the hot afternoon sun (plus the glare from the gold jewelry) Gilbert was unable to make out the Sultan's eyes under the mask. Unlike his master, the Sultan's skin held a soft tan, with his jaw and chin covered by a well-trimmed beard. The Sultan wore so many layers of clothing that Gilbert momentarily wondered if there was an actual man underneath it all? And why did he hide his face behind a mask? Was he unpleasant looking? Either way, Gilbert was prepared to do all in his power to bore the Sultan in hopes of being sent back. Gilbert repeated his master's words to be kind and befriend the Sultan, but he just couldn't do it. He didn't want to, and this would be the first time he's disobeying his master's commands.
The Sultan spoke. "You are the White Falcon of the Kingdom of Prussia?"
Gilbert shifted a bit on the pillows. He vowed right then that the Sultan would never see his falcon form. "Yes. I am." He answered flatly, giving the Sultan a dead stare.
"Do you have a name?"
"Only the name my master gave me."
The Sultan smiled. "And what name is that?" Gilbert was silent. "Should I try and guess, then?"
Gilbert looked down at his folded legs, remembering again his master's words to try and love the Sultan; to befriend him. He wanted to be with his master; his Fredrick. However, telling the Sultan his name would be harmless. "My master named me Gilbert, and I am only here because he wishes it of me."
"Gilbert? Hm. Interesting name for a falcon. Well then, Gilbert, I am the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire, Sadiq Adnan. I'm sure you've had a very long journey, so I'll have some of my best servants let you out of this cage and they shall clean, wash, and dress you. Then you and I will meet in my chambers for some refreshments and then we can get to know each other better. I think you'll find that I'm not at all unpleasant to be around." The falcon male stared at him for a moment and then turned away. Sadiq didn't mind, though. He understood well enough the fear that comes with being in a whole new world with a person you don't know or care for. This Gilbert wasn't just a human but an animal as well; a bird of prey. Falconers spend months, even years, training their falcon companions to do as they are told. Perhaps he should consult with a few them about Gilbert, once he got to know the strange beast more. "Tell my servants what you would like to eat and they will provide it for you. Don't be afraid to ask." The man still would not look at him. "We'll talk better soon. Farewell for now." As he walked away from the cage, he looked for his Captain of the Guard, Ludwig, and beckoned him over.
"Sultan." Ludwig bowed to him. He had come from the mountains beyond the Prussian Kingdom in an area referred to as 'Germania'. His features were blonde hair and blue eyes, and up until recently, pale skin. Being in a world of constant sun and warmth, the climate helped to tint his skin a light shade of dark. "Your orders?"
"Don't let the White Falcon out of your sight until he is brought to my chambers."
"What if he turns into a bird and tries to fly away?"
Sadiq pondered for a moment. "I don't think we need to fear that. He said he is only here because his master commands it of him. I get the feeling our falcon friend is very obedient to his master and will not want to disappoint him." He smiled at the thought of gaining that obedience for himself. "Be kind to him. Be friendly."
Ludwig raised a brow. "You wish me to be hospitable?"
Sadiq laughed and slapped the large man's shoulder. "Hard for you, isn't it? Who knows, maybe the falcon will find that charming! Just don't be mean. I want to befriend this creature and show him that there is nothing to fear here in my world. Gaining the trust and friendship of such a beast is my goal. Now then, bring him to the bath house and I'll have the servants pamper him. Who could say no to a little pampering? Then escort him to my chambers."
"Which chamber?"
"Ah, my conversation one." He grinned and the look Ludwig gave him. The tall blonde knew that 'conversation room' was just a generic name for 'seduction room'.
"Very well. I shall see it done."
The Sultan pats his back. "Take care of him for me."
/
Gilbert's cage was wheeled into a large room that housed many horses. There, he was released from his cage by a large blonde man wearing a frown and a breastplate. Gilbert had to tilt his head up slightly to see his face. He stared at the blonde for a moment, sensing that this man was a 'no nonsense' sort of person. So Gilbert smiled at him and stuck out his tongue, and blew a raspberry. The man seemed surprised by the playful action, but did not crack a smile or let out a laugh. Gilbert grinned at that; he was going to have fun giving this guy a hard time and making him feel uncomfortable.
"Hey there! I'm Gilbert, what's your name?"
"Um-"
"Um? That's your name? That's a strange name."
"No, you didn't let me finish. My name is Ludwig. I'm Captain of the Guard for the Sultan. I am here to escort you to the bathhouse where the servants will take over. Once you are…cleansed and dressed, I will escort you to the Sultan."
At the mention of the Sultan, Gilbert found his smile fading into a frown. But, he had no choice in the matter. So he followed Ludwig out of the stables and through a small courtyard filled with shaped hedges and some flowering bushes. They entered through a stone horseshoe arch, which led to a black and white checkered floor hallway. Gilbert had never been in an actual palace before, only in the elaborate homes of other noblemen with his master. The Sultan's palace was much larger than the Prussian King's. He stopped a moment to gaze in awe at the murals on one wall, depicting a scene of a great battle with dragons, giants, and humans. Gilbert had to place his hand on the image as he admired the artwork. The snapping of Ludwig's fingers had him following after the blonde once again. Gilbert was still in awe at the palace, looking up, down, and all around, until he bumped into Ludwig's back. The blonde glared at him with a grunt of annoyance, and Gilbert just batted his white lashes innocently.
They walked through another archway and entered yet another hallway, this one's floor an unstable road of tiny mosaic tiles. Servants dressed in long robes with funny hats adverted their eyes as they passed him, and Gilbert was insulted. He tapped Ludwig on the shoulder to get the man's attention.
"Why don't they look at me?"
Ludwig never paused in their walking as he answered. "The way you are dressed suggests that you are a courtesan to the Sultan. They are not looking away from you in disrespect; they are looking away because you are above them in status, as am I."
Gilbert blinked. "What's a 'courtesan'?"
Ludwig cleared his throat. "It's a name given to…a woman or…man…who…um…gives pleasure…to the Sultan."
He stopped. "Pleasure? Oh no, that's not what I am! I am not a courtesan! I refuse to be one! I am a warprize, something given to the Sultan as a gift!"
Ludwig frowned. "You will be whatever the Sultan wants you to be."
"I am myself, and I belong to one man." He puffed out his chest. "I belong to my master, Fredrick Williams. I am only here because he commands it of me."
"Best you not speak that way in front of many people, least of all the Sultan. You are his property now to do with as he pleases."
Gilbert growled. "I'll claw his eyes out."
"Better people have tried." Ludwig gave him a warning glance before forcing him to walk. "You would be wise to do as the Sultan says."
Gilbert blew him a raspberry.
After many more decorative hallways and archways they finally entered the bathhouse portion of the palace. Gilbert looked all around at the numerous pools of clear water. Some were big, others were small; some were built up high and others built down low. The room held a strange fragrance about it; one that was relaxing and calming, even stimulating. There were a few people in the baths, both men and women. However, one loud series of claps from Ludwig's hands signaled all of them to exit the bathes. The people scurried out, dressed into the servant garments, and bowed in an arch before them. Ludwig shouted a few commands, one of which was to bathe Gilbert. Two older women came up to Gilbert and led him to one of the clear pools. He looked over his shoulder at Ludwig with uncertainty, but the large blonde didn't seem to care. The women stripped him easily, but Gilbert never cared about his nakedness like other humans did. That was one thing about humans he would never understand, their intense modesty to something so natural. He let the women guide him into the pool of hot water, and the moment the heat hit his travel-weary body, he melted in delight. Gilbert slumped against the tiled wall and rest his head back on the rim, taking in the sweet smells of lavender and rosemary. He was allowed to soak in the tub for a short while before the women began to clean him. One tended to his hair and nails while the other massaged him with body oils. Gilbert never wanted to leave this spot.
"Enjoying yourself?" Came Ludwig's voice.
Gilbert couldn't see him since a hot cloth was draped over his eyes. "I am. I want to stay right here with these beautiful women attending to me."
Ludwig smirked. "Well, you can't remain here for much longer. The Sultan will be wanting to see you."
Gilbert could barely contain his moans as the woman tending to his hair began to massage his scalp. "I'm sorry, we're you saying something?"
Blue eyes rolled. "You still need to be dressed properly." He clapped his hands and said something in another language, probably the one the servants spoke here. Gilbert whined when the woman's gentle hands left his scalp.
"What are you doing, Ludwig?"
"Moving them along! They're admiring your body since they've never seen an albino before."
Gilbert slowly removed the cloth from his eyes with a smirk as he tilted his head further back on the rim to get an upside down view of Ludwig. "Well, can you blame them? With this awesome body and these stunning pink eyes, I'm a lady killer."
"You're a boastful beast, but that will amuse the Sultan. You'll fit well together. Bath time is cut short, I'm on a tight schedule." He was met with another raspberry.
/
Gilbert sat alone in a small room whose walls were covered by sheer red curtains and its floor littered with pillows and carpets. He looked up at the ceiling, which slung other colored cloths among hanging containers of incense. In the center of the room, set upon the carpet, was a small mahogany table whose legs were carved into tigers. Upon the table sat a tea set and a thin silver tray of candied treats. Gilbert dare not touch it until the Sultan arrived. He looked down at his attire, having chosen this one on his own accord. The Ottoman Empire was a hot climate, and Gilbert hated to sweat. So he chose a pair of loose, wide legged pants that hung low on his hips and tightened at the ankle. He hated shoes, so he chose to go barefoot. He wore no upper top, leaving on his bare chest so he could admire his toned muscles. He ran his fingers over the six-pack of stomach muscles and then traced the 'v' of his lower belly leading to his groin. If his master saw him dressed this way the man would sprout a vicious nosebleed. Gilbert chuckled at the image, wiggling his shoulders as he prided himself in his awesome physical human features. Although he did not wear a top, he did choose from a variety of jewelry to wear. Gilbert found that he had come to like rubies, and chose them from the selection of various gems. Solid gold cuff bracelets adorned his wrists along with a thick collar to match. From the collar hung teardrop rubies, and upon his head a gold circlet to match the style. The women and men insisted that he wear more, but Gilbert refused. The jewelry was heavy, and to a falcon, it was unwise to be laden down with weight. These few bits of jewels were just enough for him.
The door to the room suddenly opened and three servants rushed in, one with a tray of food, one with a pitcher, and the last with a long torch. Gilbert watched silently as the torch holder lit all the incense containers. The female servant set the tray of various foods upon the table, and the man with the pitcher poured two golden goblets. Gilbert could smell the fruity flavor of wine within those goblets. Fritz never let him drink wine. The servants bowed to him and left quickly as they had come. Gilbert looked to the door and saw the tall figure of the Sultan appear at its frame. His back stiffened and his shoulders straightened at the sight. The Sultan closed the door behind him as he waltzed into the room, holding out a long thin pipe in his left hand. He was dressed differently than before when Gilbert had first met him. The Sultan had changed his clothing to simple dark green robes with white underclothes and a funny red hat with a tassel. The white eye-mask was still present on his face. Like himself, the Sultan wore no shoes. Gilbert met his eyes for a moment, and without the glare from the sun, saw that the Sultan's eyes were a shade of green. He couldn't even see the Sultan's hair before, but it was cut short and dark brown in color. Gilbert kept his gaze averted when the Sultan sat opposite of him across the table and among the numerous pillows. The air began to grow thick with the smoke of incense.
"You look lovely, Gilbert." The Sultan smiled at him.
Gilbert snorted. "Your climate is too hot for me. How do you stand the heat in all those clothes you wear?"
Sadiq took a puff from his pipe. "I'm used to it. You will find that the nights here grow very cold, so unlike the day. Well then," he held the pipe between his teeth and clapped his hands. "Shall we eat? What would you like? I have everything from meat to vegetables to fruits and sweets." He pointed to single tiered golden plate with raw slices of meat placed upon it. "I know you are a falcon, so I had some raw meat sent for you. I also have cooked meat, in case you prefer that." He pointed to a silver tray of charred meat. "I also have a small pitcher of water here if you'd rather not have wine."
Gilbert set his gaze on the raw meat, hearing his stomach's growling echo in the room. "I prefer the raw meat."
Sadiq lifted the tiered plate by its stand and held it out to Gilbert. "Eat your fill then." He watched with curious humor as Gilbert took a piece of raw meat and shoved it in his mouth. The man ate like a bird did, tilting his head back as he swallowed the meat. The creature may look fully human but there were still bird-like qualities about him. Sadiq was eager to learn more. "Do you like it? It's simply steer right now, but if you have a specific prey you like to eat, let me know and my hunters will gather it for you."
Gilbert took another piece of the raw meat and looked at him as if the Sultan had grown two heads. "Why do that for me?"
"Why not?"
"I don't know. It just seems stupid to make your hunters seek out something specific for me." Gilbert tore off a piece of the meat. "Wait a minute, are you doing all this because you see me as your 'courtesan'?" He spit out the meat. "I will not be a pleasure slave for you! I refuse! If this treatment is the price to pay for being a courtesan, then I'll have no part of it!" He threw the meat onto the table and crossed his arms stubbornly.
"Oh? And who said you were a courtesan?"
"Ludwig mentioned something about it."
Sadiq took a sip of his wine and popped a candy in his mouth. "Well, you were given to me as a gift."
"A warprize." Gilbert corrected, turning back to look at him. "It's a different thing."
"That's true. You are mine now and I can do with you whatever I wish."
Gilbert narrowed his pink gaze at him. "You will find that I don't listen like a human, for I am not a full human."
"I know. You're a falcon. A great falcon of legend." He smiled. "So, if your old master asked you to be HIS 'courtesan', a pleasure slave, then would you?"
"Of course I would." Gilbert couldn't help but take another piece of raw meat. He was incredibly hungry despite his displeasure of the current situation he was in.
"So you love your master then? As more than just a master."
"I do…" He nibbled on the meat.
"But?" Sadiq tapped the ashes out of his pipe.
"But he does not want the same." Gilbert answered softly. "I believe he sees me more as a son, as a companion. He cannot view me as a lover, as much as I wish it of him. I would be anything he wanted and more!"
Sadiq smiled at him fondly. "That is very sweet." He said softly. "It must have been very hard for the both of you to know that you were to be separated like this." Gilbert nodded. "Yet you should not blame me for this. Blame your king for giving you to me as a warprize."
"Then give me back."
Sadiq shook his head. "That would be an insult to your king on my end."
"Bullshit!"
"Language." Sadiq chuckled. "You'll learn to love this place as I do, that I promise." He took another puff from his pipe. "And you don't have to be a courtesan if you do not wish it. You belong to me, and just because I own you doesn't make me an evil brute. You get more bees with honey, yes?"
Gilbert took a larger chunk of meat this time, staring at the Sultan with a suspicious gaze. Did the man really mean what he said? Was the Sultan THAT nice? He then remembered the words his master had spoken to him on that last day together. 'Give your innocence to the Sultan. Make him love you. Make him worship you. Use your skills, love, and wit to win him over. By freeing us from his reign can you honor me. Bring honor and strength back to our kingdom! This I order of you! Do this before I die. Control him, and in turn, you will control the world.' Gilbert lowered his eyes as he remembered his promise to his master. But how could he yield himself to this man when he did not desire him? It was as if his master was TELLING HIM to become a 'courtesan'! What was he to do? Use what skills? Gilbert had tried many times to seduce his master, but he wouldn't call his actions 'skills'. Often times he would parade himself around in hopes of attracting the lust of his master with the want to mate: but that too failed. His master wanted him to mate with the Sultan. Human courtship was strange to him, and he definitely did not know anything about the Ottoman customs. If he were going to 'seduce' the Sultan and 'control him', then he would have to learn the ways of the Ottomans.
'Master…I do this only for you. I pray that you will love me and have me after all this over.'
Sadiq gazed upon the other as the falcon male ate his meal, now appearing to be lost in thought. He couldn't help but admire the smooth, milky-white skin of the albino in the soft glow of the lantern lights. The skin covered solid muscle; but muscle that was lithe and agile, such was needed for a bird of prey. Gilbert allowed his pants to hang low on his waist, showing off the firm and toned lower belly leading to his groin. Sadiq knew the man was untouched and innocent in the ways of love, although he was pretending differently to his face. It was clear that Gilbert desired his human master above all others, and it was Sadiq's goal to change those feelings. He wasn't a cruel man; he wouldn't force Gilbert into anything, but rather gently coax the falcon into becoming comfortable around him. Sadiq knew Fredrick, or rather knew OF him. He had seen him once or twice during the occasional war meetings, and the man was old while he was young. Gilbert too is young, but only has eyes for his master, like a dutiful and loyal animal companion. Sadiq nibbled on the end of his pipe as he wondered about the best ways to make Gilbert desire him. He couldn't deny the fact that he wanted to claim the albino's innocence for his own; it was in his rights as Sultan. First, he would have to learn more about Fredrick Williams so he could mirror the general's mannerisms, since Gilbert admired the elder man so much. Next, he would get to know this falcon more and try to please him in subtle ways, even if it meant spoiling him rotten. He had a surplus; he could easily built Gilbert a perch of solid gold or set aside private land for him to hunt in. But would the albino accept these gifts? Gilbert was already proving to be stubborn and unbroken, just like a wild animal that refused to be tamed. Yet Fredrick had tamed him, and so could he! Sadiq would see those long white legs and arms wrapped around him in no time at all.
End Chapter 1 TBC