It really upset Ludwig how quick that people were to judge both of the Russias particularly after he had actually met and learned more about Ilya.
Ludwig had never done well in romantic situations and had never been good at handling his emotions well though he did have an open and caring heart even if he did try to hide it sometimes.
Naturally with Ludwig's brute strength, he could easily fight for and protect those that he cared about though he'd never expected to fall for someone like Ilya who didn't need Ludwig's fussing or his protection.
Ilya was strong enough to protect and care for himself yet his levelheaded nature drew Ludwig to him as they could discuss many important issues together with all seriousness and no tears shed or fighting initiated.
Ludwig refused though to let people talk bad about Ilya or Ivan as they were just wrong about them especially about Ilya.
The dark haired Russian had drawn in Ludwig, and he would never be able to shake him off no matter what.
It just so happened that when Ilya's temper flared, so did Ludwig's, and they fought side by side for Ilya's pride and self image.
Naturally, the awkwardness afterward couldn't be averted and the two wished that they could crawl in to their own holes to avoid speaking about what happened yet they couldn't.
It was fine for Ludwig to sit there awkwardly tending to his own wounds while he watched the powerful Russian across from him treat his own wounds.
Things may have been awkward for them yet it would be equally beautiful for them in time.
Now glances would be stolen yet the future would bring stolen kisses and long, serious talks before they both fell asleep from exhaustion.
Yes, they had the strength and ability to survive alone, but things were just better in twos, so they hung on together as things slowly went from almost shy awkwardness to beautiful, dazzling love with enough of the fiery passion of theirs to keep them warm at night within their hearts.