Papercut
A/N: I cannot begin to thank each reviewer enough for all their motivation and help. I never anticipated so many people to enjoy this fic. Yay to all of you for making me update!
The following people did not receive a reply for their reviews:
Lina: Thank you for the review! I'm pleased that you believe I kept that element of Conrad that makes him what he is and that you enjoyed the family scene. I plan to incorporate Conrad as a major character as well. He already has played an extremely important role, although you all don't know that yet. Your questions will be answered to some extent in this chapter so I hope you are pleased! I hope to read another review from you!
priestessmykala: Thank you again for another review! I'm glad that people are saying I'm keeping the characters true to themselves (at least most of the time). I'm glad you enjoy the mystery! My favorite books when I was younger were mysteries, so I always had a soft spot for them.
adelaide: Thank you for the review and does Conrad like Wolfram more than a brother? Well, personally I will only develop their relationship as brothers but the way things are said/body movements can always be left to interpretation. So as a result, Conrad's reason for killing Khalid is partially due to jealously (but not in a sexual manner) and due to his suspicion of Khalid. Don't worry though as this chapter reveals more information for you, alright? I hope to hear more from you in the next review!
For your interest, all the names of characters surrounding Sulteri are of Arabic origin. Each name is symbolic to their personality/purpose in the fic. Here I give you a list of the names you will be introduced to in the next chapter or two and their meaning; however, I cannot give you the meaning of Khalid's name. This is due to the fact that it spoils some things. Sorry!
The purpose for using Arabic names is mostly due to my personal interest in the culture and that of symbolic reasons. I have created a situation in Sulteri that reflects the separation between the ethnic/religious groups in places like Iraq (i.e. the Sunni dominance and victimization of the Kurds).
Name: Sagira
Meaning: Little one
Name: Namir
Meaning: leopard/panther
Name: Rashid
Meaning: rightly guided
Name: Kadin
Meaning: Companion
Spoilers: Mentioning of Gegenhuber
Warnings: a little bit of graphic description
Also, I received a question as to why the fic is titled 'Papercut'. Later in another chapter I plan to have a character make a reference to a 'papercut', which will hopefully allow you readers to understand the symbolic representation.
Alright, now go and enjoy this chapter! It's longer than the second but I found it necessary.
10101010
"Weren't you ever told it's rude to spy on someone, especially when they are sleeping?"
The dark form twisted around quickly to catch a pair of dark eyes behind circular frames peering at him. By the dark colors this boy wore, the figure suspected someone of high importance.
Murata raised an eyebrow and placed his hands on his hips. "Now, listen hear you-hey!"
The dark form leapt up and landed on the roof, expressing his lack of interest with Murata. Before the foe could continue with his attempted escape, however, a man with delicately long hair blocked his pathway. The man already held a sword in his hand, as if waiting for the form's very presence.
"Such behavior will not be tolerated. Who do you think you are, peering into the personal chambers of His Highness!" the long haired man cried, eyes narrowing.
A small grunt from behind resulted in the form to slightly turn his head. The boy with dark clothing, with the aid of two soldiers, pulled himself over onto the roof, thus completely surrounding the stranger.
"Are you unharmed, Your Eminence?" asked the long haired man.
Murata panted and waved a dismissive hand. "I'm alright, Lord von Christ," he said before straightening out and brushing off his garments of any unwanted dust, "I have to admit that this person is fast."
Gunter nodded and surveyed the form thoroughly, attempting to connect any similar characteristics to the dark form that Conrad had encountered. "This is a different person," he finally concluded after noticing the height of this particular being, "According to Conrart's description, the form was smaller than that of His Highness but this devious creature is nearly as tall as I am."
"Yes, they are different indeed but may work together," Murata suggested, taking one step closer to their adversary and addressing it, "We have no intention of harming you. Just tell us what you're doing here and why you do it so secretly."
The form made no movement.
"You do realize you'll be taken into custody by force if you refuse to cooperate," the Great Sage warned when the shadow-like being continued to refuse his request.
"I say we take him to the dungeons immediately before he makes to run," Gunter sternly said, "He may be a threat to His Highness."
Murata sighed when their suspect continued to remain still. The boy took a small step back as the soldiers began their advance on Gunter's command. Each brought up their respective weapons and made to grab the figure but halted once the soon to be prisoner budged.
The form made a sound resembling a chuckle. With a voice filled with coarseness and thickness he said to Murata, "Imprudent swine. It's far too late for any of you."
"Explain yourself," demanded Gunter in a yell.
"You might as well have all died that very day," the figure croaked as it withdrew a small flask containing a pink liquid.
Murata eyes narrowed as he studied the strange concoction. The pink tint that the liquid possessed was unusual and very suspicious. The possibilities of the potion's purpose were that of many and only one set off an alarm in Murata's mind. "Restrain him at once!"
Before the soldiers registered the command, the figure acted. The flask was popped open and the mask shifted aside though not enough to provide any insight to a single facial feature. Murata could only cry out in defiance as the stranger tilted his head back before gulping the liquid down in one swig.
The being's right hand clenched tightly enough to shatter the flask, sending tiny portions of glass and blood crumpling and dripping to the dark tiles of the roof. An atrocious roar tore through the sky as the figure began convulsing, causing him to collapse onto all fours.
Gunter gave a horrified gasp as a thick fluid oozed through the figure's clothing and mask. "What…What's this? Is it blood?"
"No!" Murata shouted as he rushed toward the deteriorating form. He kept his distance but managed to inspect the fluid more effectively. His eyes widened and he whispered, "It's skin…"
Taking a side beside the Great Sage, Gunter too examined their dying foe. He covered his mouth and nose once the repulsive stench of blood and burning tissue began permeating throughout the air. The sounds emitting from the skinless figure resembled that as inhuman; like a pathetic beast being skinned alive. Gunter could only fathom the agony of having your skin bubbling from within until it excruciatingly and unhurriedly tore away from each and single nerve as it literally melted off your bones.
"He's being slaughtered from the inside out. Oh no, careful, Your Eminence!" Gunter cried and he quickly tugged Murata back a good distance away. The pool of loose tissue, muscle, and blood had begun creeping toward their shoes, imitating the slow movements of a volcanic emission.
By this point, the former human had ceased his wails after a final groan of pure anguish. After a single spasm of the body, the form remained motionless and no one dared to approach. After a few unsteady moments of silence, Murata politely brushed Gunter's hands away before taking a small jump over the pool of bloody skin to reach the body. He crouched near the lifeless form and furrowed his eyebrows in determination as he swiftly removed the mask after a few seconds of mental preparation.
Everyone cringed at the skull that awaited them, coated with the vitreous fluid of the eyeballs, one of which hung loose out of the sockets due the still connected nerve. The nerve itself appeared to have stuck to the skull and Murata knew he had only a few moments left before his dinner paid a second visit to his throat.
Gunter finally sheathed his sword shakily and asked, "Why would he subject himself to such a death?"
Murata instructed the guards to send the body for inspection as he stood up again. He desperately attempted to ignore the slick sounds of partially disintegrated organs slipping out from within the robes onto the ground. "This person, who I assume was a man, did not want his identity revealed. Perhaps something about his physical characteristics implied where he was from or who he worked for," he predicted, taking a hold of his chin as he calculated other possibilities. Murata vaguely noted his hand still slightly trembled from the incident.
"Sulteri?"
"I cannot say, unfortunately. Even if they are from Sulteri, they may have no connection to the king and are simply acting on their own," Murata said, "and it's even possible that it's from a country or cult that has little interest in Sulteri and therefore rejects the meeting between The Great Demon Kingdom and Sulteri."
"I feel very uncomfortable about this whole situation. Please allow me to accompany His Highness and Your Eminence to Sulteri," Gunter pleaded with a bow.
Murata offered Gunter a sympathizing smile but shook his head lightly. "I'm afraid Lord von Voltaire's tactic is indeed a good one. If something were to happen to the Great Demon Kingdom I would feel more at ease if it were in your capable hands," he praised, resulting in an extremely gleeful Gunter.
"Oh, such kind words for your lowly servant!" Gunter exclaimed with a blushing face and smile. "Very well, I will take charge during His Highness's absence."
"I'm glad you agree," Murata said as he began his return into the castle with Gunter.
"Speaking of His Highness, I'm somewhat confused as to why neither he nor Wolfram came to inspect that horrid screaming," Gunter explained as he took a hold of Murata's arm and back to lower him down gently from the roof.
Murata softly laughed and said, "Well, I advised them to stick with Greta until she fell asleep, knowing that she always asks for milk for herself and fathers. I had Shibuya's and Lord von Bielefeld's drinks spiked to ensure them a deep sleep."
Gunter gasped and quickly inquired, "But…Surely you didn't drug the poor girl as well?"
"Of course not. The drug itself does not take effect until moments after it's completely consumed and I'm sure Greta demanded enough attention to make them both exhausted," the Great Sage clarified with another laugh. "So by the time they would settle into bed, the drug and exhaustion would begin its magic, if I am correct."
"You're quite furtive, Your Eminence," Gunter nervously muttered before changing his tone, "I suppose I should have suspected this once you asked for my assistance with this situation. Your prediction was just as you claimed it to be! You certainly cease to amaze me, just as His Highness!"
Gunter continued his talk as he walked alongside the Great Sage. Murata only smiled and listened as Gunter maintained a tenacious grip on the subject of praise. Despite the light mood the two shared, both were acutely aware of the disturbance that captured each and every person who experienced tonight's incident.
101010
Wolfram softly grunted as he mounted his horse and adjusted himself. With a quick glance to his left side, he observed Yuri momentarily struggle before managing to properly sit himself on the dark horse. Wolfram smirked and said teasingly, "Having problems, Yuri?"
"Come off it," Yuri grumbled before a yawn released itself. "Oh man, I'm so tired."
Murata, who sat on his own horse a few feet to Wolfram's right, raised an eyebrow and asked, "Tired? From what?" He imagined the drug that had been administered to the Demon King and his fiancé possessed enough power to have kept them asleep for the majority of the night.
"Yeah, well…I just had trouble sleeping was all," Yuri hesitantly said, turning his head in another direction to conceal the circles under his eyes that matched those of Wolfram's. I don't want to tell everyone Wolfram had another nightmare. Only this time I couldn't wake him out of it quicklyt and I was tired beyond recognition…
Murata continued to stare at Yuri with a suspicious gaze. "You're a horrible liar, Shibuya," he stated and noticed Wolfram tensing beside him.
"N-No! It's the truth!"
"Oh Your Majesty!" cooed a female voice.
Yuri paused in his explanation to Murata and shifted his gaze toward the castle gates. Beside him he heard Wolfram mutter with a slightly embarrassed tone, "Mother…"
Lady Celi smiled widely when Yuri recognized her presence. She took Yuri's hand and patted it lovingly. "Oh Your Majesty I'm so glad you haven't left yet. I wanted to personally wish you a safe journey and-oh, my. Your Majesty you look positively exhausted. What were you doing last night?" she asked in a sincerely concerned voice.
"Wolfie, baby, did you-" she paused when noting Wolfram's own drained eyes and dark circles. She met Yuri's dark eyes and gave a knowing smirk. "Oh, Your Majesty, you have made me so proud! I knew inside your bashful exterior was a playboy at heart. I do hope you didn't harm my youngest son too much, though."
Yuri blinked and glanced around the area, perplexed. "Er…Pardon me?"
"Oh, now, now, Your Majesty, no need to be shy," the retired queen insisted with a more joyful look in her eyes. "You take care of yourself now and be sure to do the same for my son. I do wish your own children were a possibility for you two…"
"Wait, wha-"
Conrad cleared his throat and said kindly, "Now, mother, we must be off if we want to reach our camping sight before sunset."
Before she returned to Gunter and Gegenhuber's side, Lady Celi promptly offered each of her sons a loving hug and a particularly proud one for Wolfram. "Oh my baby's grown so much…"
"Mother, please," Wolfram moaned as his mother planted a kiss on his cheek.
Gwendel grunted and brought his horse before Gunter. "I leave everything to you. Gegenhuber will assist you if need be. We'll send word once we've reached Sulteri," he assured.
"Sir!" Gegenhuber announced with a respectful nod.
"Alright, then. We're off!" he said with a loud command, and the few troops accompanying the party began their descent.
Gunter sniffled and cried, "I'll be with you in spirit Your Highness! Conrart, be sure to guard His Highness well!"
"Good-bye, Your Highness," Anissina bellowed as she held Greta's hand, who also shouted her goodbyes. "Greta will be just fine, don't you worry. I'll ensure her success as a strong woman!"
"Have a safe trip, Your Majesty," Lady Celi exclaimed with a wave of her hand, "and you should know better than to play in bed the night before a long trip!"
With a cry of horror, Gunter turned to his female companion. "What do you mean 'play in bed'?! Are you suggesting-"
"Oh now, Gunter, one mustn't interfere with true lo-"
The argument escalated in the background and Yuri was eternally grateful that his attendance was currently with Conrad and the others. "I don't understand Lady Celi," he confessed after a good distance from the castle, "I don't get what she was saying about Wolfram and me b-"
"Sex," Murata said.
"Excuse me?"
Murata, with a mocking smirk, repeated, "Sex."
"Yes, I heard that," Yuri growled, "I meant what it had to do with me and Wol-holy! Wait…You don't honestly mean…"
Conrad chuckled and assured Yuri, "Don't worry, Your Highness. Mother tends to jump to conclusions regarding these situations."
Wolfram snorted but kept silent, the light coral shade on his cheeks offering all the response he was to make. He kept his eyes focused on the environment, hoping to discover a distraction from Yuri's moans of humiliation. Said moans also did little to alleviate the slight pounding in his head. In the end, Wolfram decided on studying the back of his eldest brother, who struggled to maintain his composure and endure the bickering
"So you are denying it then, Shibuya?" Murata asked playfully, catching Wolfram's and all of the soldiers' ears.
"Of course I am!"
"Then what really made you so tired this morning."
"I…Well…It was…Something else."
Wolfram briefly glanced at Yuri with a look consisting of confusion and that of being touched. He's not telling them what really happened last night. He must care or otherwise he would tell the truth…Right?
The blonde shook his head to eradicate the thought, suspecting it was only his hope that manifested such a thought. He returned to his very busy task of counting how many veins could be seen on Gwendel's head.
Murata's smile dropped and he shot Yuri a look. "Oh, come on that does little to support your previous statement," he accused.
"Murata?"
"Yes, Shibuya?"
"Be quiet."
Wolfram thought he saw a vein pop on Gwendel's head.
101010
"Are we there yet?"
"No, Your Highness," Gwendel grunted for the fifth time in the last hour.
Yuri released a moan of boredom and soreness. "Do you think we'll make it before sunset?" he asked more out of boredom than anything. Through his inspection of the sky, it was entirely possible that the sun would vanish before Yuri had the time to comfortably enjoy the ends of the sunset.
"You're such a wimp, Yuri."
"Gee, thanks Wolfram, but that doesn't really answer my question," Yuri uttered with irritation.
"We'll be there before sunset if we keep this pace," Conrad ensured. "We should arrive within the next twenty minutes."
The thought of enduring another twenty minutes on a horse resulted in another tired moan to escape Yuri's lips. He pondered over any subject to distract his mind from melting into goop. He straightened up and a smile formed on his lips at a thought. "Hey, tell me about Sulteri," he insisted.
The others paused.
"Ah, well," Conrad began, apparently hesitant, "what would you like to know?"
Yuri shrugged. "Anything I can. It's always good to learn about the country you're going to visit, right?"
"As you wish. To begin with, they're quite alienated," Conrad explained, keeping his voice firm. "Their history is very different than that of most countries that you've visited."
"Huh. How so?" asked Yuri, his interest piqued.
Conrad wavered in his explanation. "There's always been the suspicion of their involvement with dark stones, both demon and esoteric."
"Dark stones?"
"They are brought in their original form until a spell is casted upon them to enhance their potential through the use of dark magic," Wolfram softly said, bringing himself closer to Yuri's horse.
"Not that I'm encouraging it but why haven't other countries tried it?" asked Yuri, "I mean, if they increase the power of esoteric stones why don't they do it?"
Gwendel slightly shifted his body to glance back at Yuri. "It's not that simple, Your Highness. There are many factors that contribute to why other countries refuse to use it. For one, by increasing the esoteric stones magic to such lengths, the power they have to cause physical stress on a pure-blooded demon disintegrates to nothing."
"Those humans want us to feel the presence of the esoteric stones and by turning them dark, they lose that advantage," Wolfram added. "At any rate, demon tribesmen have visited Sulteri and we have never sensed the presence of esoteric stones so it's possible that it's just a rumor and nothing more."
"There is also talk that the spells needed to empower the stones are only found in Sulteri," Conrad said, "Long ago there existed a cult in Sulteri that nearly tore the country to pieces. They relied heavily on spells that are said to have survived even the battle between the Demon Tribe and the Originators."
Yuri's eyes lit up. "Wow, so those very spells still exist in Sulteri to this day?"
Murata, amused by Yuri's interest, implied, "Well, it's not officially confirmed."
"There's a situation that suggests people close to the king may be involved with that very cult," said Conrad, his eyes hardening with each word.
"So that cult from long ago has returned?" questioned Yuri, concern replacing his excitement when discerning the shift in Conrad's attitude.
Wolfram sighed, though Yuri was unable to decipher as to why. "It's possible that they never left to begin with," he said.
"Why haven't I heard of this dark magic before?"
"Ah, well, the magic itself is not dark but the scrolls containing the spells have been labeled as evil, though there's no actual proof," Gwendel informed, his own voice hardening. "Not even humans from other countries dare to steal them. However, it's been reported that they sell esoteric stones to those from Sulteri for a high price."
Yuri raised his eyebrows. "Why a high price? Why don't those cult members get their own esoteric stones?"
"Nearly every country hates them," Conrad said, "Many find those from Sulteri as inferior; a country of rats, as some put it. The Great Demon Kingdom was one of few countries who had good relations with Sulteri. Even though the civilians disliked each other for one reason or another, there were no outbursts. Anyway, as a result of the scorn they received from other countries, Sulterians rarely leave their homeland. "
Yuri nodded, recalling Conrad's mentioning of such a relationship yesterday. "Do those from Sulteri have a distinct look to them or something?"
"Yes," Wolfram offered, "since most members are devoted to their culture, which in itself greatly differs from other nations, they believe it's of high importance to dress appropriately. They are very elaborate and many men possess very long hair along with darker skin, so they obviously stand out."
The mentioning of such garments brought Yuri's mood to a higher level. I've always wanted to wear some cooler clothing than just this uniform…
"Lord von Voltaire! I see the campsite!" a soldier cried, and Yuri nearly leapt off his horse in joy.
Wolfram internally sighed, silently rejoicing with Yuri. The talk of Sulteri only brought upon a dreary mood and now he craved a bath in the lake near the camp.
"Come on, Wolfram!" Yuri yelled as he grabbed the reins tightly and brought them down in a light and swift movement, causing his horse to break out into a sprint. "I'll race you!"
Conrad gasped and followed suit. "Wait, Your Highness!"
"Yuri! You cheater!" shouted Wolfram, and despite his weariness, he commanded his horse to chase after the two, along with half of the soldiers.
Murata chuckled at the sight. "That quickly took his mind off the subject, didn't it, Lord von Voltaire?" he asked happily.
With a shake of his head, Gwendel expressed his own mental fatigue. "His Highness is relatively easy to please," he mumbled and then gave his companion a hard look.
"How many?" Murata asked in a soft whisper.
"One."
"That's one too many."
101010
Wolfram groaned in delight as his bare body immersed into the cool waters of the lake. Once he was chin deep, the warrior leaned his body against the edge, in an imitation of reclining. From afar, he hazily caught the sounds of the others preparing dinner in the light forest.
Once they had arrived at camp, Wolfram did his share to set up camp before immediately excusing himself for a dip in the lake.
"Feeling relaxed?"
Emerald eyes opened in a quick motion and Wolfram cursed himself for dropping his guard. Without lifting his head, he slowly shut his eyes once more and addressed his unwanted guest. "Hello, Your Eminence."
Murata's pleasant sigh preceded the gentle sound of water. At this, Wolfram sat up slightly, expecting an equally nude Great Sage entering the lake. Thankfully, the other boy had simply taken a seat near Wolfram and emerged his feet into the water.
"Do you mind?" Wolfram asked, with a slight hint of patronizing irritation.
Murata kept his eyes on the tiny waves his feet created. "Nope," he said cheerfully. "Be my guest."
Great…
Wolfram huffed and brought a bit more distance between himself and the wise man. Cautiously keeping his back to the boy, Wolfram began threading his fingers through his feathery golden hair. "Why are you here? If it's for my protection, I can assure you I can handle myself."
"No, it's not that."
"Then why?"
"I just enjoy watching a lovely creature, such as yourself, bathe."
Wolfram tensed and he quickly spun around, bringing up a fist threateningly into the air. "Are you trying piss me off?"
Murata brought his hands up in defense and shook his head. "No, no, I assure you that's not what I'm after. I was only trying to lighten your mood, though my humor apparently upset you more than anything. You seem rather down," he insisted with a slightly alarmed tone.
The clenched fist lowered itself and Wolfram slowly returned to his business. "I was in a peaceful mood until you showed up," he grumbled while rubbing his skin in circular motions.
"You had another nightmare last night, didn't you?"
"What?" Wolfram questioned, shocked. "Did that good for nothing fiancé of mine tell-"
Murata shook his head and smiled. "No. Shibuya mentioned nothing of it. It's my own speculation. I've heard it's been occurring nearly every night for a while now."
"What of it?" Wolfram mentally cursed the person who leaked the information. He contemplated the idea that Conrad had articulated his apprehension to the Great Sage.
"I was merely expressing my concern for you."
The tone with which Murata used for his statement instigated Wolfram to stare intently at the Great Sage. The slight sadness that coated the words allowed a sense of appreciation to enter Wolfram's heart and yet the sprinkled bitterness disturbed him. "Well," he began slowly, "Thank you. I'm fine though."
Murata kept silent as he mildly observed Wolfram complete his washing before making to exit the lake. Wolfram kept his body under water even as he approached the lake's edge. His large eyes gazed at Murata with an accusing look.
"What?" Murata asked innocently.
"Turn around," Wolfram instructed.
With a sigh of defeat, Murata withdrew his feet from the water and stood up. Obeying Wolfram, he rotated his body until his back met Wolfram's eyes. "I'm not going to attack you, Lord von Bielefeld."
"I'm not worried about that," Wolfram muttered irritably, tugging on the white long-sleeved shirt he wore beneath his usual blue uniform. "I prefer to avoid any situation that exposed my body to another's eyes. I am, after all, engaged."
"I see. You really do love Shibuya, don't you?" Murata asked sincerely, shifting his weight to his other leg.
"That's personal information," Wolfram retorted. "I'm done."
Murata turned to view a now dressed Wolfram, who held the blue top of his uniform in his hand. "Are you apprehensive about speaking to me on such matters? I'm just curious because apparently you make it a point to let everyone at the castle know."
The piercing glare Wolfram possessed screamed at Murata 'wrong response'. Instead of a rebuttal, however, Wolfram lowered himself to sit and lean against a thick tree. His eyes tore away from Murata and settled on the tranquil water beside him. The moon provided the only form of light.
Perplexed at the sudden change in attitude, Murata asked, "Aren't you coming back to camp? You should eat something before getting sleep."
"I'm staying here for a while," Wolfram said.
Murata ran a hand through his hair and sighed. "Oh well…" he said and drew near the warrior. He released a grunt as he sat beside Wolfram.
"You know," he gently said after Wolfram remained silent, "I think Shibuya likes you back too."
"I don't want your pity."
Murata frowned at the harsh words. "It's not pity. Do you really believe me having enough time for such things?"
After a pause, Wolfram glanced at him and presented the boy with a tiny smile. "I suppose not," he deduced. Returning his eyes back to the glittering waters, Wolfram relaxed his muscles and his smile faded.
"What troubles you?"
"I'm just tired," Wolfram murmured.
Murata clasped his companion's shoulder. "Allow time to do what it does best, my friend."
"Not even time can heal scars."
"Do you believe he loved you after what Lord Weller said?"
"I assume that Ulrike filled you in on the details," stated Wolfram, brushing off Murata's hand with a quick shrug. Having a conversation of such magnitude with the Great Sage brought about a level of trust in Wolfram. That, and a general sense of nausea.
Murata took quick note of Wolfram's indirect avoidance and offered his insight. "You know," he started, keeping his eyes on Wolfram's face, "there are people out there that don't believe in love. They believe the word has lost its true meaning and ceases to exist.
"They say love is non-existent. Love is now merely a side effect of lust and infatuation. Once we obtain the thing we claim to love, we grow bored, and thus discover a new love. It's an endless cycle."
"What do you believe, Your Eminence?" Wolfram asked with a somewhat sarcastic tone, although a portion of him concealed a curious interest about the theory. The possibility of the assumption being true brought upon a sheen of sweat on Wolfram's brow.
"I'm debating that still," Murata admitted and offered his charming smile. "I'm actually waiting to see whether or not you'll prove this theory wrong."
Wolfram met Murata's eyes and held them for a brief second just before his eyes returned to the lake. The night air leveled down to a chilly breeze and Wolfram's damp hair both soothed and discomforted him. He pondered over the Great Sage's words and barely felt the calming smile that crept into his lips.
Wolfram slowly shut his eyes and murmured, "Don't expect a miracle."
From behind a thick tree, Gwendel crossed his arms and peered around it, catching Murata's eyes. The Great Sage nodded to him faintly, expressing his approval.
After releasing a breath of hushed air, Gwendel slightly unsheathed his sword, tilting it just so to reflect the moonlight. This provided enough warning for a shadow, spying from a tree, opposite of the lake. The clothed creature, acknowledging the threat, leapt and vanished.
101010
Yuri released an extremely content breath of air just as he completed the meal that was presented to him. "Man, that was great! Thanks very much," he said while rubbing his full belly.
"I'm glad it was to your liking," Conrad replied with a chuckle.
After a stretch of the muscles, Yuri adjusted himself to rest on the blanket beneath him, his hands linking behind his head to create a make-shift pillow. The visibility of the stars astonished Yuri and he realized that back at his other home such pleasures were not provided due to all the lights constantly on.
"Where did Murata go?" Yuri asked after creating three shapes by connecting the stars.
Conrad tossed a piece of wood to satisfy the fire's hunger. "I believe he and Gwendel went to keep Wolfram company at the lake."
"Ah."
Yuri furrowed his eyebrows at the mentioning of Wolfram's name. "Conrad," he melancholy said, "do you think you could tell me about what happened between you and Khalid? I mean, the stuff that began all the problems."
Yuri kept his eyes concentrated on the stars, directly avoiding any unsettling features that may have captured Conrad's usual composed ones. He heard boots softly crushing grass and the rustling of cloth. Hesitantly, Yuri glanced to his side to find Conrad sitting beside him, his back reclining against a large log.
"Mother was very assertive when it came to Wolfram's engagement to Khalid," Conrad whispered, although Yuri was unable to determine if it was to avoid the others from hearing or not. "I suspected Khalid had intended to propose to Wolfram but never imagined him to ask Mother before. I was never aware that he did it until earlier that day."
Yuri, who now returned to his gazing of the dark cloak that painted the sky, asked, "You mean the same day Khalid died?"
"Yes."
"So what happened?"
Conrad took a brief glimpse at the soldiers. Some stood guard while others ate or sharpened their weapons. After considering that the situation allowed for a flashback, Conrad returned his attention to his godson. "I'll explain that I suspected something about a week prior to that day."
1010…Khalid and Conrad…1010
Conrad strolled through a particularly empty hallway, offering only small acknowledges to the few maids or soldiers he encountered. He turned a corner, into a more secluded area that contained two large doors that marked Khalid's room.
"Khalid?" Conrad asked as he lightly tapped on the wooden doors with a fist. "Gunter is waiting."
When no answer met him, Conrad gradually turned the door handle and opened one of the doors. The room was desperately lonely. Quickly inspecting the room, Conrad discovered no traces of his comrade. Just before he was to shut the door, a partially opened scroll draped a table near the bed. Normally, Conrad would have ignored the document but the words he was capable of gathering from his view altered his plans.
Cautiously, Conrad approached the table and opened the scroll to absorb its contents, noting a missing piece that had been apparently ripped off. His eyes widened at what he read. "What would Khalid need with-"
"Searching through my personal belongings, are you, Conrart?" a voice cooed behind him.
Conrad spun around so quickly, his hip knocked the table with just enough force to cause the scroll to roll off onto the ground, stopping once lightly colliding with a dark boot. A slender hand reached over and delicately grasped the scroll.
With agonizingly slow movements, Khalid properly rotated the scroll repeatedly until it was completely rolled. "I'll ask you for future situations, do not go through my personal belongings," he finally said once settling the scroll among many books that occupied a bookshelf.
"Khalid, why do you have that scroll?" Conrad asked after swallowing his anxiety.
"It's mine," Khalid stated bluntly.
Conrad's eyes narrowed. "If I did not know any better, I would suspect it entailed information to bringing down the Great Demon Kingdom."
"You don't know any better," Khalid informed with a smile that resulted in the quick pacing of Conrad's heart.
"I read what I think is a spell that involved the blood of demon tribesmen."
Khalid kept his eyes at an even point with Conrad's, their golden color mesmerizing Conrad. Just as the half-blood expected a sly remark to spill over Khalid's lips, the other man's eyes soften. "You caught me," he confessed.
Conrad blinked and released his hand from the hilt of his sword. He did not recall himself ever grasping it to begin with. "What?"
"I'll admit, what you say is true. I did not return to the Great Demon Kingdom just for visiting and training, as my father instructed. I was asked to discover the missing piece of that scroll that is said to be hidden among this very castle."
"Why do you need such a thing?" Conrad asked, still doubtful.
Khalid strode toward his sheathed sword that currently rested against a wall and elegantly took hold of it. "Well, there's rumor that a faction has begun a plan to infest this kingdom with maggots whose sole purpose is to destroy the Great Demon Kingdom's regime," he explained, drawing out his sword. "I was instructed to obtain the missing piece of the scroll and return it to my father."
"Why not ask for our assistance then?"
"By asking for your assistance, it may have created unnecessary panic. It's also only a rumor but my father is worried that the very party planning to take down this kingdom will attack Sulteri as well. You are one of the very few countries allied with Sulteri and one of the most powerful. If they discover that piece, you can consider your country ashes," Khalid said, his voice deep.
Conrad's eyes lost their harshness. "The cult you speak of…they know the spell from that scroll then, don't they? Is it…"
Khalid shut his eyes and nodded. "We believe they may be from Sulteri and are the very group you are suspecting. Those devoted to the cult know only the first portion of that wretched spell. The last portion was purposely ripped off to discourage anyone's use for it."
"You should have told us," Conrad insisted, crossing his arms. "This is a serious matter. I've never heard of such a piece being locked away in the castle but I'll see what I can do."
Khalid looked at Conrad and shook his head once. "No. Not yet. Now that you're aware of the situation, I will contact my father first. Once I receive word as to what he wishes, we'll discuss it."
Conrad stared at the man for a moment. After acknowledging Khalid's desperation, Conrad agreed with a nod. "Alright, I'll allow you to at least contact your father first. I must explain the situation to Mother, however. I'll be vague enough to allow you some time to receive your father's response. I won't mention you."
"Agreed," Khalid replied and offered his gratitude with a small bow. "Now, I do believe Gunter will throw a tantrum unless we hurry."
1010…End of Khalid and Conrad…1010
"So you discovering the scroll began it all," Yuri summarized, somewhat grateful that this tale lacked any deaths. "So then tell me what happened a week later."
Conrad nodded slowly.
1010…Morning before Khalid's death…1010
Conrad quickly took longer strides than usual, hoping to walk faster yet not enough to cause a passerby to stare in confusion. The news of Khalid's proposal via asking Lady Celi had brought upon a sickening feeling deep within Conrad. He had to speak with his Mother.
Only a few yards away separated Conrad from his destination, that was, until Khalid interfered with his walk by turning the corner. The man consequently crossed Conrad's path and paused to recognize his presence.
"Conrart," he gravely said and Conrad could only halt at the roughness of Khalid's voice.
Conrad nodded his head toward Khalid and said, "I heard from Yosak you asked Mother for Wolfram's hand in marriage."
At this, Khalid's lips curved into a twisted smile. "Ah, you heard correctly, soon to be brother-in-law," he responded as he placed a hand on his hip.
"I wish you both well," Conrad muttered before making to brush pass Khalid.
The other man harshly grabbed his shoulder, preventing any movement. "I sense your lack of enthusiasm, Lord Weller. Are you distraught that your youngest brother, the little boy you love and nurtured, is to be taken away from you, to another country?" Khalid asked crudely.
The man's behavior upset Conrad and he jerked his shoulder away. "I saw you sneaking about. You were planning to steal that missing piece once you found it. You ensured me that we would discuss it with the others once your father gave you a response, which he has yet to do. I'm going to tell them now."
Khalid raised his eyebrows in slight amusement. The man studied their surroundings and once confirming no other soul was present, his eyes dangerously narrowed at Conrad and that twisted smile curled even further. "They won't believe you, dear Conrart."
"What?"
"I'll deny it all. By this point in time, your family and companions have grown so attached to me that my word is just as good as yours," he calmly yet treacherously whispered. "It's now an official he say, she say."
Conrad returned Khalid's hard look, though he offered no smile. "You…Don't mess with me. You still have that scroll," he claimed recalling last week's encounter.
"It's gone."
Conrad's lips tightened and he partially growled, "Gone?"
Khalid tilted his head up slightly in a haughty gesture. "Of course."
"Where is it?"
As a response, Khalid chuckled lowly. "You expect me to tell you, my dear friend?" he asked.
"Don't refer to me as your friend. You're a traitor," Conrad hissed.
"Oh? I'm sure I'm not the only one to acknowledge your disapproval of my asking for Wolfram's hand. If you speak ill of me, I can effortlessly claim your words are nothing more than that of a brother's tenacious grip on whatever innocence remains in his sad life," Khalid said mockingly.
Conrad snorted. "What makes you believe they'll discard my claims so easily?"
Khalid's face transformed into nothing short of sinister. His eyes blazed as he threatened, "Go against my word and at my command, a village is pillaged. Are you willing to risk the tranquil lives of your people over a marriage?"
Conrad's eyes widened and he snarled. "How dare you threaten me. You only bluff."
"I notice that murderous look in your eye, Conrart. It excites me," whispered Khalid and Conrad thought he noticed those golden eyes emit a radiant glow.
Before Conrad had the time for a response, a soldier emerged from behind them and sprinted in their direction. "Oh Lord Weller! Lord Weller!"
Khalid and Conrad dropped their cold countenance and observed the soldier. "Yes, what is it?" Conrad asked with perplexity toward the soldier's frightened look.
"We just received word that a village toward the east is on fire! They're being attacked by something, possibly bandits!" the soldier cried. "Please, sir, your orders! My family is there!"
Conrad internally gasped and briefly glanced at Khalid who remained unfazed. "Go report to the others and then gather support to put out the fires. I'll round up some extra aid," he commanded and the soldier took off in a surprisingly fast pace.
As quickly as the soldier retreated, Conrad injected an angered glare into Khalid. "You…"
Khalid smiled slightly. "I always get what I want, Conrart and what I want right now is your little brother," he said suggestively, his voice soaked in innuendo. "You best get that situation under control. Who knows what those bandits could be doing to the women and children. I'll see you at the wedding."
Khalid smirked and adjusted his cape before treading along his way.
Conrad remained frozen, his fist clenched tightly. His nails tore into his flesh and blood splattered onto the floor.
1010…End Morning before Khalid's death…1010
"Conrad, why didn't you tell anyone?" Yuri gasped, already sitting up. Halfway through the second tale, he had been physically influenced by Conrad's story. "He was blackmailing you!"
Conrad miserably smiled. "I was torn. I desperately wanted to keep the people of the country safe and yet I knew I had to inform the others about it. I also wished to protect Wolfram. I suppose when I saw him and Wolfram that night…Something inside of me believed his death could end it all."
"Do you think that now?" Yuri asked in a hushed tone.
"I'm not so sure," his godfather answered. "What would you have done?"
Yuri parted his lips but no response came. He blinked a few moments and his eyes saddened. "I'm not sure," he admitted. "I really don't know."
Conrad nodded slowly in understanding. "I thought his death would ease my soul, yet it only worsened it. Red Eye still exists as well."
"Red Eye?"
"Ah, forgive me, Your Highness. That's what many call the cult that I was referring to," Conrad explained apologetically.
Yuri's face twisted in confusion as he asked, "Why is it called that?"
"Apparently, they say that in order to become a part of the cult, you..."
"What?"
Conrad stood silent, in thought. "I suppose," he said when Yuri questioned him again, "it's parallel to a situation back on your world. I'm sure you've heard about witches before, correct?"
Yuri, although still perplexed, nodded. "Like the ones that chant spells, worship evil figures, and have black cats?"
"To some extent, yes. The situation is similar in the cult Red Eye. They say you sell your very worth to establish your loyalty to the cult," Conrad said. "As a result, a manifestation occurs on the right eye of the members. The eye becomes blood red and the pupil is slit."
"Like selling your soul to the devil," Yuri mumbled, staring wide eyed at Conrad.
Before Yuri could ask his next question, Conrad continued. "It's not possible to detect a member of Red Eye by simply examining their eye. The eye returns to normal when not in the presence of the cult's location. The Red Eye is supposedly a symbol for the members, so they can detect spies. At least, that is what was reported about five years ago."
Yuri sighed and collapsed back onto the ground. "I wonder who discovered that Red Eye had a red eye, anyway. Those people lose their worth. It seems so sad. Why would they do that? Are they even human?"
Conrad presented Yuri a small smile and replied, "Well, I'm not sure, Your Highness. We don't know much at all about this supposed Red Eye. They may not even have a red eye. At any right, they are humans but it's suspected that by offering themselves to the cult, their life span expands and they are bestowed with powers."
"I see…But that's not confirmed either, right?"
"Unfortunately not," Gwendel's rough voice answered.
Yuri temporarily lifted his head to watch Gwendel, followed by Murata and a slightly wet Wolfram, returning to camp.
Wolfram muttered under his breath before calling out to Gwendel, "What were you doing hiding behind that tree, Gwendel?"
"I told you, watching over the Great Sage."
"He didn't want to interrupt our conversation so he didn't reveal himself," Murata cheerfully said to Wolfram. "Besides, I doubt you would have spoken to me the way we did if you realized another person was there."
Yet again, Wolfram cursed his lack of awareness, which resulted in his not sensing his older brother. In fact, Gwendel's snapping a twig was the cause of Wolfram's discovery. Deep within himself, Wolfram also suspected the Great Sage was aware of Gwendel's presence.
Instead of offering a response, Wolfram snatched his cot and extended it beside Yuri. After quickly removing his boots, the blonde stretched and curled under his navy blanket. His headache returned.
"Wolfram," Yuri said gently. "You shouldn't go to bed with your hair still wet." He was somewhat grateful that Wolfram had returned. His conversation with Conrad had begun to apply stress on his mind.
"Don't care," Wolfram mumbled into his arm, eyes refusing to open.
Yuri frowned and stood up before rummaging through a bag. He withdrew a half-sized blanket and crawled to Wolfram. "I mean it, Wolfram. I don't want you to get sick…"
Wolfram, upon feeling Yuri's breath brushing his cheek, peered an eye open. "You don't?"
"Of course not," Yuri said. "Here." He extended his arms, wrapped Wolfram's hair into the cloth, and began gently rubbing.
"Yuri!" Wolfram growled but stopped when Yuri's massage alleviated the dull pounding in his head.
Yuri smiled. "See? That wasn't so bad," he said, his face flushing as Murata offered him a smirk after Wolfram moaned in pleasure.
Once after releasing Wolfram's head, Yuri coughed and tossed the cloth to the side. "All done…"
Wolfram's eyes studied Yuri and he softly said, "Thanks." He felt the remaining dampness still clinging to his neck but suspected it would dry within minutes.
"Er…no problem," Yuri responded with a shy laugh. "Don't mention it, really, it's just out of habit. My mother always taught me to go to bed with a dry head…haha…"
Silence followed. Conrad, in hopes to comfort a now awkward Yuri, suggested, "Let's get to bed now. We need to be up by sunset."
Everyone took up the suggestion, settled into their beds, and quickly entered the realm of dreams. While the others adjusted themselves to sleep or stood guard, Yuri rolled onto his back, gazing at the stars again.
He suspected at least half an hour had passed when Wolfram mumbled incoherent words and his body scooted to press against Yuri, allowing only a couple layers of the blankets to separate their clothing from touching. Yuri shifted his body weight to permit himself more space but decided against it when Wolfram created a noise resembling a protesting whine.
Yuri sighed and noticed Conrad approach his form, inspecting him. Yuri made a gesture of his well-being and his godfather returned to keeping vigilance.
As Yuri revisited the stars, his dark hazy eyes connected them to create one last figure before shutting his eyes; Wolfram.
Wolfram had no nightmares that night.
1010..tbc…1010
I hope the long length of this chapter wasn't too much, but I wanted to get in as much information as possible.
I'm eternally grateful for all the reviews I've received and I hope you continue to review, as it really makes me get off my lazy bum and write.
With your support, I expect to update but it will take a little longer due to midterms next week (eek). I promise that in the next chapter, the gang will enter Sulteri.
I had some concerns with the slight graphic details about that decaying body in the first scene. Was it too much? I am utterly obsessed with horror movies and I enjoy graphic details. I plan to write plenty more especially after recently watching Saw III (inspiration, yay). Express your reactions! I'd love to hear them!
Regarding last chapter, I am having difficulty editing the errors but for your reference, I meant to say "consciousness" not "conscience". Thanks to Sayoko Bizen for that and I apologize for any errors in this chapter.
Mirai Kurosaki