Chapter 6
"….The phantoms reenact the same battle every night."
Night had come again over the Italian providence. If only a moment to be transfixed, Ludwig allowed a glimpse into the abyss of shadows and twinkling lights above. Hidden behind the safety of his window and charms of protection-He wasn't entirely convinced of their power- Ludwig prepared his attire for tomorrow's ordination. Feliciano's ordination.
Over a chair, he set out his semi-formal outfit. It had been a while since he wore something so formal, not since Elizabeta's and Roderich's wedding. He wasn't entirely enthusiastic about the situation…hardly, now that Feliciano was….
…regardless it was imperative to stay focused on the task at hand.
When the darkened world did decide to catch Ludwig's eye again, the shadows were already uncoiled from their eternal limbo to walk the land of the living again. He witnessed the eerie forms of several individuals floating past, ominous and oblivious as they were. His brow only furred grimly in the agony of such a reality. These lost spirits needed to be dealt with. He lowered his head, strands of hair falling gently as he explored the palms of his hands with unreadable eyes.
Ludwig had a dilemma. He spent many long years learning to accept the fact that he failed. Failed to save Feliciano, and ultimately failed to express how much he really meant to him. Now, Feliciano had reappeared out of the seams of the world like the lovely guardian angel that he was, sent from the heavens above to share his generous light with the world below. That wasn't necessarily the true story but Ludwig's mind momentarily succumbed to such a fantasy as he rubbed over his eyes with a weary sigh.
The problem was simple. Feliciano had no recollection of him, even in memories where Ludwig had been present. The German was beside himself after overhearing Feliciano and Lilly reminisce about the dandelion flowers. It was both unsettling and incredibly bizarre. For some unexplained reason, he was blanked out in all of Feliciano's memories.
On that sunny, spring day so many years ago, Ludwig, Gilbert, and Feliciano had been helping Vash pick weeds out of his garden. They arrived days before to Switzerland to help the Swiss with some maintenance work on his house and farm; tasks that his little cousin Lilly was too young to assist Vash with at the time.
Youthful and ready for adventure, Feliciano of 16 years had pleaded to come along and share in the lovely scenery of Switzerland's countryside.
The four of them spent most of that day digging out the earth and prying anchored roots from beds of soil. Feliciano was easily tired and distracted as was common with hard labor and after detecting that Ludwig was about to through the rest of the weed flowers away Feliciano rested a quick hand on the blonde's wrist and asked to keep some of them. At the time, Ludwig responded in bewilderment but admittedly he hadn't expected the answer he received.
"…Because they're beautiful, Ludwig and still deserving of attention just like any other flower!" Feliciano had said sweetly.
Ludwig hadn't forgotten the way Feliciano pressed a flower to his own lips. He inhaled the fragrance happily, his eyes closing and opening pleasingly even as he brushed the little flower against Ludwig's lips afterwards. Ludwig didn't know how to process these sensations, the tingling on his lips or the way Feliciano watched him with those bright, indescribable eyes. The Italian observed him so intently, so boldly that it was as if he was trying to find something, discover something in Ludwig's own eyes.
"Ok…" It was all the German could utter in that instant. Ludwig watched him, from the moment he took a handful of flowers to the moment that he dashed off into the house. Kneeled in the dirt, sweat coating his brow, Ludwig ran the crumbling soil and roots through his gloved hands silently and contemplated the thoughts that rushed through his mind.
Meanwhile, both Gilbert and Vash watched discretely from the sidelines, exchanging looks with each other after a while. It started to feel like a crime leaving something unsaid.
"So…about that…" Gilbert interrupted the silence with a clever smirk. At that point, his older brother had sat back from his own work to hydrate himself, taking long gulps of water before wetting his hand and brushing the coolness over the back of his neck. He tilted his head towards Ludwig casually but the younger brother pretended not to hear, hoping Gilbert would take the hint and disengage from a conversation that was sure to be prodding.
This time his brother tried to use a different approach. "You look like you're having a breakthrough."
Ludwig stared at the dirt in his hand, letting the rest of it fall before brushing off his gloves. "I..don't know what you mean and I don't think I want to." Ludwig sighed, taking a drink off his own water.
"Oh come on little brother, don't be like that." Gilbert chuckled. Ludwig didn't look amused, nor did he look at Gilbert in irritation. He just stared off into the yard rather vaguely. Gilbert tried to wait for a response but none came and he lost the patience to wait.
"Don't you see what's happening here? With Feli?" Gilbert continued.
Finally, Ludwig turned to look at his brother suspiciously. "What about him?"
Gilbert slapped his forehead in disbelief. "I know you saw that look, the look of wanting. We sure saw it." Gilbert switched his gaze to Vash who gave a short nod.
"Lying to yourself won't do any good." Vash added seriously.
The only response Ludwig could muster was a minuscule blush, his eyes falling to the ground as he began to pull weeds again to keep himself preoccupied.
Gilbert was truly relentless though. "You can't ignore his advances forever. Do you like him or not?"
Looking back, Ludwig understood now what his brother was trying to remedy but back then he didn't take it seriously. He didn't believe that Feliciano could truly be interested in him…after all they were just friends.
"Ludwig…" For once, Gilbert's tone grew rather serious and his eyes fell slightly as he thought over his own sentiments.
"If you do feel something for him….you gotta let him know before it's too late."
It was at that point that Ludwig was finally fed up but regrettably so. He wished to this day that he could take it back.
"Enough! Maybe I don't want to end up like you and Elizabeta." Ludwig grumbled.
Wide eyed, Gilbert quickly looked away to hide his own discomfort and sadness. He was hurting but he swallowed his burdens.
"You won't…" Gilbert forced a laugh.
Ludwig couldn't linger anymore on that memory, trying to forget about his own mistakes as he drifted into sleep.
A soft flame burned delicately on its wick, illuminating only what was needed in the large chamber hall of the church. Kneeling beside the altar where the lone candle sat, Feliciano was praying into his clasps hands. His head bowed, and eyes closed in soft surrender the young priest-to-be was lost in his prayers. He spent a generous amount of time devoted to this form of meditation because it did help sometimes…help to ease the fear. Maybe some loneliness too, if he concentrated hard enough.
There were those rare occasions when the entirety of his body felt fluttery with warmth and light as if he had reached a translucent state. He felt amazingly free when it happened and would sit there in peace and stillness for as long as the feeling would linger, freed from sadness or fear. It only seemed to surface when he was in a state of crippling desperation though.
This time, he wasn't so blessed.
In the warmth of the lambent candle light, Feliciano's soft prayers slowly drifted off, dissipating into a room of lost wishes and devotions. He stared downward for a long while as his vision slowly began to blur and wetness started to gather around those large honeyed eyes. His wavy bangs obscured his vision further but he didn't seem to care or notice when there were too many concerns on his mind.
In truth, he was giving himself away to the church and that meant his freedom, and his loyalty. He didn't want this, he didn't want to be trapped here in this haunted town where the night was feared, where moonlit walks were unheard of, where a night out dancing meant disaster.
Feliciano's head suddenly collapsed into his arms as the feverish tears squeezed and slithered down his cheeks with each tremble. Each wave of sadness brought new wetness and an exhaustingly tense brow.
No, none of that compared to the absence of his older brother. It troubled him immensely, hardly understanding how doing nothing was the right thing to do. Lovino would have wanted him to stay as well and try not to put himself in more danger but that just wasn't fair. He was the only family left.
"L-lovi, I don't understand." Feliciano pleaded between muffled whimpers. "Where did you g-go? Why did you leave me?" he asked quietly into the cradle of his arms.
"You're still ok, aren't you?"
With no more will left in his knees to support the weight of his burdens, Feliciano retreated to the ground, huddling beside the altar in dismay. He attempted to wipe the tears away, eyelids weary with fatigue as he sat there wistfully. To no avail, he was in too deep and the tears continued their decent.
Then it appeared, the image of the blonde fellow. Ludwig slowly overturned his thoughts in waves of soft curiosity and he tilted his head upward to view the ceiling masterpiece high above. One side had the stars and moon of the night sky painted in a darkened blue and the other side shined the yellows and oranges of the sun that glowed over its realm of day. The center of the piece held the story of angels. Feliciano's puffy eyes slowly softened as he remembered the way Ludwig had so thoughtfully examined the painting earlier that day. He was a thought-provoking man…that was for sure.
Staying that first night with Ludwig and the others was a shifting point for Feliciano. That was the first night in such a long time that he'd completely forgotten about his loneliness. He knew deep in his heart that he had to be thankful for that, that some good was finally coming his way even if the loss of his brother still hurt so deeply.
Suddenly, a familiar thump interrupted his thoughts. It reverberated from upstairs, sending a wave of goosebumps up Feliciano's spine. He shivered with a pleading whine and buried his head in protective arms as the thumping and banging sounds become more frequent. From downstairs it sounded soft and far away and few people would pay it any mind but Feliciano knew very well what those sounds brought with them. He didn't have the energy tonight, why did it have to be tonight?
Feliciano huddled in his spot for a little while longer, letting his head lean against an arm with a drowsy sigh. He waited for the tears to subside before he finally forced himself up to standing.
With a heavy sigh, Feliciano picked up the candle from the altar and left the darkness to rule the chamber hall once more. He drifted to the stairwell, eyes falling shakenly as he quietly ascended.
Sunday morning, the little town was immersed in activity. People were flocking the streets to trek up to the church, dressed in their formal church clothes and chatting and greeting each other as they went. Ludwig and the others had to admit that they were impressed by the optimism of the people that lived here.
Feliciano's rumored talents held an immense amount of intrigue and appeal and it seemed to make many believe that the town would finally be released from the grasp of its demons. The cathedral was hosting most of the town and the benches of the large nave were quickly filled making many stragglers that wondered in needing to find a spot standing in the back. Ludwig and his companions were one of the first to arrive and Ludwig was quickly ushered into the back room by one of several priests that were attending the ceremony, some were visiting to witness the installment for themselves while others locally resided and attended services each week.
The priest quickly handed Ludwig a gold sash and a green cape with gold embroidery around the edges, instructing him to put them on. The priest only spoke Italian but Ludwig understood easily what was requested of him and began to unfold the clothing items to drape and adjust them over his own clothes. It seemed a little too much, at least to him assuming the part he played in all of this wasn't necessarily meant to convey something of great importance but alas he kept his thoughts to himself. Being asked to stay put before the ceremony, Ludwig was left alone to wait.
After what felt like 30 minutes of waiting for everyone to file inside music suddenly started to play throughout the main hall. It contained an arrangement of piano, strings and even brass that played through a lovely song of profound elegance while the choir accompanied it minutes later. The ceremony was beginning and Ludwig was led out by the priest from earlier and was told wait off to the side of the alter.
Ludwig stood by simply and watched as others from the priesthood had already began walking down the aisle as the music played on thoughtfully. Everyone in the church started to stand as the priests passed, carrying the important items that Ludwig had studied firsthand the day he met with Feliciano and the Bishop. The first ones to lead the way were holding up the processional cross as others followed behind carrying the gospel book and golden chalice. They all walked at a slow, careful pace to the music, approaching the front and bowing to Bishop Ferdinand that waited patiently in front of the alter.
One of the last to walk down was a priest with the thurbile in hand. As he swung it around delicately, the smoke of the incense trailed behind, coiling around the aisle and setting the path for the one that everyone was anticipating.
Then, Feliciano appeared. His presence soft and careful at first as he tried to keep his expression neutral and gaze straight ahead as was advised of him. He felt awkward acting this way though, wishing to lift his own spirits by smiling and nodding sweetly at the many people he walked passed but he did no such thing. Instead he looked onward with wistful eyes and watched the smoke every so often as it surrounded him and filled his nose with smells of strong incense. All the while he was trying desperately to hide his tiredness from the night before.
Making it up to the alter, Feliciano stopped in front of Bishop Ferdinand and placed his hands together in a gentle bow of respect and humility. The Bishop bowed as well and the music ceased to play any further. Once silence was given, The Bishop began the ceremony with a reading from the scripture. As he spoke, he seemed to address everyone in the room by scanning the crowd and claiming the full attention of all.
Ludwig continued to stand off out of the way, poised and unreadable as his gaze lingered on Feliciano for a moment, clearly noticing the white robe that he wore now and the gold patterns that traveled down the front of him. Ludwig was momentarily overcome with apprehension seeing Feliciano this way. He looked… lovely to say the least with his presence emitting one of purity. It felt like Feliciano was being alienated from him though. He already felt estranged in this setting and at the same time enchanted but inner feelings continued to betray him and any chance he may have had was becoming ever more complicated.
Feliciano didn't even want this…yet he brought him back anyway. He made Feliciano return but looking him over now, Ludwig almost wished he left his mission and any payment he would have obtained behind and taken Feliciano away with him. Away from everything.
Feliciano waited silently as the Bishop continued, allowing his careful amber eyes to peer off in Ludwig's direction. His eyes seemed to linger on Ludwig's shoes rather meekly as if reflecting on something that remained on his mind, then his gaze seemed to shift, rather boldly and curious to meet Ludwig's stare. Truly, Ludwig didn't know what to think of this and suddenly felt awkward for observing his attire and looked away, hardening his stare in a different direction as if he hadn't noticed.
Soon the Bishop paused his speech and reverted his gaze on Feliciano who was now smiling simply to himself.
"Feliciano Vargas." The Bishop addressed fully, grabbing the attention of everyone in the room.
The young deacon raised his eyes in alert and spoke the words of the ritual as rehearsed. "Ergo sum." It was latin meaning I am here or I am present. The words marked the beginning of his rite of ordination. The Bishop nodded taking the thurbile in hand and walking around Feliciano making a circle of smoke around him before returning back to the alter.
Afterwards, Feliciano went through a progression of recited pledges promising his own obedience and chastity to the Church. Shortly after the vows were given, Feliciano got down on his knees, holding his hands to his chest and bowing his head in gentle prayer. The audience started to sing as he was given time to pray for acceptance.
Feliciano let his eyes fall closed as his hands dropped to the floor in front of him and he bowed completely, letting his forehead drop and rest against the carpet laid out for him. He stayed in this position of humility until the singing of the audience finished and only then was he prompted to raise himself into a kneeled position again.
Now came the laying of the hands. Bishop Ferdinand came before the kneeling Feliciano and placed his hands on the young deacon's head. He closed his eyes and prayed for the descending of the Holy Spirit into Feliciano's body. Everyone looked on curiously until the Bishop carefully released and slowly moved away.
He raised his arms in welcoming as he told Feliciano to stand and awaken. The Italian obediently did as he was told and as he did everyone stood up from their seats and clapped happily by the new installment. A red long clerical sash was draped around his shoulders by one of the priests soon after.
Music began to play again as Feliciano turned around to acknowledge the crowd, his eyes flicking around in mild uncertainty until he noticed Roderich, Elizabetha, and Lilly seated near the front. They smiled and waved in greeting and his confidence suddenly returned and he beamed happily in gratitude by all the praise. He still didn't believe he deserved such worship but he was relieved that everyone's spirits were heightened by the event at least. So much hope and peace shown in the eyes of the townsfolk and it made Feliciano realize just how much he truly wanted to help them after all they did to welcome him.
More was still to come though and it was custom for him to bless the other priests and citizens with his new status. Feliciano hadn't forgotten the discussion from a few nights prior with Ludwig and the Bishop and he's sights turned to Ludwig. The taller man seemed to be hiding a hint of solemnity in his lowered eyes. No one else seemed to notice except for Feliciano who felt a soft pang of remorse. The expression didn't linger for long when Ludwig noticed his cue, his eyes rising as he approached the front, standing before Feliciano.
He noticed Feliciano's concern, and managed a smile with a reassuring nod before bowing and kneeling before him on one knee. The German hadn't realized how much weakness was held in those amber eyes and how truly exhausted Feliciano looked in that moment. It looked like he hadn't even slept last night.
He wished so much to release Feliciano from whatever was tormenting him, to start over again, to help him regain the lost memories of the better years before the world regressed into turmoil. Ludwig's energy seemed to fall as he bowed his head and closed his eyes, letting the moment remain in the present.
Something started to change, a feeling that was very settle at first, like a dim far away light surrounded by darkness. The light slowly got closer under Ludwig's closed eyelids. Then he started to notice quiet words being spoken. Feliciano was praying, and his delicate voice was speaking just above a whisper. Ludwig's brow suddenly softened by the words as something started to expand inside of his chest cavity. The voice was freeing, allowing the energy of these trapped souls to respond. They were demanding release and Ludwig had no chose but to listen and not try to fight it. Trying to contain it was damaging and painful to his own body but he still couldn't allow everything to let go. It was just like their reunion on the docks and Ludwig felt his mind calm and body ease into the warm light that started to grow.
After the prayer, Feliciano went to place his hands over Ludwig's head to give him the first blessing. Something felt strange though, like an invisible force pushing against his hands before he could properly make contact with Ludwig. His eyes expanded in surprise while everyone in the audience started to perk up in curiosity. Light glittered in from the ceiling and stained windows creating a yellow glow of warmth as if the sun were setting already. Everyone saw the change in lighting, suddenly fixated and uncertain of what to think of this transition. It was still morning so whatever was happening, it was turning out to be a true phenomenon. Witnessing the change for himself, Feliciano glanced around briefly and up to the ceiling painting above.
"Focus…" Ludwig whispered, half commanding, half hypnotic. The Italian's eyes fell instinctively, and his concentration regained itself as he pushed his hands further, pushing against the might of an invisible energy. His lips clenched in stress as he finally brushed the tips of his fingers and then his palms against Ludwig's hair. The resistance dissolved soon after and his eyes closed as he recited his blessing, all the while Ludwig was changing, feeling something give and a release of light flooded out of his very skin. Feliciano opened his eyes when he heard the sudden gasps and commotion of the crowd but was immediately blinded by a white beautiful light. He felt his whole body beginning to relax, his knees weakening, his heart expanding with unexplainable joy and freedom.
"Ludwig…?" His expression softened, his hands caressing the light, until it dimmed and the man kneeled before him was revealed again to him alone. Feliciano gasped, using all his willpower not to jump away and move his hands. Ludwig's skin was transparent, with layers of swirling blues and colors moving and sliding throughout his muscles and interior. These swirls of light and energies zipped around inside like they were trying to find a way out and some would explode like fireworks creating a mixture of dozens of different colors. One remained still, burning bright and lovely in the center of his chest. Feliciano reached one of his hands down curiously, his intrigue growing, eyes glittering in amazement and beauty. Ludwig stopped him in mid reach though, claiming Feliciano's hand with his own.
"I can't let you do that….not yet."
Feliciano caught his breath, speechless as his hand was warmed by the grasp.
Ludwig watched him briefly, holding his gaze as if in concentration while colors and shimmering blues moved underneath the skin of his face at electrifying speeds. His veins were pulsing, his eyes activating as the trillions of neurons in his brain where shooting off instantaneously. They were constantly processing and right now they were busy interpreting the image that his eyes offered them. Feliciano. Beautiful, enchanting Feliciano.
The Italian didn't know whether to be terrified or exhilarated by the man as he looked him over wanting so badly to reach his other hand out just feel what he was seeing, just to verify that his own eyes weren't deceiving.
Ludwig finally looked away, redirecting his attention to the hand he was still holding. He reached down and let his lips press diligently against Feliciano's hand. It was a symbolic gesture that meant he was paying his respects and services to the new priest and accepting the merits of Feliciano's blessing.
Feliciano let his eyes droop softly trying to keep his composure even as the feeling made waves up his arm.
It felt so nice, so peaceful, almost euphoric…at first. Feliciano's brow carefully started to crease as foggy images floated in and out of his thoughts. It was difficult to hold onto any one image at a time. Then, one started to stick. A flashback streaked across his mind where he was lying in a small room, people around him…Someone was calling for him. His heart palpated as remembrance of pain shot up through his arm. Felicano winced, eyes clenching shut as he suddenly yanked his arm away from Ludwig's grasp.
He stepped back, almost tripping over himself in the process. The light that had enclosed them quickly dimmed and Ludwig's transparency faded along with the glow of his heart. Feliciano clung to his arm panting, somehow out of breath as if he had just completed a strenuous workout.
"Feliciano…?" Ludwig stood up weakly, concern filling his eyes. Ludwig himself was in great pain, his body aching from such a violent disconnection but he was much more worried about Feliciano and why he had such an adverse reaction.
Before he could approach, Bishop Ferdinand moved between them as he announced the miracle that had befallen before their very eyes. The crowd raised their arms in praise and utter amazement, some eyes filling with tears, and others praying diligently in joy and admiration.
Before anyone could notice, Feliciano quickly and discreetly disappeared into the stairway that held his room above. Shaken and overwhelmed he couldn't be in front of such a crowd anymore. He quickly made his way up the first flight of stairs before he heard the rush of footsteps approaching below.
"Feliciano!" Ludwig demanded his attention, his voice coarse and hard now. He no longer sounded concerned, but angered.
Feliciano whipped around to look down upon him as he stood firmly at the bottom of the stairs.
"I n-need to be alone." Feliciano tried to speak sternly but his voice still managed to shake and crack when faced with Ludwig's stare.
"You can't just run off like that." Ludwig approached the stairs. "Tell me what happened."
Feliciano stared back at him in bewilderment. "I should be asking you the same." Feliciano emphasized. Ludwig couldn't deny the irritation that crept up in Feliciano's voice no matter how much the new priest tried to subdue it.
Ludwig faltered, shoulders slacking slightly with the onset of guilt. He knew it was his fault but he normally had more control over himself and the power held trapped in his body. He was really beginning to discover how much easier it was to harness around Feliciano but in turn, harder to pacify. He needed to know what made Feliciano pull away like that. It was supposed to enlighten and soothe his worries if only temporarily, not frighten or harm him.
"I-I'm sorry…" It was Feliciano that apologized first, his regretful voice excusing himself as he disappeared up the next flight of stairs.
Surprisingly, Ludwig didn't stop him. He didn't call for him nor did he run after him. If Feliciano needed space, then he would at least give him that and hopefully obtain an explanation later. He only watched where Feliciano disappeared, longing and hurt reflecting through him until the commotion of outside redirected him. He sighed heavily before pressing himself back and retracing his steps out where the people were still continuing to praise and worship. The new vibrancy of the church hall was exponential and indeed he could see it but…he couldn't feel it.
The day moved forward, a few hours passed into afternoon, when the sun was still high and warm and the Island town continued bustle and thrive with activity. After the ordination ceremony, Ludwig was given more in depth instructions on his responsibilities from the Bishop and also added praise for how well the ceremony turned out that morning. He was to stay close to Feliciano during the day to protect him from kidnappings, harm that may befall him and keep him grounded should he decide to run away and put himself into danger. The Bishop also explained that he did not need nightly protection, for the phantoms prevented anyone from breaking in but if ever Feliciano requested him to stay, he would guard the room. The holy man explained this concisely with the calm demeanor he held.
"One more thing…I advise that you don't disturb him during certain nights." The Bishop added vaguely.
The statement only puzzled Ludwig even more.
"Which nights might you be referring to…" Ludwig wondered, confused as to why he had to even ask that question.
"I can't say for sure…it always changes but he'll let you know."
Left to ponder such a peculiar conversation, Ludwig made his leave. Outside he could hear laughter and conversation in the distance. Figures were further up on the hillside until it flattened out into a lovely garden. Ludwig could recognize the voices, knowing that was where the Bishop told him Feliciano would be.
As he made his way closer, an orchard of fruit trees came into view along with more groomed flowers of many different kinds and rows of vegetables and grapes. It was larger than expected and he hadn't even perceived it completely until he had reached the top and could properly take in the scale of it. It looked like a community garden that the church and town probably maintained in order to support and produce much of their own food. Ludwig was impressed to say the least. Self-sufficiency was very important these days.
He wondered into the garden where an arch of ivy and flowers opened up into a grassy clearing near the edge of the forest. A gate was established on the edge of the cliffside for obvious safety reasons and a smaller group of village acquaintances were nestled around something of interest. Ludwig neared the group, his brow raised momentarily in question before peering over a few heads to see Feliciano seated beside a standing canvas with his supplies littering the ground in quite a mess and there were youths taking part in their own paintings as well. He was dressed in casual clothing as not to stain and dirty his robe and truly he appeared much more like his natural self now. He was instructing them on the process, providing tips and advice as the older folks watched in wonder as if they were captivated by a show. Lilly was also a participant, painting alongside Feliciano, taking in every bit of advice he offered with a gleam of optimism shining in her eyes.
It seemed they started out with a painting free for all, as the canvases of each showed something different with several different images that each person painted by choice. Feliciano's was the only one that didn't look like a covered stream of consciousness. Instead he had been taking the time to outline and paint one of the trees in front of them. Now, Feliciano was having them practice on drawing the leaves of the tree.
Every word he spoke revealed more of his caring nature. He smiled and laughed often with them giving them praise and gentle feedback as he walked around to observe their process. He easily lifted the spirits of the ones that felt discouraged in their own work, tracing with their hand a simple but effective shape of a leaf. "Just keep your hand a little steadier each time." He instructed. He let the youth give it a try and he indeed was already improving well, better then he thought. The youth stared at his own leaf in amazement realizing the obvious difference between his older leaf and the new one.
After sometime, the spectators were becoming restless whispering to each other in anticipation. Ludwig could only assume what they were waiting for and surely they wanted to see Felicano's gift in action.
"You're just in time." Roderich appeared beside him along with Elizabeta whoe apparently had already been watching for a while.
"Feli is remarkable, have you managed a good look at his painting yet?" Elizabeta expressed excitably.
"I can imagine." Ludwig replied. Of course he knew without seeing that it had to be stunning after Feliciano's last work of the cherub.
"I don't remember him painting like that before…" Roderich commented skeptically.
Ludwig remained silent at that, remembering how he also felt similar upon seeing Feliciano's work the day before.
Once everyone was finished painting their leaves, Feliciano went around to each participant and asked what they wanted to see come to life. The crowd had quieted into complete silence as Feliciano traced over each chosen painting and beckoned it out from the canvas. Gentle blue lights emitted from each little image. The youths awed in their own amazement, taking in hand whatever it was Feliciano called out, running the objects through their hands as they tried to process what was real.
Lilly had painted an Alpine Swift, a native bird from her country of origin. It shot out of the canvas quickly enough, the little bird soaring off into the sky. It attempted a swoop over the mesmerized crowd before it began to lose lift and tumbled out of the air rather clumsily. Luckily Feliciano managed to catch it with his outstretched hand before it fell to the ground. It quickly recomposed itself, the little head of the swift tilting often and eyes blinking inquisitively at Feliciano and the crowd of people. Feliciano offered it to Lilly, who could only stare in disbelief with those large impressionable green eyes.
The bird took it as a cue and fluttered to her finger where it looked her over curiously. It's scaly long toes that clung around her finger felt completely life like and its feathers were just as soft and shimmery as the real thing.
"Aww, this reminds me of the injured swift I took care of when I was young. She's so cute." She melted with a thoughtful smile giving the bird a gentle brush of its head. She beamed up at Feliciano gratefully. "Thank you so much!" Lilly looked back at the bird sweetly before tentatively asking, "Is she ok though…?" She wondered after the bird's somewhat troubled flying experience.
Feliciano nodded reassuringly as he pointed out the tail on the bird. "You're a natural Lilly and you did a wonderful job but I have a few helpful tips for you." He replied happily. He showed her the shape of the bird's tail and how it needed to be adjusted with a bit more sharpening of the tips along with a few adjustments to the wings. He assured that the bird would be able to fly well after that.
Ludwig looked on disbelievingly, not so much at the bird but the way Feliciano had completely flip flopped his mood from earlier. He had been very troubled, even disturbed earlier and didn't wish to see anyone for a few hours after the ceremony. Now, he was supposedly back to normal, bright and beautiful as always, and everyone seemed to feed off of his energy wholeheartedly.
After his quick pointers, Feliciano turned his attention towards the crowd and beckoned them to follow. He took his own painting off of the stand and preceded to another spot next to the forest that was free of all the art supplies and paintings. The crowd quickly followed as he kneeled in the grass setting the painting down in front of him carefully.
Everyone watched in waiting as Feliciano hovered both hands over the painting in quiet peace. An ocean breeze swept over the garden and everyone became still as their thoughts cleared by the cooling wind and Feliciano's lovely presence. Slowly, Feliciano lifted his fingers up and down in waves allowing the light he called upon to fully envelope the canvas. There seemed to be more effort that needed to be put in whatever he was trying to do and his hands would tremble in occasional tiredness before his determination forced him on. Eyes half closed, Feliciano lifted his hands up suddenly until the canopy of a tree grew and widened out of the canvas and a large trunk followed behind. The crowd's eyes moved up as the tree lengthened and widened into existence until the canvas underneath it was completely engulfed by roots and dirt. It was comparable to the other trees around, just as tall with the same branches and leaf type. Upon finishing, Feliciano let his hands rest, catching his breath as the crowd suddenly began to cheer and surround him and the tree. Feliciano smiled simply as he was helped up to his feet, his eyes shining in the afternoon sun as he acknowledged everyone in the crowd until his glance caught a new figure in the back.
He tensed slightly as he met with Ludwig's gaze and he had to wonder how long the man had been watching. Not that he wasn't allowed to…if anything it was his duty now but Feliciano's embarrassment grew nonetheless. Of course he felt bad about the way he reacted earlier but he still wasn't quite ready to confide in a man he only just met days ago. A man that knew more about him then he was even sure he did. It was rather intimidating but at least now he was ready to talk it over with Ludwig.
Ludwig didn't approach, keeping his distance silently until the crowd began to disperse and even then many of them recognized him and came up to shake his hand and thank him for his service to protecting their gifted priest. Ludwig half-smiled awkwardly, uncomfortable with the attention but still trying to stay as polite as possible.
"Wow, your both quite the celebrities now." Elizabeta teased when they were finally the only ones that remained in the garden.
"Don't let it get to your heads." Roderich reminded the two of them.
Ludwig rolled his eyes, reverting to a small smirk when Feliciano actually laughed.
"I won't!" Feliciano chuckled. "I don't know about him though…" he gestured towards Ludwig playfully before kneeling to clean up his art supplies.
Ludwig's face reddened almost instantly. "H-hey!" He retorted, surprised that Feliciano would want to be silly with him. Maybe he was trying to break the tension from earlier.
That had them laughing and teasing Ludwig even more as they assisted Feliciano with putting his supplies back in order. Soon after, the three including Lilly excused themselves as they headed down to prepare dinner for the evening. Lilly gave Feliciano final words of gratitude as he put the bird back into the canvas and let her take it with to practice some more.
Now, it was just the two of them alone to speak freely as they pleased. Feliciano didn't get right to it and nor did Ludwig. "Follow me." Feliciano invited instead leading them off into the trees. Ludwig followed him for several meters in before a bench and outlook point came into view. It looked quite lovely with trees and vegetation nestled in around it. A stone balcony protruded out from the edge allowing a viewer to look out and see vast distances from all angles. Feliciano moved to the edge letting himself lean comfortably on the stone wall to stare out at the enchanting horizon. Ludwig followed suit, his eyes scanning all areas carefully in awe and wonder. The water held incredible hues of blue and the waves shimmered amazingly. Even a pod of dolphins or possibly whales could be seen a mile or so offshore.
"You truly live in paradise." Ludwig sighed. Feliciano nodded just as taken away into the large expanse of such a world, making him feel so very small and humbled but dreamy and fueled with inspiration of the massive ocean waters.
"I feel the same." Feliciano smiled as he glanced over in Ludwig's direction. "Although…I would love to travel sometime." He mused.
Ludwig finally moved his eyes over to meet Feliciano's. "You will." He assured.
Surprised by Ludwig's conviction, Feliciano softly turned away as his smile sweetened. He was about to say more when Ludwig suddenly continued.
"Feliciano….I need to apologize for earlier...and…"
"Y-yes…?" Feliciano wondered, concern quickly filling his eyes.
"…For pushing you into something that…isn't you."
Feliciano tilted his head in question, uncertain of what the German really meant.
"What do you mean?" He asked curiously.
Ludwig hesitated, his eyes falling to the shoreline below.
"Oh no, its fine! Really! Ludwig, my mind has changed. Seeing the hopeful faces of the people of this town, seeing how much hope and joy I give them simply by drawing and showing them understanding and hope. It gives me strength and purpose." He beamed towards Ludwig then back to the gentle sunset and glittery ripples of the sea below.
Ludwig still didn't seem to share the same enthusiasm but was still relieved to hear how Feliciano managed to stay so positive.
"That's generous of you…but is that what you really want?"
Feliciano's posture sank slightly as if uncertain of what was to come. It was obvious Ludwig's words struck a cord but he still wanted to hold strong to the reason or purpose for why he was here.
"I need to do something about this curse and save the town." Feliciano took hold of the corno horn amulet around his neck as if to feel a sense of protection. "I can't bare much more of these horrific nights..." Feliciano said sadly.
Ludwig frowned. "You can't expect to put all the responsibility on yourself or you will fail." Ludwig replied honestly. Feliciano's expression started to sour at that until Ludwig clarified.
"We will find a way to release the curse together. I'm here to help and do anything I can for you." Ludwig promised. "So don't be afraid…" He forced a smile.
Feliciano let his gaze linger on those dedicated blue eyes, they didn't seem to hold any lies or deception and they were stern and strangely comforting.
Feliciano almost melted, knowing full well that he couldn't let that feeling linger. He swallowed, subduing the feeling like before.
"That light…from earlier." Feliciano changed the subject, surely to save himself.
"That wasn't me…" Feliciano admitted. "It couldn't have been."
Ludwig indeed saw something, even a vague discomfort in Feliciano but he knew it best just to let it go. "Don't sell yourself short, Feliciano. If you can bring a masterpiece to life, I'm sure you have potential for far greater things."
Feliciano blushed at that, no longer able to contain it.
"Thank you…but no, it was you. You summoned the light, I know it. How did you make me feel…so good?" Feliciano turned away looking out into the sunset as his eyes deciphered the immense beauty before him.
"Um well…" Ludwig began. Feliciano seemed to be lost in the moment of his own thoughts and continued without realizing. "….Like ecstasy, that's how it felt. It made me feel so safe and happy." His voice grew with longing before growing uncertain again. Ludwig felt sickened with himself, feeling his face gently heat up by the way Feliciano's voice seemed to speak so fondly and beautifully.
"…but then it started to hurt and forced dark images into my mind. I was terrified after that." Feliciano tensed. "How could something that felt so amazing, suddenly change for the worst?" Feliciano sighed, not really expecting Ludwig to answer the question.
"It could mean a few things but normally such a reaction comes from a traumatic memory." Ludwig explained. "What was the thing you remember the most?"
Feliciano paused, carefully contemplating his answer before he neared Ludwig's side and looked once again into the distance. "A voice. I heard a voice calling for me…" Feliciano stared on, hesitant if he should even say his next words.
"…It sounded like you."