Shdwlight: I'm so sorry for such a late update, but I have assignments to complete and my semesters timetable sucks! So please don't kill me!

Disclaimer: Do not own Kyou Kara Maou!

Dreams of Amber

Chapter 7: Step by step

Haru's P.O.V

I breathed out, relaxing my muscles a little as I lay on the rooftop of the highest turret I can find. Letting the sun's rays wash over me, it would be oh-so-easy for me to take a nap right then and there if weren't for the fact that I need to sort out my thoughts first. So much has been happening in such a short time that it hardly makes any sense. Well, the fact that it seems to make sense to me in the first place is not making any sense.

First, I got pulled into a fountain and ended up being sucked into another world where an ancient feud existed between demons and humans. Then I got swords pointed at me, only to find out that not only is my baseball-loving cousin the Maou of Shin Makoku, he is also a fiancé to that blond jerk of a prince by accident as well as a father to young Greta. I saw the spirit of the Great One, who looks like an older version of Wolfram with blue eyes, beside Murata-san who is the Great Wise Man's reincarnation. I was introduced to his retainers; a frowning, strangely blushing man, a hyperactive advisor, Yuri's godfather and later a very, very young-looking ex-demon queen and mother. I snapped when that disrespectful jerk insulted my parents and threatened him with a spoon – I couldn't help but snicker at the memory – which then later leads to me revealing a part of my past to Yuri and – much to my mortification – cried in front of him.

'Way to go, Haru. You swear not to get too involve with anyone, not to burden them with your tears and look what happened. Weak…' I mentally berated myself. 'No matter, what's done is done. Yuri has a part in my life now and I can't afford to lose him, not after what happened to them. All because of me…' I groaned, ignoring the unshed tears pricking my eyes. 'So weak…I need to get stronger.'

My mind brought me back to the meeting that I eavesdrop on. Okay, I wasn't supposed to but I was curious! And besides, it was worth it in the end. Well, kind of. Those visions Yuri had didn't really make any sense and what did Wolfram mean when he said this 'Julia' is a part of Yuri? I can figure that out later in the library. Then Murata-san mentioned my 'raw, unstable power' that could rival Yuri's own. That got my attention alright. If I remembered correctly, Yuri did mention that in this world you could use magic or majutsu as they call it. If I can control this power that is inside of me, I can become strong…

I rubbed my temples. Great, I could just feel a migraine coming along. There are too many things that I do not understand in this world. Looks like I better start researching and possibly some training if I even want to make a heads start. I started to stretch, letting out a tired yawn.

'A little nap wouldn't hurt now, right?' I thought sleepily, just about to drift off into slumber…

"HARU! WHERE ARE YOU?"

I jerked up, startled by the loud voice. Looking over the edge of the roof, I saw none other than Yuri walking across the courtyard, with the blond jerk and Conrad at his heels. Wolfram looks irritable, probably from having to follow his fiancé all over the castle searching for me, while Conrad is his usual calm, smiling self. I resisted the urge to chuckle at Wolframs discomfort. Hey, I still don't like that blond jerk, especially when he's so close to Yuri.

As if he heard me, Yuri looked up and spotted me. "HEY HARU! GET DOWN HERE WOULD YOU? I NEED TO TALK TO YOU!"

Probably about that tour he was talking about earlier. I shrugged and jumped down to the nearest roof beside me, sliding down before pushing off from the edge and grabbing onto a window ledge with both hands. I then kicked off and did a somersault, landing neatly in front of Yuri.

"Showoff." he muttered. I ignored it, dusting off invincible dust. "Why can't you just take the stairs? It won't kill you." he continued.

"So, what do want to talk about?" I asked, not answering his question. Yuri's face immediately brightens up with excitement. "Oh, I'm going on my customary trip around the kingdom, and I thought this would be the perfect chance to show you around. Care to join us?"

I turn over the suggestion in my head before nodding in agreement. "Sure, why not." This would be a perfect chance for me to snoop around and make a few inquiries. And I'm sure there's a book store somewhere in the kingdom…

"Great, let's get going then!" Yuri said happily as he walked away towards the castle's entrance, now engaged in a conversation with Conrad. I made to follow them when I notice Wolfram just standing there, watching me. Great, what now?

"Can I help you with something, Bielefeld-san?" I queried, crossing my arms with disinterest. Wolfram's cleared his throat and averted his eyes from mine in obvious discomfort. I perked my eyebrow at that. He proceeded to mumble something inaudibly. "Excuse me, what was that?"

He glared before looking away again. "I said I apologize for my actions last night. It was unnecessary and rude of me to do so, I didn't have the right. Please forgive me for my behavior." I could feel my eyes widen a little in surprise. I admit, that was a little unexpected. Guess he isn't such a spoiled, prideful prince I see him as, huh? Not that I'll admit it, no way. He shifted which made me realize that I haven't responded yet.

"It's alright." This made him look at me with surprise, clearly not expecting me to forgive him so easily. I rolled my eyes. "I'm not the type to hold a grudge, just so you know. But I still hold true to what I said last night; you insult or hurt anyone I care for which includes Yuri, I won't hesitate to rip your spine and beat you with it!" I growled lowly at the last part, smirking smugly when he shivered with slight horror at that.

Quickly composing himself, Wolfram nodded once in a dignified manner, understanding and is that respect I see in his eyes? "Of course, the same goes for you. I won't hesitate to run my sword through you if you happen to do the same, Haru."

I nod in acknowledgement to that. Finally, the prince shed his image of a spoiled brat though he'll put that back up when he's with Yuri. Relationships sure work differently in many strange ways, especially theirs. I mentally shake my head as I walk ahead towards where they are waiting. "Oh, and Bielefeld-san?"

"Yes?"

I can feel my smirk grew wider at my next sentence. "Just because you apologize, doesn't mean I'm going to easily let you go near Yuri now."

"WHAT!? WHY YOU –"

I laugh inwardly as he started shout profanities at me. Oh, I'm going to have so much fun…


"What did you do this time?" Yuri asked, exasperated as he led Ao alongside my horse.

"I don't know what you're talking about." I answered 'innocently', pointedly ignoring the heated glowers directed at the back of my head.

"Haru…"

"We just talked, nothing else."

"And everytime you do, something is bound to happen. Like how Wolfram is now glaring at you with fire coming out of his ears, his hand is twitching to reach for his sword and I actually heard him with my own ears on ways to torture you slowly! And that is all from 'just talking'!?"

I shrugged. Yuri could only sigh at my stubbornness. What can I say, it's in the family. "Can you at least tell me what is it you were talking about?"

"He apologized."

Yuri almost pulled his reins in shock. "Excuse me?"

I watched his face slack comically in utter astonishment, amused. "You heard me the first time, Yuri. He did just that and even threatened me if I ever lay a single finger on you. What a devoted fiancé you have there, don't you agree?"

"Well, I guess…" Yuri rubbed his neck and discreetly looked away, but not before I see a faint tinge of red across his cheeks. Now why is tha –

Oh.

Oh…

I actually have to bite the inside of my cheek to keep from bursting out with laughter. I mean, I know that the blond jerk actually cares, even love my cousin but for Yuri to reciprocate it? And still do not know the other's true feelings, even after all the times they've been together? I couldn't help but find the situation really hilarious.

Yuri peered suspiciously into my eyes. "What are you laughing about?"

"I wasn't laughing, Yuri."

"Your eyes are laughing."

I looked at him strangely. He blushed when he realized the oddity of his sentence and proceeded to mumble incoherently to himself in explanation. I shook my head and tap his shoulder, gaining his attention.

"Yuri, I understand. You've told me the night before, didn't you? That my eyes are the windows to my soul or some other philosophical quotes you were spouting out."

Yuri smiled. "Comes from being a Maou, perhaps." he joked.

We then ride in a comfortable silence, just enjoying each other's company and the peaceful countryside scenery.

"Hey, Yuri?"

"Yeah, what is it?"

"Do you love Wolfram?"

This time Yuri really did jerk hard on his reins, almost making Ao rear up and throw him off. "WHAT!!!!!!!??????? WHAT SORT OF QUESTION IS THAT?????" he yelled, his face flushed a deep red – out of anger or embarrassment I can't tell.

"A yes or no question. So do you?" I prodded insistently. If it was even possible he went a few shades darker, his eyes darting back and forth as he tried to answer.

"Umm…w-well…I-I…y-I mean, I-I don't actually h-hate him or a-anything…w-what I'm trying to say is…" Yuri stammered, obviously struggling to sort out his confused emotions. It's clear that he's in denial about it, not use to the idea of loving the same gender. I grabbed his hand, instantly silencing him as he look at me with troubled, onyx eyes.

"Yuri, I'm sorry. No," I stated firmly, cutting off whatever protest he's about to make. "I didn't mean to put you through this, it wasn't my intention. But please know that whatever your choice, whichever path you wish to take, I'll accept it. As long as you're happy and have no regrets, I don't mind. It's the same for everyone here and back on Earth. Your happiness means so much to so many people, especially the people in your castle. So don't worry yourself too much, okay?"

Yuri stared at me for a few moments, and then relaxed, giving my hand a squeeze before letting go. "Yeah, I'll try." he smiled softly.

I smiled back then turn back to the front. "Putting all that aside, do you at least like Wolfram?"

"Yeah, I do." Yuri replied after a while. "Under that grumpy exterior of his, is a person who is loyal, brave and confident, who wouldn't hesitate to jump into battle if it's to protect his love ones. And don't tell him I said this, but those are one of his many qualities that I admire."

I smirk, using my bangs to cover my eyes. "Don't worry, I won't tell him…"

Yuri sighed in relief.

"…since he heard you anyway."

"W-WHAT!!??" Yuri shriek in mortification, immediately turning around to face a red-faced Wolfram. "Wolfram! Since when did you…"

"I saw him," Here he glared at me. "Holding your hand so I came over to see what's going on. I just didn't expect to hear you…" His blush has faded away but there was still a tinge of pink left. Yuri on the other hand, was blushing so deeply he almost turned purple.

"Um, yeah…about that…" Yuri started but was cut off when Conrad rode up to them.

"Heika, we're about to arrive at the kingdom village's entrance." Conrad said, unaware of the situation he had interrupted.

"Right, thanks Conrad and its Yuri." he replied distractedly. Taking another look at Wolfram, he led his horse ahead of the group. This snapped Wolfram out of his reverie, and seeing as how I wasn't moving to catch up, took advantage of it.

"Wait up, you wimp!"

"How many times did I tell you not to call me that?"

I watched them bicker at each other, as if what happened just a few minutes ago didn't happen. I was so deep in thought; I almost didn't notice that Conrad is now riding beside me.

"That was cruel of you." he said in mock reproach. I snorted.

"Even you notice too, right? Man, and here I thought Yuri was dense. Even Wolfram?"

Conrad smiled, his eyes showing nothing but fondness. "Only when it comes to Yuri. Both of them are so insecure with their feelings, more so for Heika, which makes them fear rejection more. Neither wants to lose the friendship that they have and have the other hate him for it. It's pretty understandable."

I stared at him. Something about the way he said it… "You have someone precious to you, don't you?"

He turns his gaze on me, for a moment looking startled before it was wiped away with a smile. "I have many precious people here, Haru, including Heika. But yes, I do have a particular precious someone, a precious someone who wormed his way into my life without my permission and got a hold of my heart."

I continued to watch him, watch as his light brown eyes are filled with so much love that it almost hurt to look. It reminds me of how Otou-san and Okaa-san looked at each other, how they looked at me before everything went so horribly wrong…

"I see." was all I could say. "That's good."

"What about you, Haru? Do you have a precious someone?"

Shit, why did he have to ask that? Oh wait, I started it. Darn. "I…I lost the ones I've known, and Yuri is all I have left."

"Haru…"

"Oh we're already here. Yuri, wait up!" I called out, not wanting to turn around and see the pity in his eyes. I've received enough to last me a lifetime and as far as I'm concern it's not getting me anywhere.

While I was riding away, I had a foolish thought. Not a thought, but a wish. About how I could leave everything behind me, leave my past in the dust like how I'm easily leaving Conrad behind. But that is just a foolish wish, made by those who has this naïve hope that everything would be alright if they just forget and pretend their life away.

Besides, the past will still come back to haunt you no matter how much you run.


Conrad watched as Haru rode away quickly, understanding and sympathy in his eyes when his attention was diverted to a familiar presence beside him.

"Smooth move, Captain. With just a few sentences you already had him running away from you." Josak teased.

Conrad frowned, and then gives a light whack to the back of Josak's head. "I'm not in the mood, Josak."

"Yeah, I could tell." Josak replied, this time able to dodge away from Conrad's hand. "That kid is pretty sharp for someone who has only been here for two days. And since when did that particular someone took your heart without permission? I was sure he asked."

"Oh, he did ask alright, right after he took it." Conrad retort back. Josak looked up at his Captain slyly.

"But you weren't complaining, were you?" he grinned, satisfied when he didn't receive a reply. "Thought so."


Yuri, Haru, Wolfram and Conrad, along with a few soldiers, went around the whole kingdom; with Yuri introducing the many sights as well as some traditions he knew behind it. By the time they were done, it was almost evening and they were wearily trudging towards their horses.

"I can't feel my feet." Yuri moaned out. Wolfram nods tiredly in agreement whereas Conrad still looks as fresh as if he just took a stroll. 'Oh how I envy that stamina of his sometimes…' Yuri thought. He lifted his head up to look at Haru…

…only to realize he's not there.

"What the – where is Haru?" he look around frantically. Wolfram only huff in annoyance. "He probably just wandered off somewhere, he'll come back eventually. If he gets lost, it's his own fault for leaving."

"But…"

"If it will help, I can send for Josak and a group of men to search the area where he was seen last with us." Conrad suggested.

"Yes, please do so."Yuri replied. He watched as Conrad gives his orders to his men and Josak who just appeared out of nowhere.

'Where are you, Haru?'

Meanwhile…

Haru was walking down some random alley, looking around at some scattered stalls that were hidden from view, thus catching his interest. So far he got a small, silver dagger – though simplistic in design, its pure black handle that contrasted beautifully with the silver was enough to make up for it – and a book with the history of Shin Makoku and the origins of the Ten Noble Families in it.

'Remind me to thank Yuri for giving me some money. And since I got all these for a good price, I still have plenty to spare. Yup, today is a good day for me.' Haru thought, please with himself. He looks up to the sky and was surprise to see how dark it has gotten. 'Shit, I didn't realize how late it was! Yuri must be really worried by now…and probably sending his men to search for me. I better hurry back.'

He was just about to pass by a jewellery store when something in the window caught his eye. He turned back, looking past all the fancy trinkets and precious gems laid on velvet cushions, only to focus on one particular piece; a simple necklace really, with a light blue teardrop stone inlaid with something he couldn't make out inside it, hanging on a piece of black string. He may not know why he was so drawn to it, but he isn't going to leave it there.

Entering the shop – the tinkling of the bell signaling his entrance – he looked around searching for someone in the seemingly empty store. "Hello? Is anyone there?" he called out. When no one answered, he took this time to examine the shop. He could tell that it was once a beautifully lavish store, despite showing signs of age and dilapidation. Dust and cobwebs filled up shadowy corners, large cracks riddled the walls and the wooden floorboards creaked loudly as he accidentally steps a little too heavily. Feeling a little cautious, he continued to marvel at the surprisingly well-kept jewellery behind glass cases, scrutinizing at the workmanship and its quality as he compared it to the ones on Earth.

"I see you have an eye for jewellery." a throaty voice came suddenly from behind him.

Startled, he turned around swiftly, his hand immediately going for his dagger when he finally took a good look at the person. An old woman stood there, a light red shawl wrapped around her thin frame and he could make out a green dress – faded with age – underneath. But what stood out from her in the gradual darkness are her bright, violet eyes.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to startle you." she said kindly, snapping Haru back to the present. "Here, let me light up some candles so you could see better."

He watched her actions from across the room, and when she finished her task she offered him a seat. "Would you like anything to eat or drink?" she asked.

Gazing into her eyes and seeing nothing but sincerity, he finally relinquishes his tight hold on the dagger, feeling sheepish. "No, that's alright. I'm sorry for how I acted…"

She laughed good-naturedly, a spark of humour dancing in her eyes. "No need to apologize, young man. I understand the hard times we're going through now, even though His Majesty is doing a splendid job by creating alliances with the human kingdoms. Even so, it will be a while longer before our kingdom is truly at peace. And even longer for the scars of history to heal." she added mysteriously.

Haru couldn't think of anything to say to that strange statement, though he didn't have to when the old woman started talking again. "Oh, where are my manners? You aren't here to listen to an old woman's ranting. So, what brings you to my humble store? Business is so bad nowadays that I didn't think anyone would even notice, much less come in to this broken down building. Did something happen to catch your interest?"

"Ah, yes, that necklace by the window. I would like to purchase it, if it's alright." Haru answered, a little confused at the sudden change of subject. The old woman look to where he was pointing, and he watch curiously as her eyes widen a little with surprise before giving a smile of nostalgia at it. "It eventually returns to its owner, eh?" she mumbled softly.

"Excuse me, did you say something?" he asked, feeling perplex by the minute. The old woman shook her head, taking the teardrop necklace gently into her hand and handed it to Haru. He stared at it with fascination, noticing for the first time how the light blue mixed with a tinge of silver seems to be swirling around the object inlaid inside it, just like the wind.

'In fact, this looks like the same necklace as Yuri's! Only that its lighter…does that mean the object in the middle is the Wincott's family crest? One way to find out…'

"Excuse me, Mrs…?"

"Please, just call me grandma Mathilda."

"Alright…Grandma Mathilda, could you tell me the history behind this necklace? Where did it come from?"

For a moment, she didn't say anything, unreadable emotions flashing so quickly through her eyes that he couldn't catch it. She then turned her back on him and went to light another candle. It was only then she answered. "Young man, to tell you the truth I do not know much about the necklace. I got it from a mysterious young woman who just said to 'keep it until its owner returns' and disappeared. Nobody heard from that young woman since though there were rumours that this is the sister pendant to the one Miss Suzanna Julia Von Wincott was wearing prior to her death."

"I see." Haru mused, staring at it for a little while longer. 'Well, that didn't help though there is still that possible connection to the Wincotts.'

"Look, I'll give you this pendant. I've blessed it with good luck so if you wear it, you'll always be safe and protected."

"And since we're wearing the same pendant, it shows that we are truly sisters!"

"So it's a promise then?"

"Yeah!"

'Whoa, what was that? Why were there suddenly two voices in my head?'

"Young man? Young man, are you alright?" Haru felt himself being shook and looked up into the woman's concern eyes. "You just suddenly dozed off there…are you tired? It is getting late…"

It was then Haru finally noticed how much time has passed since he entered. "Shit, Yuri's going to kill me! Grandma Mathilda, if you could tell me the price –"

"There's no need. It's on the house." She held up her hand to stop his protest. "Think of it as a gift, being the first customer in my shop after so many years. If you still insist, then come by again when you're available. I could use some company in this dinghy old store."

Haru gives a grateful smile and bowed. "Thank you very much, I'll be sure to stop by soon."

Mathilda waved goodbye until the door closed behind his back and out of sight, before letting out a breath she had been holding in. "I wish you good luck, young mistress. I just hope you know what you're doing." she spoke softly into the darkness. Letting out another sigh, she took a candlewick and carries her weary bones upstairs to sleep.


Ok that's all. Please, please review. I'll try to update faster but no promises.