Hello Everyone, Vanitas Here. I'm so sorry for the long delay for an update. I had to take a Summer course, so I wouldn't fall behind on Graduation. I only need 2 more courses in order to graduate from community college. I'll be transferring to the U of A, the coming Spring of 2017.

I put a lot of work into this chapter. I had to re-think it a couple of times, remove paragraphs, add new ones, incorporate previous ideas and so on. I hope you all enjoy this chapter.

Without further delay, welcome my fans to chapter 10 of The Will of the Phoenix.

"Promise me, Jurgen…" Weakly begged Queen Hannah, her emerald eyes slowly losing their glow. "Promise me…that you'll protect Hans."

Jurgen bit his lip at the weakening sound of his mother's voice, his green eyes trailing to the bundle in Ella's arms. A small tuff of auburn hair peeked from the warmth of the blue blanket his baby brother had been wrapped in; Hans is so small, so fragile and vulnerable that it breaks Jurgen's heart to know that he would never meet the mother that had given birth to him, nor would he ever feel the love she held deeply for him and all her sons.

"I promise…mother." Jurgen choked back a sob, he couldn't take it; 20 years of being nurtured by his beautiful mother…and now he, his brothers and father were about to lose her forever. "I promise. I'll…I'll keep Hans safe. I won't ever let anything hurt him." Tears trailed down Jurgen's cheeks as the pain in his heart took its toll.

"What's going on? Who're you?"

"From what I've just heard. I think you called me a monster."

"Hans!"

He just stood there and allowed his baby brother to be frozen. Did Hans truly mean so little to him? No. Hans is everything to him…if Hans meant so much to him then why didn't he even try to protect him? He had been a coward, that's why—Jurgen knew very well he had been nothing but a coward, running away with his tail between his legs and leaving Hans to his doom. Jurgen regretted leaving Hans behind to save his own life and would give anything to take it all back…but it was too late.

Hans is gone; his precious little Phoenix is gone.

"Hans…" Muttered Jurgen, tears cascading down his face at the agonizing pain in his heart. Hans had been his whole world and now…now all that's left is his dear baby brother's sword.

Jurgen turned the sword lovingly in his hands, caressing the smooth steel of the blade and drinking in the gold hilt. He frowned at an inscription melted onto the metal of Hans's sword, Jurgen titled the blade slightly towards the flames of the fire and felt his heart lodge itself into his throat at the name engraved on the weapon.

Jurgen.

Realization dawned him like a bullet through the heart. This sword was meant for him. He remembered Hans trying to give him a gift for his 43rd birthday, only to be mocked and pushed around; his baby brother had wanted to gift him with a new weapon. It wasn't just any sword; it's a sword that Hans made with his own hands. Jurgen could tell that Hans had put his whole heart into crafting this beautiful piece weaponry, the steel was flawless and inscribed with soft flames decorating the blade and swirling up to the hilt of the sword.

"Hans…HANS!" Sobbed Jurgen, unknowingly forcing his brothers away from as a ring of raging inferno surrounded him.

Franz felt his throat tighten at Jurgen's cries of anguish. The Crown Prince could do nothing but watch his younger brother fall apart, drowning himself in a sea of despair; the fire shielding his brother radiated the burning pain in his heart. Tears cascaded down Franz's cheeks as he recalled the events that had occurred: Jurgen had rushed into the clearing of the cavern, aching to free Hans from his prison; his brother's happiness soon fading when his emerald eyes found an empty room. Hans had vanished, no trace of him to be found, not even a puddle of melted ice to assure them that their baby brother was safe.

"Jurgen." Franz called softly, edging slowly towards the ring of fire swirling around his younger brother. There was little he could do to mend Jurgen's broken heart, but he can at least comfort him like an older brother should even though he should've done exactly that many years ago.

Jurgen met Franz's gentle gaze, emerald eyes burning with tears and a deep longing. The fires protecting the 3rd prince slowly dissipated, allowing Franz to kneel beside his younger brother and embrace him a warm, loving hug. Jurgen recalled giving Hans the same sense of security, protecting him from everything and holding him in his arms every chance he got; at one point he snuck away from his brothers to spend time with Hans, knowing that his baby brother grew very lonely without him around. So sweet and innocent Hans had been, always making sure Jurgen was happy and taken care of even though he was the older brother.

"Hans?" Jurgen's voice was low and hoarse, green eyes glassy and watery from fever.

"Hi big brother." Whispered Hans, taking the towel from Jurgen's forehead and dipping it into the bowl on the nightstand; the tiny prince enjoyed spending time with his beloved older brother, but it was times like this when Hans never left the 3rd prince's side.

"Hans...you shouldn't be here." Hans cringed at the weakness in Jurgen's voice, he hated seeing his brother so weak and vulnerable.

"I'm not leaving." Stated 5-year-old Hans, wringing the water out of the small towel and placing it tenderly on Jurgen's forehead.

"Are you okay, Jurgen?" Asked Hans, his large green eyes brimming with tears.

"Don't worry your pretty little head, Hans," Jurgen petted Hans's head lovingly, smiling tiredly at the blush enhancing his baby brother's naturally flushed cheeks, "big brother's fine, now that My Brave Little Phoenix is here."

Hans grinned at Jurgen, wrapping his arms loosely around his weak older brother's neck. The small prince loved Jurgen very much and could never go a day without seeing the older prince's handsome face; Hans never left Jurgen's side for a moment even when Jurgen must tend to his duties as a weapon specialist for both the Southern Isles and its military forces.

"I love you, Big Brother." Hans nuzzled Jurgen's hair, sighing softly at the pure warmth that radiated from his brother's soul.

"I love you too, Baby Brother." Jurgen, though extremely tired, wrapped his firm arms around Hans's small frame. "I'm always going to love you, Hans. You're never gonna be alone, I promise."

"I promise…I promise I'll find you." Softly cried Jurgen, unaware of the tears filling the eyes of his brothers.

"I can't believe I ever thought you could be good." Growled Henry, his hazel eyes reflecting great disdain and distrust. "How could you hurt Anna like that?!"

"Wh-What? No Henry, I-I didn't. Henry you know I would never." Stuttered Hans, petrified by the coldness in his young brother's eyes.

"I thought I raised you better." Retaliated Regina, her own brown eyes burning with anger.

"We should've never allowed him to stay in Storybrooke!" Howled David.

"He's selfish and uncaring. He only ever thinks about himself." Added Mary Margaret.

"Monster."

"She's right, you are a monster."

"How could I have raised such a monster?!"

"Who could ever love such a monster?!"

"I've been trying to bring him out of it for the past two hours." Sighed Regina, dabbing a cool washcloth against Hans's unnaturally flushed cheeks; she had awoken to the sounds of Hans's screams and found her son trapped in an endless nightmare. The young sorceress had tried to sooth him with words, shake him awake and even attempted a spell to pull him out of his night terrors, but Hans was too deep in his nightmare to feel his mother's presence.

"NOOOO!" Emerald orbs snapped open and Hans shot up violently in his bed, eyes glowing with pain and face coated with sweat. Harsh throaty coughs erupted from Hans's lips, the young prince gasping for air and oblivious to the warm arms circling his trembling form.

"It's alright, My Little Phoenix." Cooed Regina, threading her fingers through Hans's sweat damp hair.

"Mother..." Hans's voice was soft and hoarse. He's exhausted more so than when he first woke up.

"You've been having a lot of nightmares lately, haven't you?" Questioned Mary Margaret, her gentle eyes filled with concern and motherly affection.

Emma walked down the streets of Storybrooke with calm; earlier today, Regina had asked her to keep an eye on Hans for a couple hours while she and David investigated the ice wall that mysteriously appeared at the Town Line—Hans had frozen in fear at the mention of it, muttering incoherently to himself before retreating deep within himself. Emma had stayed by Hans's side until Regina returned home, informing the sorceress of the ginger prince's odd behavior before taking her leave of the Mills Mansion.

"Emma." Called a soft feminine voice.

Emma turned around slowly and saw Elsa crossing the empty road from Granny's diner; the blonde savior could tell that Elsa tried her best not to rush even though Emma knew that the platinum blonde desperately sought news of Hans's recovery. Emma would've considered Elsa crazy for falling in love with Hans, but couldn't blame the young queen; Hans is charming, rather awkward and a sweetheart despite the cold mask he wears around people he doesn't fully trust or know.

"What's up, Elsa?" Asked Emma, tucking her hands into the pockets of her jacket.

"How's Hans feeling?" Answered the snow-haired queen, her ocean blue eyes flowing with concern and hidden affection.

"Feeling like he got run over by a herd of horses. His words not mine." Voiced Emma, cringing at the memory of Hans's throaty coughs after he laughed at his own words.

"I see..." Sighed Elsa.

"You know...if you're that worried about him. You should visit him, Elsa."

"Where are you, Anna?" Mumbled Hans, his piercing green eyes focused on the landscape outside the window.

Hans is greatly worried. It's been nearly two full days since his fiancée had ventured out of Arendelle in search of her sister; Hans had tried his best to provide the people with everything they needed—the young prince had even brought all of Arendelle into the palace to keep warm, offering soup and hot glogg despite the protests and complaints of the Duke of Weselton.

"What the?" Hans squinted slightly at the figures rushing to the palace gates in the distance; the auburn-haired prince felt his heart lodge itself into his throat when he caught sight of his fiancée in the arms of another man. "Anna…"

Hans could feel it, his heart shattering into a million pieces in his chest. Why? How could Anna do this to him? Anger blossomed in Hans's breast, overpowering the burning pain of his broken heart—the young prince burned off his gloves and proceeded to destroy everything within sight: curtains, bed sheets, furniture, paintings and a bookcase. Hans panted heavily, hands still engulfed by flames, sweat cascading down his face and dampening his auburn hair; the fire prince sighed, willingly away the raging inferno within his heart and extinguishing the fire in his palms with a calming thought.

"Prince Hans." Came a soft knock from the door. Hans winced at the sound before recalling that the voice belonged to Kai, one of the main servants of the royal family. "Is everything alright, your highness?"

"Everything's perfectly fine, Kai." Responded Hans. "Gather the dignitaries in the common room for a debriefing."

"As you wish you, Prince Hans." Answered Kai before taking his leave and unconsciously abandoning the saddened prince to pick up the pieces of his broken heart.

"I'm going back out to look for Princess Anna." Hans finds himself saying despite the stabbing pain in his heart.

"You can't risk going out there again." Protested a French dignitary.

"If anything happens to her…" Hans said, ignoring the concern in the French monarch's voice.

"If anything happens to the princess, you are all Arendelle has left." Insisted a Spanish dignitary.

"Anna!" Cried Hans after catching sight of his beloved princess. "You're so cold." Added the young prince after wrapping his arms around the beautiful strawberry blonde.

"Hans, you have to kiss me!" Answered Anna, ignoring the anxious look in her prince's emerald eyes.

"What happened out there?"

"Elsa struck me with her powers."

"You said she would never hurt you"

"I was wrong."

"She froze my heart and only an act of true love can save me." Confessed the ginger princess.

"A true love's kiss." Hans lightly caressed Anna's cheek, her skin overly soft beneath his glove hand, and slowly leaned in to claim her small pink lips.

(She's so beautiful…so carefree and gentle…and yet so deceiving. You broke my heart, Anna. I don't want to break yours…but the damage can never be undone... I do love you…but it looks like you don't and never did. I hope you can forgive me one day…because I know I'll never be able to forgive myself for this).

"Oh, Anna. If only there was someone out there who loved."

Hans slowly opened his eyes, light tears cascading down his flushed cheeks; to him, the dream was a nightmare and a reminder of what he had lost. He never wanted to hurt Anna, but he was too heartbroken by what he saw to even ask her if she had even loved him; Hans damned his ignorance and stupidity—if people knew the truth…perhaps they wouldn't blame him, Hans didn't know nor did he want anyone to ever find out.

"Anna…" Hans's thoughts drifted to the young woman he loved dearly. He smiled faintly at the memory of her musical laughter, turquoise eyes glowing with happiness and strawberry blonde hair complimenting her sun-kissed skin; the fire prince continued to day dream until the face of the young princess is replaced by the face of her beautiful sister. "Elsa…"

Hans blushed at the memory of the kiss they shared; he had been so scared of falling in love again that even a kiss from a beautiful woman terrified him. The fire prince shook his head at the thought; the queen had caught him off guard one too many times: 1) Trying to comfort him even though he was being a jerk, 2) Kissing him in her apartment after dragging him to give him dry clothes, 3) Confessing to liking him at the pier and 3) Inviting him out for a midnight stroll. Hans knew Elsa meant well, but he just isn't ready for a relationship of any kind: Jurgen had been the first to accept him, love him and showed him the beauty of the world around him; after Jurgen betrayed, Anna took his place and opened his heart once more and brought color back to his gray world. Losing Anna had hurt, more than he ever cared to admit to himself or anyone, but now Elsa was making him feel emotions he thought he would never feel again.

"I can't…I know she means well, but…I just don't want to be hurt again."

"Hans made this?" Questioned Claude. He, like the rest of his brothers, had been awestruck at the craftsmanship of the sword and sharpness of the blade. The 2nd born prince never would've guessed how talented their youngest brother was in the art of sword crafting, nor did he believe Hans had such great interest in training as a bladesmith.

"He did. Only Hans possess a keen eye for detail. In all my years as a weapon specialist, I've never seen such a beautiful sword." Responded Jurgen.

"Truly remarkable." Concurred Franz.

"Why hide such talent?" Asked Adam.

"No doubt to avoid being ridiculed." Voiced Alexander, scanning the sword with great interest and unhidden praise.

"Franz…" Uttered Jurgen.

"Yes Jurgen?" Answered Franz, raising an elegant golden brow when he caught sight of a blush blooming across Jurgen's cheeks.

"Do you…do you remember when Hans and I stole your sword from your chambers and ran off with it?" Jurgen felt the heat deepen at his cheeks when he heard his older brother give a soft chuckle.

"How could I ever forget such a day? I had never such fun in years until that day." Smiled Franz, ruffling his younger brother's lightly.

"JURGEN! HANS!" Roared the Crown Prince, chasing both his brothers down the long corridors of the palace after the duo dared to take his prized sword from his bedroom.

Jurgen raced through the halls of Castle Alexandra, laughing hysterically as he carried his baby brother on his shoulders who held their eldest brother's sword in his hands. To think that Prince Jurgen was one to cause mischief shocked the staff of the palace, but also amused them for they've never seen the Crown Prince so worked up; however, taking Franz's sword probably wasn't the wisest thing to do.

"JURGEN ELIAS JOHANNES WESTERGUARD, RETURN THAT SWORD THIS INSTANCE!" Demanded Franz, growing quite irritated at how childish his 3rd younger brother was being. Franz expected such behavior from Hans because he's the youngest, but to witness his brother causing mischief was beyond his understanding.

"GOTTA RUN FASTER THAN THAT IF YOU WANT IT BACK, FRANZ!" Taunted Jurgen, who smiled as Hans screamed in delight.

"Hold on, Hans." Recommended Jurgen, increasing his speed just in time to leap skillfully over the railing of the third floor of palace. The 3rd prince smiled at Hans as he gave a sharp "WEEEE" as they descended to the second floor.

"Jurgen! Are you mad?!" Franz shouted. The Crown Prince had felt his heart stop at the sight of Jurgen being reckless and leaping over the railing with their baby brother in tow—he knew Jugen would keep Hans safe, but he drew the line at child endangerment when performing such suicidal stunts such as taking a short cut to the second floor by jumping over the railing of the third level.

"Come now, Franz. Do you not want your precious sword?" Taunted Jurgen, giving Franz an enormous grin. Jurgen's small victory was short lived when Franz flipped over the railing and landed professional on his feet.

"Jurgen. I will only ask once more. Return my sword or feel my wrath." Franz was not in a gaming mood and endangering Hans was only worsening his already sour mood.

"Allow me to contemplate the matter." Said Jurgen. Silence welcomed the three brothers until Jurgen made a decision that could very well end his life. He took hold of Hans under his left arm and held Franz's sheathed word in his left hand, and then ran like his life depended on it.

"JURGEN!" Echoed Franz's anger-filled voice as he stormed after Jurgen. Jurgen let out small cries of panic and fear as he tried to shake the enraged Crown Prince from his tail while making sure Hans was effectively held against his hip and protectively under his arm.

Franz growled like a feral animal as he slammed open the doors of the ballroom. He knew very well that Jurgen and Hans were hiding somewhere inside the ballroom, the Crown Prince could practically smell their fear (metaphorically speaking). Sky-blue eyes blazed with irritation as they scanned the empty room, Franz frowned at the utter silence and calmly walked further in the large room.

Hans laughed softly into hands, pressing them flush against his mouth. It was only a matter of time until Franz fell into their trap. Franz had been very stressed lately, snapping at everyone including their father—the young duo decided that a harmless prank is just what Franz needed to lift his spirits even though he did not have the best sense of humor due to his position as Crown Prince.

"Ready?" Whispered Jurgen, holding a long rope in his left hand and the other holding onto Hans over the balcony.

Hans nodded in response slowly tipping the bowl in his hands while Jurgen tugged on the rope connected to a large bucket dangling inconspicuously from the crystal chandelier. A loud cry of surprise echoed the ballroom as cake batter and brownie mix rained down on the Crown Prince.

"What in Ulfric's name?" Questioned Franz, shaking some of the dessert mix from his ruined gloves and eyes before catching sight of his brothers laughing hysterically on the balcony above him. "JURGEN! HANS! I WILL DESTROY YOU!" Howled Franz, rushing up the conveniently placed stairs with murderous intent.

"RUN FOR IT!" Cried Jurgen, throwing Hans over his shoulder and hurrying out the door for dear life.

"I'M GOING TO MURDER YOU!" Roared Franz as he rushed past his other nine brothers in a frenzy of rage.

The nine princes had been in shock over Franz's current appearance that they waited until the Crown Prince was out of sight before dropping to the floor in a fit of laughter. Never in their lives have the princes witnessed their eldest brother losing his cool and looking illegally ridiculous and not realize it. As soon as they calmed down enough to stand, the brothers hurriedly followed Franz down the corridor.

Jurgen cowered behind Claude, holding Hans tightly between them to protect their baby brother from their eldest brother. Franz had accused all eleven of his younger brothers of pulling such a childish prank—Claude had tried to convince Franz that they unaware of Jurgen and Hans's plot of dumping cake and brownie batter on to him, but Franz was beyond reasoning with. However, Franz did no count on catching his appearance in a conveniently placed mirror.

(Not good.) Panicked Jurgen. (He's definitely going to lose his temper now.)

Franz stared long and hard at his reflection: brownie mix clashing with his golden hair with small streaks of cake batter blended his locks, some of the chocolate had drizzled down his face and coated his eyebrows, nose, cheeks and lips, the cake batter emphasizing the chocolate like a delicious facial mask over his handsome features.

Jurgen sweated bullets as he waited for Franz to become even more livid. The 3rd young prince believed that a harmless prank such as this would make the eldest royal laugh or at least smile, but perhaps he should have gone with a different approach then dumping dessert mix onto the Crown Prince.

"Franz?" Squeaked Hans, his large green eyes resembling a kicked puppy.

The Crown Prince's gazed had grown dark and focused on the crimson carpet floor of the grand hall. Franz's face was concealed behind his chocolate-coated golden hair, hands clenching into fists as his emotions took full control of his composure.

"Franz?" Called Hans again, jumping back in surprise when an unfamiliar sound escaped Franz's lips.

Jurgen, Hans, Claude, Franz, Alexander, Vladimir, Edvin and Edvard, Sebastian, Mathias and Adam lay across the marble floor of the ballroom, laughing together without a care in the world. To think a simple prank could bring the brothers together like this was beyond anyone's understanding; however, Ella for one was grateful that the twelve princes had at least a few sweet moments. Ella watched from the doorway, along with a few other staff, as the Crown Prince picked himself off the floor and took hold of the smallest prince—Hans screamed with glee as Franz tossed him into the air and caught him, repeating the small game until each brother decided to take their turn to see who could make Hans laugh the loudest.

It was moments like this that were treasured by each brother and remembered throughout their life even though at some point they drifted apart, Jurgen being the only brother who still paid attention to Hans and showed his love for him despite the disapproving looks he would receive from his father and their brothers.

"When did we stop caring?" Questioned Claude. "When did we…"

"Drift Apart." Answered Franz, his reflecting pain and regret.

That was the question that ate away at each brothers' heart. When did they stop being brothers and more importantly…when did they stop caring about their baby brother?

Losing Jurgen is the greatest pain he's ever felt. Jurgen was very precious to Hans and I can sense he still is despite all the pain he caused him. I'm not going to let you or your sister hurt him anymore than he already is. Hans is very precious to me. He's my son and I will do everything in my power to protect him. If you hurt him in anyway, I will end you.

Elsa shivered at the memory of her conversation with Regina when she came to the Mills Mansion. The young queen had taken Emma's advice and decided to visit Hans, maybe confess to Regina her newfound feelings for the handsome prince; however, Regina's overprotectiveness of Hans caused Elsa to keep silent about the matter since it was not the most appropriate time to come clean.

"Hans…" Elsa felt her heart sing; he was handsome, so handsome.

"Elsa…" Hans loves the way she says his name and he's sure the feeling is mutual.

Elsa caressed Hans's cheek, smiling faintly when he unconsciously leaned into her touch. What was this feeling? It felt so right, her and Hans. Elsa inched to Hans's lips, feeling his warm breath against her skin and noticing his eyes clouding with desire. Their lips met, so soft and warm they were; Hans dropped the clothes in his hands, slowly sliding one hand into Elsa's snow-colored hair and the other against her small back. His heart was on fire as was his soul; they fit well together, like missing pieces of a puzzle. They broke apart breathless, confused and satisfied.

Elsa sighed dreamily at the memory. His lips had been so soft and warm, smooth like his lightly freckled cheeks, but his eyes are the most beautiful features on his handsome face. The snow-haired queen blushed, remembering how deeply his emerald hues had stared deeply into hers when he had fallen over the edge of the couch during his 24th birthday; Elsa softly smiled, greatly amused at how flustered he had grown when their noses were practically touching. It had been in that moment when she had deeply fallen in love with Hans and everything he is.

She wanted to feel those lips against hers once more, run her fingers through that beautiful auburn hair, feel her prince's firm chest beneath her fingers and…

Come stop your cryin'
It'll be alright
Just take my hand
Hold it tight

I will protect you
From all around you
I will be here
Don't you cry

For one so small
You seem so strong
My arms will hold you
Keep you safe and warm
This bond between us
Can't be broken
I will be here
Don't you cry

Cause you'll be in my heart
Yes, you'll be in my heart
From this day on
Now and forever more

Elsa turned towards Hans's door at the sound of a beautiful voice, she slowly pushed the door opened and was met by Hans gazing intently into the depths of a small red orb in his hands.

You'll be in my heart
No matter what they say
You'll be here in my heart
Always

Hans's large green eyes shimmered with tears of joy. Jurgen knew very well that Hans was listening closely to the words of the song; Jurgen had promised Queen Hannah that he would care for, love and protect their new sibling no matter what. It had pained Jurgen to remember that his mother's last words were for him to keep Hans safe, watch over him and give him all the love he needs. Jurgen agreed and wept when her beautiful green eyes sparkled at Hans when Ella brought the tiny prince close to the dying queen―the 3rd prince had left the room for their father to be alone with his queen, but felt his heart stop when he found the king sneaking away from the castle with their baby brother in his arms.

Why can't they understand the way we feel
They just don't trust what they can't explain
I know we're different
But deep inside us
Were not that different at all

And you'll be in my heart
Yes, you'll be in my heart
From this day on
Now and forever more

Don't listen to them
Cause what do they know
We need each other
To have to hold
They'll see in time
I know

Living his life in the palace knowing his baby brother was gone had been painful; the tiny prince was a blessing from their mother, but the King of the Southern Isles saw him as the spawn of the devil. Jurgen had been relieved when Hans appeared in the castle grounds one day, tears of happiness cascaded down Jurgen's face as Hans wrapped his tiny arms around his legs and buried his face into his stomach. The bond between two brothers blossomed that day and continued to grow with each passing hour the duo spent together.

When destiny calls you
You must be strong
(You gotta be strong)
I may not be with you
But you've got to hold on
They'll see in time
I know
We'll show them together

Cause you'll be in my heart
Believe me
You'll be in my heart
(I'll be there for you)
From this day on
Now and forever more

Oh you'll be in my heart
(You'll be here in my heart)
No matter what they say
(I'll be with you)
You'll be in my heart
(I'll be there) always
Always

Jurgen held Hans in his arms, cradling his baby brother as their mother had when the little redhead was first born. The 3rd prince was so happy that the gods had gifted them with another brother, the youngest of them all—Jurgen loathed King Claudius for what he had done to Hans, casting him aside and leaving the defenseless newborn for dead. None of that mattered now; Hans is safe, here in his arms and Jurgen vowed to never let anything or anyone hurt his precious Little Phoenix again.

I'll be with you
I'll be there for ya always
Always and always

With the soothing sound of Jurgen's voice, Hans slowly begun to fall asleep. Jurgen's strong arms wrapped firmly around the small redhead and bringing him comfortable close; Hans is so close that he could hear the soft, steady beats of his brother's heart. Smooth lips kissed his auburn hair and warm green eyes met his own; emerald orbs filled with much love and tenderness that it made Hans's own heart beat faster.

Just look over your shoulder
Just look over your shoulder
Just look over your shoulder
I'll be there
Always

Jurgen quietly muttered the last words of the lullaby in Hans's ear as his baby brother's large, gentle and wonderful green eyes slowly slid shut.

"I love you, baby brother. Sweet dreams, My Little Phoenix."

"Jurgen…" Elsa heard Hans mumbled. "Jurgen." Hans choked back a sob, pulling the orb tightly to his chest and curling in on himself. "Big Brother!"

"Big Brother!"

Jurgen gasped and awoke in cold sweat, droplets of perspiration trailing down his temple as Hans's desperate cry resounded in his head. The 3rd prince sighed heavily, he could never go a night with hearing his baby brother's sobs of loneliness and longing—at times, he would have nightmares of losing Hans, his baby brother lying in a pool of his own blood, falling off a ship and drowning at sea or Hans declaring his burning hatred towards. Most of his night terrors were of him reliving Hans being turned into an ice statue by that mysterious woman that had appeared from the urn.

"We'll be together again." Whispered Jurgen, retrieving the photo of his baby brother from under his pillow and caressing it lovingly. "I promise, Hans…I'll never let anything take you away from me again..."

"Jurgen?" Franz calmly stepped into his brother's quarters, finding it void of Jurgen's presence and belongings. His brother's kimono lay neatly folded at the end of the bed, along with the sword Hans had beautifully crafted with his own hands. "Jurgen?!"

Fear festered in Franz's heart. Jurgen had always been reckless when it came to Hans's safety and reckless he remained even when he was under the influence of the Spell of Shattered Sight. Jurgen had shut everyone out the moment they returned to the Emperor's palace, fear and shame clouding his thoughts after he had come to his senses in the North Valley—no one blamed Jurgen for what happened, the cavern had enchanted the 3rd prince and forced him to unleash the anger deep within his gentle heart.

"Franz," Alexander called from the shadows of Jurgen's bedroom, "over here."

Franz grew confused at his 5th younger brother's whispers until he caught sight of his eleven brothers crowded near the slightly adjourned doors of the balcony. The Crown Prince, though very regal and composed now, always enjoyed causing mischief and driving his father to madness when he was a child. Curiosity won over Franz's regal behavior and the 1st born heir calmly strolled to the balcony and peeked through the small opening much like his younger brothers—Franz was about to scold his brothers for staring at nothing until he caught sight of his 3rd younger brother.

"What am I going do?" Mumbled Jurgen, his upper slumped heavily against the railing of the balcony. The weapon specialist straightened himself like the royal he is and slowly allowed the Phoenix's power to flow through his veins, guiding the current to his hands and setting them aflame. "Is this how you felt, Hans? Afraid and uncertain when your powers first manifested?"

A pained expression overtook Jurgen's face, it was one he always wore when he begun to doubt his worth and retreat into himself. Jurgen had always been strong, suffering in silence despite many individuals reaching out to him, but kept very much to himself as to not be such a bother to others. However, there are times when Jurgen can no longer withstand his pain and either lashes out at others or ultimately breaks down—Hans had always been the only one to see Jurgen in such a state, he trusted Hans with everything he was and Hans did his best to comfort him despite being so young and innocent.

"I was a terrible older brother…that forsaken spell…I can never forgive myself for causing you so much pain." Jurgen doused the fire in his hands and collapsed to his knees, sobs of regret and shame wracking his fragile spirit. "I can't bring myself to face you after everything I've done."

"You're so stupid. Why would I waste my time playing with scum like you?"

"J-Jurgen." Whimpered Hans. Tears cascading down his small, lightly lined with baby fat cheeks.

"Go away, Hans. The sight of your tears makes me sick. How about you grow up and stop being so pathetic?!"

Hans felt his heart shatter. What happened to the brother who he loved him and loved him back? The young prince was hurt by his brother's words. Jurgen had never spoken to him like that and Hans begun to think that his beloved older brother had only been toying with him all these years.

"I...I HATE YOU, JURGEN!" Hans had screamed and then ran off crying. He had locked himself in his room and didn't emerge for 3 days.

"Because you're useless and weak! Plus, father never wanted another heir, nor did the twelve of us want another brother either, especially not one as scrawny and hideous as you."

"You're pathetic, Hans."

"You'll always be the unwanted son."

"Poor little Hans. Does it hurt to know that no one is ever going to love you?"

"You listen and you listen well, Hans. Don't think for a minute that this will change anything?! Our brothers will still hate you no matter what. I'll still hate you." Jurgen hissed in Hans, feeling his baby brother squirm in his grasp. "You'll always be the same pathetic, worthless, unwanted child of our family. And do you know what else? No one's ever going to love you, not even me."

Jurgen curled against stone balusters, his fingers melting the smooth marble as heat seeped through them from his core. The 3rd prince wallowed in self-loathing, oblivious to the glowing presence hovering over him and the warm hands slowly resting against his flaming hand and trembling form.

"Jurgen." Familiar arms wrapped lovingly around Jurgen's waist, a mop of glowing auburn hair resting lightly against Jurgen's back and drawing him out of his misery.

The 3rd prince trembled at the voice saying his name, his heat quivering with longingly and happiness. Jurgen slowly turned to the being kneeling beside him, arms releasing his middle and resting gloved hands on his biceps. Gentle emerald eyes, the eyes of his baby brother, gazed at tenderly at him, filled with love and deep yearning.

"H-Hans." Jurgen's jaw shook, his sight becoming mist as he continued to relish in his baby brother's presence.

"I'm here, big brother." The embodiment of Hans's true self, smiled angelically at his brother. "I've always been here."

"Baby brother…I…" Was all Jurgen could manage to say.

"Never doubt that I love you. Nothing will ever make me love you any less." Assured Hans's spirit.

Jurgen trembled at the feel of Hans's hand smoothing down his hair as the other circled his back and drew him closer. The reborn fire prince choked back a sob as he gripped the back of Hans's coat and buried his face into the youngest prince's neck—Jurgen was aware that Hans wasn't truly here, but the conjuration felt so real and solid that the 3rd prince lost himself to the illusion of Hans soothing away his pain.

"The Phoenix called to Hans, your youngest brother's powers had sensed Jurgen distress and sent a spiritual embodiment of his soul to assure him that he is not hated but loved." Inquired the Emperor, running his thumb and index finger down his long, white beard.

"Those who are familiar with such occurrences believe that the embodiment of the person's soul reflects their feelings at heart." Added Mulan, her warm brown eyes resting on Jurgen who slept undisturbed in Franz's lap.

"So Hans somehow sensed Jurgen's agony and unconsciously sent a conjuration of himself to ease his pain." Proclaimed Franz, running his fingers delicately through his younger brother's raven hair.

"Yes, young prince." Responded the Emperor. "Your brothers must be very close to be able to sense the other's grief."

"I must be honest with you, your excellence." Muttered Franz. "My brothers, Jurgen and Hans, were indeed very close when they were young; however, their relationship wasn't the most…nurturing one."

"Enlighten me, young one." Urged the Emperor.

"Are you familiar with the Spell of Shattered Sight?" Questioned Franz.

"They look happy." Observed Regina.

"Jurgen and Hans had played a prank on their oldest brother." Said Henry, turning back several pages before coming across a beautiful illustration of Hans and Jurgen pouring cake batter into a bowl and brownie mix into a large silver bucket. "I think they were trying to cheer him up."

"Looks like the Crown Prince was stressed out and unintentional lashed out at others." Added David, turning the page after reading the small paragraph below the heart-warming concept art.

"I didn't take as the kind of person who cause mischief in his youth." Said Mary Margaret, trying her best not to burst of laughing at the illustration of Franz covered in cake and brownie mix.

"I wondered what caused them to drift apart?" Inquired Emma. "What made them see Has as a bother and not worth their time?"

Elsa cringed at the paleness of Hans's face when he at last felt her presence, he looked worse than Emma described: worn-out, hair dampened in sweat, cheeks unnaturally flushed, emerald eyes glassy and out of focus. Elsa lovingly brushed back Hans's bangs, smiling faintly at the sigh escaping the ginger prince's lips; so very warm and feverish he is beneath her palm, it breaks her heart to see Hans reduced to such a weakened state when he is normally so strong.

"What are you…doing here?" Asked Hans.

"I came to see you." Elsa's words made Hans's heart flutter. Even after everything he had done, she is showing him kindness and soothing away his fever with her cold, gentle touch.

"Why?" Hans is aware that they have had this conversation before, but the young prince still couldn't believe that Elsa would care for someone like him.

Elsa gazed deeply into Hans's emerald green eyes, running her fingers through his sweat-coated hair before slowly leaning in and capturing Hans's lips. Hans is frozen in shock, he had kissed Elsa before but this time was different, hesitantly the young prince returned the kiss. Elsa sat on the edge of Hans's bed, never once breaking the kiss, and intertwined her hand with his.

(I love you….) Elsa broke the kiss, her heart hammering against her chest as Hans's beautiful eyes met hers.

"Hans…" Started Elsa, only to be cut off by Hans's vulnerable gaze.

"I'm sorry…" The ginger whispered, shivering under Elsa's gentle touch as she continued to soothe his pain. "I've been nothing but a—"

"Hans. I came here because I care for you. You're more than what you seem. You're intelligent, strong-willed, charming," complimented Elsa, smiling faintly at the deepening color of Hans's flushed cheeks, "rather hard-headed at times, caring deep inside and handsome."

"Elsa…" Hans is speechless, his heart fluttering like a little bird taking its first flight.

"What I've been trying to say is…I'm here because I—"

"Don't. Just Don't." Begged Hans. "I mean…I'm flattered, but I'm just not…"

(I love you…I'm just not sure my heart can handle it. I don't know if I can handle being in love again…I'm sorry...I can't. Not now...Not again.)

Poor Hans. He's so afraid of being in love because he still believes that he'll end up hurt again. Elsa doesn't want to hurt Hans by telling him she loves him. Looks Regina is accepting the fact that our lovely Queen is in love with her little Phoenix, more or less.

I bet your wondering when Hans and Jurgen will reunite. Or if Hans will ever find out that people are keeping secrets from him? I have something big planned for that and more.

Thank you for being so patient. Again, I apologize for keeping you all waiting.

I hope you enjoyed chapter 10 and are eager to find out more. Please stay tuned for the next chapter of The Will of the Phoenix.

Rate and Review. Vanitas Ryuzaki signing off, peace!