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Even after the door closed Wolfram couldn't seem to stop smiling. He wasn't sure exactly what the wimp had been thinking, but he seemed to be happy. Happy with him.
Being touched that way, looked at that way by Yuuri... It was better than any dream.
Wolfram got up off the floor to sit on the edge of the bed. It was still warm from when Yuuri had been there earlier and Wolfram ran a hand through his hair, laughed once. It was like suddenly being able to breathe.
He couldn't even make himself be too bothered by the fact that Yuuri had left to speak to Prince Pervert. The wimp had seemed reluctant to go, almost tripping over himself as he had sent him one last look from the door.
And then it hit him.
Why was Saralegui even here? Why wasn't Weller with him? Who was protecting--
Wolfram jumped up, grabbing his sword on the way to the door. He turned the knob slowly and pulled, just enough to let a sliver of light into the room.
"--important. Where should we go?" Yuuri's voice, already a good ways down the hall.
"Wherever is fine. I just need to speak to you."
Wolfram pushed the door open further, peeking out to see Yuuri and Saralegui-- no guard-- alone-- walking away from him down the hall.
Where had Weller gotten to?!
He waited until they turned the corner, then slipped out the door, running almost silently down the hall, always a corner behind them as they walked. They were heading to the North Wing, probably to the Pervert's suite. Wolfram gripped his sword tighter as he moved in the shadows behind them.
Yuuri had gotten a lot of practice sneaking down these hallways, to his room. By now he must have memorized the shift schedules and was taking Saralegui in a winding path through the servant quarters in order to avoid as many guards as possible.
What was the wimp thinking? They would have to reorganize everything after leading that snake through such a blind spot in castle security!
Thankfully, it was impossible to get in or out of the royal wing without encountering at least one guard. When Wolfram wanted to get in, or Yuuri needed to get out, he would make sure Lucien was the one at the post. Today, the guard they passed was young, and saluted nervously when Yuuri ordered him to stay put.
"You're helping with a very important, very secret mission." The wimp's voice echoed happily down the corridor.
The Pervert's voice followed. "I'm sure you'll be rewarded, hmm Yuuri?"
Wolfram growled. He could practically hear Saralegui touching Yuuri.
The sound of vanishing footsteps followed and Wolfram chanced a peek around a pillar. From his spot, Wolfram could see the guard wait until Yuuri and Saralegui disappeared from sight before heading quickly in his direction, almost running into Wolfram as he turned the corner.
"Good man," Wolfram hissed, a hand on his shoulder. "Go find Weller."
The guard's eyes widened and he nodded frantically before heading off.
Thank goodness the wimp was absolutely terrible at being sneaky.
The only reason Wolfram wasn't putting an end to Prince Pervert's "alone time" with Yuuri in the first place was it would mean admitting exactly how he knew they were having it. Wolfram had given up caring about his own reputation a long time ago, but Gwendal would probably kill him, or worse, look at him with that terrible disappointment. Not to mention how delicate this loathed situation with Saralegui actually was.
He couldn't risk Shin Makoku, all those affected in the East, Yuuri, to something he had no control over just because he hated Saralegui. Just because he rushed forward in a jealous rage. Wolfram tightened his grip on his sword, forcing himself to breath slowly as he followed them.
It would be alright. Weller would be found. He could interrupt this. He was the expected chaperon, allowed to be at Yuuri's side in the public eye.
Of course, if that snake made a wrong move Wolfram was here, in his place in the shadows, ready to strike.
Eventually, Yuuri and Prince Pervert arrived at Saralegui's room. Saralegui's guard was still nowhere in sight. Wolfram's eyes widened. Maybe that explained his half-brother's absence better than anything else. He shoved the thought away. Conrad could handle that barbarian easily.
The doors closed. Wolfram rushed forward, ear to the thin crack between the knobs. He could hear them talking-- Yuuri laughing. The keyhole to the suite was wide and Wolfram looked in, able to see the back of Yuuri's shoulder and head as he sat on a chaise in the middle of the room. There was a hand near him-- Saralegui.
Wolfram narrowed his eyes.
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Yuuri shifted nervously in his seat. His heart was pounding and his stomach fluttered unnervingly. This was so huge! He and Sara were finally alone, could finally talk! This was so important!
So why couldn't he think straight?
Once they had gotten to Sara's room, the pair had fallen into an awkward silence. Yuuri rubbed his sweaty palms together and coughed. "So... Sara, what--"
"Don't say anything." Sara pressed his fingers against his lips. There it was again. Numb and cold. Such a strange taste. Without meaning to, Yuuri pushed his tongue forward in an attempt to identify the odd flavor. "I know we haven't had much time alone, but I have a few confessions to make." Then Sara squeaked and Yuuri noticed it was because he had the other boy's fingers in his mouth.
He realized what he was doing and jerked back, face scalding. "I'm sorry--"
"Don't be..." Sara leaned forward to follow him. "I've been wanting to tell you how I've felt for so long. The first moment I saw you. Forgive me for being so bold... Yuuri, but you're absolutely stunning."
"What?" Yuuri managed. His own words seemed to echo too late in his ears.
"I know you're taken. You must hate me for proposing-- separating the two of you-- but I just didn't have any other choice." Sara's face was so close. Warm.
Yuuri forced reason to the forefront of his mind. "Why? Why didn't you have any other choice?"
"That's not important," Sara cooed, his breath sliding against Yuuri's cheek.
Yuuri raised a hand, and put it on his friend's shoulder to keep him back. "But it is, Sara. It's so important." As he spoke, Yuuri was oddly aware of his lips, where his tongue was in his mouth, the heat of Sara's shoulder through his palm.
The other boy pouted. "You're so difficult." And then Sara kissed him.
Yuuri's eyes widened as he fell back against the chaise, Sara's weight pressing him down. This was... not... what was supposed to be happening. Sara's tongue was in his mouth. Strange. Wet. Similar, but somehow not the way it felt when Wolfram kissed him. He supposed everyone kissed differently. After all, how was Yuuri supposed to know what kissing was like? He'd never kissed anyone before, besides Wolfram, and he was sure that didn't count because Wolfram was a boy after all.
His body was hot. Uncomfortable. Everything seemed to be moving so slowly. His skin tingled and he was sure if he hadn't just been given the most mind-blowing sexual experience just minutes before this would have been a much more embarrassing situation.
Sara was still kissing him, though, and thinking about what Wolfram had just done in their bedroom was making the fuzzing and buzzing of his senses even worse. Sara's fingers were in his hair and Yuuri wondered how they had gotten there.
This was not what was supposed to be happening.
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Wimp
Cheater
Bastard
Pervert
WIMP!
He would kill them. Damn him. Damn them.
Wolfram's insides screamed in rage. The pain of betrayal covered by a sickening upsurge in his gut. Something that seemed to have always been there, warm, a part of himself, tore its way up out of him.
He fell back, hands slamming into the ground before his back connected with hard stone.
Wolfram realized he had done something very, very stupid. He had to get out of here-- Yuuri wasn't being hurt... Wolfram had to get out. Out now. He had to go East. Now.
He was no use to anyone dead.
Wolfram tried to stand but he couldn't make it, his body wasn't listening to him-- too clouded by the agony raging in his nerves. Air clogged his lungs-- choking him. Wolfram rolled onto his stomach, clawing at the tiles. Moving forward inch by inch.
He had to get out-- Had to get out.
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Conrad's feet pounded against the stone floor, blood echoing in his ears as he ran.
Stupid.
He had been so stupid! Leaving Saralegui and Reyes with only a single guard. Conrad tightened his grip on the hilt of his sword as he ran, the footsteps of other soldiers behind him adding to the rapid thrumming of his heart. He hadn't been thinking clearly. After seeing his innocent Yuuri like that-- He had needed a moment to clear his mind.
If something happened to Yuuri because of his stupidity-- metal dug into his palm and the edge of his vision blurred, peripheral world forgotten in his blinding focus toward his goal.
Hopefully it would be nothing. Hopefully, if something did happen, Wolfram would be able to stall-- give him more time.
Hopefully.
Conrad turned a corner at breakneck speed, tip of his scabbard dragging sparks against the stone floor as he leaned into the turn. He was almost there, just a small flight of stairs and a hallway to go.
He started the winding stairs, taking the steps in threes, there was someone coming down-- Conrad moved to the other side to move past when a voice behind him cried out--
"Lieutenant!"
Conrad let his focus snap to the figure on the stairs, one arm stuck between the railing and the wall. A blond rag-doll.
"Wolfram!" Conrad's own shout in his ears. He slowed, barely managing to stop in time to examine his brother's limp form. Conrad's hand shook as he reached out to touch him. The fabric of his uniform was wet and scalding to the touch. "Wolfram-- What happened?! Yuuri--"
"Yuuri is..." Wolfram's voice was a breath, a shaky whisper he could barely hear. "Wimp..."
Conrad pulled his brother's face up to look at him, Wolfram's pupils were almost completely dilated and his head head was heavy. Conrad kneeled to speak to him. "What happened to you? What happened to Yuuri?"
Wolfram's eyes looked past him, unfocused, glazed. "I always thought... it would be you..."
Someone else kneeled at his side. "Lieutenant..." Lucien's voice wavered. "You overspent." The corporal touched Wolfram's forehead-- green light--
Wolfram screamed.
Ragged, without breath, echoing on the stone as his limp body jerked back-- Conrad barely kept his brother's head from connecting with the wall.
"Take him to Gisela. The rest of you follow me." Conrad moved away, continuing his race up the stairs.
It was what he had to do. Wolfram was a soldier. Conrad was a Captain. He shouldn't have stayed as long as he had. Their king-- Their Yuuri-- was most important.
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Yuuri's mind was a pleasant buzz. Unfocused. Like when he'd had too much sake at a friend's birthday and spent the rest of the evening half asleep on the couch.
He was on a couch. A half-couch, at least. Just like that time.
Except Sara was kissing him. It was weird and wrong, but every time he thought about doing anything it was so much easier not to move. But then there was a tickling on the edges of his senses, and the tickle grew to a sting. Then the sting soared into pain and he pushed Sara away-- gasping and clutching his left hand.
"Yuuri! What's wrong?" Sara's voice, above him-- Yuuri must have fallen to the floor.
The ring. Wolfram's ring. Seared his finger and Yuuri could smell his flesh burning.
Out of an instinct, water flowed from his hand-- evaporating on contact.
And after a few mind-numbing moments, the pain was gone.
Yuuri opened his eyes. His left hand was pale and shaking, and when he moved the ring up his knuckle it revealed an angry white blister. He tried to take the ring off completely, but just like always the magic refused to let it go past his final joint. He took a breath, and then another. Then he looked up at Sara.
The other boy's glasses were fogged-- probably from the steam of trying to extinguish his hand. "Yuuri, what happened?"
"I don't know." Yuuri's mind was finally clear and he frowned. "But Sara, that... can never happen again."
Sara looked away and tears started to pool in his eyes.
The door crashed open.
"Yuuri!" Conrad yelled, bursting into the room with at least a dozen guards. "Yuuri, are you alright? Why are you two in here alone?"
Yuuri blinked. "I'm fine, Conrad. We were just talking--"
"But your hand!" Sara whimpered, still pouting on the chaise.
Right. "That was strange... It seems to have stopped, though." Yuuri looked down at the blister. The more he thought about it, the more it seemed to sting. He jumped a bit as Conrad, now beside him, leaned down to take his hand. "Ah... It's not very bad, really..."
"What did this?"
"The ring--"
"What ring?"
"Wolfram gave it to me." Conrad's fingers were strong and warm where they touched lightly around the wound. "It's special. Never done anything like this before, though."
"Can any of you heal this?" Conrad directed his attention to the gathering of guards still by the door. One man-- Gwendal's-- rushed forward, kneeling at Yuuri's side, and after bowing his head in respect, reached forward to take his hand from Conrad's grasp. A faint green light escaped the tips of his fingers and Yuuri could feel the pain in his hand being soothed away, leaving only a warm tingle and a thin white line.
"My most sincere apologies, Your Majesty... Because the injury is magical... I cannot remove the mark."
"That's alright." Yuuri smiled, grateful that the pain was gone. "The ring covers it up anyway."
"Where is your escort?" Conrad was addressing Sara, voice hard.
Sara started to shake, refusing to look up. "Ěix," he whispered, and the door on the other side of the room opened.
Reyes was standing in the closet, bound guard at his feet. A few of the men at the door rushed towards them to assess the unconscious soldier.
"He's not killed!" Sara's voice, shouting over the footsteps. "I just wanted to talk to you..."
Yuuri turned to look at Sara. The other boy was curled up on the chaise, clutching his legs to his chest and looking at Yuuri with red eyes over his knees.
"I just wanted to talk to you, Yuuri... Please don't let them hurt me."
"What?" Yuuri breathed, trying to understand Sara's strong reaction. "No harm's been done--"
"Unfortunately--" Conrad snapped, still standing at Yuuri's side. "That is not the case. This little game of yours has gone too far--"
Sara screamed and hid his face. "Don't let him kill me, Yuuri. Yuuri, please. Yuuri--"
Yuuri reached up to grab Conrad's arm, using it to pull himself to his feet as well as stop his guardian's advance. "Sara, stop this, Conrad's not going to-- do anything." He tried to make his voice as calming as possible.
"But he's killed so many." Sara was babbling now. "Monster of Ruttenburg. Murderer. MURDERER!"
"Sara..." Yuuri took a few steps forward and put a hand on the crying boy's shoulder. "It's alright."
Sara stopped shouting but still sniffled and shook, looking up at Yuuri with wide eyes. He bit his lip and tried to nod as a tear dropped off the end of his nose.
Then Yuuri felt Conrad's hand on his back. "We should go. Give him time to recover before dinner."
No... He couldn't just leave Sara this miserable. "Conr--" His guardian's hand gripped his shoulder. Hard.
Conrad had never touched him like this before. Almost painful. "Your Majesty."
Yuuri took one last look at the shivering boy on the couch. "Alright." He leaned forward and touched the top of Sara's head, like when he was comforting Greta. "I'll see you at dinner, Sara. Don't worry, we're still friends. No one will hurt you."
Sara nodded and leaned into his touch before Yuuri let Conrad lead him towards the door. His friend didn't let go of his shoulder all the while he was snapping orders for several guards to watch Sara and Reyes.
Yuuri could somewhat understand Conrad's concern. After all, Yuuri hadn't told him he was going, when he had promised Conrad he would... not to mention that when his guardian had arrived he had been on the floor in mysterious pain. Conrad was probably just worried about him and was being more overprotective than usual because of it.
Conrad didn't loosen his grip until they had traveled down several hallways toward the main part of the castle. Yuuri was too stunned to question it, but settled for glancing up at him every few steps with wide eyes. Something about Conrad's face kept him quiet and Yuuri wondered if there was something else going on that his friend wasn't telling him.
His suspicions only increased when they arrived at the door to Gunter's study and Conrad entered his teacher's room with only half a knock of warning.
"Your Majesty! Conrad!" Gunter sputtered, knocking a few books from the edge of his desk as he stood in shock.
"Please take care of His Majesty for a moment, I have to speak to my brother." Conrad's voice was hard.
"Of course." Gunter clasped his hands before his chest. "I always enjoy the honor of His Majesty's company." The overenthusiastic man rushed over to stand at his side. "But, Conrad, what has the selfish loafer done this time? I knew he was going to upset the current situation sooner or later--"
"Gwendal," Conrad snapped, "is the one I need to send a message to. I'll return later to see to His Majesty."
"Conrad!" Yuuri wrenched himself from Conrad's grasp. "What is going on? What's happened?"
"Your Maj--"
"CONRAD!" Yuuri shouted. "Tell me what's happening! You've never been like this! Can I do something? Can I help--"
The hand returned to his shoulder, this time soft. "Yuuri." Conrad's eyes were strange. "If you can help, you will be sent for. I don't want to worry you. Please stay here."
"When have I ever stayed when you've worried me like this!"
"A soldier is injured. Gisela is with him. He has the best help possible at the moment." Conrad took his hand from his shoulder. "I'll come for you soon and let you know how he's doing, alright? In the meantime, please don't go sneaking off. You'll scare us again."
"But Conrad--"
"Please, Yuuri. Please don't scare me again today."
Yuuri bit his lip. He knew there was something more going on... but now he felt terrible for making Conrad worry so much. "Okay." The word left his lips before he realized and Conrad was gone, racing footsteps fading down the dim hallway. Gunter started talking behind him, as fast and enthusiastic as ever, but Yuuri wasn't listening. He was too distracted by the dread that crawled up his spine and sat numbly in the back of his throat.
Something was definitely wrong.
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For the second time that day Conrad ran. Each footstep a heartbeat. Each breath too slow. Blood pounded in his veins-- thick, full.
He couldn't let Yuuri see.
If he arrived at Gisela's chambers and his baby brother was dead-- Conrad wouldn't let Yuuri see him run for a third time. To the north wing. To the fancy suite. To murder that prince.
Slowly.
Because Conrad was sure this was Saralegui's doing. What else could have caused his brother's sudden--
A guard called out to him on his right-- worried about his rush.
Conrad slowed. Just for a moment, to turn. "Get Gwendal. Tell him to find Gisela. Run." And then he resumed his race down too-long hallways and twisting stairwells.
Until he finally reached the door.
And stopped. Breath rasping from his lungs as he looked at the cracked wood of the painted white door. There wasn't sound. No screaming. Nothing to tell him his brother was still alive. For a moment Conrad wondered if they might have gone somewhere else-- but there was ice by the door. The same big blocks the servants hauled up from the cellar each morning. Melting into the hallway. He reached his hand towards the doorknob-- turned. Hot steam slammed into his face as he entered the room, so thick he could feel his clothes grow heavy in an instant.
"I TOLD you to just leave the ice by--" Gisela snapped, stopping when she looked up and recognized him. "Conrad."
Gisela was sitting on the edge of a soaked bed, holding Wolfram's bare ankles as his brother squirmed beneath the weight of a half melted block of ice on his red and naked chest. Lucien was struggling to hold Wolfram's wrists above his head as the boy whimpered. Conrad approached the bed. Numb. "What happened to him?"
"I was hoping you could tell me." Gisela looked back down at the task at hand-- putting red feet against another slab of ice until it popped and hissed in its rapid melting. "Stupid. Stupid..." Her voice was strong, her hands were steady, but tears started to fall from her eyes-- slipping along pink cheeks. "THIS... This doesn't happen all at once. He must have known..."
"Brother." Wolfram gasped, eyes searching the room as if he were blind. "Conrad."
Conrad rushed forward to kneel by the bed-- taking one of his wrists from Lucien to hold his hand. It burned. "Wolf--"
"They won't kill me. You have to do it... Please." Wolfram turned his head to look at him, hair soaked from sweat and melted ice-- lips bright and pupils wide. His little brother, so proud, so modest. Naked except for a towel draped over his hips, and begging for death. Someone would suffer for this.
"He's delirious. It's the heat." Gisela's voice shook-- just a tremor. "I promised myself I'd never lose someone like this again..."
"What is this?" Conrad breathed... He knew about soldiers overusing magic... death by their own element, but Conrad had only been assigned half-blooded troops. He'd never seen it this close.
Lucien spoke, pale face dotted with sweat. "He overspent. Burning out."
"Why?" Conrad shouted, gripped Wolfram's shoulders and shook-- bare flesh burning his hands. "WHY? Wolfram, did you let this happen?" He closed his eyes, unable to bare the sight of it. "Gisela, DO something. HELP HIM!"
"I'm doing what I can," she snapped. "How DARE you think otherwise!"
Wolfram arched in his grasp and Conrad opened his eyes in time to see the half melted block of ice slide off his chest-- shattering against the stone floor. "Yuuri... Want..."
"He's been asking for His Majesty." Lucien's voice was low. "I didn't know what happened... if he's alright it would be best to--"
"Gods..." Conrad breathed. This couldn't be happening.
Wolfram squirmed again-- arching-- a half cry of pain spilled from his lips and his hand flew free to grip Conrad's thigh-- fingers twisting in cloth. "Yuuri... Protect... I have to go East... Yuuri." And then he stopped struggling. Breath fell from his lips... soft... even... Heated flesh cooling-- lips changing from red to purple.
"Move him to the other bed," Gisela whispered. "And send someone for His Majesty."
"He's getting cold." Conrad put a hand to his brother's cheek-- watched as goosebumps rose on pale flesh.
Lucien lifted Wolfram's limp form and Conrad could feel the hand slide from his thigh. "It won't be long now. We can try to warm him up-- keep him comfortable..."
Conrad jumped as the door opened too fast and slammed against the opposing wall. "What is this madness! Conrad-- Wolfram?!" Gwendal's forehead was wrinkled in shock. A pair of wide-eyed guards stood behind him.
"Big Brother," Wolfram mumbled from Lucien's arms. "Where's Yuuri... Greta..."
Gwendal's hands shook as he stumbled forward-- as if he were afraid to really touch. Both brothers watched in shocked silence as their little sibling was moved to the other bed and covered in a thick blanket. "Someone bring His Majesty-- don't tell him what's happening-- just--"
Suddenly Lucien screamed, leaping away from the bed as far as he could-- Wolfram's hand tight on his wrist.
"More." Wolfram's eyes were wide-- suddenly alert-- but somehow wrong.
Gisela rushed between them. "What did you do!"
"I didn't do anything-- I just tried to warm him up-- He was cold-- I only used a little magic!"
"More." Wolfram's voice rose and Conrad could see blood welling under each finger as it punctured the young soldier's wrist.
"Do as he asks!" Gwendal growled.
Gisela's eyes were wide. "I've never seen anything like this-- Just try it--"
"Alright..." Lucien's voice shook and the tiniest flame lit near his fingers.
Wolfram practically flew from the bed-- pinning the other man to the floor-- holding the captured palm against the back of his own head and releasing a terrifying howl of triumph. Then he leaned forward and bit the other man's neck. Flame spiraled up from Lucien's hand-- licking the ceiling as the trapped soldier screamed and tried to break free. And all at once the only thing Conrad could smell was burning flesh.
"Get him off! Gods! I'm not doing it! HELP!" Lucien tried to move away-- only opening the wound on his neck further. "He'll take it all! Wolf! Wolf it's me STOP IT!" Then he started to sob, tears running down his face as Wolfram held him. "Someone help..."
Conrad stayed where he was. If whatever... this was would save his brother... He would not help this man.
Gisela moved, though-- tried to put a hand on Wolfram's shoulder. "That's enough." From a few feet away Conrad could clearly see her grimace as she touched him-- must be burning.
Wolfram keened-- pulled back enough to lick at the blood still pumping from the wound.
Lucien shivered, probably too scared to move. Of all the stories he had heard of demons while he lived in human territories-- Conrad had never seen anything like this.
"That's enough. You have more time now." Gisela rubbed his back-- glistening with sweat. "Don't kill your friend, Wolfram. What would Yuuri think?"
"Yuuri..." Wolfram mumbled--letting go of Lucien's hand and sitting up. Blinking several times in recognition. And in a flash the instinct was gone from his eyes and limbs and Wolfram was there again. He moved back from Lucien's trembling form and sat on the bed-- grabbing a pillow to cover himself as his cheeks reddened. Blood dripped from his chin. "What happened?"
Without looking away from Wolfram, Gisela reached a hand forward-- green light weaving flesh closed as Lucien quieted in relief. "We should be asking you that question, Your Highness. I've never seen anything like that before."
"Is he alright?" Gwendal asked from the doorway.
Gisela took her hand from the now wound-less man and touched Wolfram's forehead. "His magic is very low-- but he's not in immediate danger so long as he doesn't try to use his maryoku."
"In that case, you two--" Gwendal snapped, and Conrad turned to see the two guards-- still standing with open mouths by the door. "Don't get His Majesty after all. I suppose your profound failure to follow orders has worked to our advantage for the moment." Gwendal turned back towards the room. "Wolfram, you will be dressed and in my office as soon as you are able. We will talk and then you will immediately leave for lesser Gael to see your spirit."
Wolfram's head was bowed. "Yes, Sir." He wiped some blood from his lips-- pausing for a moment to examine the red on his fingers. "I'm sorry... Lucien."
"It's alright," the blond on the floor whispered-- not looking at him.
"I'm glad you've made up, then." Gwendal snapped. "You, Corporal, will be accompanying Sir Belefield on his journey. I would imagine after this... episode you are in need of the spirit as well."
"It would probably be for the best," Gisela soothed.
Lucien nodded and rubbed his neck protectively.
"Conrad." He looked up-- When had he kneeled? "Make sure Wolfram arrives in my office in one piece... I'm going to secure His Majesty before the meeting." And then Gwendal turned on his heel and was gone.
Wolfram's fingers tightened on the pillow. "What happened to my uniform?"
"Sorry," Lucien mumbled. "We had to cut it off."
"Don't worry." Gisela tried to smile. "I'll find you something."
Conrad pulled a handkerchief from his pocket and moved forward to wipe at Wolfram's chin. "You scared us to death. What happened?"
Wolfram pouted and snatched the cloth from his hand, continuing the task himself. "I don't know what happened. I knew it was running low-- it's not my fault Yuuri--" He paused... eyes dark.
"Yuuri's alright. The Prince and his guard are well seen to at the moment." Conrad let one hand ball into a painful fist. "This is all my fault... I never should have left him... I'm sorry."
"Don't be such a wimp, Weller," Wolfram snapped. "Get me a new towel."
"Yes, yes." And Conrad forced himself to smile, just the smallest bit.
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Murata shifted his back higher against the wall as he watched from the far edge of Gwendal's office. He had just arrived at the castle-- to persuade Sir Belefield to return to Lesser Gael of all things-- when he'd been informed of this. It was a miracle Wolfram was still alive.
He only wished he had been there to see it.
From Sir Weller's accounts it seemed to have been quite the spectacle. Though the Captain had been unable to shed any light upon the magical specifics of the situation, Lady Gisela's theory had been quite intriguing. Apparently witnessing the death of the much beloved Susannah Julia had sparked her to do a bit of research in the field of magical over-expenditure. During her description of the incident she had put great weight upon the fact that the young Corporal had been with Sir Belefield when he made his journey to meet Ethne all those years ago. His fire would have been given directly before or after Wolfram's and therefore close enough in temperament to Wolfram's own not to destroy his soul.
Although Murata had kept his agreement to himself, the Biting Incident confirmed her theory in his mind. If Wolfram had taken some of the Corporal's magic into himself it would make sense that some kind of blood magic would be required to seal the pact. But that type of magic lay within the realm of things banned in demon society centuries before his first life. That Wolfram had been able to perform such a ritual act of barbarism during some near-death instituted trance was both miraculous and mildly terrifying.
How Murata wished again he had been there to see it...
The young Corporal seemed to be doing well, considering, and was currently sitting pale in a chair by the door. Murata imagined that the trauma of being the near-victim of physical and magical cannibalism could be lightened by the fact that it was preformed mid-pounce by a very naked Sir Belefield.
How Murata wished he had been there--
His thoughts were interrupted when Sir Belefield (now unfortunately clothed) entered the room accompanied by Sir Weller. He was wearing one of his more plebeian ensembles and his hair seemed almost brown. Murata's eyes flashed again to the Corporal, who was still in more formal attire. Clever. The resemblance was definitely there.
Immediately, Lady Cecelie jumped from her seat and trapped the poor boy in one of her trademark embraces. "Ohh my baby! Thank the gods you're alright! When Gwen told me what happened-- I-- ohh!" She hugged her youngest tighter as tears ran down her face. "I can't believe you, Conrad! Why didn't you send for me the minute you knew?!"
Sir Weller's face was dark. "It was a mistake. The responsibility is mine--"
"Enough!" Gwendal snapped, rising from the chair behind his desk. "It has been brought to my attention that Wolfram knew of this-- This is a result of carelessness-- of profound stupidity the likes of which--"
"Gwendal!" Cheri shouted. "Stop it! It isn't the time to yell-- Ohh my poor baby, can we get you anything?-- How about a nice bath. You can use some of my perfume and I'll sneak you His Majesty. How does that sound, Wolfie?" She pulled him away from her bosom to hear his response and Wolfram immediately gasped for air.
"Mother--That's enough! It was stupid of me. Gwendal is right to yell. Please-- Mother... enough coddling."
Cheri drew back, but her sobbing returned and she fell into Conrad's arms for comfort. "All my sons-- I've been such a terrible mother-- I've loved you all so much but I'm such a failure! My baby almost left me again!"
"You've been wonderful, Mother. There, there..." Sir Weller did his best to comfort the sniffling woman. "I'm so sorry."
"Wolfram--" Gwendal continued, despite their mother's commotion. "You understand why I have to say this, don't you?"
"Yes... Brother." Wolfram stood up straighter-- looking stable despite the pallor of his cheeks.
"First, perhaps you should explain why you are so late."
Wolfram's hands went into fists. "I had to say goodbye to Greta... My daughter should not be affected by my poor judgment--"
"Had you died-- Had you DIED, Wolfram, do you think she wouldn't have been affected?" Gwendal waited, but Wolfram made no move to respond. "What were you thinking?" He sat, thumb and forefinger rubbing his wrinkled forehead.
"Yuuri--"
CRACK. Wolfram's voice was interrupted by Gwendal's fist hitting the desk. An ink jar toppled-- glass rolling against the wood before it shattered in a black spectacle on the stone floor. "Matters of the heart..." he growled, before looking up. "You are to go to Lesser Gale at once! You will not see His Majesty before you do! For ONCE you will put your own health first! THAT is an order, Lieutenant."
Wolfram bit his lip through his glare. "Yes. Sir."
"I have already sent word ahead via pigeon." Gwendal stood again, walking around to stand in front of his desk. "Every checkpoint along your traditional route from here to the border will have new horses ready for two riders. I expect you to push as fast you can tonight and if you run the horses to froth at tomorrow's light you should be at least a hundred miles by noon tomorrow."
"Only two riders?" Cheri interrupted. "Shouldn't we send more? We need to protect him--"
"It's safer this way, Mother," Conrad soothed. "There is always the chance that someone in the Castle could be sending information to our enemies-- That Prince and his Guardian shouldn't find out Wolfram has left the protection of the castle. Lesser Gael is surrounded by Human territory and we don't want Wolfram's journey known by the wrong people."
"Which is why--" Gwendal continued, "Wolfram will be visiting Belefield for a few weeks. Another entourage is leaving in an hour."
"I don't think Uncle will like that much," Wolfram snapped.
Gwendal's face darkened further. "I'm sure his response will be-- amicable, considering the circumstances. And the story within these walls won't change much even if it isn't." He gave everyone a hard look before continuing. "The only people who will know your whereabouts who aren't in this room are Gisela, Anissina and His Majesty. Conrad-- I expect you NOT to allow any sort of adventures at the moment."
Conrad nodded.
"Make sure he understands--" Wolfram cut in, voice giving just the smallest of shakes. "If you don't explain it at least twice-- Make sure he knows everyone else will worry if he leaves-- If you have to, use Greta. He shouldn't break a promise to her."
"I take it you told your daughter, then." Gwendal glared.
"Yes," Wolfram managed, through gritted teeth. "She's my daughter. And she can keep a secret."
Gwendal was silent for a moment-- Murata was sure it was because of his own affection for the girl that he didn't question Wolfram's decision further. Murata knew Greta meant well... but she was still a child. It was dangerous.
"The horses should be ready by now." Gwendal stepped forward, until he was directly in front of Wolfram. "You will be safe. You will return."
Wolfram had to look up to see his brother's face. "Yes, sir."
Gwendal put a hand on the boy's head. Only for a moment. "Hurry."
Wolfram only had time to nod once before he was captured in his mother's embrace once more. Conrad placed a hand on the boy's shoulder for a moment and Wolfram made a few snapped comments about expecting Sir Weller to take good care of the wimp in his absence. In a matter of mere moments, Sir Belefield and the Corporal had been rushed out the door, towards waiting horses and a winding road to Lesser Gael.
Murata sighed and pushed away from the wall. Lady Cheri had followed Wolfram out of the door and now only Gwendal, Conrad and himself remained in the immaculate office. Gwendal moved to stand by the window. He probably wouldn't be satisfied his brother had followed orders until he saw two riders slip out the East gate.
There was a knock at the door and Sir Weller moved to answer it. Lady Karbelnikoff was there, accompanied by Gisela and a frazzled looking Dorcascus carrying a large box. Now that one meeting was over, it seemed to be time for the next.
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Anissina could still feel the lump in her chest from when she had seen the Boy Wolf in the hallway. Pale and ready to leave the castle for a journey more dangerous than anyone would say aloud. She had managed to make a few passable spice cakes the previous night but had only been able to wrap them in a small cloth in her rush to move necessary equipment down from the lab for this meeting. Wolfram had given her a strange look, but taken them all the same.
She hoped they were safe to eat. The ones she had selected certainly had looked less black than the others.
Gwendal's office was quiet except for the sounds her equipment made as she unpacked, setting everything up on the long wooden table in the middle of the room. The Sage loomed in the shadows, sun reflecting off his glasses as he watched her go about her work. It was all she could do not to throw something at him. He had known something like this could happen...
But so had she.
Anissina rationalized that it had really been Wolfram's decision. But it still made her feel better to blame the Sage.
Now that Dorcascus had left and all their things had been placed upon the table, Gisela was pacing. For a woman who had seen so much death, the incident this afternoon clearly had her shaken. From the description it seemed to have been a truly remarkable event. Anissina could hardly wait to solve this whole plague thing so she could start doing proper research about what had happened.
Gwendal had his back to her and was looking out the window. She wondered how many new knitted items would be gracing the shelves in his room after this. At least Greta would have a few more presents to keep her occupied while the little girl worried about her traveling Papa.
Once she had finished setting up, Anissina cleared her throat. "Now that everything is ready, shouldn't we get started?"
The Sage moved away from his shadows and well-placed light to stand beside her. "Such interesting things always come out of your lab, Miss Anissina. I've been curious since you told us about it. What exactly--"
"His name is What's-Wrong-With-This-Kun. He looks at things and figures out what's different from how they should be." Anissina grinned proudly. "But I'll need someone to power it. Gwendal--"
"In a moment," the man huffed from the window.
The Sage gave a nervous laugh. "We should probably talk about a few things first."
"Your Grace, do you really think working separately is necessary? Shouldn't we pool our resources first to figure this all out faster?" Gisela crossed her arms worriedly.
"It will only be at first," he soothed. "We all have different strengths, and if we all try to figure it out using those strengths by ourselves at first, it should save time that would have been spent arguing." Then the Sage leaned on the back edge of a chair. "You brought the samples?"
"Of course." She gestured toward a small bag on the table. "I'm sure they're pure. The containers sent by Miss Anissina were very helpful."
Anissina beamed. "Did you expect anything less?"
Gisela bowed her head in recognition before moving on. "I tried to take samples from as wide a range as possible, so we could notice changes within those affected-- both mazoku and human, as well as a few samples from those who seemed to be recovering and those who had never shown any symptoms. Hopefully we should be able to identify what is causing it."
The Sage nodded his approval. "Between Lady Gisela's expertise in this world's medicine, Miss Anissina's inventions, and the technology and resources I've brought back from Earth, I think we have a good chance."
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Yuuri pouted and glared spitefully at his mashed potatoes. He had refused to look at Conrad ever since his friend sat down at the table.
Four hours.
Four extra hours of one of Gunter's intensive study sessions. And Yuuri still had no idea why the older man had run off so suddenly after the... incident with Sara. Sure, he knew the story about the injured soldier-- but something so small didn't warrant the visit from Gwendal soon after Conrad had left--
This HAD to stop! After dinner he was going to insist upon meeting everyone. He was supposed to be king!
But more than that... he was friends with everyone. How could Conrad keep something from him!?
Yuuri could hardly wait to see Wolfram tonight. At least he would tell him if he knew anything. Tonight. Yuuri could feel his face get hot. Images from that afternoon swelled in his mind and he gripped his spork until his knuckles went white. He still couldn't believe it hadn't been a dream... Wolfram had-- and it had been so-- Yuuri tried closing his eyes in an attempt to will the heat from his cheeks, but that only made the images stronger.
He jumped when he felt a hand on his shoulder. "Your Majesty, are you alright?" came Conrad's worried voice.
Yuuri nodded vigorously and proceeded to chug the rest of the water in his goblet to give himself a few extra seconds. "I'm fine, no need to worry." He was saved from answering any more questions when Sara sniffled over his dinner. Again.
He felt a wave of guilt wash over. Yuuri had been so busy spending all his wondering thoughts on his situation with Wolfram that he had almost forgotten about what had happened with Sara. He shuddered. Wolfram couldn't find about about that any time soon-- Not that Yuuri wanted to lie to him... It was just... Well, what had happened with Sara had been some kind of awful mistake. It had just sort of happened. What if Wolfram found out and was furious, or worse, hurt? Yuuri couldn't stand the thought of the type of impact this would have on his relationship with his best friend.
It wasn't as if he'd wanted it! This was so-- He'd never even had a single girlfriend! Why was he suddenly some sort of pretty boy magnet? After all, Yuuri must have gotten used to the idea of Wolfram liking him a bit over the years... but Sara? And so suddenly! Why did Sara have to like him of all people?
Yuuri took a bite of his food and stole a glance up at his surroundings. It was just himself, Conrad, Sara and Reyes sitting down. But there were at least a dozen guards standing at attention in an oppressive ring around the table. He couldn't take it anymore! Any of this-- "Sara..." he said, in his calmest voice. "Are you finished?"
The other boy put his hands in his lap and nodded, looking across the table at Yuuri with large hopeful eyes.
Yuuri clenched his toes and prepared to disappoint him. "Then I'm sure you won't mind if I excuse myself. It's been a long day and I really want to get to bed early."
"I'm sorry." Sara's head bowed, bangs covering most of his face. "You're mad."
Yuuri tried to unclench his jaw enough to speak. "I'm not mad. I just--" He sighed. "I just want to go to sleep."
Sara simply nodded again.
Even though Yuuri felt terrible leaving the situation with Sara as it was, there were just too many other things on his mind to handle that properly right now. He was sure that he could convince Sara that friendship was the best course. After all, he wasn't particularly good-looking-- Yuuri paused. Maybe Sara didn't really like him after all, but it was only because he was king. That would make much more sense than Sara liking him for anything to do with himself. He would just have to explain to Sara that he didn't need to do anything like that to assure their country's connection.
Yuuri smiled a bit. Well, even if he couldn't have that conversation now, it was a relief to have it solved in his mind. "Sara. I'm not mad at all, so stop worrying, alright? We'll have a nice long talk tomorrow, so try to get some rest yourself." He kept the smile on his face until Sara looked up to see it, then he stood. "Conrad, will you walk with me?"
The other man was already on his feet. "Of course, Your Majesty. You needn't have asked."
"Well then, goodnight," Yuuri said and headed for the door. He waited until he and Conrad were a few hallways away before speaking. "Conrad... I don't like that you're hiding things from me."
"Your Majesty, I--"
"Yuuri."
"Yuuri, I--"
"We should go somewhere. Gwendal should hear this too... I can't believe everyone is still tiptoeing around me after all this time! How many times do I have to prove myself to all of you?!" Yuuri had to put his hands into his pockets, they were shaking so badly. "We're friends... This 'Your Majesty' business aside-- shouldn't that matter more, Conrad?" He kept walking, not wanting to turn and see the look on his friend's face.
Conrad put a hand on his shoulder, stopping them both. "Yuuri, we can talk to Gwendal in a moment. I need to tell you some things first."
Yuuri bowed his head. "Fine."
They walked again in silence until Conrad led him into an empty conference room. It was one of the places they used when a lot of important people came to the castle and ended up spending hours pretending not to yell at one another. Expensive looking tapestries hung from the walls and the fact that they were the only two people in the room made the table seem longer and the chairs seem more empty.
"Why don't you sit, Yuuri." Conrad locked the door behind him before walking toward him.
"Conrad." Yuuri remained standing. "Why did you lock the door?"
The other man looked pained. "It's to give me more time to keep you from running out of it."
"Erm." This was turning out to be a bit more serious than he had anticipated. Cold nerves pooled in his gut and he leaned back against the table.
This must have been close enough to sitting to put Conrad at ease and the older man moved away from the door to stand next to him. Conrad put a hand on his arm and Yuuri couldn't help but wonder if it was there for comfort or confinement.
"Yuuri," Conrad started, and took a breath. "What I told you this afternoon about a soldier being hurt wasn't a lie."
The sour coil in his gut wound tighter and Yuuri had to force his voice out. "Who?"
"He's alright now-- You have to focus on that before I tell you anything more." Conrad's grip on his arm tightened.
"Okay, so this person is fine now. Who was it, Conrad?" Yuuri could feel a cold sweat break across his skin as he waited.
Conrad took a breath. "Wolfram."
"WHAT!" Yuuri turned as fast as he could with Conrad's grip on his arm, fingers digging into him. He needed to be facing him. "Conrad-- What happened? Why didn't you tell me sooner?"
"Yuuri, please calm down!" Conrad put his other hand on Yuuri's shoulder. "He's fine now, remember! But..." The older man lowered his gaze, seemingly focused on the floor between them. "I won't deny that the mistakes I've made today have been many, and that if it wasn't for the fact that Wolfram was very very lucky, you-- There would be no forgiveness."
Yuuri looked up at his friend's face. "Conrad. You're scaring me... please just explain what happened. Where is Wolfram now? Can I see him?"
"No." Conrad's voice was soft.
Even though Conrad opened his mouth to speak further, Yuuri couldn't stop himself from cutting him off. "If he's fine, why can't I see him?" Yuuri's voice shook. Wolfram was always supposed to be there. This bright and incomparable presence in his life. The thought that Wolfram could so suddenly not be there was terrifying in a profound way. Somehow worse now than when he had thought Wolfram dead the first time-- lying on the dirty ground while Yozak took his pulse. Yuuri's hands were shaking, and in an attempt to ground them he gripped the front of Conrad's jacket. "Conrad, where--"
"He's on his way to the only place that can truly make him well--"
"I thought you said he was ALRIGHT!"
"His life is not presently in danger! He ran out of magic, he has to go to Lesser Gael to replenish it. He has to have Second Rites." Conrad was finally looking at him, eyes wide and willing him to be calm.
Yuuri was decidedly not calm.
How could something like this have happened so suddenly! "What do you mean... run out of magic?" It was one of those things everyone here seemed to talk about, but Yuuri had never heard of it happening since he'd arrived. Everyone always warned him about overdoing it in human territories, but since he'd never really been hurt from it Yuuri tended not to think of it as a real threat. When he needed magic it simply came. But then again, hadn't overusing magic caused the death of Conrad's Susannah Julia?
"Apparently Wolfram knew he was running out, was under orders not to use his magic until he journeyed to Lesser Gael--"
"You KNEW something like this and didn't tell me!" Wolfram knew something like this and didn't tell me?
"Of course not! The only one who seemed to know was the Sage and he says Wolfram had been delaying of his own decision. But..." Conrad trailed off, his eyes once again dark, distant. "When I told you a soldier was injured this afternoon, I didn't know what was wrong. Only that he was hurt-- badly. I found him on my way to find you. One of his men was with me and took him to Gisela while I went to find you-- Wolfram had told a guard that you were alone with Saralegui-- I didn't know what had happened. I didn't know if you were alright."
"But I was!" Yuuri interrupted. "If you knew then... why didn't you say something!"
"Because you didn't know. Something had happened to Wolfram when he was following you and Saralegui, I-- I knew-- at the time I thought it had to be Saralegui's fault. After I left you-- If Wolfram hadn't been alright--" Conrad paused once more. "I would have had to kill him. I'm not proud-- There are parts of me of which I am not proud. I did not want you to have to watch me kill him."
Yuuri felt like he was in shock. "What if Wolfram wasn't alright... What if I could have saved him but I wasn't there?"
Conrad remained silent as blood rushed in Yuuri's ears.
And then the other thing Conrad had said seemed to register. "You would kill him?"
"If I thought he killed my brother. Yes."
Sara's voice echoed in his ears. Monster of Ruttenburg. Murderer! Murderer!
"No..." Yuuri whispered. "You wouldn't. Conrad, you couldn't."
Even though his voice was hard, Conrad's eyes were sad. "I'm not proud."
"But Sara didn't do anything! He was with me the whole time! Sara didn't do anything that would make Wolfram need to--" A heartbeat. Yuuri felt like he couldn't breathe. No. Wolfram couldn't have seen that. And even if he had it wasn't as if Sara could have known that Wolfram would get sick if he used his magic-- If he got angry enough. Yuuri hadn't even known... There was no way Sara could have.
"Yuuri." Conrad had removed the hand gripping Yuuri's arm and placed it lightly on his head. "Are you alright? Did Saralegui--"
"No." He forced himself to look at his friend's face again. "I don't understand why Sara is everyone's target for everything. He's not a bad person."
"I have my own reasons to be suspicious." Conrad removed his hand from Yuuri's head.
Yuuri frowned, "What reasons?"
Conrad's eyes narrowed. "When I found you Yuuri, Sara was very concerned about the fact that I was in the room."
"Well you can be a bit menacing... And he's lived in a human territory... I'm sure your reputation is intimidating to people who don't know the real you." Yuuri could feel his cheeks get hot as guilt rose for being intimidated earlier by Conrad's statement that he would be able to kill Sara out of revenge.
"Sara seemed to be very concerned, and yet his guardian was content to watch from across the room. Without making so much as a move to draw his weapon." Conrad waited for recognition to dawn on Yuuri's face before continuing. "I will protect you, Yuuri. I've made mistakes-- but nothing I've ever done has been without the need to ensure your safety at the forefront of my thoughts. Sara is, if not dangerous, at the very least hiding much of what he wants from us. If he does wish to do you harm, the first thing he would do is find a reason for me not to be there. For me not to be able to protect you. And since you are the king, who's mind should he change of that first?"
Yuuri's head seemed to swell with too many thoughts, aching and piling on top of one another in unbalanced stacks. He moved away from Conrad to sit in one of the abandoned chairs and put his head in his hands. Conrad let him go but stayed close. "This is all so much."
"I know. I'm sorry."
Yuuri tightened his fists by the side of his head until strands of his hair got caught between his fingers and tugged painfully at the roots. It was alright, though. For some reason the sting helped him focus. "I'm going to talk to Sara tomorrow. I can't-- think about that right now." Yuuri took a deep breath and made himself look up. "Tell me more about Wolfram. He's going to Lesser Gael... But that's through human territory. South... He'd be going through the areas that are being affected by the plague."
Conrad sat in the chair beside him. "He's going to be traveling along an ancient path. One that has been protected and hidden by mazoku over the years even though it leads through human territories. It avoids major cities, and in those places where it goes near humans, the people there have always thought those particular patches of forests haunted. Wolfram shouldn't be near many people-- and people are what spread disease."
Yuuri nodded, but he didn't feel much better. Wolfram was... gone. He had seemed so happy the last time he'd seen him, so real and alive. It was surreal that he would go to bed tonight alone. That there would be no more sneaking around to do homework. No more--
Yuuri blushed and was horrified with by his own train of thought. How could he think about missing something like that when his friend could be in trouble? That was hardly the most important part of their relationship. Then another thought. "Greta." He stood. "Greta will be worried, I should tell her before she finds out he's gone on her own."
"Wolfram told her before he left." Conrad stood beside him.
"What?!" Yuuri spun to face him. "He said goodbye to Greta and not to--"
"He wanted to see you," Conrad interrupted. "Why he wasn't permitted is a question for Gwendal."
Yuuri was silent for a moment. "If Wolfram really wanted to say goodbye-- He wouldn't have listened."
"Wolfram was..." His friend paused to collect himself. "I imagine after such a nearly fatal experience Wolfram would be eager to do what was needed to return to your side as quickly as possible. I'm sure he thought he would be better able to protect you if he didn't have to worry about not being able to use his magic."
Yuuri nodded dimly again. And then he didn't move, he just let the thoughts and feelings run over him in waves. His head throbbed and he rubbed his forehead.
"A lot has happened." Conrad's hand found it's way to his back again. "Maybe you should get some rest. You said you were tired earlier."
"Alright." Yuuri allowed himself to be led out of the conference room, down the hallways, and into the royal suite. It just seemed big and dark and empty. He sat numbly on the bed and waited for Conrad to move around the room and light all the candles. All that did was make Yuuri's chest throb and the image of Wolfram lighting up the room with a wave of his hand replay over and over in his mind. Yuuri tried to think about the last time he had seen Wolfram use his magic. It was strange, Wolfram always seemed to use his power for everything. It was so much a part of the other boy that imagining him without it seemed impossible. But the more Yuuri thought, the more he realized that Wolfram really hadn't been using his maryoku lately. In fact, Yuuri couldn't remember him using it ever since the Winter Formal when... When the lights went out and Wolfram hadn't been there...
How could he not have noticed something like this? Especially with how much time the two of them had been spending together lately. Though, Yuuri admitted, his mind was... elsewhere during most of those times. But still, why would Wolfram keep such a secret from him?
"Yuuri." Conrad's voice.
He started. Yuuri had been so lost in thought he had forgotten the other man was in the room.
"I'm sorry about all of this, but if you need me anytime tonight I'll be right outside." Conrad bowed slightly before closing the door behind him.
Once again Yuuri was struck by how large-- how cold this big room was. I'll be right outside. Yuuri stared at the wooden door. Conrad was outside-- to make sure he didn't try anything stupid.
Like follow Wolfram.
Yuuri knew it was a stupid idea. Irresponsible. He was needed so much here. Yuuri was Maou and there was all this complicated business with Sara and the plague. But how wonderful it would be to escape it all. To have an adventure with Wolfram and see the countryside again. To sleep under the stars and breathe the fresh air of the fields. He sighed and lay back on the bed.
It was a stupid idea.
Yuuri got up and walked out on the balcony. After all... this air was fresh, shouldn't that be enough? He looked down at the gardens below, a few guards making their rounds among the hedges and the half-melted snow covering the flowerbeds. Yuuri remembered jumping out of balconies, escaping stuffy parties and taking care of Wolfram when he got drunk. The other boy's lips on his neck. His own temporary horror.
In some selfish way Yuuri felt cheated that Wolfram had left now. When he seemed on the verge of... something. He knew he was doing things with the other boy because it was what everyone wanted. What would make everyone else happy. What would be best for their daughter and family. Yuuri shivered. It wasn't uncomfortably cold, really. Spring seemed to be on the edge of everything, but the wind was starting to pick up and he could hear the trees rustling in darkness. There was a low buttress sticking out from the side of the castle to his right, a slight slope two stories down to the gardens.
It was a stupid, selfish idea.
Maybe he could just catch up with Wolfram-- see him for a few hours and find out why he had left so suddenly... then come back before anyone missed him! Wolfram couldn't have left all that long ago and Ao was the best horse in the stables... And he would get to see Wolfram... Yuuri bit his lip. He would probably get caught anyway. And then Gwendal would lecture him.
But Yuuri was the king! Shouldn't he be allowed to do what he wanted?
He took a careful look at the guards down below. None of them seemed to notice he was even standing on the balcony. Yuuri moved over to his right and lifted himself over the railing so he could stand on the small edge on the other side. Then he made the small jump over to the buttress.
The buttress was a good four feet wide, and he had to spread his arms uncomfortably to catch each edge enough to hold himself. The stone was cold and rough beneath his fingers and he could feel it scrape his skin as he slowly let himself slide down the castle wall. As his feet touched the ground Yuuri was amazed he had been able to get this far without getting caught.
A small tickle of guilt rose in his mind. Conrad-- everyone-- must have had faith in him not to try something like this. It was the only explanation. But there was no way Yuuri would be able to climb up the way he'd come, and there was no way he could get into his room again without Conrad seeing him. If Yuuri was going to be punished he might as well commit the crime. Besides, hopefully he would be back before too much trouble had been caused.
It probably took him half an hour to get to the stables. The night was cloudy and the moon and stars were hidden beneath total darkness and Yuuri imagined his black uniform helped him avoid detection on more than one occasion. As he slipped through the large wooden doors his senses were assaulted by the smells of horse and hay. Yuuri's chest was close to bursting with excitement. He began to count the stalls on his right, eager to get to his trusted Ao, when suddenly he was pulled to the side and a firm hand covered his mouth
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His.
Wolfram had always felt possessive about the boy he now held, or at least he had from the first week he'd known him. But this. He pushed his squirming ex-fiancé against the wall with a thump that echoed dangerously in the too-still stables. A few horses snorted and whinnied in annoyance, most already asleep. Wolfram kept his hand on the boy's mouth, watching as shock flew from Yuuri's eyes, replaced by grateful recognition and followed abruptly-- by guilt.
He narrowed his eyes as he slowly pulled his hand from Yuuri's mouth, dragging against soft flesh he knew had been tainted.
"Wolfram!" Yuuri gasped in an excited whisper-- at least the wimp had the mind to stay quiet. "Conrad said you'd left!"
"I did."
"Then when--"
"Gwendal would have watched us leave to be sure-- I snuck back. Because I know how much of a wimp you are," he hissed, refusing to mimic the joy in the other boy's features.
Yuuri licked his lips nervously, obviously put off by his manner. "Wolf-- I-- I'm so happy to see you! I thought you had left without saying goodbye. Why didn't you tell me?"
"I tried to. Several times-- You distract me." Wolfram moved closer, bracing his hands against the wall on either side of Yuuri's shoulders-- Insistent that his hissed whispers be louder, more threatening. How dare Yuuri do what he'd done. "The most recent time being this afternoon. But if you'll recall--" Wolfram leaned in, so he could be right by Yuuri's ear. "I was... distracted." He could hear Yuuri swallow.
"Look, Wolfram... I-- I'm sorry--"
"I saw you." Wolfram kept his face where it was. Hidden. Too close to be seen. It was enough that the wimp cause him to feel this but he would not let him see it. "I saw you... you cheater." He paused, listening to Yuuri's rapid breathing, feeling his body shake against him. "How dare you."
You're not who I knew you were.
"I didn't-- I didn't--" Yuuri's voice trembled and he could somehow feel he was close to tears. "I didn't want to-- I didn't. Wolfram you have to... You have to believe me."
It hurt.
Wolfram buried his face in the other boy's neck as Yuuri whimpered-- apologizing. Saying all the things Wolfram knew he would. After all, Wolfram knew him. He knew that Yuuri would never do anything to hurt his friends. To hurt anyone. Which is why when that filthy prince had touched him he wouldn't have known what to do. Would have been so very Yuuri about it all. The wimp would hurt himself for this. Worse than Wolfram ever could and more than Wolfram could ever really want. Because really, hurting this other person-- so close to him, so far-- was the last thing that he could ever want to do.
Wolfram had been stupid. He had let his emotions take control. And for that he had almost lost everything.
"Wolfram... Wolf-- Please say something!" And then Yuuri's arms were around him, holding him, as the other boy hiccuped and Wolfram could feel Yuuri's tears slide onto the side of his face. "Oh god. Did you really almost die? You can't die. You can't die. You can't. I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry. Please-- Please say something, Wolfram."
Wolfram moved his head to the side, rubbing the wet from Yuuri's cheek with his own. And because he had almost died, and the thought of doing anything other than exactly what he wanted seemed all kinds of stupid, Wolfram started to kiss his Yuuri's tears away.
Yuuri hushed and seemed to hold him tighter. Allowing Wolfram to do whatever he wished.
And because he wanted, Wolfram allowed himself to pretend that there was something inside Yuuri besides guilt that let him.
Wolfram let his eyes fall shut and focused on how impossibly warm and smooth the other boy's skin felt against his lips. How the salt of his tears felt against his tongue. How Yuuri's breath felt on his face. When he got close to the other boy's mouth he could feel Yuuri tilt his head toward him. He pulled away, forcing himself to hover just above where he was drawn most. "You let him touch you."
"I'm sorry--"
"It's unclean."
"I'm sorry--"
"Do you want me to make it better?"
Yuuri's fingers dug into his back. "Yes."
And so Wolfram kissed him. Hard. Hard enough to ease the ache in his chest, to make their teeth hit clumsily, and until he could taste blood. He pressed Yuuri against the wall with as much force as he could, using every part of himself. He needed to feel him. To own this. Yuuri was his. He had to be. Wolfram couldn't live in a world where it wasn't so. Wolfram made sure that every piece of soft flesh that made up Yuuri's lips had been breathlessly devoured, that his mouth was clean, and that his tongue was un-tarnished. Wolfram needed. And he didn't stop until he could feel that Yuuri needed too.
Even if it was only a physical response.
Yuuri broke free to breathe, leaning his head back against the wall. It took all of Wolfram's willpower not to simply move his desperate kisses down the other boy's neck. But things like that could lead to other things-- Things that could wait until he wouldn't drop dead the moment his emotions got the better of him.
"Yuuri." Wolfram moved back, and even in the dim light he could tell how red and swollen the other boy's lips had become. "I'm lucky to be here-- in this world. I want to be lucky enough to return to your side and because of that I do have to go." He waited for his words to sink in. "And you have to stay."
"But--"
"You know I'm right." Wolfram put his hand under Yuuri's chin, forcing him to look at him even though Yuuri tried to look at the ground. "The only reason you came was to say goodbye."
For a moment it looked like Yuuri was going to argue, but then he only pouted. "I don't like this."
"I'm glad you don't." Wolfram leaned close again. "It gives me something to want to come back to."
This time Yuuri met the kiss half way and it was much more gentle, but no less desperate. Wolfram wanted to memorize everything. Every taste and every flutter of his heart. The little whimper Yuuri made when he held him close. This was bliss. This was worth everything.
As always, Wolfram pulled back before he would have liked, but for a while was content to rest his forehead against Yuuri's, eyes still closed, and wait for their breathing to slow.
I love you.
Useless words to say, but Wolfram felt them so much they had to be there. Stupid to say them now, when he was sure they would ruin this. Yuuri wouldn't know what to say back-- and this goodbye would be sullied. And more than that, if Wolfram didn't return, it would only add to any burden his Yuuri would feel.
"When will you be back?" The heat of Yuuri's words bounced off his face.
Wolfram moved away a bit. "Shouldn't be more than a month."
"A MONTH--" Yuuri's eyes widened as his own hand shot up to cover his mouth after the shout. "That's so long!"
"The journey should be longer, we'll be pushing the horses hard." Wolfram could feel the corners of his mouth twitch up. It made his chest swell to see that Yuuri would miss him so much. "Lucien is good with camping and the like, and we'll have enough supplies that we shouldn't have to stop at any villages along the way. Don't worry too much while I'm gone. I expect you to have gotten the truth out of that sneaky prince by the time I come back so that I can kick him back to Shou Shimeron."
Yuuri gave him a warning look. "Everyone picks on Sara."
Wolfram glared. "He is dangerous Yuuri. I want you to promise, whether you trust him or not, that you'll be careful. Don't let him get you alone again. I fully expect you to allow Weller to look after you while I'm gone."
Yuuri nodded reluctantly. "The only thing is... I feel like he would tell me if we were alone. He's started to mention things, about how he didn't have a choice to come here. If it could help with finding things out, shouldn't I be able to take a little risk?"
"It's not a little risk." Wolfram grabbed him, holding him close for possibly the last time. "You are so important. You are our king. If something happens to you, every sacrifice we've made-- Gwendal, Conrad, everyone-- will be useless." Wolfram could feel himself blushing, so he put his face into Yuuri's shoulder. "Don't do anything reckless. And--" He squeezed his eyes shut. It was mortifying, but he knew if he didn't say it he would regret it. "Don't let anyone else... touch you... the way you let me."
Wolfram knew, as jealous as he was, he had no right to the wimp, but he couldn't help himself.
He felt Yuuri twist to press his lips against Wolfram's head as he spoke. "I don't-- I don't really know... about any of this. But... I don't want to do those types of things with Sara."
Wolfram just held him for a moment. Basking in the feeling of Yuuri's arms around him, in so much closer to a declaration than he had allowed himself to hope for. He forced himself to let go, pausing to place one last kiss on Yuuri's still-swollen lips. "I have to go."
Yuuri, who still had a hand on Wolfram's hip, squeezed once before releasing him. He nodded. "Come home safe."
"Don't look so worried, Wimp." Wolfram made himself huff, needing to put some semblance of normalcy into this unfortunate parting. "It's just a little trip. I'll go and preform the rites and head straight back. There's nothing to worry about."
He could see Yuuri forcing the smile onto his lips. "Alright, then."
"Don't spoil Greta while I'm gone."
Yuuri pouted. "That's your job."
"She's my daughter," Wolfram whispered defensively. "Remember, though, it would be best if no one knew what happened. The story is I'm going to Belefield. Don't let on you know otherwise, especially to Prince Pervert."
"What did you call him?" Yuuri's eyes got wide.
Wolfram's cheeks reddened. "That's not important. Just remember to stay on your guard about everything."
This was it. Goodbye. Wolfram wanted to drag it on forever, but he knew he really did need to leave. Staying this long hand been reckless and who knew how much luck he had left in his future. "You should be escorted back to your room. I'm going to watch you until you contact the nearest guard and then I'll go back the way I came. Lucien is waiting out of sight with the horses." Wolfram paused, drinking in the sight of him one final time. "Take care of yourself."
For a moment Yuuri seemed not to know what to do with his hands before shoving them into his pockets. "You better take care of yourself, too."
They walked together to the door, arms and shoulders brushing occasionally along the way. Before he left, Yuuri tried to give him an encouraging smile, but Wolfram would treasure the light hand that fell on his shoulder more. "Really, Wolfram. Come home soon." Yuuri's eyes narrowed for a moment and the hand moved to touch the bottom of Wolfram's hair, tugging lightly on a lock. There must have been enough light for Yuuri to tell the color had changed.
"I'll do everything I can," Wolfram breathed.
And then Yuuri turned to walk away, towards a sentry standing a few yards off by the castle wall. As he walked, Yuuri looked over his shoulder at least five times, and Wolfram's feet felt stuck to the filth-covered floor. It wasn't until after Yuuri made contact with the guard and the two of them turned the corner back towards the main part of the grounds that Wolfram was able to move at all.
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AN: Thank you all for reading! Comments are made of win!
Review Responses:
MostlyLovely- /grins/ I'm glad you liked the steam, I had to be sure to get it in while I still could.
Misoka Mine- Thank you so much for your praise! It is always so wonderful to get writing!validation /smiles and blushes/ Especially for for the Yuuri and Wolfram interaction which is always so tricky.
pikeebo- Huzzah for things finally happening /smiles/. However, Yuuri is not uke. Wolfram is not uke. There is no uke. They are boys in a relationship there is no need for one to bottom all the time. Where's the fun in that? XD I'm glad to hear all your thoughts and fears though... the prophesy is supposed to be scary so I'm glad that came off well. (Sorry to give you that small uke rant thing) /hugs/
moosemix- Thank you XD They take forever.
poo82- Yes. I tend not to be kidding with any of the warnings, especially for sex. /grins/ Which is why, especially later if you see something that is squcky... be cautious. Also, omg sharing emotion with readers... is the best thing in the world... your tears are such flattery /turns red/. As for Yuuri being drugged... I'm sure with this latest chapter and a few things in the last one... the answer to that should be clear. /wink/
enhlee- Yay for love /smiles/ The duel gave me quite a hard time so I'm glad it came off well. Conrad's whole pov made me forget how to use commas for a while... XD
Yuuram88- /smiles/ mmmmm sexual tension. This chapter is definitely the most sexy (or rather, the last chapter was sexy I guess...) I suppose now there's just more Sara!infuriation to look forward to for a while. Even I get annoyed with his presence sometimes. /squirms/ But there's so much else going on I hope it won't get too annoying...
Dream's Abyss- I'm glad things make more sense now. /smiles/ I do tend to reference small things from the series quite a bit. However, this story has nothing to do with the OVAs or season 3, so just think of whispers as alternate universe. Also, Sara from the show/novels has nothing to do with this one, besides how he looks. XD Just something to keep in mind...
Maeleene- Don't worry about excuses or anything, I certainly don't want to make reviewing seem like a burden. You're not a slacker! /hugs/ Also, omg fanart /wiggles/ I'm so honored!! As for Maxine... that's for later /grins/ Thank you so much for another awesome, amazing review! With sprinkles!! /loves/
alice22- Thank you for the lovely comment. /smiles/ I'm enjoying the changes in Yuuri too. XD I think sometimes they needed a change of situation to move forward. /hugs/
ces- Thank you! /grins/ I hope I didn't keep you waiting too long, and that I kept the performance level up.
HeatherR- I agree with you that Yuuri needs to talk to someone. /smile/ He's so confused. Also yay for noticing Sara's tricks, quite a few people missed them. Although, Wolfram has... benefited from them. XD Thank you again for another comment of win. /hugs/
spikesluscious- /turns red/ Ohh so many flattering things /hugs/ Thank you! I hope this chapter was a lovely read as well!
Morena Evensong- Thank you for so much awesome praise! Ohh and I don't think you've missed anything about the ring, I haven't spelled that out quite yet so keep an eye out for it when it comes. /wink/ I hope I answered some questions with this update though I'm sure I created even more.../sweatdrop/
Cheska Hayden Elmore-- Wow! What a comment! /blushes/ The word "novel" just makes my insides all fluttery. Someday... /grins/ Yuuri laughing during that scene was not something that I planned actually, it was something that just happened when I sat down to write something that was completely different in my head. But, Yuuri seemed to want to do it... that sounds so crazy sorry. /hides/ And I'm sorry I must have disappointed you about TONIGHT. I hope you'll forgive me someday. /hides more/. As soon as I get out of college for the summer chapters should come along a lot faster, so I hope you'll continue to have patience with me. Thank you so much again for an amazing comment!!
Rivana-- Haha! Yes, Yuuri is such a BOY sometimes. Thank you for your complements, I'm always working hard to make my writing and this story better, and it's such a pleasure to see that it's working. Thank you again!
flacedice-- You know the level of my devotion, I still owe you a private email response, if I put it here the chapter word count would go up and people's expectations would get all confused. But yes, I adore you as always and I will send you a proper response soon! I'm so so sorry I haven't done so sooner I've been so busy! But your comments really do help me so much!
Cheska Hayden Elmore-- Hello again! We've spoken on lj so I'll leave this one as a short thank you thank you thank you! /hugs/