Shouri was the last to board and once there he immediately took Murata's hand fixing his glasses with the others. "We're going to bed now." He said as he started to pull him away.

"But I've things to discuss-" Murata attempted to protest.

"No." Shouri turned and gave him a stern look then started down the stairs again. "You need sleep."

Murata blinked at the tone and couldn't help but feel like a child. "W-well then…" He allowed Shouri to lead him to the small cabin that was reserved for Murata himself.

Shouri moved into the room and closed the door then walked over to the bed and sat down on it. He reached up and pulled Murata down onto his lap and wrapped both arms around him, his face pressed into Murat's shoulder. "Murata, I- I was really worried about you."

Pink tinged Murata's cheeks a the man's actions and gentle, yet firm words. He looked down at his hands. "It's really alright. Nothing happened. I knew nothing would." He let out a small chuckle and shrugged. "The soldier even though I was the Demon King." Murata sat there a moment then spoke again as he continued to watch his hands. "That's okay, though. Shibuya wanted you to come find me. So you did. You always care so much about your younger brother." Murata smiled up at him. Of course that was the reason. Why else would Shouri go out into danger like that?

Shouri looked at Murata with a confused expression then sighed and shook his head. "I went on my own, Murata. Yuu-chan didn't sent me out to find you. The moment I heard you were unsafe I- Well, I didn't think. I just left. Murata, whether you want to admit it or not, you are my boyfriend and I have to do everything in my power to save you from danger." Shouri tucked a bit of hair behind Murata's ear and turned his face towards him. "And I'm glad I did."

The smiled disappeared from Murata's face. "Y-you did on your own?" He blinked then tilted his head as he started to understand. "I see." He looked away with an embarrassed smile.

Shouri pet his hair a moment then pulled him closer as he moved both of them to lay down on their sides. "Murata, I will do anything for you."

Murata allowed himself to be moved then curled up against Shouri's body, grateful for the comfort. "Well, thank you for com-" His words were cut off as Shouri pulled his face toward his and kissed him for a few moments. Shouri used the distraction to pull Murata's glasses from his face and laid them on the bedside table behind him.

"Now sleep."

"A-ah…" Murata made a weak grab for his glasses even though they were already out of his reach. "I really can't sleep now."

A smiled played at Shouri's lips as he watched Murata. He then gently pressed his lips to his forehead. "Yes, you can." He leaned his head down and kissed him again. His tongue played at the bottom of Murata's lip and he bit it gently before pressing their lips together again.

Murata shivered slightly at the soft touch. He let out a soft moan and pulled himself closer to Shouri, surprised at how well his body fit against the older man's. Shouri smiled and let his tongue trace along Murata's lips as he pressed one large hand against Murata's lower back and pressed their bodies together, killing the distance between them.

"Ah…" Murata shivered again and felt his emotions run wild. He really does care a lot about me. At first I thought he was just playing with me but now after this- I understand what he feels. At least a little bit. He left Shibuya's side to come….after me. Murata's eyes opened wide a moment then slowly closed as a smile touched his lips.

Shouri pulled back a little and gave Murata a loving smile. "Murata…" He breathed and pressed his forehead against the smaller male's.

"Shouri I- Hnn…t-thank you. For saving me." Murata copped out of his confession. He wasn't' quite positive if he was feeling it just in the moment or if it was real. Maybe someday. He turned is face down and pressed his head against Shouri's chest.

A smile spread across Shour's face. He'd understood what Murata meant to say but wouldn't push it just yet. He bent his head and whispered in Murata's ear. "I love you, too, Ken." He kissed the top of his head and held him close in both arms.

A smile touched Murata's lips and blush heated his cheeks. Though Shouri couldn't see it, Murata was certain he knew. "Thank you." He whispered and closed his eyes curling along Shouri's body, his amrs pulled up against his chest. He lay there for several minutes just listening to the beating of Shouri's heart and the air passing through his lungs. Soon after the Daikenja's breathing started to slow.

"Sleep well." Shouri smiled and lovingly stroked his hair. He couldn't express how happy it made him feel that Murata was letting him hold him to close as he slept. He was afraid to let the moment end. He smiled again and looked down at the ebony-haired boy he held. His face was relaxed and calm, angelic even. Shouri's heart skipped a beat at the sight then he kissed the top of his head once more.

Yozak grinned as he walked up to Conrart. "Nothing too much got in your way back there?"

Conrart shook his head, one hand moving through his hair. "Only a few soldiers here and there." He gestured to the sword at his side that he'd taken from the guard and pulled it out of his belt. The blade was bare and needed to be put away. "Wolfram was able to fight, which was a great help. Though I'm afraid he injured himself further." He sighed with a grim expression.

"Well, that's good at least. I'm glad Wolfram had enough confidence to swing the sword around. It seems like he's a bit back to normal then."

"Every once in awhile he his. Though I fear he's not the same Wolfram anymore. Not for a while anyway. He was jumpy, constantly clinging to me. Every guard he saw caused him to tremble. I don't know for sure what all happened but I know this. It would horrify anyone."

"I am afraid it's the same. I don't think this experience will ever leave him. I assume that what Akane did to him, happened again? Only much worse." Yozak sighed and shook his head with two hands on his hips. He then looked up at Conrart seriously. "I just hope he can recover from this."

Conrart nodded and leaned against the ship's rail. "It'll be hard. Especially since His Highness will want to do everything for him." He looked at Yozak with a pained expression. "Wolfram told me that he wasn't allowed to do anything for himself. Akane even carried him everywhere." He shook his head. "That is exactly what his Highness is going to do."

"Indeed it is. His Highness is too protective over Wolfram. He forgets that Wolfram is a trained solider sometimes." Yozak sighed. "Though his feelings are very grounded. After all of this? He has every right to be protective. There's nothing we can do about it. Though maybe if you had a word with him, it would help."

"I will do my best but His Highness is so stubborn. I just pray he doesn't harm any progress Wolfram may make."

"Mm. You never know what he'll do next. He's so unpredictable." Yozak noticed how Conrart nursed his shoulder a few times during their conversation and sighed. "You yourself are quite stubborn. I can see your injured shoulder. Shall we go and get you fixed up?"

"Mm." Conrart nodded then looked at Yozak. "That would be wise."

"Alright. We'll get you bandaged up then some good, decent food." Yozak grinned.

"Actually, Yozak, I'm finding myself extrememly exhauseted. I'm dead on my feet." Conrart admitted.

"Well then. Bed for you." Yozak winked and took his arm to lead him down the stairs. "I won't hear of any more complaints. You're getting fixed up and proper rest. The room you and I will share with Gwendel is right next to His Majesty's. In case anything happens, we're close."

"We're not out of danger yet." Conrart added. "Even so, I will honestly fall asleep the moment my head hits that pillow."

Both men walked down into the room and Yozak helped Conrart to remove his jacket and shirt. He took a small medical kit and carefully cleaned the wound in Conrart's shoulder. It wasn't deep enough to really cause him any trouble but it would hurt for a few days. Yozak wrapped clean bandages around the wound and Conrart fell backward onto the bed.

"You're hopeless." Yozak sighed only getting a tired smile in return. "Alright, alright. Get some rest, Captain."

The moment she heard everyone had returned Gisela hastily made her way onto the main deck and walked over to where Gwendel was supporting Wolfram on his feet. She smiled at first then her expression immediately changed to worry when she saw the blood spots in Wolfram's shirt and the skittering look he gave anyone that came near him. Even Gwendel made him tense slightly. "I'm glad to see you back with us. Wolfram, please come so that I may treat your wounds?" Gisela offered out her hand as Wolfram looked like he was about to fall over.

"Yes, please." Wolfram nodded his head and started towards the stairs. He refused help from anyone who offered it. Gisela looked up and Gwendel who nodded once then she followed after Wolfram. She tried to help him down the stairs but he merely pushed her hand away and slowly moved down them. She clenched one hand against her chest as he painfully moved, nearly falling twice. She managed to get up ahead of him once they reached the bottom and lead him to a room near the end of the hall. Inside lay Yuuri, sleeping on one side on the bed. She gestured for Wolfram to go inside then followed him, closing the door behind her.

Yuuri sensed the disturbance and trembled in his sleep. "W-wo-lfram…."

Wolfram leaned against the wall near the door. "Yuuri." He closed his eyes a moment. "Gisela, is he alright?" He asked then forced himself to walk further into the room.

"He's fine, Wolfram. Just a bump on the head and using too much power. I heard he stayed as the Maoh until his power ran out to keep you safe. He waked every once in a while." Gisela smiled and held onto Wolfram's arms as she helped him sit down on the edge of the bed.

"Just as reckless as always then."

Yuuri's eyes slowly opened at the sound of voices in the room. It took him a few seconds to focus his eyes, still partially glazed over. He first saw Gisela then a head of blonde hair. He sat up quickly and took a moment to refocus as he patted the bed beside him. Tears started to roll down his face. "Wolf…" He breathed.

Wolfram looked at Yuuri as he sat up. "Ah- Yuuri you shouldn't-" He stopped himself at the sight of Yuuri's expression. He hesitated slightly then raised his left hand to touch his face. "D-don't cry, Yuuri…"Wolfram had to choke back his own relieved sobs.

Yuuri placed his hand on top of Wolfram's as the tears continued to fall. "Wolfram, you're safe now. I-I'll never let you go again." He closed his eyes then opened them again looking at Wolfram. Pain and sorrow were clear in his expression. "Wolf, I love you. I love you, I love you!" Yuuri hugged him completely forgetting the wounds on Wolfram's body. A pained cry alerted him and he quickly let go. "Ah- sorry!" Yuuri looked at him and realized he'd gained another wound. He looked up at Gisela silently and begged her to help with his expression.

"Wolfram, I'm going to need to have you lay down so that I can start to treat your wounds. Is that okay?" Gisela asked in a quiet, gentle voice.

Wolfram looked at Gisela and nodded silently. He then sucked in a deep breath and bit his lip as he lifted his legs onto the bed and slowly lay down on the bed. His body remained tense for a few seconds as he tried to contain the pain as much as he could. He then let out a long breath and his body sank into the bed.

Gisela and Yuuri exchanged another look then the green-haired woman started to work. Yuuri gently brushed Wolfram's hair from his face as his other hand held firmly to Wolfrmam's. Gisela unbuttoned Wolfram's shirt and gently peeled away the bandages the doctor had given him. She was glad to see that he'd been properly taken care of by the physician though she knew it was still a long way from healing. She dabbed a wet cloth along the long gash across Wolfram's torso then wrapped each of the wounds in fresh gauze and bandages.

"Ah, careful Gisela. It tore earlier while I fight some s-soldiers." Wolfram grimaced and swallowed closing his eyes. He trembled as he remembered the soldiers who had their way with him at the castle. He wouldn't cry about his memories just yet. He didn't want to relieve those again.

Gisela nodded and moved more slowly. She held out her hands over Wolfram's head first, then worked down to each of the wounds in his torso. She was unaware of the slice in Wolfram's inner thigh but new something was wrong by the way he moved.

Yuuri noticed the way Wolfram reacted and squeezed his hand, trying to give him some comfort as he moved a little closer. He looked down at him and lay the back of his hand on Wolfram's cheek. "Wolfram, relax. I'm here. I'll protect you now."

"I'm fine, Yuuri. You should go back to sleep. I won't be going anywhere." With Yuuri there, Wolfram had something focus on. He could focus on his need and duty to his king and fiancé. He closed his eyes to relax a bit to help Gisela heal his wounds. He'd have to mention his other wounds to her when Yuuri was asleep. He didn't want him to know. Not yet.

Wolfram's words seemed to send a surge of fatigue threw Yuuri's body again. He blinked a few times, trying to stay awake but couldn't. He finally nodded and leaned down to Kiss Wolfram's forehead then laid next to him. His hand held tightly to Wolfram's as he slowly drifted off to sleep.

Several minutes passed and Gisela moved from Wolfram's chest down to the wound in his side, holding her glowing hands over his wound. "You're so brave. I'll fix you right up." She offered a smile.

Wolfram waited a few more minutes to make sure that Yuuri was asleep before he allowed small tears to fall down his face. "Gisela." His quiet voice faltered. He looked over at her. "It happened again. S-so many times…I can't remember how many b-but they just…w-wouldn't stop." His voice cracked again as tears spilled down his face and he looked away in shame. He broke down into quiet sobs as his emotions broke through the floodgates.

Gisela's eyes widened a moment then looked at him. She sat silent a moment as she slowly buttoned up the shirt again to help guard him against a chill. She slowly brushed her hand across Wolfram's forehead, her other hand picked up his and squeezed it against her chest. "Wolfram, everything will be okay now. You're going to fine. You're safe." She kept her hand on his forehead as she focused on trying to help his mind relax. Hopefully I can lull him into a good sleep. Thinking about it is only going to make it worse on him.

Wolfram tremelbed despite the comfort Gisela was urging into his mind. "He let them do things. Encouraged them. T-the got angry and killed them and then did things. He-" A sob broke from his lips. "H-he made me ask to be saved from one of them…h-h-he just stood there watching!"

Gisela continued to focus her energy into calming him. "He did terrible things to you. There is no forgiving that. You need to rest. When you wake, you'll feel better and Yuuri will be here to make sure you are safe."

It took several minutes for Wolfram to regain control of himself. He looked back at Gisela with red, puffy eyes and nodded. "Thank you listening. I don't think I could tell that sort of thing to anyone else." He gave her a serious yet desperate look. "Please don't say anything."

"I promise I won't say a word to anyone, Wolfram. Though I'm glad you trusted in me to let me know. Your wounds should be able to heal within a few weeks as long as you do as I say." She patted his good shoulder. "You should really get some rest. Tomorrow is going to be a big day for everyone.

Wolfram nodded again. "I'll try my best. I don't know if I can. I keep getting these- these horrible nightmares."

"Try to think about something better. Like Yuuri. Or Gretta. She can't wait to see her father when you return home."

"Ah…Gretta." Wolfram swallowed. But I'm not her father yet. Not really. That was ruined for me.

Gisela smiled at him then stood up. "Will you be okay?"

"No, not really. But I'll have to be for now."

"You are a strong person, Wolfram. I know you'll be okay. Now please, rest."

Wolfram sighed and let his head roll to the side. He closed his eyes. "I'll try my best." His chest rose and fell slowly as he focused on relaxing and Yuuri's hand that held his.

Gisela sat back and watched Wolfram as he slowly fell asleep. She then quietly left the room and returned up the main deck where Gwendel had remained. She walked over to him with a tired smile. "As long as Wolfram rests and doesn't move around too much, he should be fine. Physically."

"Thank you, Gisela." Gwendel nodded his thanks to her.

"It wouldn't hurt if you got some sleep as well." Gisela pressed.

Gwendel looked down at her. "I don't have time to let frivolous things such as sleep take over. We may very well be at war."

Gunter walked over glad to see that Gisela had returned. "What news have you, Gisela. How is the young Lord? I only regret not being here to greet him when he came aboard." His voice was serious, much unlike his normal tone.

"He will be doing better soon. As long as he rests. Father, I worry that any stress we bring on Lord von Bielefeld will harm him. Is there any way we can stop this possible war?"

Gunter sighed. "As you've probably heard from Lord von Voltaire, we really can't avoid anything anymore. I hate to say it, but it's unavoidable. At this point there is nothing we can do."

"Then I will prepare for the worst when we return." Gisela nodded and looked out over the water.

"While his Highness is resting, it is our duty to oversee everything for him." Gunter responded

"I understand. He needs all the rest he can get now that Lord von Bielefeld has returned to our side." Gisela smiled. "I will prepare to help them when they wake again." She turned on one foot and walked off in the direction that Gunter had come from.

"Gunter, what is the status on preparations back in Shin Makoku?" Gwendel asked as he stared out at the sea.

"Last I heard everything in Shin Makoku is running smoothly. The guests have been allowed to leave and return to their homes. Though some have stayed behind to offer their support to King Yuuri. Word is that Waltorana von Bielefeld has already dispatched his own navy fletet." Gunter rubbed his temple with one hand.

"Has he? That is going to cause us trouble. Do you know how far his fleet has come?" Gwendel turned to look at his companion.

Gunter shook his head. "No, I'm afraid I don't. Though as you already know the Bielefeld lands are easily accessible to the water."

"So we may come upon their ship shortly. We shall have to prepare for Waltorana to come aboard. Will you prepare a room for him? I'm sure he will want to visit with Wolfram."

"I've already seen to it. We wouldn't be able to stop him even if we wanted to. Waltorana von Bielefeld is a very pushy man when it comes to the things he treasures." Gunter mused.

"I do remember." Gwendel sighed. "Gunter. We need to make sure he doesn't get out of line.

"I'll see what I can do."

Thank you." Gwendel turned to his soldiers and started barking orders on what heading to take as they continued to travel, unfollowed through the open sea. Dai Cimaron's land was no longer visible to the eye.

Gunter nodded and turned to move towards his own study aboard the ship where he would prepare a dove message for Waltoran's ship.

Hours passed and Yuuri woke to find his hand still tightly clutched in Wolfram's. He moved a little closer and kissed his cheek then gently laid an arm over him and put his head against Wolfram's. "You're safe now." He said more to reassure himself than the sleeping Wolfram.

Wolfram's body tensed at the touches subconsciously. "Don't…touch me…" He mumbled in his sleep.

Yuuri just lay there, his arm tightening slightly. "It's me, Wolf. It's Yuuri. I'm not going to hurt you."

"Hnn…s-stop." Wolfram weakly attempted to get away. "Let…go Akane…."

Yuuri paused for a moment and pulled away from him. He looked at Wolfram with a pained expression then moved to him trying to hold him. "Open your eyes. Wolf, it's me." His tone was a bit angered as he spoke. "Wolfram, it's Yuuri."

Wolfram tensed again, a slight trembling took over his body. "N-no…" He shook his head and tried again to get away. Sweat had formed on his forehead as he tried to wake up but couldn't quite yet.

Yuuri looked at Wolfram with furrowed brows. It worried him how Wolfram was reacting to him. He kissed the blonde's forehead and lifted him a little to wrap both arms around him. "Wolfram, he can't touch you anymore. You're safe with me. You're safe."

Wolfram continued to murmer and try to escape for nearly a minute before he manged to wake himself in a panic. "Ah!" He cried then took a few aubidlbe breaths before swallowing. "Y-yuu-ri?" He moved away from Yuuri's arms out of habit from the last few days and hugged himself. "Sorry…" He said quietly as he buried his face in his knees. "I was having a nightmare again. Did I wake you?" Wolfram's voice cracked as he spoke.

Yuuri sat up slowly and moved to put an arm around Wolfram, pulling him close. "No, you didn't. I woke up before you did. Wolf. I'm so glad to have you back. I'm here now. I can protect you."

Wolfram swallowed and took a minute to convince himself that Yuuri was only trying to comfort him. "It's my job to protect you, Yuuri." He looked up at him with a serious, determined expression. "It's my duty both as a soldier and as your fiancé." Wolfram's normal fire wasn't in his voice as he spoke.

"I know that, Wolf." Yuuri shook his head then gave him a serious look. "But I need to protect you at this moment. It's all I can do, Wolf. Let me protect you. You have done your duty plenty of times until now. Please. Let me do this."

Wolfram looked away a moment then closed his eyes. He steeled himself and took in a deep breath before standing up. "Where is he?"

Yuuri stood as well and pulled him into a hug, one hand petting the back of his head. "You need to rest."

Wolfram grunted and pushed Yuuri away. "Where is he, Yuuri?"

"Why?" Yuuri asked concerned.

"I-" Wolfram faltered a little then cleared his throat to try again. "I want to see him."

"I won't let you get near him, Wolf!" Yuuri put a hand on both of Wolfram's shoulders, careful not to grab his wound. "I can't allow that."

Wolfram shook his head not wanting to hear it. "I have to see him. How can I get over what happened if I can't face him head on?" Wolfram didn't feel as confident on the inside as his words attempted to sound.

Yuuri looked at him, a bit shocked by the words. He pulled him into an embrace again. "You already are, right? Wolf, I can't. I can't let him get close. I can't let him see you. I just- I can't. Do you understand?"

Wolfram shook his head. "Why can't you? What has he done to you?! I- …" Wolfram stopped as he remember that first night. When Akane had attacked both of them in their own room.

Yuuri ignored it. "He has hurt me by what he's done to you. Do you understand? He hurt the person I love the most." He could hear Akane's voice in his head echoing what he'd done to him as he bragged about it at the wedding. He used me to get to Wolfram. He- "Wolf…"

Wolfram shook a little as he struggled to keep his resolve. "I- I want to see him. Make sure myself."

"Make sure of what, Wolf? If you must visit him, I'll go with you. Though I may kill him." Yuuri clenched his fists.

"J-just." Wolfram gripped the fabric of Yuuri's shirt that lay against his chest and pulled him to him, leaning his forehead against his shoulder. "I have t-to see him. Where he can't hurt me. H-hurt you."

Yuuri warpped both of his arms around Wolfram. He hadn't realized that he'd grown taller than Wolfram until then. It was only by about five inches but even so. His life-span hadn't slowed quite as much yet. He'd hit the normal growth spurt any human had back on Earth. "He is confined in a cell in the ship's depths. He can't get to us, Wolfram. If he says anything. Anything at all about you, I'm making you leave."

Wolfram took a moment to calm himself down again and looked up at Yuuri with a scared, yet otherwise emotionless expression. "I- I have to face my fears."

Yuuri nodded in understanding though he was completely against it."Would you like to get changed first?"

"Ah…" Wolfram bit his lip then nodded slowly. "Yes, please."

Yuuri released him after planting a gently kiss on his forehead then went to the closet and pulled out Wolfram's usual uniform. He hoped the regular attire would help him ease back into normality. He laid it out on the bed then picked up the undershirt. "Here, let me help you."

"I'd much rather do it myself." Wolfram held out his hand for the uniform shirt.

"Are you sure? I don't want you to hurt yourself. I can help you, Wolf."

"Yes." Wolfram nodded. "I want to do something for myself." He looked up at Yuuri with broken eyes.

Yuuri sucked in a breath at the look feeling a pang in his heart. He then nodded his head. "Wolf." He handed him the shirt then turned around his face scrunching in pain. I did that to him. I made his face look like that. How could I? I'm his fiancé, how could I ever do such a thing? I'm terrible.

"I-I'm sorry…Yuuri." Wolfram laid a hand on Yuuri's shoulder from behind.

Yuuri reached up and touched Wolfram's hand. His eyes half dead. "I'm the one who should be sorry."

Wolfram dropped his uniform and hugged Yuuri from the back. His hands clenched into fists around the fabric against Yuuri's stomach and chest. He pressed his forehead to the other's back. "Don't."

"Don't?" Yuuri's eyes changed slightly in confusion. After everything I've done. He wants to forgive me? He's so…so- "Wolf, get dressed. Let's go see the bastard."

Wolfram nodded and hugged tighter for a second then steps back and bent to pick up his uniform. He grunted at the pain in his side, though it was significantly less now that Gisela had seen to him. "I'll only be a minute." He moved to the other side of the room where the small bathroom was and closed the door.

Yuuri closed his eyes at Wolfram's embrace then turned around when he heard the door close. He sighed and rubbed his face with both hands as he walked to lean against the wall by the door. "Wolf, are you doing alright?"

"Nn- yeah. Fine. Just a little hard to move is all." Wolfram grunted as he bent to pull on his fresh, crisp pants. His body didn't really enjoy the bending and reminded him of that.

Yuuri shook his head and opened the door to step inside. "Are you sure?"

Wolfram looked at him holding the shirt in his hands. "Ah- Y-yeah, I'm fine."

Yuuri just stood there staring. He hadn't really taken the time to notice how much of Wolfram was now covered in white bandages. His right shoulder, his chest, his stomach. Even one around his head. Who knows what else? He blinked back a few tears and wrapped his arms around him. "I'll make it all better. I promise."

"I-it's fine, Yuuri. I can't get dressed like this." Wolfram nodded against Yuuri's shoulder.

"I just don't want to let you go, sorry." Yuuri stepped back a few feet and scratched the back of his head.

Wolfram was silent as he pulled on the shirt then his jacket. "Sorry. I just. I want to do this before I lose my nerve completely."

Yuuri moved back to him and placed one hand on his left shoulder, the other on his damaged cheek. The three cuts there still felt rough to the touch but at least they weren't bleeding. One was older than the others. "You are really strong, Wolfram. I promise you. He can't do anything and won't ever again."

Wolfram shook his head and dropped both hands to his sides. "Not strong, stupid. I should have-" He shook his head again and moved for the outer door.

Yuuri caught his hand and muttered. "I should have been the one." He then raised his voice. "After this meeting will you rest?"

Wolfram looked back at him. "Did you say something before that?" He tilted his head a little, his eyes narrowing in concern. "Ah- I don't like sleeping." He tried to smile but failed.

"Ah no." Yuuri looked at him. "Then will you let me help you relax? I don't think you should be moving much.

"I'll be fine." Wolfram opened the door and stepped out into the hallway. "Well, where do we go?" He asked as he swallowed again. His heart raced at the knowledge that he was willingly going to see Akane. His mind warred back and forth about it.

"We can get there through the door at the end of the hallway." Yuuri took his hand again and lead him to the door then down the set of stairs. He noticed Wolfram's slowly decent each time he used his left leg to lower his body and thought about asking him about it, but then pushed the idea away. He ordered the guard to let them inside.

Akane was settled in a small, wooden cell built into the ship. He leaned against the back wall tied and gagged. Yuuri walked ahead of Wolfram up to the cell and glared at Akane, his fists clenching at his sides. Wolfram followed after him more timidly and almost backed out at the last second. He however overcame himself and stepped around Yuuri to get a good look. Wolfram gripped Yuuri's hand tightly as he watched the man.

"He can't hurt you, Wolfram." Yuuri's voice was edged with anger. Akane's eyebrow lifted as if he were smirking under the gag.

Wolfram took a moment, steeling himself as he built up as much anger and courage as he can so that his voice would sound much stronger than he felt. "I know he can't, Yuuri."

Yuuri squeezed Wolfram's hand as he could feel his Moah power starting to take over him. His eyes hid no anger as he glared at the man before him. "Did you wish to say anything, Wolfram?"

Wolfram pulled his hand free from Yuuri's and moved towards the bars. He wrapped slim fingers around them, staring at Akane as he willed his eyes to glare. Akane stared back at Wolfram as he gentled his eyes. He raised an eyebrow once more and tilted his head. He didn't smirk at Wolfram, or try to intimidate him with his soft gaze. The look sent an eerie chill down Wolfram's back. Yuuri noticed the change in his expression and moved to stand next to Wolfram, half behind him as his hand reached around his back to grip the bar, knuckles white from the strength.

"Yuuri, control yourself." Wolfram looked at him then back to Akane. "Be grateful you aren't dead." He shook his head and turned around. "I've seen enough."

"Okay." Yuuri took Wolfram's hand and lead him out of the room too quickly. His eyes full of rage as he lead him all the way back to their room before he said anything else. He closed the door and pulled Wolfram with him to the bed. First he sat down, then pulled Wolfram down onto his lap. "I don't like the way he was looking at you."

Wolfram tensed a little as Yuuri pulled him to lay down but didn't say anything. He moved a little to get more comfortable. He found his favourite place with his shoulder under Yuuri's arm, his hand laying on his chest and nuzzled his head against his arm. "You seemed really agitated down there. Want to talk about it?" He looked up at Yuuri.

Yuuri's eyes softened as he wrapped his arm around Wolfram's slightly smaller body. "I just- I'm glad that you're back with me. I hate that man. I didn't know I could hate someone so much. I don't understand it."

Wolfram looked down. He watched his own fingers move slightly against Yuuri's chest. "Try not to think about it. You couldn't have known. I-I mean…he was your childhood friend, right? T-there's no way-"

"I should have known by the way he was acting all clingy and such. Wolf, I should have. Will you," Yuuri paused to look down at him. "Forgive me?"

Wolfram sighed and closed his eyes a moment then looked up at him again. "Yuuri. There is nothing to forgive. You can't blame yourself. I- I can't stand it."

"Wolf. It is my fault that I brought such a person here." Yuuri continued to watch his face. "So please, Wolf."

Wolfram sat up suddenly angry. "Would you stop it?! Every time something goes wrong you think it's your fault! Well it isn't~! Get that through your thick skull, you wimp!"

Yuuri looked up at Wolfram somewhat shocked. He let a small smile play across his lips as he sat up, one hand supporting him and kissed Wolfram on the lips for a few seconds. "You haven't called me that in a long time."

Wolfram's eyes widened at the kiss ready to flinch away but didn't. "W-well…" He suddenly felt nervous as a slight blush formed. "You are!"

Yuuri let out a small laugh. "How am I a wimp? You've never explained it to me. Will you please?" He smiled as he tilted his head curiously.

"You just are." Wolfram folded his arms and turned his back to Yuuri, his side not happy with the action. "Some things just can't be explained."

"Are you sure?" Yuuri sat up more fully and wrapped an arm around his shoulder and pressed his hand to his chest. "You must know why you've called me a wimp these last few years. I'm just curious."

"I didn't like you when I met you. Stupid little kid coming in and thinking he can be the Demon King." Wolfram's voice faltered a little as he had to force himself to not shy away from Yuuri's grasp.

"And I though you were the biggest Mama's boy I had ever met who had complex with himself." Yuuri smiled. "Wolfram, I can't believe all that has happened. I fell in love with you, slowly I know. But I did." Yuuri gently guided Wolfram to turn around again. He gazed at him with soft eyes. "Wolfram, may I kiss you?"

Wolfram tensed, his cheeks slightly red. "I-" He bit his lip and looked up at Yuuri. "Y-yes."

Yuuri cupped Wolfram's face with one hand as the other moved passed his ear and into his hair. He then pulled their faces closer together, their lips almost touching but not quite. He waited there a moment as he breath ghosted against Wolfram's lips. He could see the slight fear in Wolfram's eyes and gave him a moment before he gently pressed his lips to Wolframs and kissed him passionately before he pulled away again. He let go of Wolfram's head and let his fingers trace back to hold his cheek gently.

Wolfram's heart leapt at Yuuri's gentle touch. The breath on his lips and the softness of Yuuri's lips agains his. It felt good. It felt safe and warm to have Yuuri treating him like that. He almost whimpered with Yuuri pulled away. He didn't want it to end. Tears filled his eyes at the relief of finally receiving what he so desperately wanted. "Yuuri." He chewed his lip. "I- All I thought about was you." Two tears escaped out of his eyes at the words.

"My thoughts only were about you too, Wolf." Yuuri smiled at him. "And I want your thoughts only about me. I am your fiancé after all. You never know what wimpish thing I'm going to do next, right?" He reached a gentle, warm finger up to catch the tears and wipe them away.

"I don't want to be your fiancé anymore." Wolfram looked at him. "I've been that for log enough."

"When we return, we will have a proper wedding. I want to be able to call you my husband. My Prince Consort. I know Gretta wants that as well. Wolfram…you were really beautiful that day."

Wolfram's eyes widened a little. "S-seriously? B-but you didn't even see me. Not properly anyway." Wolfram looked down at his hands in his lap.

Yuuri set one hand on top of Wolfram's. "I can't wait to. I can't wait to lift that veil off your face and stare into your beautiful, emerald eyes and call you my husband. Wolfram von Bielefeld Shibuya."

Wolfram flushed at the sound of his soon-to-be name. He then looked at Yuuri. "Ah- Jennifer will be sad. T-the kimono thing she bought was destroyed."

"She will be sad to know you called her Jennifer." Yuuri smiled and shook his head. "We can buy another one. It's not problem. Mother will just be happy to know that you are safe."

"D-don't tell her I said that." Wolfram blushed in embarrassment.

"I won't." Yuuri watched him a moment, the smile disappearing. "Wolfram. Will you promise me that this time you will not leave my side?"

"Ah-" Wolfram fidgeted a little uncomfortably. "W-well I uhm. At least until he's gone."

"Thank you." Yuuri leaned his forehead against Wolfram's. "I don't even know what I'm going to do about him. I can't even look at him without my blood boiling."

"It's alright. You'll figure something out. He won't be coming back again, right?" Wolfram begged him with his eyes.

"No, he won't. I will make sure of that." Yuuri looked at the door hearing a commotion outside it. He stood up and walked to the door and opened it. "What is all this noise?"

"Ah! Your Highness. Uh hmm. Please excuse the commotion." Gunter tried to block his view.

"What's going on?" Wolfram stood up but remained by the bed.

"Gunter really. What is all this." Yuuri tried to look passed Gunter. "Tell me what is going on."

Gunter let out a nervous laugh. "Nothing you really need to worry about. Now, please go back inside?"

"Yuuri, what is it." Wolfram walked over but stayed behind him in the room.

"I don't know, Wolf." Yuuri then looked at Gunter, hands on his hips. "Please tell me what in the worled is going on."

"That is enough! Show me where he is!" Waltorana's voice could be heard, angry at being delayed.

"Ah…please Lord von Beielfeld." Gunter protested.

Wolfram blinked as he recognized the voice. "Waltorana?" He moved passed Yuuri and Gunter into the hallway.

Yuuri followed after him and stared at Wolfram's uncle. He caught Wolfram's hand to show himself that Wolfram was safe with him. "Waltorana von Bielefeld. What a surprise."

"Ah, wait your Highness." Gunter sighed but was too late.

"Hmpf. Of course you would be surprise, King Yuuri." Waltorana's face softened as he walked towards Wolfram and pulled him into an embrace. "Wolfram, I've been so worried. Everyone has."

"Agh- Waltorana c-careful." Wolfram winced.

"Lord von Bielefeld please be careful. Wolfram really should be resting." Yuuri smiled at the man. "What are you doing here?"

Waltorana eased the hug but turned, taking Wolfram with him so that he was now between Wolfram and the others, his back to Yuuri. "I've come to take Wolfram back home." He gave Yuuri a stern look over his shoulder. "Back to Bielefeld lands."

"W-what?" Wolfram turned to face him.

"You can't be serious." Gunter was just as surprised as the rest of them.

"I will not allow that! Waltorana!" Yuuri had to shake his shock aside. "Woflram is staying with me. We still have to get married!"

Waltorana stared down at Yuuri. "You really think I'll allow that after all that has happened? Think about it. This 'relationship' is not good for Wolfram." He held the smaller blonde by the shoulders.

"Agh- W-what are you saying?!" Wolfram tried to get away from him.

This isn't good at all. I never thought he'd go this far. Gunter kept his thoughts to himself.

"Yes it is." Yuuri retorted. "Wolfram is happy with me. I love Wolfram from the bottom of my heart and he feels the same. This relationship is more than good, it's great for him. I am going to marry Wolfram, Waltorana. You can't just take my fiancé away from me."

"Regrettably, I can, King Yuuri. Ever sine meeting you, there has been nothing but danger for Wolfram. Do you really want to condemn him to a life like that?"

Wolfram's eyes widened. "Waltorana!"

Am I really putting Wolfram in that much danger? No. I am protecting him. "I do not. But I love Wolfram too much to let him go. And he loves me, too." Yuuri looked passed Waltorana at Wolfram. "Right, Wolf?"

"Ye-" Wolfram's response was halted by Waltorana's glare. He backed away from him slightly and looked away. His heart had skipped at the look and he had to remind himself he was safe here.

"It's nothing more than a child's fantasy." Waltorana deepend his glare at Yuuri. "I've let this fling go on long enough. This last episode was the last straw. You brought that man here. You let him hurt Wolfram. You let him take Wolfram away."

Yuuri took a step backward at the verbal assault and looked at Wolfram again. "H-he came here on accident. It wasn't my fault. I saved Wolfram. I would never do anything to let him be harmed again. Wolfram is not going to leave my side, he won't get taken away again."

Waltorana released Wolfram to his own guards and moved towards Yuuri so that he could meet his eyes face to face. "No. He won't get taken away again. Because he won't be in danger again. Not in my care."

"H-hey! Waltorana, what are you doing?!" Wolfram tried to pull away from the guards. His heart raced in fear at first then panic. Was he really going to take him away from Yuuri?

"Lord von Bielefeld. You mustn't be rash about this." Gunter tried to levy the situation.

"I never asked your opinion, Lord von Kliest!"

Yuuri looked at Waltorana as seriously as he could. "He won't need your care. Wolfram is staying with me. He will come home with me to Blood Pledge Castle. That is where he belongs. At my side, Waltorana."

Wolfram closed his eyes and balled his fists. "Would you two stop treating me like a possession?!" He broke away from the guards and ran up the stairs to the main deck.

"Wolfram!" Waltorana spun around and pushed passed his guards to follow Wolfram up the stairs.

"Oh dear." Gunter shook his head. "Not good at all."

"A-ah." Yuuri stood there a bit shocked by Wolfram's reaction then followed Waltorna up the stairs. The older Bielefeld had Wolfram close to him, his guards around them. "W-wolf. I din't mean to make it sound like that."

"What is all of this?" Gwendel asked as he approached the group.

Waltorana ignored Gwendel and glared back at Yuuri making sure to stay between them. "See what you do? You only cause him pain and misery."

"Lord von Voltaire, perhaps you can help the situation?" Gunter asked.

"Have you asked Wolfram that? Have you asked him what he wants, Woltarana?" Yuuri stood his ground.

Gwendel gave Waltorana a disapproving look. "Lord von Bielefeld, what is going on? You are here on our ship as a guest and yet you make all of this commotion. It's stirring up our men. What is the problem?"

"The problem, Lord von Voltaire, is that none of you have the ability to properly protect Wolfram." Waltorana responded with venom.

Wolfram was shaking slightly as he listened. "W-would everyone stop talking like I'm n-not here?"

Yuuri looked directly at Wolfram. "What do you want, Wolf?"

"You're being a nuisance on my ship." Gwendel glared.

Wolfram hugged himself. "I-I want to stay with Yuuri."

"Out of the question. He's filled your head with delusions and being a hero to save you when he fails to protect you."

"No! That's not true!" Wolfram pushed passed him and clung to Yuuri. "D-don't take me away from him again!" Tears formed on Wolfram's face.

Waltorana blinked at his nephew's behavior. "Wolfram?"

Yuuri looked down at Wolfram and wrapped his arm around his waist then looked up to meet Waltorana's gaze. "Waltorana, I will protect him. I've promised him and I'll promise you. I love Wolfram," Yuuri looked down at Wolfram again. "So much." Wolfram continued to cling onto Yuuri trying his hardest to keep those damned teards from falling in front of everyone. He was an emotional wreck to begin with. Now this issue with Waltorana was throwing him out of balance completely.

"Love can only do so much, your Highness. Rescuing someone is all well and good. But if you have to rescue them, then you've already failed in protecting them, haven't you?"

Yuuri wrapped his other arm around Wolfram in a protective manner.

"I think you've spoken enough, Waltorana." Gwendel glared at the man and moved between Yuuri and he.

"I will not let it happen again. You have my word." Yuuri's expression was dead serious.

Waltorana completely ignored Gwednel. "Have I? Is your word really that good? How many times have you said that, hmm? You even told Wolfram that man would never come back. Do you remember that? My sources sure do. Then he did come back. What good is your word?"

Yuuri tightened his embrace around the slightly shaking Wolfram. "I will make sure he never comes back again." He then looked down at Wolfram, one hand stroking the back of his head to comfort him. "We should get you to rest."

Wolfram shook his head. "No, I don't want to rest."

"We will have further discussions, your Highness, before I consent to allowing Wolfram to return with you to Blood Pledge Castle."

"Then let us discuss at a place we may relax. Gwendel is there such a place here?" Yuuri looked to the taller man.

"There is, your Highness."

"Then we shall go there to talk."

Waltorana nodded his agreement then moved to Wolfram, gently touching his shoulder. "Wolfram, I hear you've not eaten in several days. Why don't you at least do that?" His voice changed instantly when he spoke to him.

"What?! Now wonder Gisela said you looked sickly! We must find some good nutrients for you." Gunter shook his head.

Yuuri looked at Wolfram carefully as he kissed his head. "Is there anything in particular you want?"

"I don't know." Wolfram responded quietly.

"Lord von Kliest, Lord von Voltaire. Please see that Wolfram is properly fed as the King as I dsicuss." Waltorana suggested.

"I am not leaving Wolfram's side, Waltorana. We can just get something prepared for all of us. Is that okay with you, Wolfram? We can have a variety of things for you to try." Yuuri smiled down at Wolfram.

"I-" Wolfram closed his mouth and nodded. He wasn't hungry but didn't mention it. "I suppose that is alright."

Yuuri smiled and gestured for Gwendel to lead them into the room. A large table and several chairs rested in the middle much like in Gwendel's office back at the castle. "Thank you." He sat down and pulled Wolfram down onto his lap, wrapping his arms carefully around his waist.

Gwendel shut the door behind everyone after having sent one of the men to have food prepared and brought in.

Wolfram felt very uncomfortable in that room. He would have preferred going with Gunter and Gwendel and eating alone to sitting in a room full of people and listen to them discuss what to do with him.

Waltorana took his own seat, watching Yuuri carefully and noted how the other held onto Wolfram. "Now then. First I would apologize for the way I greeted you earlier, Your Highness. Please forgive it." He bowed his head then looked back at him to continue. "However, I still do not believe that Wolfram can be left in your care at this present time.

"And is your belief only founded on the actions of another person? Wolf, do you believe that you will be safe when you return with us?"

Wolfram hesitated before answering. "A-as soon as he's gone." He admitted and looked down at his hands resting on the table.

"I have been worried for his safetly for quite some time. Rumors and other bits of information have passed through my office." Waltorana pressed.

"What have you heard? Rumors are just rumors." Yuuri responded as he watched Wolfram.

"Well, one you surely have heard about? Dai Cimaron's involvement in Wolfram's kidnapping was no accident. They were simply two minutes too late."

Wolfram looked up at him. "What?"

Yuuri's eyes widened as he looked at Waltorana. "What do you mean?"

"Originally, Dai Cimaron had planned to capture Wolfram as the Demon King's fiancé. The day of your supposed wedding would have been the perfect opportunity."

"I don't think they could have succeeded." Yuuri responded.

"You mean like that man shouldn't have succeeded? My sources say that Dai Cimeron's agents witnessed the initial attack. Have you not wondered how they had a carriage ready so quickly?" Waltorana watched everyone in the room as he spoke. Both hands clasped together on the table.

"I had wondered but I assumed that they didn't want to stay for the entire ceremony. I can't believe they wanted to do such." Yuuri shook his head. Though the more he thought about it the more it made sense. He subconsciously tightened his arms around Wolfram which caused the other to wince.

"I believe it. Obviously, threatening the Demon King himself wasn't working. Therefore, they had to find a better option. Also, this leads me to believe that they will indeed try again."

"I do not think they will. They won't be able to even if they did. Wolfram can protect himself just as easily as I can protect him."

Woflram nodded. "I can." He sat up a little straighter. "In Demon country they don't-"

"That isn't the issue here. It only takes a moment of vulnerability. Unless you plan to never sleep again, there is no guarantee."

"I know that even in our sleep he is safe. I will make sure of that." Yuuri smiled at Wolfram. "I won't leave your side."

Waltorana shook his head. "I apologize but that isn't enough for me. From what I've heard, 'things' happened with you in the room."

"Don't mention that!" Wolfram snapped.

A blush covered Yuuri's face as he looked Waltorana. "What we do in our private room is none of your business."

"No, you misunderstand. While you believe it was kept somewhat a secret, I am well aware, and Wolfram I apologize for saying this, Wolfram was harmed in your very presence." Waltorana gave Yuuri a grave look.

"It was the one time I failed to protect you. Woflram…" Yuuri's voice faltered. "It won't happen again." Wolfram tensed slightly as he looked back down at his hands. Now that Waltorana had brought it up, the night started to replay itself in his head.

"Failure is intolerable."

"It won't happen again, Waltorana. I promise you that."

The converstatioan halted for a moment as Gwendel opened the door for the soldier who brought in a large tray of food and set it down on the table between them all. Wolfram tensed and looked up at Gwendel hoping that he'd take him out with him but sighed as Gwendel left the room again, closing the door behind him.

"Promises to me are empty. It is not I that needs them." Waltorana spoke up again.

"Then what do you need?" Yuuri asked then smiled at Wolfram. "What do you want?" He gestured at the tray.

"Wolfram. In Bielefeld lands. At least for now until things are settled for certain." Waltorana leaned forward to rest his elbows on the table.

"I am sorry but I can not let that happen. Wolfram, you want to come with me right? I guess I could go to Bielefeld lands with you, if you wished for me to, instead."

Waltorana shook his head. "Absolutely not. The point here is to defer the belief that Wolfram is still your fiancé."

"That will not happen. I love Wolfram too much. He will be my husband soon." Yuuri defended.

"Then you are damning his future."

Yuuri looked at Wolfram seriously. "Wolfram, do you think I am?"

Wolfram hadn't responded nor listened for a while. His hands in his lap distracted him as he focused on shoving unwanted memories out of his mind. He hadn't heard anything of what the two said, including the question. He stared at his knuckles which were white with tension. Waltorana arched a brow at the lack of response.

"W-wolfram?" Yuuri touched his hand. "Do you think I am?"

Wolfram blinked and jerked his head up. "Sorry!" He tensed with the realization that he'd spoken more loudly than necessary. "I- I ah…"

"It's alright. You don't have to answer."

Waltorana tilted his head to the side. "I see, well then."

Wolfram was now very aware that he'd missed something but was unsure of what to do.

Yuuri smiled at Wolfram. He knew he wanted to stay together. He knew that Wolfram still wanted to marry him. He just couldn't let Waltorana get to him. "I love you so much."

Wolfram nodded and turned so that he could curl up a little despite his injuries and leaned his head on Yuuri's houlder.

"Nevertheless. It is in his best interest to return with me to my ship at this time. You may visit once we have returned."

"I am not leaving Wolfram's side. And I will not talk about it, Waltorana." Yuuri met the man's gaze harshly.

A start of a glare touched Waltorana's eyes. "Whose best interest are you keeping in that statement?"

Yuuri returned the same look. "I am keeping both of our interests in mind." He then smiled gently at Wolfram. "Right, Wolf?"

Wolfram opened his mouth to say something then stopped as he got a look from Waltorana. He nodded his head slightly instead.

"Think about it this way. Your daughter Gretta. If her engagement to someone put her in peril many times, some of which are unforgettable, would you feel the same as I?" Waltorana held up his hand in question.

Yuuri thought it over a moment and realized that Waltorana had a valid point. "I guess I would but, Wolfram, I will let you decide."

"Well, Wolfram?" Waltorana looked at him expectantly.

"I-" Wolfram bit his lip. "I'd really rather-" He felt his stomach churn at the familiar feeling of sea sickness. "Excuse me." He covered his mouth and ran for the door.

Yuuri reached a hand out for him as he ran out. "Ah, excuse me." He stood up and looked at Waltorana. "I'm doing the best for both of us."

Akane sighed as he finally loosened the ropes about his wrists and pulled his gag free from his mouth. How irritating to be left all alone down in that lonely cell. He stood up and reached into his pocket where he'd managed to hide a key after snatching it off one of the guards. "Too easy." He laughed quietly to himself as he let himself out of the cell. He opened the door to the room which greatly surprised the guard and quickly yanked him inside. He slammed the man against the wall twice then threw him into the cell and slammed the door shut. "Thanks for watching me, but I need to go out for a bit." Akane waved to the stunned guard as he left the room, the key on the floor.

He walked up the stairs and saw Wolfram's fleeing figure as he disappeared onto the main deck. "Well, well." He hummed to himself and walked up to the main deck after him. He saw the boy leaned over the ship's railing as he dry wretched into the ocean, nothing coming up but bile. He leaned against his back and whispered into his ear. "You're looking good as ever."

Wolfram heard Akane's voice and his eyes widened. He gasped and spun around to run, a scream on his lips. No sooner had the man spoken before Gwendel was there. The larger twisted Akane's arm up behind his back and shoved him hard toward the ground. Without mercy Gwendel bashed Akane's head against the deck until it started to bleed and he stood up again, positive that the man was unconscious. Then, as if nothing had happened he turned to Wolfram. "Have you eaten?"

Wolfram's eyes were wide as he breathed on the border of hyperventilating. His legs trembled and he leaned heavily against the railing to keep from falling. He stared at Akane on the ground before something in the back of his mind recognized Gwendel's voice. He slowly moved his eyes up to Gwendel's face and shook his head.

Gwendel watched as a few soldiers retrieved Akane and took him back to the cell. "Keep two guards watch on him this time. In the room." He then returnes his attention to Wolfram. "We need to get you some food. Wolfram, that man will never touch you again. He will learn this."

Wolfram trembled a little then moved forward quickly to cling to Gwendel. He didn't care if his eldest brother saw his weakness anymore. He shook his head. "Can't eat."

Gwendel pulled Wolfram close, both arms wrapping around him. "Wolfram, it's alright." He said in a soft voice.

Wolfram clung to him for a while longer until he was able to calm himself down. He then swallowed, ashamed of his bevior and scared to look his elder brother in the eye.

"You will be fine, Wolfram. You are a strong soldier." Gwendel gave him a serious look.

Wolfram nodded and mentally talked himself into releasing the front og Gwendel's coat then stepped back and away. I apologize for you having seen that."

"Don't apologize. We never apologize for such actions." Gwendel responded softly.

"I-" Wolfram stood a little straighter. "Yes, Big Brother."

"Now. You need your rest, Wolfram. You need to get regain your strength so that you can fight for yourself."

Wolfram shook his head and looked at Gwendel with a little defiance. "No. I don't want to rest."

"Wolfram, resting will help."

"No, it won't."

Waltorana had stood to follow after Wolfram then thought better of it as he faced Yuuri. "You are doing what you believe is the best, but your judgement is very much biased by your emotions, not your mind."

"It is based on my information and by my love. I can't let him go." Yuuri responded.

"If you truly love someone, then you know when it's best to let them go." Waltorana kept distinct eye contact.

"And if you love them enough you will fight for them no matter what happens."

"You can fight from a distance." Waltorana answered.

"I won't. I will fight will all my heart to keep him close." Yuuri nodded.

Waltorana folded one arm over his chest. The other touched his forehead. "Think it over again. Think with your brain, not your heart for a moment. It is you that puts Wolfram in this kind of danger."

"I ah-" Do I really put Wolfram in that much danger? I love him so much I don't what what I'll do if he leaves now. Yuuri thought it through again and realized that maybe, just maybe. Waltorana was right. "May I come with you to Bielefeld lands?"

"For a short time but I really must insist you don't stay long. Even stay aboard your own ship as we travel. You are responsible for that man."

"Indeed I am. I will make sure that he does nothing. And I do not want your ship out of our sight. Once we get to Shin Makaku, I will return with you then I will take him home."

Waltorana nodded his agreement.

Yuuri sighed not really happy with the result but knew it was better for Wolfram. Wheither they likd it or not. "Shall we return you to your ship, then?"

"I think that would be best. Now, to find Wolfram." Waltorana turned and moved for the door, just a few strides behind Yuuri as they made their way up the stairs to the main deck. Neither had heard any noise from Akane's escape and assault on Wolfram.

Yuuri spotted Wolfram with Gwendel and felt concern well up in him. "Wolfram?"

"Ah, your Highness." Gwendel looked at Yuuri with a serious expression on his face.

Wolfram shook his head again. "Y-yuuri."

Waltorana walked closely behind Yuuri and stepped to the side of him. "It has been decided. Come, Wolfram." He held out his hand.

Wolfram's eyes widened as he looked between Waltorana and Yuuri. It seemed they weren't giving him the choice to stay or not. "Yes, sir." He bowed his head submissively.

Yuuri walked up to Wolfram and hugged him then kissed his cheek. "I will return with you to Bielefeld Castle. But you are going to take his ship, alright?"

"What is going on here?" Gwendel stepped forward not at all liking what he heard.

"Gwendal, Wolfram is going to ride with Waltorana until we get back to Shin Makaku and then I will go with them for a while." Yuuri explained.

Wolfram flushed at Yuuri's affection and nodded. "I understand.

"It is for the best." Waltorana finished.

Yuuri kissed Wolfram's cheek again and touched his face with his fingers. "Be safe. I will come for you, alright? Don't worry about anything."

"Waltorana. Don't break your promise to his Highness." Gwendel said with a slight glare.

"Hey, be careful okay? H-he umm, escaped for a minute." Wolfram squeezed Yuuri's hand.

Waltorana tilted his head and quickly masked his alarm. "Even more reason to leave this ship. Wolfram." He moved over and put his arm around Wolfram's shoulders, directing hom toward his gaurds as they prepared the small boat to transfer them. "I didn't make any promises, Lord von Voltaire." He then disappeared over the edge to the boat after one guard who carried Wolfram down into it.

Yuuri didn't quite pay attention to what Wolfram had said, more distracted by Waltorana's behavior and words. He balled his hands into fists as the small boat started the short journey between ships. "We must keep their ship in sight at all times. And Akane- is he?"

"He will not escape again. There are guards keeping a firm watch on him now."

"Good. I do not want to see him until we have to take him off this ship. Gwendal?" Yuuri looked up at him. "Will Wolfram be okay there, with him?"

"He will be safe, yes."

Yuuri walked to the edge of the ship and leaned on the railing as he waved to Wolfram and offered a smile that he prayed look more real than it felt. "I can't bare to loose sight of him."

Wolfram nestled quietly on one of the benches and held onto the edge with his strong hand. He watched Yuuri's figure grow smaller but didn't return the wave as he was afraid he'd topple over. Small boats even worse than ships on his sea sickness.

"I understand. We all don't want to let him go." Gwendel put a hand on Yuuri's shoulder.

Yuuri stared out at the sea long after Wolfram had been taken aboard the slightly smaller ship. "Will you really be alright, Wolfram?" He asked the wind.

"Wolfram, I know this is hard on you, but it's for the best at this time, to keep you as far from that man as possible. You may even be able to eat and rest while aboard my ship." Waltorana watched his nephew take in the new surroundings.

Wolfram simply nodded. "I understand." He sighed and looked back at the ship he'd just left.

"I'm sorry, Wolfram." Waltorana closed his eyes then nodded to the soldier entrusted with his care.

"Prince Wolfram, if you will follow me?" The soldier asked then lead him down a set of stairs to a large cabin with a sea window just above ater level. "Is there anything you need?"

"Just. I'd like some time to myself, than you." Wolfram walked over to the bed and laid down on it. He curled in on himself, holding onto the corner of the pillow with his hand. The soldier excused himself and left the room, shutting the door behind him. "I hope you're doing okay, Yuuri. It must have been so hard on you." He felt tears touch his eyes as he thought about. He didn't want to be separated. Not after desperately wanting Yuuri to save him. To hold him in his arms and comfort him. But now there was nothing to be done about it. He stared out the small window and lost complete track of time. Even his stomach forgot to churn as he eventually fell asleep alone.

Wolfram, Conrart, Waltorana, Gunter written by me.

Yuuri, Yozak, Gwendel, soldier, Akane written by Vavila.

Gwendel and Yozak heavily modified by me.

All editing and novelizations by me.

Aww...they are separated again. But at least Wolfram is safe from Akane now, right?

Thanks for reading this far!