Hello my lovely readers! I do hope you enjoy this new chapter!

More notes at the end!

Enjoy!


Yao sat still staring at the door, his food untouched in front of him as he strained to listen. He thought he had heard a noise outside, but now all he heard was the bells of the goats. "Yao, you need to eat," he heard his mother say as he glanced back at her, then at the door. "You know Liên would be upset if she came back and saw you were not eating," she added. He glanced back at her once more, reluctantly turning to the food in front of him as he wordlessly picked up his chopsticks. Yao had been stressing about Liên's return ever since she had left a week ago. She had made it past the written exam, barely. She had made the cut off placing tenth out of the fifty who attended and took the test. He had been incredibly happy to receive the news in the letter, but the next part of the exam was at the capital. It was a good three days on horseback from where they lived, and they hadn't received a letter from her on her progress. It had been nearly a week.

"Yao, listen to your mother," he heard his father say. Yao clenched his jaw, but didn't look up as he picked up some rice and put it in his mouth. His four younger siblings glanced over every so often in between them quietly eating their food. His father cleared his throat, "Did the Dragon return today?" he asked. Yao nodded without a word and he could hear the smile in his father's voice. "We have truly been blessed, the Dragon comes and our crops have been doing better than ever. The weather is perfect nearly everyday..." he continued on. Yao glanced up at him, seeing his father beaming with pride, but he ignored his words deciding to take more interest in the food.

The past week had been full of unexpected good fortune for their family since Qui Ni had shown up. Most of the time the majestic dragon would lay atop the hill awaiting for Yao and his goats, only to stay and hear Yao sing. The dragon himself was fond of the ancient classic songs that Yao learned specifically for him. Only once had he not shown up, which alarmed Yao, but when he asked Qui Ni would not say where he had gone. 'For the best' Yao thought at the time, seeing as dragons do as they do. However, since then, Qui Ni had begun to talk more, asking him more questions between the songs.

"What is your favorite color?" Qui Ni asked as he yawned while stretching his front limbs. His large pristine white teeth glinted against the sunlight as a gentle breeze swayed the leaves up above, in the distance Yao could smell his mothers cooking. He could hear his father shouting at his brothers in the field and the sound of his youngest sister and brother playing. The goats scattered for a second before returning to their grazing and Yao glanced up raising an eyebrow.

"Mine?" he asked.

Qui Ni huffed, "Who else would I be asking? The sheep?"

Yao chuckled and stretched his back as well before taking a seat beside the dragon. "Ah, perhaps the color pink," he replied quietly while glancing down at the grass.

"That's a wonderful color," Qui Ni nodded.

"You don't think that's strange?" Yao then asked.

"How so?"

"Well, it's not masculine to like the color pink," Yao replied. "My father told me it was unacceptable to like such a feminine color." When there wasn't an immediate response he looked up only to see the mighty dragon looking right at him. It made him sit up straighter letting the grass fall between his fingers.

"You use the words 'masculine' and 'feminine' without understanding the true meaning of each." Qui Ni lowered his head slightly, his golden scales shimmering with the sunlight as he curled up. "The Masculine cannot be without the Feminine, but both are important to maintain balance."

"I don't understand," Yao murmured.

"The masculine is the fire in our chest, our will to continue and persevere. It is the sky, the breath of life we breathe. The feminine is our understanding, our compassion. The stable earth beneath our feet and the water that quiets the flame. We all carry both, there is no divide."

"Perhaps with all this good luck you should start looking for a wife," Yao heard his mother say as it snapped him out of his thoughts. Yao glanced up at her, everyone at the table seemed to be staring at him now.

"A wife?" Yao repeated as he lowered his chopsticks forcing down the rice in one gulp.

"Of course," his father said with a booming voice startling the others. "If Liên gets accepted into the royal army, she won't be marrying or have any children," he said, voice thick with disappointment.

His mother sighed, poking at her vegetables, "I look forward to grandchildren," she added.

"Siu is seven," Yao pointed out, motioning toward his youngest brother. Siu glanced at him with wide brown eyes and then down at his food. "There are more than enough children."

"Of course," his mother replied, resting a hand on Siu's head, "That is why I want grandchildren now," she spoke softly with a smile.

"With the way our crop is going, we should have excellent profit this year, and with that we can buy another piece of land for you and your wife," his father said, pointing the chopsticks at him and a piece of rice flying from his mouth.

"I don't know about a wife," Yao replied, setting his utensils aside.

"Don't worry, I'll take you down to the matchmaker," his mother said excitedly but before he could respond he heard a noise off in the distance, moments after the goats began to bleat. He stood up from the table quickly heading to the door sliding it open just in time to spot Liên. Her eyes went wide as she stepped back from the door, startled to see her brother.

"Liên? What happened to you?" Yao asked, his eyes going wide seeing a bruise around her eyes and a deep cut along her lower lip. Liên stood silent, her eyes adjusting to the light inside as she stared at her brother. Her bottom lip began to tremble as her shoulders shook, "Liên?" he repeated. Tears rushed forth as Yao quickly pulled her close, she wrapped her arms around him squeezing with her body trembling. He rubbed her back gingerly hearing footsteps approach. "Come on," he whispered, pulling her away from the door and closing it behind her..

"Liên?" his mother asked, approaching the two of them. Liên pulled away wiping her tears and looked at her mother who gasped and covered her mouth. "Liên w-what happened?" she whispered, cupping her daughter's face.

"I'm fine," she replied as her mother tried to wipe away the dirt on her face. "Ow, ma," she hissed, pulling away from her grip. "I'm fine, I told you," she muttered.

"Fine?" her mother snapped, "You do not look fine. Sit down, let me go get a cloth to clean your face." Liên and Yao watched their mother walk off, exchanging a quick glance but Yao forced a smile motioning her towards the dinner table. She walked over to the table, dropping her bag with a thud and taking Yao's place. Her siblings stared at her, but her eyes landed on her father. His lips parted and his eyes scanned her face before he furrowed his eyebrows.

"Did you get in?" he asked dryly.

"Yes," she replied, reaching into her bag and pulling out a piece of paper that was rolled up and held together by a single green ribbon. She set it on the table and he glanced at it before looking away.. "I have a week until I go back and become an official member of the royal guard. I already received my first orders."

His lips became a tight line before he spoke, "At least you're doing something for the Great Emperor," he grunted and then looked down at his food without another word.

Yao took a seat beside his sister, "Eat," he muttered pushing the food closer to her. She blinked a few times glancing down at the food before eagerly eating. He watched her when he glanced over her hands that had loose blood stained wraps, cuts and scabs peeking out from underneath. His lips parted, staring at her just as his mother walked over with a bowl of warm water and a towel sitting on the other side of her. "Mother let her eat," he said, seeing how eagerly Liên shoved the food into her mouth.

"She shouldn't eat so dirty," his mother scolded, forcing Liên to turn away from the food and began to wipe the grime and dirt off her face. "What did they do to you?" her mother whispered. Lien glanced at her but didn't reply as she swallowed the food in her mouth. "Look at what they've done to your face, and your hands," she said quickly, taking a hold of LIen's wrist and the chopsticks fell from her hand.

"Mother please," Yao protested as he caught the chopsticks before they fell onto the floor..

"How will you ever get married with so many scars?" his mother scowled. The sound of chopsticks slamming against the table startled everyone, but neither Yao or Liên turned to look at their father as he got up and walked off. His mother paused, glancing up and sighed, shaking her head, "Go on, finish your food and then get ready for bed," she said as she set down the towel and followed after her husband.

Lien sat there looking down at her hands and then at the bowl of water beside her. "Lien," Yao said softly, catching her attention, "Don't mind what he says. You did something amazing, something you wanted. Be proud of that." There was a silence as Lien stared at him then she nodded, turning back to her food and began to eat once more.

Spring nights were brisk with the soft embrace of winter not yet gone. Yao sat on a porch that overlooked the large fields behind their home. His feet hung off the edge of it watching as a breeze rolled through bending the large wheat and corn stocks. There was a full moon out tonight, lighting the nocturnal night life that bustled around him. His father bragged about having the largest watermelons and potatoes he'd ever seen or grown, no doubt going to fetch a good price at the market. His eyes wandered toward the singular dirt road that led towards town, about half a day's ride away. He often accompanied his father during these trips that they made about twice a month depending on what they had to offer. Although, this time he was sure his father would want him to stay to assure Qui Ni was pleased.

"Yao?" he heard, snapping him from his thoughts as he glanced behind him. Lien walked outside to join him, pulling a blanket closer towards her body. "I thought I might find you out here." She took a seat beside him, crossing her legs looking across and out at the vast fields. "The fields look good," she said after some time. Yao agreed with a hum and she cleared her throat looking over at him. "Mother told me that you were being visited by a dragon."

"We are," Yao replied as he gingerly touched a large pot overflowing with strawberries. "His name is Qui Ni, he's shown up nearly everyday since you've been gone."

"Nobody in town knows about it?" Lien asked.

Yao shook his head, "Qui Ni prefers his presence be kept unknown. So long as we abide by this, he promised to bless the crops and our home."

"What if someone comes and sees him?" Lien asked, "Once someone sees him they will go running to tell the whole town, then you will have people coming non stop. Not to mention the emperor…" she stopped and turned away from him, glancing back into the fields. The sounds of goats bleating and their bells clanging gently.

"What about him?" Yao asked, raising an eyebrow.

"This must be reported to an official, it's the law." Lien turned to Yao, "We could get into trouble. What if they accuse father of using magic? Or you?"

"We aren't doing anything of the sort," Yao frowned. "Qui Ni is doing this of his own free will."

"It's compliance with a magical creature, a sacred creature. The emperor must be informed of this." Lien said sternly.

Yao sighed and shifted in his seat shaking his head, "Qui Ni will not allow it. To be frank, I fear him more than a man I've never met."

"Yao!" Lien hissed quietly, glaring at him then back at the house. Crickets chirping filled the silence between them as Yao stared back at his glaring sister. "We are only alive because of the Great Emperor Shu. Without his magic our lands would run wild-"

"With what? Peasants having their magic?" Yao replied quietly. He sighed and shook his head, "I don't care for magic, or the power it comes with, Lien. I'm doing what's best for our family, for our crops," he said motioning toward the abundant fields. "If all I have to do is sing to a dragon for his eternal blessing upon this land, then so be it. I will do it, for all of us." Another gust of wind blew, harsher, but the sickly sweet smell of spring was thick.

"You don't know if this creature has other motives," Lien muttered. "You could be setting yourself up for all you know. It could be playing with you-"

"Lien," Yao scowled, and Lien pressed her lips together. He took a deep breath glancing away from her and ran his hand through his hair that was loosely braided. "I understand your concern," he murmured, "But...even if he is using me, I don't think it matters."

Lien stared at him, her eyebrows slowly raising as her lips parted. "What?" she breathed quietly. "How could you say that?"

"Because it's true," Yao replied. "I'm doing this for everyone here, for the farm-"

"But what about you? What shout-"

"It doesn't matter," Yao cut her off, turning to her with a sharp gaze. Lien stared at him slowly leaning back before she pressed her lips together again. "Now go to sleep, father will wake you up early to work in the fields." He turned away from her, but she hesitated as if to say something. In the next moment she got up wordlessly, and closed the door behind her with more force than necessary.

The croaking of the rooster hadn't even awoken Yao as he felt himself being shaken awake. "Come on, get up," he heard his father say. A dimly lit lantern was held up to his face before being placed beside him, "Wake up your brothers." Without another word his father walked out of the room and Yao sighed, rubbing his face as he forced himself up looking at his three younger brothers. Siu, 7, laid on his side closest to him while Ren, 13, sprawled himself out his hand across Siu's face and his foot beside Tai's, 11, face, who somehow ended up upside down. Again. He grunted, shaking the two eldest awake.

Yao went through his usual morning routine, although it was at a much earlier time. The smell of his mothers cooking already filled the small home as he took his seat. Already Lien and Mei were sitting and eating as well with their father. "Lien, you'll be working in the fields today with Ren, Tai, and I. Yao, you'll help prepare the equipment, and then tend to the goats." Yao grunted and nodded in response, taking another piece of egg into his mouth.

"What of the dragon?" Lien asked.

"What of it?" her father replied, looking at her.

"What happens when it comes to visit?"

"It will stay with Yao, away from the fields while we do our work." He muttered, and ate another piece of carrot as she looked away.

"Don't forget this," his mother chimed, bringing over a large basket and setting it beside Yao.

"What is this?" Yao asked, pausing his meal as he stared at the basket. He then opened it peering inside to see a variety of foods wrapped and unwrapped.

"It's offerings for Qui Ni," his mother replied before slapping his hand away. "We must keep him well fed so he may bless our crops. So don't forget it," she hummed and Yao nodded, returning to his meal.

"Will he really bless our crops?" Siu asked sleepily, rubbing his eyes.

"Of course he will," his father said with a half smile, "We do as he asks and we will be in his favor." He turned to Yao, "Isn't that right?"

Yao glanced at his father then at Siu, the youngest of the six of them. "Yes," he then said, "Dragons are mighty creatures, to be in their favor is said to bring endless blessings." Siu parted his lips and smiled before picking up his chopsticks and began to eat. Yao smiled, but it faded when he realized Lien was looking at him. She stood up with her empty bowl in hand and walked off.

After the usual morning chores Yao headed off toward the hill with the goats, the large basket strapped to his back. The goats bleated following Yao as they made their way atop of the hill and he glanced back, being able to see his father and siblings hard at work. Soon the sun would be up higher, and it would be too hot to work for some time. Even in spring the heat could be intense. He turned away and sighed to himself, deciding to take the goats a little further away to greener parts.

When he was well away from the fields and home Yao set the basket down beside a log and watched as the goats began to graze. In the horizon Yao could see large clouds heading this way and he only hoped the wind would change directions. He sat back humming softly to himself watching as the goats grazed and wandered off a little. He would usually call them back right away, but the smell of a dragon was enough to keep potential predators miles away. The clanking of bells caught his attention as a small group of goats quickly made their way towards him and he stood up feeling a sudden gust of wind. Yao was unalarmed as Qui Ni soon landed in the space in front of him the large dragon letting his body slightly coil up. "Qui Ni," Yao said with a smile and bowed towards him. "It's wonderful to see you."

Qui Ni huffed as he lowered his head, "Yao Gōngsūn," he muttered moving his head closer until he was mere inches away from him. Yao wasn't used to the dragon speaking his name, much less his full name. The mighty dragon stared down at him with his golden orbs that seemed to be liquid gold staring down at Yao, as if he was seeing something new for the first time. "You and your family have pleased me," Qui Ni then continued, "For that, I will reward you." The dragon shifted his body to move closer to Yao and he could see the glimmering scales reflecting the morning light. "Take one of my scales. You will bury it underneath your home facing East."

Yao met the dragon's gaze and his lips parted, "It won't hurt you?" he asked. Qui Ni shook his head and pushed Yao closer to his body with his head. Yao stumbled forward and swallowed the rising lump in his throat, he stared at the glimmering scales as he gingerly ran his fingers over them. They were all nearly as large as his hand, all smooth and perfectly identical to one another.

"Careful, do not cut yourself. Grab it and tug." Yao nodded, grabbing one of the scales with both hands and gave a gentle but firm tug. Qui Ni didn't flinch as Yao turned the scale over in his hands. Indeed the edges of it were sharp enough to easily slice through his hand but he turned to the dragon.

"Thank you," he said with a smile as he suddenly hugged the dragon's head. Qui Ni blinked quickly but huffed, pulling away from Yao.

"Do not thank me," he said quietly just as he looked up and Yao did the same. He squinted slightly seeing something quickly approaching them, only growing larger with size.

"What is that?" Yao asked as he stepped back and the goats bleated moving closer to Qui Ni.

"Do not be alarmed," Qui Ni muttered as Yao turned to glance at him, but before he could question a second dragon had landed right before them. Or, what Yao assumed was a dragon but none of the likes he had ever seen before. This dragon was smaller than Qui Ni, and unlike him, this one had wings that also acted as it's arms. "Nikita," Qui Ni said as a woman slid off the back of the large creature. "Braginsky."

"Queen Mother," Nikita hissed her teeth showing. "Show your respect."

Qui Ni did not respond as Yao stared at the dragon and woman. She was nearly his height dressed in a floor length black dress and a deep purple hooded cloak over her body. The woman spoke softly but in a language he couldn't understand as she pushed back her hood revealing the aged face underneath. The woman was blonde with streaks of grey through her hair and large jewels hung from her neck and ears. The woman stared at Yao looking him up and down and then touched her throat, muttering something he couldn't understand and a soft blue light glowed. His eyes went wide as the woman then cleared her throat. "Can you understand me?" she asked. Yao gasped, but nodded as she neared him but stopped glancing up at Qui Ni. "This is the one you say?"

Qui Ni nodded, looking annoyed at her questioning, "I found him, exactly as you had asked."

She nodded, turning towards Yao, "You do not know me, but I come from the west. From the kingdom of Serdste, I am Queen Mother Svetlana Braginksy, mother to King Ivan Braginsky, the Serpent King." Yao stared at her and then at Nikita and Qui Ni. He didn't know much about the neighboring kingdoms or who lived where. However, Yao was well aware of the tales of the kingdom of Serdste, the land of dragons as it was called in times before.

"Your Majesty," Yao began feeling his stomach begin to turn, "I do not know the reason for your visit. But I assure you there is nothing going on to concern you. My family and I are but humble farmers-"

Svetlana held her hand up as Yao quickly became quiet. "I am not here on behalf of your emperor so you have no reason to worry. I am well aware of the situation at hand because I was the one who sent Qui Ni to find you."

"Find me?" Yao repeated furrowing his eyebrows. "For what?"

Svetlana took a deep breath and glanced around her for a moment. The lush green that surrounded her reminded her of the forests back home, but it wasn't nearly as cold here. "I was given a riddle by an oracle."

"A riddle?" he asked unsure why any riddle would have anything to do with him.

"'With a voice steady and calming like a gentle flute. Hair as dark as raven feathers. Skin as white as porcelain and as soft as silk. This will be the one you seek.' " she repeated, then looked him over. "You do fit the physical description," she said softly, "And Qui Ni says you have an enchanting voice."

"I sing," Yao admitted, shifting slightly where he stood. "I don't see why it is important."

"Because the riddle is supposed to lead me to the one who will marry my son," She replied as she stepped closer towards Yao. "I wasn't quite sure what to expect when I was given the riddle, but I knew who I could entrust in helping me to solve it." She glanced up at Qui Ni who huffed in response, but busied himself with the goats instead.

"Marry...your son?" Yao couldn't help but chuckle nervously, glancing between the strange woman and the two large dragons beside him. This all seemed surreal as he blinked a few times. "I - I can't marry your son," he said quickly.

"Well not yet of course," she replied, "I have to make sure you are the one the riddle is talking about."

Yao stared at the woman, the words from his sister came to mind. "What if he's just using you?" He pushed the thoughts aside, "If I am?" he then asked quietly.

Svetlana smiled, "You will be married to my son, as Queen of Serdste. Riches beyond your wildest imagination will be at your fingertips and," she paused nearing Yao now just a foot away, "You will be able to learn magic. As will be your right."

Yao lowered his gaze, "What of my family?"

Svetlana raised an eyebrow, "Tell me about your family."

Yao hesitated, but cleared his throat, "My father is a hard working farmer, this land belonged to his father, and his father before him. I have two sisters and three younger brothers, all whom I love and care for." Now Yao stood with his shoulders back meeting Svetlana's gaze. "If I am who you're looking for, I don't ask for anything but the safety and care of my family."

Svetlana kept her gaze on him without a word for a long moment. Yao wanted nothing more than to curl away from the woman, to hide behind Qui Ni, but then he remembered why she was here in the first place. "I am pleased to hear the way you speak of your family," Svetlana smiled softly. "I will ensure your family is well taken care of, and will now have the protection of the Serpent King. If you are the one I seek." Yao smiled faintly, although he wasn't entirely sure what that entailed. "In the meantime, I will see if you are indeed the one I search for." She reached into one of her pockets pulling out a long silver chain with a large green emerald pendant attached to it. The emerald itself was encased in silver with an intricate design on either side meant to look as if dragons were coiled around it. "Come closer child," she said, waving him over. He hesitated and then neared her as she walked behind him. He lifted his braid aside as she placed it around his neck and then walked back around to face him. "My, it certainly suits you," she chuckled softly but stepped back. "This will be simple, you will sing, and if you are indeed the one I search for, the emerald will glow."

Yao looked down at the large pendant around his neck and touched it gingerly. He felt like he shouldn't be wearing such a lavish jewel but he met Svetlan's gaze who stared at him with eager eyes. He cleared his throat and looked back at Qui Ni who didn't seem to care about the interaction anymore. "What...what shall I sing?"

"Anything you like," Svetlana replied, clasping her hands in front of her.

"What if I'm not the one you're looking for?"

"Then we'll leave you be," she replied with a smile crossing her lips. "No need to be nervous." Easy for her to say, he thought. He cleared his throat once more and took a deep breath as he started to sing. Svetlana watched him and then her eyes flicked towards the emerald. As Yao's voice carried on, the stone itself began to slowly glow the soft green color. Yao could feel it against his chest, it felt as if it vibrated but he continued to keep his voice steady despite it. "Enough," Svetlana commanded and Yao quickly did so looking down at the gem, it was glowing vibrantly and he had to look away for a moment. She neared him and took both his hands in hers, "Tell me, what is your name?"

"Yao," he replied, "Yao Gōngsūn."

"Ah, what a lovely name," she sighed and moved a lock of hair from his face. "But now, it will be Queen Yao Gōngsūn-Braginsky,"

Yao swallowed the lump in his throat as he forced another smile.


"We've got several responses, one from Count Antoine of Bisou," Lovisa said as she moved some hair behind her ear. She sat upright in a large red plush seat, several letters scattered in her lap. A small mahogany colored wooden table beside her with her tea and an empty lamp atop of it, and in front of her was her youngest son, Rasmus. "He says he'd be delighted to come, I do hope he brings the Countess, I haven't seen her in quite a while," Lovisa said as she slipped the paper aside and picked up another. "Oh! The Viscount has answered as well…"

Rasmus ran his hand over the silver ring on his finger absently, his gaze focused on the white carpet underneath. He was currently being fitted as a smaller man took measurements of his body in front of a three panel mirror. His blond curly hair wasn't settled and stuck out as if he had just rolled out of bed. A beard was already growing in, even if he had just shaved that morning and large bags could be seen underneath his eyes, making them look sunk in. But what can one do when they get no sleep? Atop of everything that was going through his mind, they still haven't received a response from Berwald. This was bothering him the most, would Berwald really miss his wedding? The wedding of his own brother? Well, it's not like he was invited to his wedding to begin with. But things were different now. Weren't they?

"Rasmus...Rasmus!" he was snapped out of his thoughts, and quickly glanced at his mother through the mirror. "Are you even listening to me?" she asked, setting down the letters in her lap, huffing loudly.

"I apologize, I was lost in thought," he replied, looking back at himself in the mirror. His lip raised in disgust at his own appearance, he really should have made himself more presentable, he thought.

She parted her lips and moved the letters aside to the small table beside her. "William, a moment please," she said to the tailor. The shorter robust man stood up, before he bowed and left the room. Lovisa walked over to her son, placing her hand on his forearm. "Rasmus, what's bothering you? You've been dejected for the past few days. Is it the wedding? Are you having second thoughts?"

"What? Of course not," he immediately replied with a scowl. "I love Ying Yue with all of my heart," he declared loudly, but his shoulders slumped and he looked down soon after. He pulled away from his mother and stepped off the small pedestal he was on.

"Then what is it Rasmus?" she asked, staring as he walked away a few paces.

Rasmus clenched his jaw staring at the empty mute white wall of the small room. "I...I've just been thinking about how Berwald hasn't responded," he replied and turned to his mother slightly, but refused to look at her. "I'm afraid he won't come."

Lovisa pressed her lips together firmly, closing her eyes for a moment, then looked back over at him, "I'm sure it's just taken a little more time for him to respond, especially letters from the South to here." She walked over to him and smiled tenderly, "Don't worry. I wouldn't see any reason why he wouldn't want to attend."

Rasmus shifted where he stood, "He didn't invite us to his wedding," he pointed out.

"Yes, well, things were different then," her voice soft. It reminded him of how she used to talk to them after they had fallen and scraped their knees, soothing and kind. She reached for his hand taking it gingerly into hers, "We've reconciled with him since then, there is absolutely no reason why he wouldn't show up."

Rasmus glanced at her, but he still didn't seem convinced. The wedding was in two days, and not a single letter had shown up from him. "Do you think he's still mad at me?" Rasmus whispered.

"Why would he be angry with you?" Lovisa asked furrowing her eyebrows, seeing her son's face twist with guilt.

"When we first arrived to visit him," he sighed and then rubbed the back of his neck. "I may have said something rude about Tino when we first met." Lovisa's gaze softened, letting him continue. "I told him...that Tino...was just a bed warmer…" he whispered.

Her lips parted but she sighed shaking her head, "Rasmus, we both said some rather regrettable things when we first met Tino. But, as I said before, we've reconciled with him." She paused and glanced away for a moment, Ramsus studying her face. "We've all mad mistakes," she then added softly turning towards him, "The only thing we can do now is learn from them, and not to repeat them." She took a hold of his hand once more, gently squeezing it in hers, "Now we have to finish this fitting, your bride will be arriving this evening and we cant be running around last minute."

Ramsus glanced down at his mother, before wrapping his arms around her and squeezing tightly. "Thank you," he whispered softly and kissed the top of her head.

She smiled softly rubbing his back, "Now you stand up there while I call William back in," she said, pulling away and pushing him towards the pedestal. He obliged as she told him to shave once more before tonight, then she walked out telling William he may go back in. However, she didn't follow him in hearing the door click shut she stood still for a moment, her eyes cast down at the wooden floors covered by a lavish carpet. She pressed her hands against her mouth. Truth be, she had no idea if Berwald was going to show up. To see Rasmus so distressed about it made her chest ache. She prayed and hoped he would show up.


"Tino," Berwald said gently, shaking his lover as he leaned against him. Tino whined and pressed his face into Berwalds arm. "Tino wake up, we're almost there." This time Tino stirred more forcing his eyes open and glanced around. The carriage swayed slightly as he sat up, stretching his arms and pushed aside the curtain allowing the evening light to illuminate the inside of the carriage.

Not too far in the distance Tino could see the large Capital, in the center of it stood a looming castle. The entire journey Tino had been asking questions about life in the capital. The people, the music, the extra lavish lifestyles everyone supposedly lived. Yet, the sheer size of the city made Tino shrink back and closed the curtain, realizing he was no longer in the small village in the south.

"We should be arriving at my parents estate in less than an hour," Berwald informed him as he extended his arms as well.

Tino didn't reply but forced a nervous smile, wondering if he would stick out among the lord's and ladies of the court. Would they say the same things Lovisa said at first? Would they try to belittle Berwald? "Do you think they'll be happy to see me?" Tino asked just above a whisper, however he kept his gaze on the empty velvet seat in front of him. The carriage caused his body to sway as he swallowed the lump in his throat, his chest felt tight.

"What makes you ask that?" Berwalrd asked as he cleaned his glasses and then slipped them back on. However, the vibrant orange color began to take over his vision for a moment, Tino was feeling anxious. He cleared his throat when Tino didn't answer right away, while trying to subtly move closer to him. "I don't think there is anything to worry about."

"You said it yourself," Tino said, glancing up towards him, "People talk. What if that makes them dislike me again?" He stared at him, unable to makeout his facial expression in the darkness of the carriage.

Although it was the exact opposite for Berwald, who could make out every detail of Tino's face. The anxious expression was adorable he had to admit, almost doe-like. Without a second thought he reached over gently caressing his cheek, Tino startled at first but relaxing into his touch moments later. "They don't care what others have to say," Berwald assured him as he kissed his forehead. "And neither should you." Easier said than done, he knew this, but he had to say it. He tilted Tino's head up with the evening light poking through the cracks in the curtain and illuminating their faces.

Butterflies filled Tino's stomach being so close, he glanced up studying his husband's face. Berwald's usual scowl was softened with his glasses hanging low on his nose and a familiar soft gaze crossed his face, the loving stare he gave each time they made love. The butterflies dissolved into a warmth that filled his chest and rushed to his cheeks. Not a trace of doubt to be found as he quickly closed the distance between them. Their lips locked only briefly, as Berwald pulled him closer with one arm around his waist and pressed their foreheads together. Already the orange faded as Tino relaxed in his embrace.

The carriage arrived shortly thereafter into the city and Tino had pushed aside all the curtains to watch. Large buildings both homes and businesses alike, had people coming in and out of them. The streets were bustling even as the day was coming to an end. Along the streets lamps and lanterns were lit highlighting the still busy street vendors that sold a variety of foods and goods. "There's so many people," he said softly, pressing himself against the window. Berwalrd only grunted in response watching as the people stared at their carriage. Of course they all recognized the crest that was carved into the black wooden doors. It caused most to turn away, but even more to look on with grim curiosity. "Look at that!" Tino exclaimed, grabbing the Duke's attention as he glanced outside. There was a group of dancers twirling and throwing one another up in the air. Tino's eyes lit up watching them move gracefully, swearing he couldn't even see their feet touch the ground.

"Would you like to see them?" Berwald asked and Tino turned toward him. He opened his mouth as if to agree but then he quickly shut it glancing back out as the carriage was already passing.

"We shouldn't keep your parents waiting," Tino then said quietly as he pushed himself back from the window. As much as he would like to stop and watch, he didn't want to make a terrible impression by being late.

"We can see the city tomorrow then, the wedding won't be for another day." Tino turned quickly towards him as Berwalrd. He could see the large smile cross Tino's face, feeling heat rush to his cheeks. Tino scooted closer to Berwald wrapping his arms around one of his and laying his head on his shoulder, returning his attention to the passing city.

Berwald admired him for a moment, then a familiar dull ache took over his chest. Since the first time Tino had seen his true form, he did everything possible to keep the beast at bay. Each time he had an urge, like a flash, the memory would cross his mind.

Fear flashing over the lavender eyes with blood splattered over his clothes and face. Tino looked smaller than usual, fragile as a hare frozen in a predator's gaze. He could hear his heart thump against his chest as Berwald tried to talk, but only a low whine escaped. He realized he had shifted, and the horror in Tino's face was because of him.

He squeezed his eyes shut, the memory made his chest ache worse. Without thought, he pushed his face into Tino's hair, it smelled of black pine. Like home.

They arrived at the gates just as the last bit of sunlight was gone, leaving the lanterns to illuminate the large iron gates that seemed to loom over the carriage itself. In the middle of each gate was the familiar family crest that glinted in the lantern light. Tino tried to peer behind the gates, seeing an illuminated path but nothing but trees going down. As the carriage pulled in he could see the long winding path before them and hear the creaking of the iron gates slamming shut behind them. The farther they rode down on the path the more he began to realize that not each tree was the same, some were taller, others more colorful, and others that bore fruit right along the path. "Is this where you grew up?" Tino asked, "I feel like I'm not even in the capital anymore," he laughed. Berwald grunted glancing around, he had forgotten how colorful the garden was.

Eventually, a large house came into view at the end of the winding path. A large white house that gold accents along each window and the two large front doors in the front. It was all extremely lavish, even more so than Tino could have imagined as he tried to take in everything. However, what caught his eye were two large statues that sat on either side of the staircase that led to the front doors. They were enormous in size, probably twice his size, but they were clearly the same creature that Berwald was able to shift into. Their heads were low, tails curled at their feet. Unlike the rest of the home, these two statues were plain stone, only sitting atop their respective white pedestals. Tino absently reached for Berwald just as the carriage came to a stop in front of the stairs. Berwald glanced over at him, "Tino? Are you alright?"

Tino looked away from the statues and cleared his throat, "Yes, it's a beautiful home." He smiled and Berwald's stare lingered before he nodded without question. The door opened and Tino quickly turned, taking a deep breath as he stepped out of the carriage and was followed by Berwald. Now seeing the home out in the open was almost more overwhelming for Tino as he glanced down at his attire, feeling incredibly undressed for this moment. But, before he could comment on it the front doors were thrown open and he looked up startled.

An older blonde woman appeared in a large blue and white dress looking at them as her icy blue eyes lit up. "Berwald! Tino!" Lovisa shouted from atop the stairs and then quickly rushed towards them, her cheeks flushing into a rosy hue with happiness.

Berwald tensed watching his mother, although he had mentally prepared himself to see her again he didn't quite know how to react. Granted, the last time they departed on good terms, in fact better than he could have hoped for, a part of him was still on guard. His mother pulled him in for a hug and he hesitated beofre wrapping his arms around her. "I'm so glad you two could make it!' she exclaimed pulling away from Berwald and then looking at Tino. "My! Look at you! You look fresh as spring!" she exclaimed and cupped his face before pulling him in for a hug as well. Tino laughed softly, hugging her back with a gentle squeeze. Strolling along behind her was an older gentleman with thick blonde curls,and stood just a few inches taller than Berwald. He wore the official officers uniform that was heavily decorated in medals and awards, cligning against one another as he descended to meet them.

"Father," Berwald said, meeting him at the bottom of the stairs as Tino and Lovisa began to converse.

"Berwald," Erik replied, shaking his hand, "I'm glad you could visit. How was the journey?"

"Uneventful," Berwald replied, although he was more than thankful for it.

"That so? Your mother and your brother were worried sick since we hand't heard from you." Erik's grip tightened slightly.

Berwald glanced down and returned his gaze, "There's been...issues," he replied but lowered his voice. He glanced over at Tino and Lovisa and then cleared his throat. "It was best if I didn't send anything." Erik stared at him, then curtly nodded releasing his hand without further questions.

"Well let's get inside, dinner is about to be served!" Lovisa said leading the group inside as she was linked arm and arm with Tino. "This wedding has been exhausting," Lovisa said glancing over at Tino, "I had forgotten what it was like to plan such a thing!" She laughed and Tino couldn't help but smile, it was wonderful seeing a familiar face in an unknown place. "But Rasmus is so excited, and so is Yue, his bride." Tino hadn't heard much about her, only that she was the granddaughter of an Emperor from the east. "I truly admire her, a woman of her time, truly. She can speak three languages and knows several instruments including the piano!" Tino tried to paint a picture of what she would look like the more Lovisa listed her accomplishments, but he couldn't. "She's actually arrived this evening and will join us for dinner! I'm so excited all of us will be together again!" She squeezed Tino's hand as Tino glanced back at Berwald, the other noticing and nodded towards him.

Rounding the corner they entered a large dining room where Ramsus was already sitting with a woman beside him, the both of them smiling and laughing. He turned his head slightly up and the smile fell for a second as he recognized both Tino and Berwald walk in. "Tino? Berwald!" he shouted eagerly getting up from his seat. "You didn't say you were arriving today!" he said excitedly but then quickly cleared his throat. "My apologies," he said quickly and then extended his hand towards the woman. "Berwald, Tino, this is my future bride Yue, granddaughter of Emperor Sheng of Serul." Tino was taken back by the woman's beauty with long flowing hair the color of ink, it reminded him of home. Her eyes were a deep golden honey with large jade jewels hanging from her ears and around her neck. "Yue, this is my brother Duke Berwald Oxenstierna, and his wife Dutchess Tino Oxenstierna." Tino felt his heart skip a beat for a moment having heard himself being announced as such for the first time.

"It's a pleasure," Berwarld spoke first, he bowed toward her with Tino following suit.

"The pleasure is mine," Yue replied bowing in response, "I've heard so many wonderful things about you," she smiled.

Tino smiled in relief as Lovisa grabbed their attention, "Why don't we get to know one another over dinner? I'm sure the two of you are hungry." Tino nodded eagerly as they took their seats.


Thank you so much for reading this chapter! I do look forward to hearing back from you and what you think.

Another note, I do also have the same fanfiction on A03 and honestly I tend to update that one first. I've been thinking about completely transitioning over to that platform, but this is where it all began and I wouldn't want to do that to my lovely readers. At any rate, the title of the story is still the same and so is my author name, please feel free to go between either.

Once again, thank you so much for all your lovely support! I hope to update soon!