Papercut
A/N: Another chapter has been posted for the many reviewers that continue to support me chapter by chapter. Thank you.
Responses to reviewers:
tati-ai: Thanks for the 101th review! You're enjoying the horror and fluff moments. That's great! As much as I love dark stories, I didn't want to emphasize that too much. I have to add Yuuram fluff too. I know 'yuri' is girl on girl action under a different translation, but it can be a name too (I know a boy named Yuri). I also just used Geneon's version of "Yuuri". I did plan everything for a reason! Glad to see you noticed the hints about Kadin being Khalid! Yuri is very irritating to work with, I agree. I really want him to suck it up and just pounce Wolfie. Thanks again for the review! Hope you express your thoughts on this chapter!
Lina: I loved your reaction! Tense, you say? Wonderful! That's exactly how I want people to respond! Good job suspecting Khalid! I did feel frustrated with making Yuri push Wolfram away but I'm glad you understand that's how Yuri's character probably would have reacted. You're a part time nanny? Goodness! I wish you the best of luck with that! I could never handle it! Thanks so much for the review! I hope you enjoy this chapter!
adelaide: So you knew? That's relatively good, though, since I anticipated that most people would catch the hints sprinkled over the chapter. Thanks very much for the review yet again! I hope you enjoy the fluff in this chapter!
door: Great that you found it interesting! Thanks for reviewing this fic for the first time! I hope you continue to convey your thoughts!
Spoilers: Mentioning of Dakaskos and reference to Julia and her pendant
Warnings: Minor graphic details
Thanks again to all the reviewers thus far for the support and interest in this story. It's all because of you, truly.
101010
"I had forgotten how much strength your body possesses," Khalid murmured amusingly as he raised his long fingers to caress the slight gash fashioned by Wolfram's recent and powerful head butt. "I suppose I deserve it, though, for startling you."
Wolfram shook his head repeatedly even as Khalid spoke. With a quivering voice, he insisted, "You're dead. I…I saw it. You died."
Khalid brought his arm down slowly as his eyes finally rested upon Wolfram's form. "I didn't die," he replied in a deep voice.
"You died!" Wolfram persisted with a cry. "I felt for your pulse and it was over!"
"My heart stopped but I did not die. At least, that's what I suspect." Khalid maintained, taking a cautious step toward the cowering blonde. "I'm alive now, Wolfram. That's what matters. I'm right here."
Wolfram collided with the dark wall as he shouted, "Stay away from me!" Far too many abnormal events had already been heaved upon his already exhausted shoulders and quite frankly, he wanted no more surprises. His mental state fractured with every step Khalid took.
Khalid frowned, his eyebrows knitting and creating distressed wrinkles on his forehead. His bright eyes slid to his left as quick footsteps neared the room. As predicted, the attention of Conrad and Yuri were captured and they entered the room.
Conrad instantly had his sword drawn but his eyes widened and his voice wavered upon seeing the once masked man. After his mind absorbed the broken mask upon the floor, the brunette quickly understood the relationship between Kadin and Khalid.
"You," was all Conrad's voice could manage in a firm voice.
By this point, Yuri stuck his head out from behind Conrad's protective stance, fully clothed and with a wet head. The golden eyes were the predominant feature of Khalid that Yuri was capable of recognizing. "Wh…What the…?"
Khalid offered Conrad an amused smile. "It's unfortunate our last gathering was not very pleasant," he stated, delighted in the reaction it produced.
"Get away from him, Wolfram!" Conrad growled, stepping closer to Khalid.
Wolfram's eyes rapidly darted between the two men. Before he managed to construct any conclusion, however, Gwendel, Rashid, and Murata burst through accompanied by some soldiers.
Gwendel wasted no reaction time as he drew out his sword in one fluid motion and slashed at Khalid, providing Wolfram with enough space to be jerked near the door by Conrad. "Let go!" the blonde demanded but Conrad only thrust Wolfram behind him in a gentle yet compact motion.
Khalid was just as hasty, having drawn his blade at the exact moment, resulting in a piercing shriek of the blades as they brutally grazed against one another.
"Shibuya, don't," Murata ordered, gripping Yuri's arm when the demon king made to intervene. Both of their murky eyes were captivated by the scene before them.
"I see Conrart offered his side of the tale," Khalid commented in a breath as he struggled against Gwendel's blade.
Gwendel's eyes narrowed.
"Stop this nonsense!" Rashid roared.
In a swift and prevailing motion, Khalid propelled off his foot, thrusting all his weight into his blade and successfully driving Gwendel off a few paces back. Before Gwendel raised his sword once more, Khalid loosely tossed his blade to the ground and slowly raised his arms in a gesture of surrender.
Rashid huffed in annoyance as he settled himself between Gwendel and Khalid. "Please! He is innocent! Don't harm him!" he prayed pathetically.
"So you knew of his existence all these years?" Gwendel stipulated with a gruffer and irritated voice.
Khalid shut his eyes and Yuri couldn't resist admiring the man's handsome features. "Do not hold a grudge against Rashid," he declared placidly. "I required that my identity remain hidden but my emotions overtook my rationality. You would know of such a situation, isn't that correct, Conrart?"
Conrad's fingers itched to hack with his sword as his tingling nerves began to stiffen. Beside him, Yuri was unsure if Khalid's comment was soaked in cynicism or sprinkled with repressed wrath.
Murata strode pass Conrad to situate himself beside Gwendel, his interest in Khalid highly evident in his stare. "So you're Khalid," he muttered cheerfully and Yuri faltered at the charming smile the Great Sage offered the tall man.
In response to Murata, Khalid opened his eyes and bent his torso in a bow. "That is correct, Your Eminence" he replied before standing upright once more.
"Well then, now that the introduction is over, could you take a look at Lord von Bielefeld's head?" Murata asked as he returned to grasp Wolfram's arm. He ignored the whispered protests of the others as he gently tugged Wolfram forward. "He's got a nasty cut on his forehead. From the looks of things, you must have angered him enough to have him smash his skull against yours."
Murata laughed heartedly and Yuri felt Conrad's thick anxiety attract the brink of exploding.
Khalid shifted his eyes to Wolfram, who retained a misty and disbelieving gaze. "If you approve," he said to Murata, who only nodded.
"Come, Lord von Bielefeld," Murata gently instructed as he forced Wolfram to occupy a spot on Conrad's bed. "You really need to have that patched up."
Wolfram shockingly glared at Murata but quickly flushed and stiffened when Khalid kneeled before him. "Don't move," Khalid smoothly ordered as he withdrew a few items from his pouch. With gentle hands, he tenderly began applying a white cloth to absorb the blood.
"Your Eminence," Gwendel said brusquely with a disapproving tone. Murata motioned for him to remain silent on the subject. Gwendel only sighed in response and returned his blade to the sheath.
Yuri's heart raced with every movement Khalid made. He observed Gwendel place himself near Khalid and although his sword was returned to its casing, his hand remained on the hilt. Yuri sensed Conrad's desire to approach Wolfram but for whatever reason, the man kept beside Yuri near the door.
Murata, who sat beside Wolfram, lifted his gaze to Rashid. "So…what are you waiting for?"
With a startled gasp, Rashid nodded in a paranoid manner. "Y-Yes, of course," he began before ordering all but two soldiers to exit the room. "I suppose it mainly begun when his body was being returned to Sulteri. We received word that during the night at a campsite, the body was proclaimed missing."
"How can a body just go missing?" asked Yuri, tempted to come within reach of Wolfram but the recent events of the bath and Conrad's attitude prevented any movement.
Gwendel kept his eyes on Khalid as he informed, "I don't recall any such account."
"We do not know. Ties were broken with the Great Demon Kingdom and our own soldiers were returning the body so we had no intention of reporting it to you," Rashid explained, his fingers nervously twitching.
Khalid nonchalantly smiled at Wolfram when the boy hissed as a liquid was applied to his wound. "I only recall awakening in a thick forest. I had difficulty recalling who I was and where I was," he uttered while wrapping gauze around Wolfram's head as gently as possible.
Rashid nodded. "We discovered him stumbling about the outskirts of the country a year later. A few soldiers reported him mumbling to himself," he said.
"This is around the time when your country's previous king was executed and you began taking methods to become the next king," Murata recounted, placing a crooked finger under his chin.
"Yes," agreed Rashid, smiling sadly at Khalid. "He was brought back to the palace secretly and we attempted to remind him of his heritage. We wanted him to become the next king."
"Why was he brought in secret then?" asked Gwendel.
Rashid's eyes involuntary fell to the ground. "Although many people grieved his proposed death, many believed he was related to his father's involvement with Red Eye. We…believe Khalid was hypnotized by his own father to do horrid deeds."
"What of his presence in the Great Demon Kingdom?" Murata questioned.
"I was there for training and to discover a missing piece of a scroll," Khalid murmured, pressing his hand lightly against Wolfram's head, calling forth healing magic. "I had no recollection of what exactly occurred but the night before my 'death', three cloaked men from Sulteri invaded my room. "
Murata quickly noted Khalid's ability to use magic without the assistance of a magical stone. "I see…"
Rashid nodded eagerly. "Yes, we suspect his father sent after him to be put under a trance. From what we understand, Khalid was threatening to reveal his search for the missing scroll piece to the Demon Queen after Conrart found him out."
Conrad's eyes slightly softened. "But then when…you smiled…"
Khalid brought up his head, eyes briefly acknowledging Conrad. "I could not recall the events of that day until your death blow, when it disrupted the trance and awakened me. I was relieved…so I smiled I suppose."
Yuri's eyes brightened significantly as he stated, "So Conrad really saved you? I mean, something bad would have happened if you were still under the trance?" The thought that Conrad's violent action inevitably became a blessing lessened the stress weighing down Yuri's heart.
"Perhaps," Khalid replied, glancing at Yuri. "Forgive me for deceiving you, Your Highness. Although I believe people believe in my innocence, I anticipated that my ascension to kinghood would only have created more problems for Sulteri. Rashid allowed me to stay in the palace as his personal guard, masked, at my request."
Wolfram's eyes evaded its horrified expression and he whispered, "It's really you then. Your voice…it's the same."
"That is what I've said," Khalid replied, eyes returning to the flaxen boy.
Hesitantly, Wolfram extended his trembling hands to clasp Khalid's face. "All these years…I thought you were gone forever. Now you're…back and…you're really you. Is it true that you really weren't this horrible person Conrart said you were?"
Conrad's hand clenched viciously at those words as Yuri's chest tightened at the gentle touch Wolfram provided Khalid with. The way he spoke and behaved toward Khalid truly provided Yuri with enough evidence to establish a deep connection between the two. It made him feel ill.
Khalid elegantly stood and drew Wolfram up by firmly yet affectionately clasping the hands that had held his face. "I've missed you greatly. Those days before my 'death' were me and not a doll," he said in a hushed tone.
Yuri's eyes widened and he never realized his own fists clenching when Khalid embraced Wolfram tightly. Wolfram timidly brought his hands up and lightly returned the embrace. "I've missed you too," he whispered.
Gwendel met Conrad's distressed eyes.
Murata momentarily acknowledged Yuri's reaction and he sat up. "I must admit, Rashid, this is all very sudden. You must understand our suspicions. Are we to simply believe Khalid is no threat to us? After all, you have nothing to prove your claims are true."
"B-but we do," Rashid stated. "Our previous king kept everything in writing. You don't suspect me to have my own brother executed over rumors, do you? We discovered letters written to unknown receivers claiming what he'd been planning. I have the documents still if you'd wish to see them."
"I see," Murata replied. "Well, ultimately, it's up to Shibuya to decide."
"Eh?" Yuri hesitantly met Rashid's eyes as he stuttered momentarily before hardening his eyes with determination. "I think…we should give Khalid a chance. I want to work out this treaty. I won't just leave your country to deal with this crazed group alone."
Rashid smiled gently at Yuri's genuinely coated words. "Your Highness, thank you eternally. I recommend that you return to your country for safety precautions. We can discuss the treaty tomorrow before swiftly returning you home."
"What about Red Eye?" asked Yuri.
The king of Sulteri paused while he met Khalid's eyes. "I…believe you can assist us with the matter even in your kingdom," he began slowly before he clasped his hands delightfully, "but for now, please allow yourselves the luxury of sleep. We'll increase the guard patrol for your safety tonight, Your Highness."
Yuri smiled sincerely and nodded his head. "Alright, then."
Khalid lightly pulled away from Wolfram and softly said, "We'll speak more tomorrow, my old friend. You've had a tiring day."
After lightly nodding in agreement with Khalid, Wolfram sadly smiled. "Sorry about that," he muttered, lightly brushing his finger over the bruising wound on Khalid's forehead. He then released Khalid's hand and retrieved his sword from the ground.
Conrad remained tense until Khalid escorted Rashid out the room, followed by the guards. He sheathed his sword just as Gwendel stomped toward Wolfram. "What did you think you were doing?" he asked in a low but demanding voice.
Wolfram met his eyes, dumbfounded. "I didn't do anything!" he insisted harshly,
"You call for assistance under these sorts of circumstances!" Gwendel explained, gripping Wolfram's arm when his younger brother turned away.
Angrily, Wolfram tore away his arm in a quick motion as he bellowed, "I was completely fine and forgive me if I was a little bit shocked by the situation!"
"Come on, you guys," Yuri moaned as he positioned himself between the two. "Please, can't we…just go to bed? What matters is that Wolfram is not hurt…much," he corrected upon examining the wrapped dressing around Wolfram's head.
Gwendel narrowed his eyes and glanced at Conrad. "Conrart, you will stay on guard in front of His Highness and Wolfram's room," he gruffly ordered.
With a slight nod, Conrad replied, "Of course."
Wolfram snorted but kept silent as he brushed pass Yuri, completely avoiding eye contact.
After Conrad, Yuri, and Wolfram's footsteps faded, Murata smiled. "Your little brother is quite a good fighter, you know. I don't think he'll break that easily."
Gwendel tiredly shut his eyes and massaged a temple with two fingers. "I trust his skills but his impulsive behavior is worrisome. If Khalid had intended on killing him, he would be dead by now."
Murata lightly hummed a thought as he followed Gwendel out of Conrad's room. "All I know is that Rashid has a reason for every question we toss at him."
101010
Yuri offered Conrad a good night before his godfather shut the door to conduct his vigilance. Yuri shyly shifted his eyes to observe Wolfram, in a loose robe, inching under the comforts of the sheets. Suspiciously, Yuri said, "I…wasn't expecting you to sleep here tonight."
With a glare, Wolfram snapped, "Just because you're a wimp doesn't mean you're getting rid of me."
"What?" asked Yuri, mouth agape and slightly irritated. "I reacted completely normally for a guy who was about to get kissed my some other guy! I mean…a straight guy getting kissed by…a not straight guy…or…"
"Shut up," Wolfram grumbled as he stole one of Yuri's pillows. "Forget it even happened."
Yuri threw up his hands, briefly at a loss for words. "Wh…I can't just forget it happened! It's burned into my mind! You…you tried to kiss me!"
With a fluff of a pillow and jerk of the blanket, Wolfram responded, "There's nothing wrong with kissing your fiancé. Now, good night."
With a groan, Yuri ran his hands through his dark hair and tugged. He released a breath of air to calm himself and he snatched a left over towel to begin drying his hair off. As he nearly completed his task, a thought crept into his mind. "Hey, Wolfram. Why is that I can't ever touch anyone, as it makes me a cheater, and yet you just draped yourself all over that Khalid guy?"
At this, Wolfram's eyes widened as they harbored a disturbed expression. "Don't," he whispered, rolling his back toward Yuri.
"What? It's a legitimate argument!" disputed Yuri, tossing aside the towel before crawling onto the bed to compel Wolfram to face him. "I bet you really like him, don't you? Conrad told me he…loved you and I think you're just-"
How dare he! Wolfram's mind shrieked.
With a torn sound, Wolfram bolted into a sitting stance and raised his hand in a gesture of violence. "Don't you ever accuse me of such a thing! Do you hear me? Ever!" he hissed, tears leaking from his eyes, trailing down his face.
"Wolfram? Wha…?"
Wolfram jerked away from Yuri's approaching hand and he quickly concealed his eyes with his trembling hands. He attempted to speak but a broken gasp pathetically escaped his lips. He took in a shuddering breath and shook his head. "I'm…"
Yuri hesitated as he gripped Wolfram's shoulder. He lowered his eyes and mumbled, "Don't. I shouldn't have said that. I…didn't mean to upset you."
"I…I'm just really tired," Wolfram moaned as he reluctantly leaned into Yuri's touch. "I don't know what is the matter with me is."
"Oh, Wolfram," Yuri whispered as he recycled his anxiety and confusion into concern and empathy. He gently pried Wolfram's hands from his face. Emerald eyes vanished beneath eyelids and Yuri was quick to press a hand to Wolfram's face.
He lightly pressed Wolfram into his chest as he soothingly uttered, "It's okay to cry, Wolfram. Let your pride go…I won't tell."
"Y-You better not," Wolfram threatened, his nails clinging to Yuri's robe. "It'll b-be the last thing you ever do."
Yuri shut his eyes with a small smile and responded to Wolfram's soft cries with a firmer embrace. "I'm really sorry I shoved you, Wolfram."
"Sh-shut…up."
"You should be nicer to me after yelling at me like that," Yuri offered as he ran a light hand through Wolfram's curled hair. Wolfram replied by groaning into Yuri's chest, resulting in a gentle sigh to emit from the demon king. "It's going to be okay, Wolfram. I…care for you but…I like girls."
"I said…shut up," Wolfram growled as his body loosened under Yuri's touch. "Besides…I'm not a girl. I can't change that. Why do you stupid earth people care?"
Yuri was unable to reply with a sufficient answer. Instead he flushed and said nervously, "What does Khalid mean to you then?"
Understanding Yuri's attempt to alter the subject, Wolfram sniffed as his finger lightly traced the radiant pendant resting around Yuri's neck. "Khalid is to me as Julia was to Conrart," he murmured sadly. "He was a good man. Not the friendliest, but he was at least respectful."
"Do you think he's still good?" Yuri asked hesitantly and his circular motions on Wolfram's back ceased momentarily.
Wolfram shifted and said, "I…don't know. His story makes sense and if Rashid has those documents…maybe Conrart really did save him from doing something worse."
Yuri smiled lightly. "Yeah, that's good." He gulped and colored rapidly when the pressure of Wolfram's lips relaxed against his neck. Paranoid, Yuri advised, "Let's go to bed, yeah? I think tomorrow will be a better day."
Wolfram slowly removed himself and roughly rubbed his robe against his face to absorb any remaining tears. He released a final sniff before meeting Yuri's eyes. "You're so complicated. You push me away and then take me into your arms. You're crushing me…"
"N-No! I just don't…I just don't want to see tears on somebody I care for," proclaimed Yuri as he tore his eyes away, using the removal of his shoes as an excuse. He slowly removed the pendant and gently placed it beside the bed on the nightstand. "You've been through so much. I just want to help."
Wolfram observed his fiancé timidly beginning to crawl under the covers. "You're still willing to sleep beside me knowing my feelings for you?" he asked curiously, Yuri's absent touch generating the lonely and desperate emotion to return.
"I trust you," Yuri replied and he paused as he noticed the depression returning to Wolfram's eyes. "What's wrong? Feeling ill again?"
"I…I think your touch is healing," Wolfram mused, recalling earlier events. "I didn't have nightmares the times you were holding me."
Yuri raised an eyebrow and inquired, "What of the night we were camping out? I didn't…you know…hug you or anything."
Wolfram frowned at the thought. "I thought maybe I had a connection," he murmured disappointingly.
With a defeated sound, Wolfram returned under the covers and lightly clasped his hands upon his chest after turning out any indications of synthetic light. Meanwhile, Yuri adjusted himself to absorb a deep sleep and consequently, rotated to his right side. Just as he attempted to shut his eyes, he noticed Wolfram's wide eyes tracing the bedposts of the bed.
"Aren't you going to close your eyes?" asked Yuri suspiciously.
After a pause, Wolfram said," I don't want any nightmares."
Yuri groaned and replied tiredly, "You'll just pass out from lack of sleep, you know. "
The blonde only blinked.
When Wolfram remained silent, Yuri released a frustrated grumble as he loosely draped an arm around Wolfram. The other boy blinked rapidly as he gripped Yuri's arm. "What are you doing?" he demanded, slightly blushing.
"I want to sleep. I can't sleep knowing you're awake. If I'm doing anything to help ease your nightmares, then I'll try it," he mumbled as he shut his eyes. Honestly, Wolfram's stubbornness and his sleepiness was contributing to a headache.
Wolfram narrowed his eyes. "Now you're just mocking me."
With a forceful tug, Wolfram was jerked against Yuri's chest. "Wolfram," Yuri began sleepily when the boy struggled bashfully.
"W-What?"
"Shut up and sleep."
101010
"Then it is settled," proclaimed Rashid as he marked his signature at the end of the document.
Yuri smiled as he accepted the writing utensil before signing his own name, beside Rashid's. "I'm glad we were capable of working something out. We'll help bring Sulteri into a great kingdom. I think you're just misunderstood."
With a light nod, Khalid said, "There is a matter that you can assist us with, as Rashid mentioned the other day. It involves the missing pieces of a few scrolls."
Gwendel glanced at the man from his seat and asked, "The ones containing spells?"
"Yes," Khalid replied. "I suspect Red Eye has infested your kingdom, searching for the documents."
"What makes you believe the pieces are safer in Sulteri?" asked Conrad, from behind Yuri.
Rashid smiled nervously as he replied, "We don't plan to keep them, Conrart. We plan to destroy them, of course."
Yuri glanced at the others before questioning, "Why haven't they been destroyed before?"
"Well, Your Highness," Khalid began, placing the treaty aside, "before, there was a powerful incantation around the scrolls that were impervious to any sort of magic. We believe we have found an alternative method to destroying them."
In interest, Murata raised his eyebrows and offered the king and Khalid a stare. "Oh? How so?"
Khalid glanced around the room and explained in a lowered voice, "I don't believe this is the place to speak of such matters. At another time and location will suffice."
"Where else, though?" Wolfram asked, partially interested, partly jaded.
In a respectful motion, Khalid gestured for Rashid to speak. The king nodded happily as he stood and extended his arms in a joyous manner. "Your Highness, please allow Khalid to escort you and your party to the Great Demon Kingdom. I have chosen him as a representative of Sulteri. After all, you will need to advise the Great Demon Kingdom Alliance of this treaty, correct?"
Yuri blinked, not aware of how to respond. He laughed uncertainly as he scratched his hair. "Well," he said, his eyes darting to Wolfram, "I suppose that's true. I…think it will be alright."
Wolfram caught Yuri's eyes and he lightly shrugged, though his eyes shone with interest.
Gwendel only sighed and muttered, "If our king insists, we comply."
"I'll be surrounded by demon tribesmen at all times," added Khalid with a satisfied smirk. "If you suspect my loyalty, you'll chop my head off in an instant."
"Of course," replied Gwendel.
Yuri frowned and nervously inserted, "I think it'll be okay."
"Then forgive me for taking up your entire morning," apologized Rashid with a bow. "I assume you'll leave early tomorrow morning?"
Murata nodded. "Yes," he said. "I hope you don't mind us staying one more night."
Rashid shook his head. "Not at all. I'm sorry for not being capable of hosting the ball in celebration of our new treaty. You can, however, enjoy the remainder of your trip by sight-seeing if you wish."
"That sounds great," exclaimed Yuri with an impish grin. "Can we go into the towns and try some of the food?"
"Your Highness," Conrad began in a disapproving tone.
Khalid chuckled but offered no smile. "Don't fret, Conrart. I'll guide you safely to the horned beasts. Namir enlightened me on your interest in them," he said.
"Really? That sounds great! How about it? Come on, Conrad, can we? We'll be safe! I promise I won't run off or anything. Please?" cooed Yuri, his hands balled into fists and eyes twice their size, imitating a pouting child who desperately craved an ice-cream.
Conrad presented a defeated smile as he replied, "If you insist, Your Highness. I only ask that you stay by my side."
Yuri nodded eagerly. "Promise!"
"I'm coming along, too," Wolfram claimed, poking Yuri. "I won't let you out of my sight."
Khalid's eyes narrowed wretchedly. "Come along. They are most active around this time of day," he thickly articulated before turning lightly on his heels to the hallways.
The three followed Khalid quickly, leaving the others to discuss the treacherous letters written by the previous king. Although Yuri had examined them and suspected no forgery, Murata suggested that he and Gwendel analyze them further.
As Yuri strolled beside Khalid, he bit his lip curiously and asked, "So, Khalid, we never got to properly introduce ourselves. I'm Yuri Shibuya and although I'm shocked about you being alive, I'm glad to finally meet you."
Khalid briefly glanced at Yuri as he rummaged through a large dresser positioned against a wall in the hallway. "So my tale has been told to you, has it?" he remarked with an amused look aimed at Conrad, noting the slight lingering scratch that remained on the man's face.
With a light shrug, Conrad replied, "His Majesty heard of your name and I gave him some insight to your character."
"What do you think of my character, Your Highness?" Khalid asked, smoothly drawing out three headdresses and a ceramic mask that concealed the owner's eyes. He presented the headdresses to the others then began situating the mask onto his face securely.
Yuri placed on the flimsy material lightly over his head. "Well, from what I hear, you're a good fighter. You don't smile a lot but you're respectful and you…had some issues with your father."
"You've analyzed me well, Your Highness," Khalid replied in a muffled voice.
"Understand we must be cautious despite you claims," Conrad sympathetically expressed.
Khalid faced Conrad and tilted his head. "It's in the past, Conrart. I understand your reaction. I suspect my father did not calculate such an event and it cost him his life. So although you 'killed' me, I thank you for stopping my father indirectly."
Conrad placed his own headdress on before following Khalid with the others once more. "How did you ever survive though?"
"I used a spell to place my body in suspended animation," replied Khalid, flippantly ruffling Wolfram's hair. "I don't recall how I got out of it though or how my body came to lie in a forest."
Wolfram jerked his head away from Khalid's touch but beneath the cloth draped over his head, he faintly smiled. "How were you capable of using a spell without having any magic?" he asked.
Khalid muttered, "I'll explain that once we reach your country tomorrow."
"Can you tell us why you're at least wearing a mask and not a headdress?" asked Yuri, suspicious.
"My eye color is not very common in Sulteri. It would raise curious heads," explained Khalid, leading them out of the palace. "As explained earlier, some Sulterians doubt my innocence."
Yuri nodded in consideration. "I guess that makes sense."
They kept silent for a few moments as they began flowing into the common markets. Khalid approached a young child behind a wooden counter vending edible provisions. Yuri enthusiastically sprinted to his side and took in a deep breath, savoring the aroma.
After presenting the boy with a handful of jingling coins, Khalid obtained four pastries of a tan color possessing a purple, orange, or scarlet filling that partially oozed from within the corners. Yuri gratefully accepted one of the pastries and experimentally licked the jelly.
"Wow! This is unbelievable! It's nice and sweet but not too much," Yuri commented as he took a bite after lifting his headdress to place the pastry beneath the cloth in order to eat it.
Wolfram sniffed his orange-filled snack before nibbling on it. "This one's good too," he remarked and looked at Yuri, who bore his dark eyes into emerald ones. "What?"
"Can I try?" asked Yuri softly, eyeing the pastry in Wolfram's hand.
With a roll of his eyes, Wolfram adjusted the pastry beneath the thin material of Yuri's headdress and allowed the demon king to take a bite. "It's only fair that I try yours then, Yuri."
Yuri delightfully nodded as he swallowed and held the delectable for Wolfram to relish.
"How sweet," murmured Khalid in a tone that possessed no emotion, "an indirect kiss."
Wolfram suffocated on the snack currently traveling down his throat as Yuri's embarrassment escalated to such an extreme that his headdress provided little to conceal it. Conrad smiled sympathetically as he patted Wolfram's back to ease the frantic coughing.
Khalid consumed his treat and reported, "I didn't realize such a comment would create such a reaction. I had assumed, being that you two are affianced, have done such things."
"N-No!" cried Yuri, his sudden appetite vanishing. "We've n-never! Okay I might have pecked his head once but he was sick and-"
"You kissed me?" asked Wolfram, his eyes wide and brimming with interest. "When?"
Yuri groaned and shook his head nervously. "I was just worried about you and it was totally platonic!" he insisted with an unsteady voice.
"It's quite alright, Your Highness," Conrad assured, his treat completely done. "Such actions are not frowned upon here."
"When?" demanded Wolfram again, gripping Yuri's collar roughly, startling the demon king further.
Yuri panicked and blurt out, "The night you asked me to hold you!"
Conrad raised an amused expression onto his face.
Wolfram blinked and released Yuri as he muttered, "You did?"
Timorously, Yuri nodded.
"I hate to interrupt such a poignant moment, but we must be heading forward," Khalid gravely uttered, eyes fixated on Yuri.
"You're the one that started it," commented Wolfram, crossing his arms.
Khalid clenched his jaw tightly beneath the mask's protection and turned from the party, his pace increasing. The others glanced at each other briefly before quickly rushing to catch up. Yuri kept his eyes distracted, unable to encounter Wolfram's eyes.
He kissed me? Wolfram pondered and smiled. Perhaps there was hope left for his wimp of a fiancé.
During their silent journey, the party passed by the eerily hazy alley that had guided them to a disturbed world of poverty. Yuri's eyes softened immensely as he recalled the events from the day before. "Khalid, is anything being done to help those poor people?" he quietly asked.
"Kings in the past have presented those people with empty promises. We are a broken country, Your Highness. Most believe we will never live in peace. We are inferior because of our culture and our stereotype. Even among ourselves, we are divided. Previous kings had no interest in truly alleviating their situation.
"However, Rashid is different. He is hoping to unite all people of Sulteri, with one common interest," Khalid explained, leading the three into a meadow and out of the markets. They reached a barricaded area and after the removal of Khalid's mask, the guards nodded and permitted entrance.
"What common ground is that?" asked Conrad.
Khalid chuckled, a deep yet soothing reverberation. "I'm quite shocked you don't know the answer to that, Conrart."
Conrad narrowed his eyes slightly and held a stiff posture. "Enlighten me, then," he advised.
"The only thing that can unite any Sulterian with another is our victimization," Khalid replied, a threatening tint coating every syllable. Before the others could inquire any further, animalistic grunts and cries echoed throughout the large pasture.
Wolfram's eyes widened with fascination as the horned beasts came into view, producing a rainbow effect upon the grass due to the vast colors of the animals. "They're beautiful," he breathed lightly, already dismissing the previous comments made by Khalid.
"Feel free to remove your headdresses," offered Khalid as he situated his own mask in the pouch at his side. "It is safe here."
Yuri's eyes cheerfully pranced around the humungous enclosure, absorbing every detail. "Oh, by the way," he began as he took off his headdress. "So the guards knew who you were? Who else knew you were still alive?"
"Anyone that works at the palace and certain patrol guards," responded Khalid, lightly resting a hand on a horned beasts' extended face, stroking the short violet hairs.
Conrad took Yuri's headdress and set them aside as he inquired, "Does Namir know?"
Khalid met his eyes. "Yes. I was the one who found him whoring himself to rich men," he darkly stated.
"I thought Rashid found him," mumbled Wolfram, gently patting the horned beast Khalid was stroking.
"He said that because he was forbidden to speak of my true identity," said Khalid, lovingly clasping Wolfram's thin and partly calloused hands. "Would you like to feed them?"
With a hesitant look at the creature, Wolfram nodded. "Sure. They…don't bite, do they?"
Khalid's eyes sparkled instead of providing the flaxen boy with a smile. "If you have a gentle hand, you'll be fine," he expressed as he removed some feed from another pouch and poured thick grains and sliced fruit into Wolfram's hand.
Wolfram held the feed with cupped hands and he took a cautious step toward another horned beast of a dull coral shade that currently nibbled at Yuri's sleeve. "Here," he whispered with a smile and the creature eagerly dove its mouth into Wolfram's hand. "Hey…It likes me I think."
Yuri grinned as he caressed the long curled main. "They're so amazing. They're like unicorns! Can they fly or do anything cool?" he asked as Wolfram offered some of the feed to him.
"Nothing in particular. They're very swift and their horns are used for a variety of reasons. They provide medical benefits when mixed properly with other ingredients and they're the most powerful material for weapons."
"That's why they've been hunted down," added Conrad, delighted at Wolfram and Yuri's childlike behavior toward the beasts. "It was thought they were extinct since most nations have no connection with Sulteri. The Great Demon Kingdom is one of the few who knew about Sulteri's effort to restore the population."
Yuri laughed happily as the horned beast trailed a wet pattern around his fingers when the food vanished. "Hey, can we ride them?" he asked hopefully after wiping his hands clean of the saliva.
"If you're careful," Khalid warned.
In a quick motion, Wolfram pressed his hands to his hips as he declared, "Of course he will be. I'll ride wit him so this wimp won't fall off."
Yuri groaned and mumbled, "I can ride horses just fine. This is no different, I bet."
Conrad chuckled and explained, "You cannot tame a horned beast as easily as a horse, Your Majesty. You must ride them without any saddle."
"What? Won't that hurt though?"
Wolfram pinched Yuri and cooed, "What's the matter? Afraid of a sore bum? You'll be fine, wimp! They're skeletal structure is a little different and they're much softer."
With a slight grunt, Wolfram jerked himself onto the horned beast and shakily sat. Yuri's face formed into a pout as he whined, "I want to be in the front."
"Alright, alright, don't be such a pest," muttered Wolfram as he scoot his body back slightly and allowed Yuri, with the aid of Conrad, to mount the horned beast.
Khalid kept the creature steady by providing it with extra feed until the two were securely on. His eyes drifted to the arms that Wolfram had encircled around Yuri's waist to balance himself. "Conrart and I will accompany you as well," he softly said as he released the horned beast's face gently before eyeing another beast.
"He's moving a lot already," muttered Yuri unsteadily as the beast grunted and adjusted to the newly placed weight on its back. "How do I make him go?"
"She will go if you pat her neck," Khalid clarified as he and Conrad adapted to their horned beasts. "Hold onto their mane, as it replaces the use of reins."
Yuri nodded and patted the creature with, what he anticipated, was a light pat. In response, she cried out sharply and leapt to her hind legs, causing both Wolfram and Yuri to scream in fright. With a wild thrust, the horned beast took off in a swift pace.
"Yuri!! What did you do?!" barked Wolfram in horror as he clung tightly to Yuri's midsection, the wind tangling his hair severely.
Yuri pitifully moaned and tenaciously gripped the mane of the beast to prevent from falling off. "I only patted her!! I didn't think it was that hard!"
"Your Highness!" hollered Conrad as he instructed his own horned beast to scamper in an equally rapid speed. "Hold on!"
"What do you think we're doing?!" replied Wolfram in a screech as the creature propelled off the ground at an escalating speed.
"HELP US!!"
101010
"This is why I don't let you try doing things on your own," Wolfram groaned thickly as he applied the packet of ice to his shoulder with more pressure, emitting a hiss from his lips. "If I wasn't there to cushion your fall, who knows what would have happened."
Yuri moaned and frowned. "I'm really sorry I fell on you, Wolfram. Is your back and shoulder feeling better?" he asked quietly as Khalid brought Wolfram another packet of ice.
Wolfram lightly shrugged and provided a dismissive look. "I'll be fine," he grumbled. Although his head injury was his own fault from the day before, its contribution to all the many physical problems he was enduring and this new injury was only frustrating him.
"Here, let me," said Yuri as Khalid made to aid Wolfram medically. The dark eyed boy situated himself behind Wolfram and gently employed his hand as a healing tool, creating a faint green glow. Conrad managed to capture Khalid's disappointed eyes before they quickly hardened.
"The bruising will vanish by tomorrow," said Khalid as he leaned against a tree, eyes on Yuri's hand.
Yuri nervously laughed and added, "At least it was a new experience, right, Wolfram?"
The blonde tilted his head and craned his neck to offer Yuri a dirty look. It quickly morphed into a faint smile and an entertained expression splattered over his countenance. "It was fun," he admitted softly.
Yuri returned his smile and he lowered his hand. "How's that?"
Experimentally, Wolfram rotated his shoulder and wiggled his body to determine if any pain remained. "It's just a dull ache now," he mused and set the packet aside to gently and carefully rest his back against the cushioned trunk of the tree he and Yuri sat beneath.
"Good," said Yuri as he reclined beside Wolfram, observing the horned beasts prancing about while others curled among the grass to rest. "It's peaceful here. I like it. It's not like that lonely place where the alley is."
Conrad sensed the uncertainty of Yuri's eyes and he smiled. In a single motion, he stood, collected a few canteens, and addressed Khalid. "Shall we gather some water? We could speak of old times," he suggested, despite the knot of ambiguity that pinched his nerves. After all, a talk with the man you supposedly murdered was not a very common practice in any kingdom.
Khalid quickly understood Conrad's request, indirectly advising him to allow Yuri and Wolfram a moment. He barely acknowledged the comment as his eyes traveled the length of Wolfram's grown body. Despite the ache and inferno that boiled beneath his skin, he joined Conrad.
"We'll be at that small lake," he said to the two with a motion of his hand.
Yuri blinked, bemused. He only could nod as the two strolled away, a thick tension swirling around them. "You think they'll be okay alone?" he whispered to Wolfram.
"Mm-hmm," Wolfram replied, his head slightly tilting to relax on Yuri's shoulder. "You know, I forgot to thank you."
"For what?"
"I think you erased any nightmares," Wolfram explained a low voice.
Yuri's hand itched to pry Wolfram off his shoulder yet his body melted into a calming stream at the comforting feeling. "I forgot about that," he replied, unconsciously and sleepily craning his neck to rest his own head against Wolfram's. "Wait…does that mean I'm going to have to hold you every night?"
Wolfram felt Yuri's body heat rise and he presumed the boy to be blushing. "Of course, wimp," he replied with a soft yawn. "Mmm. These are the perfect moments for a nap."
Not appreciating Wolfram's change of subject, Yuri sighed, a defeated and yet cheery gesture. As his body and mind loosened, Yuri decided to present Wolfram with his offer. "Hey…Wolfram?"
"Mm?" said Wolfram, his eyes half-lidded.
"I…want to talk about our engagement," uttered Yuri in a quick breath, his tension rising along with Wolfram's. "Just hear me out before you jump to conclusions!"
Wolfram frowned but grumbled, "Fine. Speak." He prepared his psychological state in the event that Yuri only provided him with a negative view of their betrothal.
"I know I haven't been…really paying attention to it. I mean, I still like girls but I know I can't just end this engagement because of your pride or whatnot. So…I've decided.."
Wolfram shut his eyes tightly and clenched his fists, his nails piercing his flesh.
"I…want to try to make it work," said Yuri timidly after clearing his throat to disintegrate any anxiety or doubt.
The blonde warrior's eyes snapped in a rapid motion and he sprung up to face Yuri. "What?" he whispered.
Yuri's eyes darted around the area to avoid Wolfram's. "I mean…just because we get married, it doesn't mean we have to…do stuff. I just…I just don't want you to think that I'm neglecting it anymore. I'm not saying I'm going to…be your boyfriend or anything either!" he quickly added in a frightened shout.
"Hmph. I wouldn't let you forget about our engagement anyway!" Wolfram snapped with a twist of his head, his head held high in an arrogant manner. "And another thing, you've already kissed me so we've officially done 'stuff' already."
Yuri flushed at the memory and he clenched a fist. "That has nothing to with this! That was a platonic kiss!" he insisted, narrowing his eyes. "It wasn't on the lips or anything either!"
"Well, we've already kissed if that's your 'official' definition," Wolfram said with a smile.
Yuri wavered. "Excuse me?"
Wolfram smiled warmly and elucidated the details. "I kissed you while you slept the night before."
"You WHAT?! Wolfram! You can't just do that while people sleep!" Yuri screamed, face horrendously smeared in a gentle red shade. "I can't believe you did that to me! Th-that…"
"Oh get over it, wimp. It was just a kiss."
"But how do I know you won't do other things to me while I'm asleep?"
"You're such a wuss, Yuri. Really, you are. It was just a kiss! Are you claiming you've never kissed anyone before?"
"What?! I…You have, I assume?"
"Of course I have. I've kissed plenty of people thus far," exclaimed Wolfram haughtily.
Yuri narrowed his eyes teasingly and angrily as he claimed, "Your mother doesn't count."
The insult fueled Wolfram's blood and he gave a mighty shout as he pounced on Yuri, straddling him, the ache in his back forgotten. "How dare you speak to your fiancé that way! Take it back!" he commanded, gripping Yuri's collar violently and rudely shaking the boy beneath him.
"Get off, you night-kisser!" Yuri screamed as he grasped Wolfram's robe and attempted to throw him off. He partially succeeded in his task; however, the predicament involved their position upon a relatively large hill and Wolfram's refusal to release his collar.
Yuri could only let out a startled cry as he and Wolfram began spiraling down the mighty hill, all the while Wolfram grunting, "Take it back!"
"Ow! Wolfram! Let go!"
"I don't-ouch! I don't care if you are the demon king and my fiancé, no one insults me!" the blonde growled.
As Yuri prepared a retort, he vaguely noticed two forms rushing at them from the side. As they continued rolling, he managed to capture the origin from which the panic sprung forth. "Wolfram! Wait! Stop! We're going to-"
They both let out a yell in unison as the hill's descending slope ended with the rather cold lake that Khalid and Conrad occupied. Yuri was the first to gasp for air as his head reached the surface. "Wolfram! Are you alright?" he cried when Wolfram tore out of the water.
The blonde gasped as he aided Yuri to the edge. "I…I think so," he replied.
"Your Highness!" cried Conrad as he offered his assistance in tugging Yuri out of the water while Khalid proceeded to jerk Wolfram out. "You two, honestly."
Yuri glared at Wolfram before a laugh burst out. "I'm sorry, Wolfram," he confessed.
Wolfram shivered as Khalid draped his cloak about him but compiled his composure. He broke into a smile and chuckled. "You should be, wimp."
"Don't call me-"
"Alright, you two," Khalid threatened, situating them around a circular pile or rocks and sticks. "I'll go retrieve some new clothing while you two dry off by the fire."
Yuri nodded his thanks as Khalid fashioned a successful fire through the use of two oddly shaped rocks. "Alright. Sorry about making you go all the way back," he said.
Khalid ignored his apology and he stood up gracefully before swiftly vanishing over the hill.
"Please take off your clothing, Your Highness," requested Conrad. "You'll catch cold."
Yuri began peeling off his clothing as instructed and asked, "What will I wear until then? I'm not sitting butt-naked here."
"We'll share this cloak, of course," Wolfram clarified, already nude and beneath the warmth of the cloth.
"…Um…"
As soon as Yuri completely removed his clothing, Wolfram forcefully jerked the shy demon king to sit beside him and engulfed his fiancé with the cloak, resulting in the contact of their bare thighs and shoulders. Despite his humiliation, Yuri did have to admit that the warmth prevented him from escaping.
"O-okay," he nervously said, failing to keep his composure every moment Wolfram shifted, ensuing their skin to polish against one another.
He continued to blush as Wolfram met his eyes. "You're not still upset, are you? You're so pathetic, Yuri. I bet even if I dared you to kiss me on the cheek, you'd wimp out," mocked Wolfram with a smirk.
"I would not," retorted Yuri, his impulse speaking before his cautious mind. "I mean…I don't need to prove myself to you."
"Wimp. A boy who can't even suck it up to kiss another person…"
"Cut it out, Wolfram."
"Now, Wolfram," Conrad added, noticing Yuri's eyes generating an expression of frustration. He had anticipated Yuri and Wolfram to have a peaceful moment alone but perhaps he was too quick to referee the situation.
"Any real man could do it without hesitation and here lays the demon king, to shy to even kiss his own fiancé on the cheek. Honestly, I bet that even if our kingdom depended on the situation you would cry and wim-"
SMOOCH!
Crap. What have I just done?
Conrad blinked repeatedly to confirm that what he witnessed was indeed factual and not a hoax bred by the light of the fire. Yuri had, in fact, planted a determined and firm kiss to the pale skin that was Wolfram's left cheek.
Yuri jerked back in horror, but retained a satisfied expression. "Th-there! Now y-you can't call me a wimp anymore!" he exclaimed as he tore his eyes onto the fire, his face utterly bathed in scarlet.
What the heck have I done? I just kissed Wolfram! A boy! In front of Conrad, his own brother no less! Someone kill me, please. Let me get pulled back to earth now...
Wolfram lightly stroked the spot where the sensation of Yuri's lips lingered. A pale flush crept through his face as he smiled and observed the fire with an amused look.
"Wimp."
Yuri groaned and buried his face into the sanctuary of the cloak.
101010
Yuri's ears perked at the sound of footsteps neared them. He lifted his head and witnessed Khalid finally returning with a bundle securely snug beneath his arm.
"Conrad," Yuri began frantically in a hushed tone.
"Don't worry, Your Highness. I won't tell anyone about you and Wolfram."
Yuri moaned once more and clasped his hands in a praying motion. He bowed his head before Conrad, shut his eyes tightly, and declared, "Thank you so much! I'm so embarrassed. I feel like dying…"
With a harsh grunt, Wolfram shoved Yuri lightly. "Wimp," he whispered so as Khalid's ears would not capture their conversation as he approached. Yuri had sworn him to secrecy and although Wolfram had ultimately succumbed to his demands, he mentally noted to mention it as much as possible when they were alone or in the presence of Conrad.
Desperately, Yuri hushed Wolfram as Khalid titled his head to survey him. He raised an interested eyebrow before tossing Yuri and Wolfram a set of clothing. "Get dressed, we'll be leaving shortly," he instructed.
"What, already?" asked Yuri as he tugged on the clothing.
Khalid held his hand to present Yuri with a letter. "Something has come up. His Eminence has asked for us to return before the sun sets to discuss a few matters," he explained as he allowed Conrad to read its contents.
Khalid's eyes absorbed every movement Wolfram's body made as the blonde completed dressing and secured his sword. "Wolfram, may I please speak to you briefly?"
Wolfram glanced at Yuri and Conrad. "What about?"
"It's been so long since we've spoken alone," Khalid murmured, his golden eyes captivating Wolfram.
"Alright," Wolfram reluctantly replied. "Conrart, we'll meet you at the gates shortly."
Conrad scrutinized Khalid but he only nodded and led Yuri toward the gate, allowing the boy to caress a horned beast now and then.
Khalid was quick to grasp Wolfram's hand as he jerked him to an area thickened by trees. He gazed in the direction of Conrad and once he confirmed the distance sufficed, his eyes returned to Wolfram. The smaller of the two maintained his cold façade as he wrenched his hand free and placed it on a narrow hip.
"So? What is it?"
"Such an attitude you possess. Only yesterday you were clinging to me," uttered Khalid, lightly stroking Wolfram's face. "I enjoyed that feeling."
With a yank of his head, Wolfram dismissed Khalid's touch. "Don't."
Khalid's eyes darkened. "You've fallen for His Highness, haven't you," he stated, rather than questioned. "I suppose I couldn't expect you to wait for my return."
"I never loved you, Khalid," Wolfram uttered as he lightly took up Khalid's hand.. "I cared for you. I still do. I'm so happy you're alive. I…I'm very confused still about the details but all I know is that you're here."
Offering his rare smile, Khalid took Wolfram into his arms and lightly pressed his lips to the golden hairs. "I promise to prove to you my innocence. I yearn for you and I will not allow myself to be defeated to easily by that boy. Know that I will always protect you, regardless of the outcome," he murmured against Wolfram's temple.
After releasing a frustrated sigh, Wolfram returned the embrace despite Khalid's remark regarding Yuri. "You're so pathetic," he responded. "My loyalties are with Yuri and if you intend to make me happy, protect him when you're in our country, not me. He's a wimp and needs it.
Khalid kept silent for a moment before releasing a breath of air. "As you wish," he said and gripped Wolfram tightly.
"Good. We can catch up more once we return to the Great Demon Kingdom," Wolfram commented as he pushed off of Khalid, pleased but cautious as to not permit Khalid with too much leniency. After all, the man was still a suspect.
Khalid unenthusiastically released Wolfram and his smile faded. "I'll never leave. You realize that, don't you?"
"I don't mind. I trust you, though, Khalid. Don't do anything that would make my decision a mistake. If you want to remain at my side, don't disappoint me. I…care for you but if you do anything to harm Yuri, I won't hesitate to kill you," he firmly declared, crossing his arms.
With an engrossed countenance, Khalid partially smirked. "I promise to make sure you stay by my side," Khalid responded with a respectful bow.
101010
Murata's eyes narrowed and he slanted his head to peer out of the windows that were slightly ajar, permitting the curtains to dance with the blissful breeze.
"What is it?" asked Gwendel as he paused in his review over the documents Rashid provided them.
"Just…a feeling," the Great Sage murmured, returning to his drink. "Nothing to worry about, though."
The older man grunted and returned to the many scattered papers on the ivory desk.
Murata slightly smiled as he witnessed Gwendel stiffly drawing the feathered quill roughly along a blank paper, apparently marking down notes.. "Khalid is on your mind," he said, smirking as the quill snapped between the man's thick and clumsy fingers.
Gwendel shut his eyes and cleared his throat. "His sudden appearance is very suspicious," he grumbled.
"Indeed. We must keep a keen eye on him to assure Shibuya's safety. Regardless, I'm sure you were partially happy in seeing your old comrade alive, yes?" asked Murata, sipping his hot drink.
The eldest brother released a breath of peaceful yet tight air. He remained silent.
A quick knock interrupted the silence. "Your Eminence," cooed the feigned female voice.
"Enter," ordered Gwendel and he grasped a new quill upon Yosak's entrance. "What have you got?"
Yosak's eyes solidified after swiftly retrieving a document from his elaborate attire. "I received an autopsy report concerning the mysterious man you and Lord von Christ witnessed spying on His Highness," he revealed, his voice suspicious and abnormally dejected.
"Go on," said Murata, setting aside his drink and leaning forward.
"Well, they were unable to encounter much information but, if you recall, there was one eye that still remained," began Yosak as his eyes remained on Murata, the document's contents already imprinted into his memory. "The eye became like the eyes of the children; red and slit."
Gwendel nodded, his eyes downcast. "The manifestation of a Red Eye member," he clarified.
"They've infested the Great Demon Kingdom, as Khalid suspected," deliberated Murata with a mild expression. "Perhaps he could be of use with this situation."
Yosak nodded leisurely. "I've received information that there have been no other encounters such as this, with the exception of Conrart's. There's still no progress on that either," he read off the sheet.
Gwendel met Murata's eyes suspiciously. "Another member of Red Eye?"
"Perhaps," Murata considered with a small shrug. "It's very likely, though. It seems things have just gotten complicated."
"Shall I make preparations?" inquired Yosak as he adjusted his fake bust to reassure their firmness.
"Yes and be careful," advised Murata before instructing Yosak to depart.
As Yosak winked a final farewell, Gwendel set aside the quill in an irritated manner. "From what I can discern, it seems as if the two figures were caught only after spying on His Highness. The first was in the garden and the second was in his bed chambers."
Murata nodded in agreement but his eyes expressed interest in another manner.
Gwendel shifted his gaze to the Great Sage. "What was that you were saying before regarding the blood of the children?" he asked, recalling how Wolfram's scream disrupted their previous conversation.
"Hmm?" queried Murata as he smiled. "Oh, I forgot."
With a twitch of his eye, Gwendel returned to his task. "I assume you'll inform His Highness about the news Yosak brought?"
"He doesn't like us to keep secrets from him," replied Murata, mimicking Yuri's tone.
Gwendel grunted.
"But he never mentioned we had to inform him right away," said Murata, eyes shut and another smirk creeping into his lips. "I think it may be best if we keep this information at bay until I confirm a theory of mine."
"Of course," Gwendel muttered, approving Murata's suggestion. His hand scribbled once more. "I only hope that Wolfram hasn't thrown a tantrum and that His Highness is safe. With our current situation as it is, the last thing we need is more problems."
"I'm sure Lord Weller is keeping them in line," assured Murata.
101010
Yuri blinked as he craned his neck and peered at the sky, a chill bolting throughout his body. "Hm?"
"Is something wrong, Your Highness?" Conrad asked gently as they neared the palace, the evening blanket slowly plastering the brightness of the sun.
"No. I just got a chill," replied Yuri, gripping his arms to emphasize his statement.
Wolfram inspected Yuri's eyes as much as the headdress authorized. With a kind expression, Yuri assured his welfare and Wolfram grudgingly returned his eyes onto Khalid's back. He noted the man's hair had grown a few inches and it loosely cascaded around his slim neck.
"Wait," Conrad whispered, grasping the hilt of his sword, disturbing Wolfram's observations.
Khalid too gripped his blade, his masked face shifting around as he surveyed the area. "It's blood," the man added, lightly taking a step to the right, near a poorly constructed building. "In here."
Conrad grasped Yuri's shoulder, indirectly ordering Yuri to remain still. "Stay here, Your Highness," he ordered softly, highlighting his order, as Wolfram followed Khalid prudently.
Wolfram entered the building, trailing behind a few steps, his heart racing rapidly. The harsh floor's jarring surface provided comfort to many rodents and insects. An unusual guest, however, lied in a fetal position in a feces polluted corner.
"You there," called Wolfram as he approached the figure despite Khalid's hiss of protest. "Hey!"
The person kept still even as Wolfram hesitantly nudged him with his boot. When the supposed man offered no response, Wolfram jerked the body onto its back with his foot, resulting in a headless figure to confront them.
Wolfram grunted in astonishment and disgust as a hairless rodent screeched and scampered out of the bloody hole it had created in what remained of the neck, which obviously supplied the creature with its dinner. A large hole situated on the chest apparently embodied the dessert.
"We know this wretched man," commented Khalid, sheathing his blade and kneeling to examine the body more intimately.
"What?"
Khalid sighed as stood once more. "I recall this elaborate clothing and the location of that wound," he said as he motioned to the large gash. "You don't recall? It involves the pit of body parts you fell into."
Wolfram impatiently stomped his foot and demanded, "Who is it then?"
"It is the man that I killed yesterday."
Wolfram narrowed his eyes, recalling the events from the previous day, including the sinister man that now rested before them, sprawled out and lacking any menace. "But…where's his head?"
"I doubt we want to know."
101010
Gunter whimpered longingly as his eyes gazed through the window at the sky, his mind assembling his king's delicate form in a cloud. "Oh, Your Highness…"
"Gunter, are you okay?" asked Greta curiously as she clasped the hands of her Yuri doll, shaking it lightly to make it dance. "You look sad."
"Oh, don't mind him," Anissina insisted, smiling down at the young girl. "He's just upset over a misunderstanding."
With a cry, Gunter ran his slim hands through his long hair. "What if Lady Celi is true in her assumption?! What if Wolfram has indeed slept with His Highness before a proper wedding!" he groaned, tears swelling to the extent where they spilled over.
Anissina eyed him curiously before returning to one of her many adventure tales. "Honestly, Gunter, yo-"
"Your Excellency?" cried a familiar voice after a hand knocked against the door.
Gunter sniffed and commanded for Dakaskos to enter the room. The soldier hesitantly eyed the others as he placed a relatively large box upon the desk. "We just received this gift for Lord von Bielefeld." he explained as he rested a hand upon the box. "It's an engagement gift, from what we understand."
Gunter's nerves expanded in tension as he eyed the box suspiciously. "Who sent it?" he questioned, lightly tracing the delicate scarlet and emerald ribbons that twisted around the box.
"Well, the card is marked 'a friend'," read Dakaskos as he flipped open the small cobalt shaded card.
Cautiously, Gunter gripped the covering of the box. "I think it may be best if we confirm the safety of the gift," he advised as he lightly lifted the top. "As an engagement gift, it's also addressed to His Highness."
A sickening smell permeated the room instantly after the long-haired man unfastened the box a bit. Gunter gave out a horrid cry but caught himself as he frantically eyed Anissina with a harsh look. The inventor met his eyes in consideration and she quickly stood up.
"Come along, Greta," he said gently and grasped the child's hand. "I want to read you my new story."
Greta glanced back at the two left in the room as she was tugged out of the room. "O-okay," she agreed as she took a firmer grip on her doll.
As they departed, Gunter motioned for Dakaskos to shut the door firmly. After inhaling a prepared breath, Gunter shakily removed the entire covering. He clasped one hand to his mouth and nose to prevent the repulsive aroma from entering his senses.
"Is…Is that…a-a…" stuttered Dakaskos, mimicking Gunter's movements.
Gunter could only nod in bewilderment, his voice unable to formulate words.
A man's head reclined in the box.
1010…tbc…1010
Well, all that's left is motivation. I've been unusually lacking any interest in writing due to a recently harsh event.
Please bear with me.
Your support and interest for this story helps me continue with it, however. I am still willing to carry on with this story because of all of you.
I cannot thank you enough. I hope you review and tell me your thoughts.
Hugs and bishies,
Mirai Kurosaki