Disclaimer: I do not own KKM or any of its characters
This story contains: homosexuality; heterosexuality; non-descript nudity/sex; pregnancy; male-pregnancy; original characters; and moderate torture/violence.
Please make sure you have noted the warnings above. If you continue to read I assume you are ok with these themes.
Please note this story is not connected in any way to my other KKM fanfics.
This chapter was updated and reviewed in January 2021.
Please enjoy!
Chapter one: The Beginning
Man my butt hurts, Yuri sighed to himself. After weeks of horse riding he was looking forward to getting back to Shinmakoku even if it meant having to sit at his desk for hours signing papers. Yuri was now in his fourth year as the demon King of Shinmakoku and he felt he was finally comfortable with his role. Almost every month a new country was asking to join the Mazoku-human alliance and while most countries joined for political reasons, Yuri hoped that one day they would be able to walk side-by-side as equals.
"What are you sighing about wimp?" Wolfram's voice cut into Yuri's thoughts. Yuri glanced at the blond Mazoku who was riding beside him wearing the usual green and blue outfit he wore when in the human kingdoms. Yuri may have grown comfortable and confident as the demon King but his engagement to Wolfram was an entirely different story. Yuri was certain that he didn't want to marry a man but he still thought of Wolfram as one of his closest friends and confidents. Unfortunately any attempt to show Wolfram platonic affection was immediately misinterpreted on Wolfram's part as romantic intentions. And he still hadn't shifted the stubborn blond from his bed. Yuri signed again. Life with Wolfram was far too complicated.
"It doesn't matter Wolf," Yuri said in answer to Wolfram's question. Wolfram narrowed his eyes and opened his mouth to retort when Conrad cut in.
"We should keep talking to a minimum here; there are bandits in this area." Yuri sat up a little straighter and looked around. Wolfram nodded and his hand slipped down to his sword.
"Relax they wouldn't attack a group this large." Josak grinned over his shoulder from his place at the head of their small procession. Yuri relaxed again and Wolfram glanced sideways at him, as if to make some remark, but instead he just released his grip on his sword. Yuri, Wolfram, Conrad and Josak were currently in Big Shimaron checking on the progress of the rebellion against King Lanzil the Second that Conrad himself had started a few months ago. Lanzil was currently in hiding and the men still loyal to him were few and far between. Lanzil's advisors had set up a government of sorts to run the country until a suitable successor could be found.
It had been Murata who suggested this little trip. He'd said that if a power hungry king came to the throne then Shinmakoku could be trouble once again. At first it was only Conrad and Josak who were going to infiltrate Big Shimaron and sneak about in secret but Yuri had demanded to go too, so naturally, Wolfram came along as well. As usual, Yuri had dyed his hair red and put in coloured contacts.
The party had been in Big Shimaron for almost two weeks and they felt they had gathered enough information. It was clear that Lanzil was not making a comeback and his old advisors wanted someone on the throne who was not going to oppose Shinmakoku. The people were sick of war and wanted to live in peace even if that meant allying with their old enemies, the Mazoku. Yuri was very happy to hear this news. He still hoped to form an alliance with Big Shimaron despite all that had happened to him over the years at their hands. Yuri smiled as he imagined a world without war. The fact that he'd kept his promise to his people and put an end to the centuries of pointless fighting was no small success.
Wolfram, riding beside Yuri, caught sight of the smile and the far-off look on Yuri's face that suggested the wimp was daydreaming again. Wolfram often voiced his objections to an alliance with Big Shimaron stating that Yuri's forgiving nature was going to get him into serious trouble one day. People would take advantage of him and the wimp wouldn't even notice it. Wolfram sighed heavily. While he would rather take an arrow than admit it, he knew that it was because of Yuri's nature that the Mazoku-human alliance happened in the first place. Before they met Wolfram never would have dreamed that he could call a human his friend. But Wolfram had nothing but respect for Lady Flurin Gilbert of Caloria, even if Yuri wouldn't stop flirting with her, the damn cheater.
Wolfram wasn't sure when his feelings for Yuri developed. He knew that at first he followed Yuri because he believed that it was his 'duty' whether he liked it or not. But now things had changed. Yuri was growing into a fine King and Wolfram respected him in ways he never thought he would. Wolfram eyed his fiancé as he rode beside him. Yuri was always so cheerful and supportive and he always thought of others first and himself second. Wolfram knew he was nothing like that but he was trying. He was trying to understand other people's feelings and be more like Yuri. Despite popular opinion, Wolfram did want people to like him but he didn't know how to interact with others. Wolfram was a very insecure person who was terrified of being left alone. Yuri was always surrounded by people with a big smile on his face and Wolfram felt jealous. He wanted to share in the glow that Yuri gave off but Yuri refused to see him as anything more than a friend.
Wolfram looked away from Yuri and stared at the trail ahead. Wolfram knew he had his share of flaws but he also knew that he would make a good husband if only Yuri would give him a chance. He would always be faithful to Yuri and he would protect the wimp from any and all dangers that presented themselves. Wolfram had never lost faith in Yuri and he never would. He knew that Yuri was the one who would end the wars between the humans and Mazoku and he wanted to share that future with Yuri. So what if they were both men? Did Yuri think that he'd always dreamed of marrying another man? It had been a shock to him too. Wolfram had long believed that if he gave Yuri enough time the other boy would start to see him in a different light. Now Wolfram couldn't help but feel frustrated. They had been engaged for four years and Yuri had never even kissed him! Wolfram closed his eyes and took a deep breath. Maybe he should talk to Yuri about their engagement? Wolfram shook his head. He didn't want to ask Yuri that question because he was terrified of the answer.
"Wolf, are you ok?" Wolfram looked at Yuri who was peering closely at him with a light frown. Wolfram was about to tell Yuri that he was fine when the undergrowth exploded. All four horses reared in panic as at least twenty heavily armed men on horseback appeared from nowhere waving their swords over their heads and shouting. The men were dressed in mismatched roughly worked clothing with a wide assortment of weapons from swords to crossbows. Most of the men were heavy set but there were a few on the skinny side. All had matted hair while some had full beards. They were ugly, fearsome and, Wolfram noted, very well organised. The sudden noise created a whirl of confusion that left Wolfram frozen before his military training kicked in. Bandits, Wolfram thought with a sudden rush of fear for Yuri's safety. Controlling his horse Wolfram snatched his sword from its scabbard transferring the reins to his left hand as he moved closer to Yuri to protect him.
"This way," Josak shouted and kicked his horse towards a narrow gap in the bandits' formation towards a trail leading off to the right. Conrad and Yuri followed with Wolfram protecting the rear. Josak drew his sword and plunged it skilfully into the chest of one of the bandits who tried to stop them. The bandit's horse reared and fled as its rider fell from the saddle, crashing through the formation and making the other horses scatter giving Yuri and the others a chance to escape.
The trail was narrow and Wolfram had to keep ducking under low hanging branches which threatened to knock him off his horse. Fortunately Yuri seemed to be holding on for the moment but if the trail got any worse Wolfram wasn't sure that Yuri, with his rudimentary riding skills, would be able to stay on his horse. Josak seemed to be thinking the same thing because he suddenly turned off the trail heading back to the original wider one. Conrad pulled his horse back to allow Yuri to pass him so he was behind Josak and Conrad was next to Wolfram.
Wolfram glanced over his shoulder and cursed at the bandits as they began to catch up to them. Their horses were tried from their long trip but the bandits' horses were fresh and willing. Wolfram knew they couldn't outrun them for long. There was a boat waiting for them just a few miles ahead and if they could reach it in time they could get away. Wolfram glanced over his shoulder again. There were still several bandits following them and they looked tough and well trained. They might even have been in the army at one point. Many soldiers had become bandits or bounty hunters in order to feed their families since they were no longer being paid to be in the army.
Josak's horse thundered around a corner and Yuri followed with Conrad and Wolfram close behind. Wolfram's heart was pounding as adrenaline coursed through him. An arrow whizzed past Wolfram's ear making him yelp in surprise. Conrad glanced at his younger brother in concern just as another arrow whizzed past his shoulder. Conrad glanced over his shoulder and frowned at the cross bows that three bandits were carrying. The third raised his cross bow and fired. Conrad ducked and the arrow flashed past him and almost hit Yuri. Yuri yelped in shock as the arrow whipped past him and Josak almost fell off his horse as he turned in the saddle to see what happened.
Wolfram felt a searing pain in his head and realised with a thrill of fear that the human bandits had brought Houseki stones with them. If it wasn't bad enough that the human lands drained his powers now he was weakened further by the stones. Wolfram was also painfully aware that he would be the only one of their group affected by the stones. Therefore he was the weakest and presented the greatest danger to Yuri's safety. Wolfram jerked sideways as a bolt of purple energy flew past them and a large smoldering burn mark appeared on a tree just in front of them. Wolfram glanced over his shoulder again. The men were catching up and they were too far from the ship to make it in time. If they captured Yuri…Wolfram turned back to face the track. There was no way he could allow that to happen.
Wolfram closed his eyes and made a decision. If this continued then someone was going to get hurt. Yuri had to be protected at all costs. He was the only one who could stop the wars and bring peace. If Yuri was killed or wounded by Big Shimaron troops, even ones no longer in the army, the consequences would be catastrophic. Wolfram used to think that as a soldier he would one day go to war and he had accepted that, but now Wolfram shared Yuri's desire for peace. If Wolfram had to die to make Yuri's dreams of a world without fighting come true, then so be it.
For a moment all Wolfram could hear was the pounding of his heart and the rush of blood in his ears. For a moment Wolfram allowed himself to think of all the things he would miss out on. He would never see Greta grow up into the beautiful lady he knew she would become one day. He would never watch Greta fall in love and maybe even start a family of her own. Wolfram opened his eyes feeling his horse's smooth gallop beneath him. Then again, if he didn't stop these men then what would happen? What would happen to Greta, his mother, everyone in Shinmakoku if Yuri did not return? What would happen to the Mazoku-human alliance if Yuri were to die? No, Wolfram could not allow his personal wishes to get in the way of the greater good. That was what it meant to be a solider.
"Wolfram," Wolfram glanced at his older half Mazoku brother. He knew Conrad could see his decision in his eyes.
"Conrad, take of Yuri for me." Wolfram said over the sound of pounding hooves. He saw Conrad's eyes go wide but before he could be talked out of it Wolfram sat back in the saddle and jerked the reins back. Wolfram's horse snorted in surprise before bracing in its front legs and tucking its back legs underneath it to execute a perfect sliding stop. Wolfram twisted in the saddle pulling the reins around. His horse wheeled around to face the way they'd come and Wolfram drew his sword. The bandits jerked their reins back, their horses skidding in surprise as Wolfram charged at them screaming a war cry his green eyes flashing and his blond hair reflecting the sunlight. He looked like an avenging angel dealing out divine justice to the wicked. The bandit leader was the first to recover from the shock and he drew his sword and met Wolfram head on.
Yuri looked over his shoulder hearing Wolfram shout and he almost fell off his horse in shock. What did Wolf think he was doing? He was charging right at the enemy! Yuri sat up to pull his own horse to a stop to go back and help Wolfram but Conrad was suddenly beside him. Conrad leaned over and snatched the reins forcing Yuri's horse to keep running.
"Conrad we have to go back Wolf is –" Yuri shouted over the noise of the horses but Conrad cut him off.
"I know Yuri, this is Wolfram's choice." Conrad said. Josak glanced over his shoulder and saw the pain in Conrad's eyes. Josak turned his sky blue eyes back to the trail. He knew how impossibly hard it must be for his friend to abandon his younger brother to fight alone but he said nothing.
"But Conrad –" Yuri began. Conrad shook his head.
"You must be protected Your Majesty. Wolfram is a soldier he can take care of himself." Conrad felt his heart twist at his own words. Wolfram was a talented swordsman that was true, but to face twenty men alone in enemy territory? Conrad closed his eyes for a second then opened them. Wolfram didn't stand a chance.
"No! We have to help Wolf! Conrad we have to go back!" Yuri tried in vain to stop his horse but Conrad held the reins tight under the horse's bit preventing Yuri from stopping the animal. Conrad felt his face twist as the conflicting emotions battled inside him. His instincts as an older brother screamed at him to go back for Wolfram. But his first duty was to his Maoh and Wolfram knew it. So Conrad kicked his horse on and ignored Yuri's shouted protests.
:-:
Wolfram was doing rather well considering he was outnumbered twenty to one. Actually, it was more like fifteen to one now. Wolfram had already killed three men and he was trying to keep track of the others all at once. The bandits had underestimated his power and Wolfram had gleefully taken advantage of that. After witnessing his skills with a blade however, they were being more cautious. Wolfram was holding his place directly in front of the remaining bandits to prevent them getting past him to chase Conrad and the others. The man Wolfram had pegged as the leader was directly opposite him and watching him carefully. The other men showed this man respect and deference. The leader's clothes were the cleanest of the group and less patched. He was the biggest of them all with thick bulging muscles under his brown coat. The leader's hair was brown and streaked with grey but his blue eyes were still sharp. His square jaw was clean shaven and he way he held his blade lightly spoke of professional training and experience. If Wolfram had doubted that the men used to be soldiers before, that certainly wasn't the case now. Four men still had a cross bows and Wolfram eyed the arrows loaded in them before turning his attention back to the leader. Wolfram's horse was sweating and breathing hard, its eyes rolling back in fear to show the whites.
"You have talent with a sword," the leader commented tilting his head to look Wolfram up and down. "Pretty too," the leader grinned showing brown stained teeth. Wolfram suppressed a shudder and settled for glaring contemptuously instead. "I could use someone like you seeing as you have killed three of my men."
"Never," Wolfram spat keeping a tight hold on his horse's reins making the animal skip sideways.
"Very well," the leader motioned with his hand. The bandit on the far left kicked his horse forward his sword raised. Wolfram turned his horse to meet the attack just as another bandit with a cross bow raised the bow and pointed it at Wolfram. Wolfram realised his mistake a second too late. The arrow shot out of the bow and streaked towards Wolfram. Wolfram threw himself to the left to avoid the arrow but it struck him in his right side. Wolfram cried out as a blinding pain radiated out from his ribs. The arrow had dug deep into his side drawing blood. The bandit on the left who had started towards him reached him. The bandit raised his blade and brought it down for the killing blow. Wolfram kicked his horse making it skip sideways out of reach. The bandit swore as he overreached. Wolfram kicked his horse again to dart inside the bandit's reach. He jabbed his sword point forward piercing the bandit's chest. The pain in Wolfram's side weakened his thrust enough for the bandit to escape what would have been a killing blow with only minor injury. The bandit swore again as blood seeped into his already stained jacket.
"Enough," the leader said sharply. The wounded bandit glared at Wolfram with undisguised loathing but he backed off. Wolfram forced himself to sit up even as pain throbbed in his side making him feel sick. "There is nowhere for you to go." The leader pointed out almost conversationally. Wolfram looked over his shoulder to see that two bandits had snuck behind him and where now blocking his escape. Wolfram eyed them in distaste before raising his sword high above his head.
"Who said anything about leaving?" Wolfram snapped and turned his gaze to the leader who sat watching him with an irritating smirk on his lips. "Make sure all the wounds are on the front, I don't want people to think I died running away."
"My dear boy," the leader laughed, "Who said anything about killing you?" Wolfram charged the leader but his wound made him slow. The wounded bandit shot forward to intercept. Wolfram's eyes went wide as the bandit raised his hand and brought down the hilt of his sword down across Wolfram's temple. Stars exploded across Wolfram's vision before everything went black. Wolfram tumbled, lifeless, from his horse to lie in a crumpled heap on the forest floor.
"Pick him up and tie him to his horse," the leader commanded. The wounded bandit did as he was ordered, not even trying to be gentle as he tossed Wolfram across the saddle as if he were nothing more than a bag of flour. The bandit took Wolfram's horse's reins and tied them to his saddle. "You seven follow the others!" The leader shouted and seven men turned their horses' heads and took off in the direction Yuri and the others had taken.
"If they were heading to the coast they might have a ship waiting for them." One bandit pointed out.
"Possibly," the leader walked his horse until it was standing alongside Wolfram's. He then leaned down and grabbed a fist full of Wolfram's blond locks and pulled his head up. "Even if they do escape, we've got ourselves a good catch here. I recognise this one, he is the Maoh's fiancé, that means the red haired one must have been the demon King himself." The other bandits gasped in surprise.
"But I thought the demon king had black hair and eyes?" One bandit said in confusion and the leader nodded.
"He does but he uses his demonic powers to colour his hair and eyes when in the human kingdom. I've been in the army a long time and I've seen him before." The leader glanced down the track where Yuri and the others had gone then back at Wolfram. "I'd wager this one will fetch us a pretty penny, after he's told us everything he knows of course." The leader laughed and his men laughed with him.
:-:
The five sailors watching the small boat that had brought their King, his advisors and his fiancé to Big Shimaron turned as they heard the sound of approaching hooves. Their hands went to their short swords as they formed a protective ring around the boat. They were not trained fighters but they were willing to defend to the death the only means of escape for their King. The boat was hidden from view but it was possible that someone had discovered them. When Josak galloped onto the beach the sailors relaxed. Conrad followed shortly after leading the King's horse. All three horses were sweating heavily and breathing hard.
"We are being pursued, we must leave at once!" Conrad shouted as Josak leaped off his horse. The sailors saluted and hurried on board the ship to haul up the anchor and open the sails. Josak hurried after them to help. Conrad jumped off his horse and reached up to help Yuri down.
"We can't leave, not until Wolfram gets here." Yuri said firmly as he landed on the ground. Conrad bit his tongue. Yuri had that stubborn look on his face that Conrad knew well. When Yuri dug in his heels nothing could shift him.
"We can't stay here, Your Majesty. Those bandits could be upon us at any moment and we don't have the capability to defend the boat from a sustained attack."
"No." Yuri said shortly. "We'll wait all day if we have to. We are not leaving Wolfram behind!" Yuri shouted. Conrad took a steadying breath and placed a hand on Yuri's shoulder.
"Yuri we have to leave if those men catch us –"
"But now that there are more of us we can fight them off, right?" Yuri sounded desperate as he clung to Conrad's jacket. "We can't leave Wolfram here alone!" Conrad watched Yuri's face for a moment then he sighed.
"I'm sorry Yuri," Conrad said quietly, "These sailors don't know how to fight and from what I saw at least some of those bandits have formal military training. The sailors would be killed. And I doubt Wolfram won against all those men. I don't think he's coming back." Conrad said the last part so quietly Yuri almost didn't hear him. Yuri's eyes went wide and he stumbled backwards.
"No, he can't be, no," Yuri shook his head, "Wolfram is the best fighter in Shinmakoku he could easily beat twenty men!" Yuri protested. Conrad shook his head.
"I'm sorry Yuri, Wolfram's powers are limited in the human countries and none of us have been sleeping much lately." For the duration of their time in Big Shimaron they were constantly on alert so someone was always awake keeping watch. Yuri was the only one who didn't have to keep watch but he did so anyway. The result was that no one got enough sleep at night and they were often cranky and tired. "Besides it seems they had houseki stones with them and you know how much they affect Wolfram."
"But its Wolfram, he can't die!" The thought of the raging inferno that was Wolfram being extinguished was too big to comprehend. It was like standing in front of your house hoping to stop a hurricane with the mere force of will. Yuri shook his head.
"Everyone dies Yuri," Conrad said softly. Yuri suddenly turned and tried to get back on his horse but Conrad grabbed him and pulled him away. "Yuri what are you doing?"
"I have to help him, I can't let Wolf die!" Yuri struggled in Conrad's arms. "Let me go damn it!"
"Forgive me Your Majesty," Conrad said before lifting the struggling 17 year old into his arms and flipping him over his shoulder.
"Put me down Conrad! That is an order!" Yuri yelled beating on Conrad's back with his fists but Conrad ignored him as he climbed on to the boat.
"Set sail at once," Conrad said to the astonished sailors who nodded and ran to their posts. The boat was very small it only had three bedrooms and one main room for meals with a tiny kitchen. Yuri and Wolfram had shared one bedroom while Josak and Conrad used the second and the sailors slept together in the third room. Since they were going into Big Shimaron in secret Conrad and Josak had thought it best to have the smallest ship possible to avoid detection or any unwanted attention.
Conrad now went below decks trying to make sure he didn't hit Yuri's head against the low ceiling. Yuri shouted and protested the whole way demanding that Conrad put him down. Conrad ignored his King and godson and opened the door where Yuri and Wolfram had been sleeping. The room was barely big enough for the double bed which was screwed to the floor and the chest of drawers opposite the bed attached to the wall. The room itself was painted white with a light coloured wooden floor. A porthole was situated in the middle of the wall opposite the door and let in the light. Conrad dropped Yuri without ceremony on the bed. Yuri scrambled upright his face red from hanging upside down.
"How can you leave him here, Wolfram is your little brother!" Yuri shouted his eyes filling with hot tears of misery, hurt and confusion. Conrad looked away from Yuri's accusing gaze. This is what Wolfram asked of me. This was Wolfram's dying wish, Conrad tried to convince himself as he turned to leave the tiny room. "Conrad, answer me!" Yuri shouted starting to get off the bed.
"Wolfram did what he did so we could escape and you could get to safety." Conrad snapped his voice harsher than he intended. Yuri fell back against the blue coloured covers in shock. "He knew what he was doing and he would never forgive me if I let anything happen to you. He died protecting you." Conrad shut the heavy wooden door with a bang and turned the key in the lock to stop Yuri from escaping.
In the echoing silence Yuri sat on the bed staring at the closed door in disbelief. He couldn't believe that Wolfram would die for him. Sure Wolfram had said just as much on several occasions but those had just been words right? Wolfram actually hadn't meant it, right? Yuri buried his face in his hands. He didn't want Wolfram to die for him. Yuri wanted Wolfram to live a long happy life together with him and their daughter. He didn't want Wolfram to die. Yuri felt a sob rise in his throat and he couldn't stop it from escaping.
:-:
Conrad ran up on deck to see Josak shouting orders to set sail. Josak turned and nodded at Conrad as he walked up to him. Conrad nodded back and turned his gaze to the tree line desperate for Yuri's words to be true; desperate to see his little brother trotting out of the forest wondering what all the fuss was about.
Any other time Conrad would have believed as Yuri did that Wolfram could hold his own in a fight but this was different. Wolfram was tired from their long journey and the presence of houseki stones weakened him further. Why Wolfram had decided to attack the men when he knew the danger Conrad didn't know. No, that wasn't true. Conrad did know why Wolfram did what he did. He understood it perfectly. Maybe that was why it hurt so much?
"Captain?" Josak asked watching his friend in concern. Conrad pursed his lips but said nothing. Josak followed Conrad's gaze to the tree line. Their horses were still on the beach as they wouldn't fit on the boat. The animals were standing were they'd been left, hands hanging as they breathed hard from their forced gallop. Josak felt a momentary flash of pity for the creatures; he hoped someone would find them and take care of them. "I'll go back for him." Josak said quietly. "All you have to do is ask me."
"Josak…" Conrad felt his heart swell with love for his closest friend and what he was offering. "You don't even like Wolfram." 'Little Lord Brat' was Josak's favourite nick-name for his younger brother. Conrad didn't think you called someone that if you liked them.
"I like the kid more than I used to. His Majesty has been a good influence on him but," Josak fixed Conrad with his bright blue eyes, "I wouldn't be doing it for him." Conrad felt his heart skip in his chest at the implication behind Josak's words.
"Josak –" Conrad began only to be cut off by a sailor shouting from the top of the mast.
"Horses approaching sir," he shouted
"Where away?" Conrad ran to the prow of the boat grasping his sword.
"Off the port bows," the sailor called back.
"How many horses can you see?" Josak called up.
"Looks like ten or more Sir!" The sailor called back. Conrad felt the tiny spark of hope that he might see his little brother again go cold. Wolfram must have fallen in battle. Conrad pushed his feelings aside and squared his shoulders. There would be time to grieve later.
"Men, get this boat out of here now!" Conrad called and the busy ship turned into a hive of chaos as the sails were unfurled. The wind was on their side, pushing them out to sea and off the soft sandy shore. There was a crunching sound as the boat slipped off the sand and into the water. The helmsman spun the wheel and the ship began to turn to face out of the bay.
The boat was broadside to the beach when the bandits burst out of the forest and galloped down the beach shouting curses. The sailors threw insults back until the ship's Captain shouted at them to shut up and continue working. The bandits reined in their horses at the water's edge. A few loaded bolts into their crossbows and raised their weapons.
"Hit the deck!" Conrad hollered and ducked behind the boat's side. A cross bolt flew over his head and buried itself into the main mast. Conrad heard a yell and saw one sailor go down with a bolt in his chest. The man was dead before he hit the deck. Josak shouted something at the bandits that Conrad couldn't make out while shaking his fist.
By now the boat had finished her turn and was facing out to sea. The sails filled with wind and the little ship took off towards open water. A few more cross bolts followed them but they were sailing out of range. Conrad glanced at the dead sailor. His colleagues were already wrapping their fallen comrade up in old sheets and taking the body away.
"Looks like its bandits two and us none." Conrad muttered without humour. Josak's reply was unrepeatable.
:-:
Yuri jumped as he felt the boat suddenly shift and slid backwards. Yuri crawled across the bed and looked out of the porthole and saw that they were moving. The wind was on their side, filling the sails and pushing them away from the shore line. Yuri scrambled off the bed, ran to the door and rattled the handle forgetting in his panic that Conrad had locked it. Yuri banged on the door and shouted for Conrad but no one came. Yuri gave up after a few minutes and slumped on the bed in despair. How could Conrad leave Wolfram like that? How could he? What if Wolfram was still alive? What if Wolfram had believed that they'd wait for him, which is why he'd followed through on his mad plan in the first place? What if Wolfram returned to the beach and found it empty?
Yuri could hear feet pounding on the deck above him as sailors ran to and fro. He heard yelling and couldn't help but be shocked at some of the language. Yuri felt the boat swing before it began to rise and fall as they left the protection of the inlet and moved into open water. If Wolfram had been with them he would already be turning green from sea-sickness.
Yuri closed his eyes. His mind plagued by images of Wolfram appearing on the beach waving his arms and shouting for them to come back. In his mind's eye Yuri saw Wolfram's blood stained clothes. He saw Wolfram slump, defeated, to the ground as the boat pulled away. Yuri shook his head. The images changed and Yuri saw Wolfram laying on the forest trail his green eyes turning dull as his life blood soaked the ground below him. How could you leave me to die in your place? Wolfram's accusation echoed in Yuri's head. Only instead of the strong, commanding tone he was used to, Wolfram's voice was as soft as a whisper and full of pain. Why didn't you save me? I thought I was your friend. Yuri slipped off the bed onto the floor as tears ran down his face.
Yuri buried his face in his hands as he cried hating himself every second for his weakness.
-:-
It took three days to sail back to Shinmakoku and Yuri had refused to speak to Conrad the whole way back. Josak had watched, unable to help, as Yuri turned his back on his godfather seemingly oblivious to Conrad's own pain. Josak had tried his best to comfort Conrad, he'd told him that he'd taken the only option available but Conrad hadn't listened to him. Josak knew that Conrad blamed himself for Wolfram's actions. He believed that he should have sacrificed himself to protect Yuri, not Wolfram.
Josak sighed as he leaned on the railing on the upper deck watching the main port of Shinmakoku come into view. Josak didn't care overly for the little Lord brat but his sudden departure from their lives under such circumstances had infected all on board like a disease. Everyone was miserable and inconsolable. Josak would have given anything to have Wolfram back if it made everyone smile again. Josak had gone into Yuri's room the morning of the second day to see Yuri, in the dead-to-the-world sleep that follows physical and mental exhaustion, curled up over the covers holding Wolfram's pink nightgown in his arms his face streaked with recently dried tears.
The wind tugged on Josak's orange hair and not for the first time Josak wondered if he should have stayed in Big Shimaron while Conrad took Yuri to safety. Josak was confident that he could have avoided any bandits if he was alone. Maybe Conrad and Yuri wouldn't be so despondent if they knew he was out there looking for Wolfram. There just hadn't been time.
Gwendal was waiting for them at the port with Yuri's carriage and a collection of guards. Gwendal's face gave nothing away but Josak knew he'd be aware of Wolfram's fate. He had sent a letter tied to a pigeon on ahead informing Gwendal of events and Gwendal must have read it by now.
The boat docked with practised ease and the sailors threw down ropes to the dock workers who tied the boat firmly to the dock. Josak helped put the ramp down and waited for Conrad and Yuri to appear. Yuri walked out of the hatch his face pale and drawn. He had already washed the red colour from his hair and taken his contact lenses out. He looked like he'd aged ten years in the past three days. Conrad followed Yuri out looking just as pale. Josak felt his heart pull as he saw the look on his Captain's face. When Josak had first heard about this trip he had thought he could finally get a chance to confess his love to Conrad in peace, but then Yuri and Wolfram had ended up tagging along. Josak had been determined to tell the kind hearted man about his feelings regardless but the opportunity had never presented itself. This was quite possibly the worst time to speak of such matters however, so Josak pushed his feelings away and gave Conrad a small smile. Conrad smiled back but it didn't reach his eyes.
The ride back to the Castle was made in total silence. Yuri and Gwendal sat next to each other and Conrad and Josak sat opposite them in one carriage. Gwendal hadn't brought a spare horse for Josak to ride and had practically forced the soldier into the carriage with them. The six guards rode beside the carriage on horseback. Josak shifted feeling uncomfortable at the breach of protocol. Conrad glanced at Josak and smiled noticing his discomfort. Josak felt eyes on him and glanced up to meet Conrad's gentle gaze. For a second they did one of their silent talks that no one else understood. Josak nodded and relaxed slightly. Josak glanced at Yuri but the kid was staring out of the carriage window and ignoring everyone. Gwendal had his arms crossed, his eyes closed and he looked grumpier than usual.
The carriage rattled into the courtyard and came to a halt. One of the guards opened the door and Yuri got out as if he were sleep-walking. He didn't appear to recognise his surroundings at all. Josak felt a sudden flash of worry. Was the Maoh about to have a breakdown? Cecile, Greta, Murata and Gunter were waiting for them at the castle entrance. Greta ran to Yuri and threw herself boldly against him as soon as Yuri got out of the carriage. Yuri blinked in surprise and looked down as if he didn't know his own daughter.
"Yuri what happened? Where's Wolfram?" Greta looked up at Yuri her eyes shining with unshed tears. The sight of his daughter seemed to wake Yuri up. Yuri's eyes were suddenly clear and strong again as he knelt down pulling Greta into his arms.
"We were attacked and Wolfram fought off the bad men so Conrad, Josak and I could escape." Yuri said softly and Greta looked up at her adoptive father her little face creased with worry and sadness.
"Is Wolfram ok?"
"I don't know," Yuri answered honestly, "But I intend to find out." Yuri spoke with clear confidence and Greta allowed a small hesitant smile to cross her face.
"We're going to find Wolfram?" Greta asked hope shining in her eyes.
"I promise you I won't rest until we do," Yuri answered and Greta grinned before burying herself in Yuri's arms. Yuri hugged her back and buried his face in her brown curls.
"Good," Greta said her voice muffled against Yuri's chest.
"Your Majesty we need to talk." Gwendal said his voice as emotionless as his face. Yuri released Greta, stood up and nodded.
"Greta, I need to talk with the others for a bit. I promise I will find you after we've spoken and let you know what's going to happen." Greta nodded wiping away her tears. The maids stepped forward and offered their hands. Greta clasped their hands and walked back into the castle. Gwendal led the way to Yuri's study and Yuri, Conrad, Gunter, Josak, Murata and Cecile followed him. Once they were all inside Yuri sat down in his chair and rested his chin on his hands in deep thought.
"What happened in Big Shimaron?" Gwendal asked getting right to the point. Conrad summarised events with Josak adding bits in every now and again. Yuri listened and nodded as the two men spoke but he said nothing. Conrad saw Yuri flinch when he came to how Wolfram had attacked the bandits alone to give them time to escape. Conrad had to pause to compose himself before he told everyone how he gave the order to set sail without Wolfram. Cecile sniffed as she pressed her hands together in worry. Conrad glanced at his mother and the tears in her eyes felt like a physical punch to his gut.
"So, my Wolfie is gone?" Cecile asked her voice shaking.
"We don't know that yet," Yuri said before Conrad could answer. "I think we should send someone to search for him."
"If Wolfram had been able to defeat the bandits he would have joined you on the boat before you left." Gwendal said his voice giving nothing away about how he felt about his youngest brother's disappearance.
"It is entirely possible that Wolfram missed us and is stuck in Big Shimaron." Yuri said firmly refusing to believe that Wolfram was dead.
"I will go," Cecile announced making everyone look at her in surprise. "I have contacts in Big Shimaron who would help me search for Wolfram."
"Mother, with the political situation the way it is it would be far too dangerous for you –" Gwendal began but Cecile held up a hand to stop him.
"I understand Gwendal but I will be perfectly safe."
"I should go to," Yuri began but Gwendal interrupted him.
"No, it is because you demanded to go in the first place that we got into this mess." Yuri jerked back as if Gwendal had reached across the table and slapped him. The whole room went quiet in shock at Gwendal's outburst.
"I hardly think that is fair Lord Voltaire," Murata said quietly and everyone glanced at the Great Sage. "Yuri could not have possibly foreseen this development."
"No Murata, Gwendal is correct; this is my fault." Yuri looked down at the table his hands balled into fists. "If I hadn't have gone then Wolfram would have stayed in the castle. If I had stayed Wolfram would be safe." Yuri looked up his eyes shining with that inner fire that drove him. "But it's because it's my fault that I should be the one to fix this. I should be the one to save Wolfram because it is my fault he's missing."
"Yuri…" Cecile smiled and walked forward to place her hand on Yuri's shoulder. "It is not your fault Yuri. I can understand why Wolfram did what he did and I understand you wanting to make things right. However, I can slip in and out of Big Shimaron far easier than you can."
"Cecile is right Yuri," Murata said smiling at his friend, "You should stay here." Yuri sat back down in his chair defeated. He wanted nothing more than to charge into Big Shimaron to save his lost friend but no one was going to let him. Sometimes Yuri hated being King. If he was just another boy he could do whatever he wanted.
"Don't worry Your Majesty, I promise to bring Wolfie home." Cecile promised and turned to face Conrad. Cecile walked up to him and hugged him tightly. "Do not blame yourself my son. I love you." Cecile whispered so no one else would hear. Conrad nodded and hugged her back unable to speak past the lump in his throat. Cecile nodded at Gwendal who nodded back. She knew her eldest son would not accept a hug while in company. Cecile swept out of the room in a swirl of skirts to prepare for her trip her green eyes determined.
"Murata," Yuri stood up, "Can you take me to see Shinou?" Murata looked surprised for a moment then he nodded.
"Sure, come with me." The two double blacks walked out of Yuri's office side by side.
"Conrad," Conrad looked at Gwendal who stared intently at him. "Do you really think that Wolfram could still be alive?" Conrad paused and glanced at Josak. Josak looked away from Conrad's gaze. Conrad said nothing which in itself was answer enough.
:-:
Yuri stood in Shinou's temple gazing intently at the Great One as he concentrated. Yuri had explained the situation to Shinou who had been surprised to learn that Wolfram was missing. After pleading with Shinou to help locate his missing friend Shinou had agreed to do what he could. Ulrike was adding her power to Shinou to help him. Yuri watched as the gold light that represented Shinou's maryoku danced around Shinou's body making him glow. After long minutes Shinou sighed and opened his eyes the gold light fading away.
"I'm sorry Yuri but I can't sense his presence anywhere." Yuri felt his shoulders slump.
"I cannot locate Lord Bielefeld either Your Majesty," Ulrike said her voice sad and full of regret. "Please forgive me."
"There is nothing to forgive," Yuri said his voice shaking slightly. "This is my fault."
"I am sorry for your loss Yuri," Shinou spoke gently, "but people do die."
"But not Wolfram!" Yuri shouted making everyone flinch. "He wasn't supposed to…" Yuri stopped talking as he felt his throat close up. Shinou stepped up to Yuri and laid a hand on Yuri's shoulder. Yuri was still surprised by the lifelike feeling of Shinou's hand considering he was a ghost.
"I understand your pain Yuri." Shinou said and Murata glanced at Shinou before looking away the candlelight reflecting off his glasses. "But you may need to accept that Wolfram is gone and move on." Yuri looked into Shinou's blue eyes.
"Never," With that said Yuri turned on his heel and marched out of the temple. Murata let Yuri walk away without trying to stop him. Once Yuri was out of earshot Murata turned to Shinou.
"Do you believe that Lord Bielefeld is dead?" Shinou glanced at Murata then back at the door through which Yuri had just left.
"I cannot sense Lord Bielefeld at all, and that in itself is a bad sign." Shinou turned to Ulrike. "You couldn't sense him either could you?"
"No, I'm afraid I could not," Ulrike sighed.
"Is it possible that Lord Bielefeld has been taken captive and imprisoned in a room lined with Houseki stones? Would that make it harder for you to sense him?" Murata asked his glasses hiding his eyes from view. Shinou thought about that for a moment before nodding.
"That is possible but why would the bandits have kept Lord Bielefeld alive?" Shinou shook his head sadly. "I think we might need to accept the fact that Lord Bielefeld is not coming back."
-:-
(Big Shimaron)
Wolfram shivered as he sat on the cold stone floor. He had no idea how long he had been held captive but it felt like years. The room he was held prisoner in was made entirely from solid rock and there were no windows of any kind. Wolfram had the impression they were underground but he didn't know how far. Flame torches were bolted into metal brackets set at intervals on the walls and provided the only source of light. Houseki stones had been attached to the walls and they glowed dimly as their power drained Wolfram's maryoku. Wolfram had never felt so sick and weak in his entire life. The bandits barely fed him and Wolfram's stomach cramped with hunger while he was ravaged by thirst. A bucket in the corner served as Wolfram's toilet.
Metal cuffs were clasped to each of Wolfram's wrists and the chains were sunk into the floor preventing Wolfram from escaping. The cuffs chaffed his skin and dried blood crusted his wrists to trickle down his arms. The bandits had taken his clothes as soon as Wolfram woke and left him with a pair of brown coloured trousers and shirt made of a cheap itchy material that scratched Wolfram's skin. Wolfram shivered, the room was too big for the torches to even have an impact of the frigid cold and the bandits hadn't given Wolfram a blanket of any kind.
Wolfram sat on the floor with his back pressed against the wall behind him, his eyes open and staring at nothing. Several different bandits had been to see him and try to get him to talk but Wolfram refused to answer them. They must be getting impatient by now, Wolfram wondered as he watched the flames inside one of the torches flicker and sway in an almost hypnotic dance. Yuri, are you alright? Did you get out ok? Wolfram stared at the flickering flame and saw Yuri's bright smile. Wolfram closed his eyes and turned his face to the side. He had always said he would do anything for Yuri and nothing had changed. He just hoped the stupid wimp hadn't come back for him. Yuri wouldn't stand a chance against these bandits. He'd just get himself captured then all this suffering would have been for nothing.
"I wish…." Wolfram stopped when he realised he was speaking out loud and opened his eyes. What did he wish? In his mind's eye Wolfram saw Yuri smiling at him and telling him that he loved him. A tear ran down Wolfram's cheek only to be brushed away angrily. The metal chains clinked together at the movement. Now is not the time for that, keep it together Wolfram! Wolfram took a deep breath and tried to force images of Yuri out of his mind but the damn wimp's face wouldn't leave him.
Why did I have to fall in love with you? Why couldn't I have loved someone who loved me back? Wolfram rolled his head back to stare up at the ceiling. How many nights had he laid awake wishing to be loved in return? But considering his current circumstances, in a way Wolfram was glad Yuri had never returned his feelings. How much more would it hurt to be separated from someone who loved him compared to being separated from someone who thought of him as just a friend? Could he have turned his horse around and protected Yuri like he did if Yuri had loved him back?
The door opened with a loud groan and Wolfram glanced at the door. The only way in and out of the room was through a heavy wooden door set with nails. Wolfram could have blasted that door open with his fire powers but he couldn't even conjure up a spark at the moment. Wolfram lowered his head and saw the leader of the bandits, who had introduced himself as 'Rick', walk into the room. Wolfram sat up a little taller and tried his best to look defiant although he wasn't sure if he pulled it off.
"Hello again," Rick smiled as if he'd bumped into an old friend on the street and crouched down to Wolfram's level. The chains prevented Wolfram from standing up. "Are you in a talkative mood today?" Rick smirked at Wolfram who felt his stomach turn in response. Rick had been visiting him and asking questions about the Maoh and his purpose in Big Shimaron. Wolfram didn't know how Rick had recognised Yuri but he wasn't about to tell him anything that could put Yuri in danger.
"Go to hell," Wolfram gasped out licking his dry lips. Rick smiled and nodded.
"I thought you would say that." Rick stood up and whistled. Wolfram looked at the door and felt a thrill of fear run through him. Four men walked into the room and one was holding what looked like a coiled whip in his hand. "So I decided to bring along a few friends to loosen that tongue of yours." The man holding the whip grinned evilly at Wolfram. He was ugly with a bald head and tiny cruel hazel eyes. He was fat and greasy, with thick lips that glistened with sweat. Wolfram felt his whole body go cold as the man uncurled the whip and cracked it once. The sound echoed off the walls and inside Wolfram's ears. "Still don't feel like talking?" Rick asked a smirk on his lips.
Wolfram had never been so afraid in his life but he shook his head. No matter the pain he had to endure, he would tell these men nothing. He would never betray Yuri no matter what. Wolfram raised his head and stared the man holding the whip in the eye. The man curled his lips in a twisted smile of excitement that made Wolfram's inside curl in disgust.
"Very well," Rick smiled and turned to the man holding the whip, "This is Eric and I shall leave you in his capable hands." Rick walked up to Eric and placed a hand on his shoulder, "Don't kill him ok?"
"You got it boss," Eric laughed fingering his whip his eyes gleaming in the light. Wolfram felt bile rise in his throat but he forced it down. He would not show these men his fear. "You three, tie his hands to that hook." Eric pointed his whip at the hook hanging from the ceiling. Two men grabbed Wolfram while the fourth released Wolfram's shackles. Once the chains were off Wolfram shoved his body weight forward catching the men off guard.
"Hey!"
"What the –" The man cursed as Wolfram knocked him on his ass. Wolfram leapt forward dodging the hands trying to grab him. He might be weak but he wasn't going to sit back and let these men do whatever they wanted to him. Wolfram ran for the door his heart leaping as a rush of elation coursed through him. The door was open! Then a burning pain exploded across Wolfram's shoulder blades sending him screaming to the floor. Wolfram was dimly aware of the sound of the whip cracking but all of his senses were overloaded by blinding agony. It was as if someone had burned a line of acid onto his skin. Wolfram curled up his chest pressed against the cold stone floor as the pain tore him apart. Tears fell unchecked from his eyes.
"Well now that was a brave attempt, but a stupid one." Eric laughed. Wolfram made no further attempt to escape as hands dragged him to his feet. Wolfram's hands were tied together then lifted and tied to the hook hanging from the ceiling. Wolfram yelped as the action caused the whip mark across his shoulder blades to burn anew. The hook was just high enough off the floor to force Wolfram onto his tip-toes to take his full weight off his arms. Already his legs were shaking with the effort and Wolfram knew he wouldn't be able to keep this up for long.
"I'll leave it you Eric," Rick smirked at Wolfram before turning and walking out of the room. Wolfram watched the heavy wooden door slowly close as if it was mocking him. The door shut with a bang that echoed inside Wolfram's head. He was trapped.
"Now, let's see if we can loosen that tongue of yours." Eric grinned as two of men ripped Wolfram's shirt off his back. Wolfram closed his eyes as Eric walked around behind him. Yuri…Wolfram whispered in his mind as Eric brought the whip down a second time. Wolfram screamed his body jerking forward as another red line appeared across his back. Time seemed to stand still as the air was filled with the sharp crack of a whip and the agonised screams of a young Mazoku.
-:-
(Shinmakoku)
"Wolfram," Yuri jerked awake his hand outstretched. For a moment all he could hear was the pounding of his heart and the sound of his gasping breath. Yuri dropped his hand and pushed himself into a sitting position. He was covered in sweat and his heart was beating hard as if he had just run a marathon. Yuri closed his eyes and took deep breaths to calm down. He shivered as the sweat cooled his body.
He had dreamt that Wolfram had been killed. It had been so vivid, so real, that Yuri had believed it was really happening. He had seen Wolfram lying on a stone floor a sword impaled through his chest. He had seen the blood that soaked the ground and the smell had filled his nose. As Yuri had dropped to his knees beside his friend, Wolfram's skin had been so cold and pale, his body unmoving as he lay in a pool of his own blood. The worst part of the dream had been the accusing looks he received from everyone. The way Conrad had turned away from him, Cecile crying over the body of her dead son, Gwendal refusing to look him in the eye, and even Murata hadn't looked at him. Yuri had known at that moment that all this was his fault. If he wasn't the King, if he hadn't gone to Big Shimaron then Wolfram wouldn't be dead.
Yuri shook himself out of his dreams. They didn't know if Wolfram was dead or alive. Cecile would be leaving tomorrow for Big Shimaron to search for him. He couldn't lose hope. But the dream had been so real. Yuri buried his face in his hands his body shaking. It had only been four days since Wolfram had gone missing but it felt like so much longer. Yuri had gotten used to sleeping with someone else. His bed suddenly seemed so empty and cold now. Four days ago Yuri would have been delighted to not being kicked and punched in his sleep. Now however, Yuri would willingly be kicked out of bed for the next 20 years if it meant seeing Wolfram again.
Yuri paused and raised his head. What did it mean? Why did he miss Wolfram so much? True it was his fault that Wolfram was missing and if Wolfram really was dead, he would never forgive himself. But, this feeling, this emptiness inside his heart, it felt more powerful than guilt. Yuri didn't understand what he felt or where these feelings had come from. Yuri lay back down and glanced at the empty side of his bed. He had tried to sleep on what had been Wolfram's side of the bed but it had felt too weird so he had ended up rolling back to his side. What would he do if Wolfram was really gone forever? Yuri squeezed his eyes shut and sent a silent prayer up to whoever might be listening, begging for Wolfram to be ok.
:-:
Yuri sat in his office staring at the piece of paper in his hands. Yuri stood up and turned to stare out of his office window. The castle was suddenly too large and empty without his hot tempered friend in it. Yuri glanced down at the letter in his hand and read through its contents one last time. The letter was addressed to King Saralegui of Small Shimaron begging for his help locating Wolfram. Yuri had already written a letter to Lady Flynn begging for her help. While Yuri was sure Lady Flynn would help out he wasn't so sure about Saralegui. While he and the young King shared a good relationship at the moment, Yuri was never sure when Sara would turn around and change the rules. He wanted to trust the lonely boy King but right now Yuri wasn't in the mood for Sara's games. Yuri closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He would be putting his trust and Wolfram's life in Sara's hands. If Sara knew something he might well sit on it or feed him false information if he believed it would benefit him somehow. No! Yuri shook his hand and tightened his empty hand into a fist opening his eyes. He had to believe that the young King would help him out. Wolfram's life depended on it. If Wolf is even still alive, the pessimistic voice in Yuri's head whispered to him. Yuri shivered as he remembered his nightmare last night.
Yuri closed his eyes again and pressed his forehead to the glass of his window. The panes were warm from the sunlight and Yuri could hear the sounds from the courtyard drifting towards him. The scene from the day he lost Wolfram had played over and over in Yuri's mind all the way back from Big Shimaron. Yuri found his thoughts plagued by what if's and maybe's. What if he had stopped Wolfram from leaving? What if he had made Josak or Conrad stay behind to look for Wolfram? Would that have made things worse or better? He just didn't know!
"Damn it!" Yuri punched the glass in frustration making the window pane rattle. He was sick of people sacrificing themselves for him. He didn't want to lose any of his friends! A tear slipped down Yuri's cheek. Yuri scrubbed it away in annoyance. Crying would not save Wolfram. Yuri turned and folded the letter in his hands before putting it into a tube so it could be carried by messenger pigeon. The letter addressed to Flurin was ready to go as well. Yuri took both of them with him as he left the office.
It didn't take long to find Josak. The orange haired spy was sitting on the roof of Blood Pledge Castle staring over the city of Shinmakoku. Yuri climbed to the top of the battlements and cupped his hands over his mouth and yelled. Josak jerked in surprise and turned to fix bright blue eyes on Yuri. Josak stood and slid down the roof tiles to land lightly beside Yuri.
"Your Majesty what are you doing out here?" Josak asked. Yuri held out the two letters his black eyes burning with determination.
"Josak I need you to send one of these letters to King Saralegui and the other to Lady Flynn of Caloria at once." Josak took the letters in shock to see the names of each recipient printed neatly on the outside of the letter.
"But Your Majesty –" Josak started speaking but was cut off by Yuri.
"This is an order Josak, go at once and do not allow yourself to be diverted from your task until it is complete." Yuri stared at Josak and the spy watched him carefully for a moment before a small smile tugged at his lips.
"You're not giving up on him are you?" It wasn't a question really but Yuri nodded anyway.
"Not yet," Yuri said softly. Josak reached out and placed a hand on Yuri's shoulder squeezing gently. He had no idea what to say right now but Yuri seemed to understand as he nodded gratefully. "Go now Josak."
"Yes Your Majesty," Josak bowed then turned and hurried away. Yuri watched him go his heart heavy. He knew that no one else outside of Cecile and Greta believed that Wolfram could still be alive, but Yuri would never forgive himself if he just gave up without trying. Even if all he got for his trouble was a body to bury at least he would know for sure. He had to know.
:-:
Yuri stood outside of his castle as the sun began to set painting the sky orange and pink. Cecile stood before him dressed in a wine red dress that was surprisingly modest for Cecile. The wind picked up Cecile's curls and tossed them around her face. Yuri felt a pang as he gazed into Cecile's bright green eyes, so much like Wolfram's. Behind Cecile a carriage stood waiting led by two white horses. Yuri ran his eyes over the men standing behind Cecile and felt his heart squeeze in his chest. All of the men under Wolfram's command had volunteered to go with Cecile to find Wolfram. Since such a large party would attract too much attention, Cecile had picked out five men to go with her. All five men were dressed in plain clothes. Yuri couldn't help but wonder what Wolfram would say if he could see his men now, ready and willing to march into enemy territory to search for their missing commander. He would most likely snort and say something along the lines of; 'of course they would what else would you expect of my men?' But inside Wolfram would be blushing and secretly proud and humbled by the display of loyalty.
The horses tossed their heads ready to be off. A ship was waiting for them once they got to the docks to take them to Big Shimaron under the pretence of a merchant ship. Cecile had a contact waiting to great her once she arrived. Yuri sent a brief prayer to whoever might be listening that everything would go ok before stepping down the steps to take Cecile's hand.
"Good luck Cecile, I know I speak for everyone when I say that I hope you find what you are looking for." Yuri smiled and Cecile smiled back before pulling Yuri into her arms for a hug. Yuri hugged the older woman back for a moment. "Please bring him home." Yuri whispered to Cecile.
"I will," Cecile whispered back before letting go and stepping away from Yuri. "I will return soon Your Majesty." Cecile turned to her sons. Conrad stepped forward and hugged his mother. "Goodbye my son."
"Goodbye mother, be safe." Conrad said and Cecile nodded. When Cecile turned to Gwendal he produced a blue knitted animal that looked like a bear.
"This is a kitten, for good luck." Gwendal said his face slightly red. That's a kitten? Yuri thought but kept his thoughts to himself. Cecile smiled and hugged her oldest son.
"Thank you Gwendal," Cecile took the stuffed animal. Greta ran forward and hugged her grandmother. Cecile hugged the little girl back. "Come now Greta, you need to be a big girl now." Greta nodded wiping away her tears. Cecile stood and with one last look at Yuri she walked down the steps and got into her carriage. The driver snapped the reins and the horses set off at a brisk trot. The soldiers saluted Yuri as one before turning their horses and following Cecile's carriage. Greta stepped close to Yuri and grabbed a hold of his hand.
"Will they find Wolfram?" Greta asked her voice so soft Yuri almost didn't hear her. Yuri paused before he answered her. He wanted to comfort Greta but he didn't want to give her false hope. Greta understood how serious the situation was and lying to her would only make her angry and resentful.
"I hope so." Yuri answered honestly and Greta buried her face in Yuri's jacket.
"I hope so too, I miss Wolfram." Greta whispered and Yuri nodded running his fingers through Greta's hair. So do I Greta, so do I.
-:-
(Small Shimaron – three days later)
King Saralegui of Small Shimaron didn't think that anything could surprise him anymore. He thought he knew everything and was prepared for any situation that might present itself. Because of this belief he also believed that life could be so dull. But when a letter from Yuri arrived by carrier pigeon asking for help in locating Wolfram, Saralegui was speechless. Berias watched his King's and nephew's face as Saralegui stared at the letter before him.
"Well, it seems Yuri can still surprise me even after all this time." Saralegui smiled leaning his head on his hand as he re-read the contents of the letter before him.
"What does the King want?" Berias asked wondering what Saralegui was looking so happy about.
"It seems that Yuri's fiancé went missing after Yuri and his party were attacked in Big Shimaron by bandits." Saralegui grinned. He could sense an opportunity here. If he located Wolfram then Yuri would be in his debt and Saralegui was still fascinated by the demon King. Having Yuri indebted to him would put Saralegui in an advantageous position. The Lord Bielefeld would also owe him his life and since Saralegui knew that Wolfram didn't like him, he knew this could only work in his favour.
"What does King Yuri except from us?" Berias asked although he thought he could guess the answer.
"Yuri wants us to try and find his missing pretty blond partner," Saralegui grinned as the sunlight reflecting off his glasses, "How interesting, wouldn't you agree?"
"Sir, you are not thinking of helping are you?" Berias sighed inwardly as Saralegui snorted. He just knew that his nephew would jump at the chance to help Yuri in the hopes of getting something in return. However, Big Shimaron was a dangerous place at the moment.
"We can't leave poor Wolfram Von Bielefeld to die now can we? That is, assuming he isn't dead already." Saralegui stood up sweeping his long blond hair over his shoulder.
"Your Majesty, if Small Shimaron troops go into Big Shimaron at this unstable time it could be seen as an act of war. I advise against it My Lord." Berias warned and Saralegui paused as if thinking Berias' advice over in his mind. "Besides, if you want to take the kingdom for yourself it would be best if you were here to better move your pawns into play." Berias added. He knew that Saralegui wanted to take over Big Shimaron and this recent uprising provided the perfect opportunity to do so. Saralegui was already getting cosy with Big Shimaron's current political leaders. Berias knew that with the right words and promises Saralegui could well find himself on the throne of Big Shimaron. It wouldn't take much effort to unite Small and Big Shimaron under own crown.
"I never said I was going to go to Big Shimaron Berias." Saralegui tutted as if Berias had said something foolish. "I was in fact thinking of sending you there."
"You are sending me, Your Majesty?"
"Yes, you have the best knowledge of tracking and I can trust you to not raise attention." Saralegui glanced at his uncle. "Do you have an objection?" There was something in Saralegui's voice that warned Berias not to voice any objections even if he had them. Berias bowed his head.
"No, Your Majesty, I do not."
"My best chance at the throne of Big Shimaron is to present myself as a Mazoku friendly King. Their people have had enough of war and the trouble it brings so if I can promise them peace, my crowing will be all but done. However, if Yuri or his meddling advisors were to get wind of this they might try to stop me." Saralegui twirled a lock of hair around his finger. "I may well end up ruling over the largest country and the largest population in the whole world. Those advisors of Yuri's might see me as a threat and intervene." Saralegui scowled as he released the lock of hair from his finger. "But if I return Yuri's precious fiancé then I can use that good deed as leverage against them interfering with my plans." Saralegui smirked.
"And if you don't locate Lord Bielefeld?" Berias asked arching an eyebrow.
"Well, you will just have to make sure you don't return home empty handed won't you?" Saralegui hummed and Berias nodded. "Go in secret Berias and make sure no one recognises you. Do not take any insignia that could trace you back to me."
"Yes My Lord," Berias bowed again. "I shall leave at once."
-:-
(Caloria)
"Lady Flynn there is a letter for you," a female maid presented the blue haired ruler of Caloria with a sliver tray. On the tray was a letter addressed to Flynn in a slightly untidy handwriting that Flynn recognised at once. It's from King Yuri, Flynn thought thanking the maid as she took the letter. Flynn gazed at the crisp white envelope for a moment before opening it. She knew that Yuri had gone to Big Shimaron not that long ago and she had been wondering if he had been successful in his attempt to find out what exactly was going on in the country.
Yuri had stopped off at Caloria before heading to Big Shimaron wanting to know everything she knew about the current goings on in Big Shimaron. Flynn had not been able to tell them much more than what they already knew but she had been glad to help the kind hearted king. Wolfram had become jealous as he always did when anyone showed Yuri any kind of affection. Flynn found this both irritating and rather cute. It was obvious that Wolfram liked Yuri but Yuri's feelings on the matter were not so clear. Last year Flynn would have said that Yuri didn't love Wolfram romantically. But when they came to visit, something was different about the way Yuri looked at his blond fiancé. She couldn't put her finger on it but something was different. Maybe there was a chance of a royal wedding after all. Flynn giggled as she pictured Wolfram in the white dress she just knew his mother would force him into. If things were changing for the better then she was happy for them. She had started to wonder if maybe they would be happier with someone else.
Lady Flynn sighed as she remembered asking Yuri not to go to Big Shimaron, fearing for his safety, but Yuri had told her everything would be fine. Of course Conrad, Josak and Wolfram had been with Yuri so Flynn had let Yuri go. She glanced down at the letter and let a smile spread across her face. If Yuri had written her a letter from Shinmakoku then everything must be alright. Flynn opened the letter using the small sliver letter opener that sat on her desk. She pulled the letter out of its envelope and read its contents.
"Oh this can't be true," Flynn whispered as she read how Wolfram had gone missing after saving Yuri from an attack from bandits. Flynn's eyes filled with tears as she read how Yuri had to leave without knowing what had happened to Wolfram. Yuri's letter pleaded with her to help him locate his missing friend. Unlike in his letter to Sara, Yuri also mentioned that Cecile was on route to Big Shimaron. Flynn stood up her green eyes serious. Don't worry Yuri, I will help you. Flynn knew it would be dangerous to send her people into Big Shimaron at this time, but Yuri was her dear friend. Over time she had even come to respect and like Wolfram despite his short comings. She certainly didn't want the blond mazoku to die.
"I will help you Yuri although if what your letter says is true, I fear Lord Bielefeld may already be gone."
*End Chapter*
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