***Welcome everyone! With this fic I will be working on a fantasy genre I have never tried before. I'm dabbling in the world of fairies. Not the Tinker Bell type, but the good ol' fashion ones from legends and lore! This fic will have multiple pairings it and I think it may turn out to be near to or equal length of 'A Storm of Sunflowers'. I think I've learned how to consolidate a lot more now that I have been writing in the Hetalia fandom for quite some time now. The main pairing is LudwigxGilbert but they are not related. Please read on and enjoy! Read and Review please! ^_^

***Summary: A mystical war between fairy kind is soon to erupt. Ludwig, a human monk belonging to the 'Order of Nature', is one of the very few who can see actual fairies. After a chance meeting with Gilbert, a Winter Elemental Fairy and mischievous rogue, Ludwig is trapped in the fairy realm acting as a human delegate between the waring courts of Light King Roderich and Dark King Arthur. Instantly attracted to Gilbert, the two form a secret (but dangerous) relationship that is considered a taboo among fairy kind. But Ludwig is not the only being who has their eyes set on Gilbert. With the battle of Light verses Dark coming to a head, will Ludwig be able to bring about peace and save Gilbert? Will he keep Gilbert for himself in the human world or give up that right to become of the fairy folk?

***Pairings: LudwigxGilbert (main pairing/only sex pairing!) FrancisxArthur, IvanxGilbert (courtship), AlfredxGilbert (courtship) RoderichxElizaveta, (others t.b.a.)

***Disclaimer: I do not own Hetalia. I am making no money off of this fic.

Chapter 1

Autumn was nearing its end and winter was well on the way. In a quiet temple there lived an order of monks consecrated to the Green Deity, or 'Mother Earth'. Every day, the monks there would care for and tend to a large garden of flowers, trees, fruits, and vegetation. Much of what they grew would be donated to the main town square so the unfortunate could eat. Offerings were often given to the temple in forms of people's own food and plants grown on their farms. One of the customs was to always give back what was freely given. People would come to the temple and pray for healthy crops and animals to keep their farms strong.

The monks had their own custom of offering their goods to the Green Deity. A fraction of what was gathered from the temple garden would be tossed in the fields behind their establishment to feed the wild animals and other 'mystical' beings. While no one has actually seen any mystical beings, the stories have been passed down in the sacred order for generations. If no offering was given, then it was said an evil wave of misfortune would rain down upon the temple. Never had such an event happened, but it was forbidden to even try. The order has always remained peaceful and the quaint town of Emerald Fields was a prosperous one.

Ludwig Beilschmidt, a young monk, was finishing up sweeping the garden walk of the dry, dead leaves. He gave a shiver at the changing temperature of the air, feeling the effects of winter slowly making its way to the town. In another month or so the season of winter would be upon them, and it was a time for rest. Ludwig was looking forward to the winter hibernation where he could read and write all day with little chores to do. In the summer, spring, and fall there was constant work that needed to be done every day whether it was tending the farm animals or cultivating the fields. While they all shared in the workload, Ludwig, being in the lowest level of monkhood, would often tend to the animals and gather the vegetables. As if that was not enough work, he would also have to prepare the vegetables for their dinners. They never ate meat, only bread, fruits, and vegetables. Wine was allowed but they could only have a glass a day. To eat meat was a disgrace to the Green Deity.

Once he was finished sweeping the walk, Ludwig took one of the buckets from the barn and headed to the well. Lowering the bucket into the dark circle, Ludwig felt the chill of the late autumn air once again. He paused to pull the brown woolen hood closer around his face to block out some of the cold. Already his bare hands were chapped dry from the chill but he could not work efficiently while wearing gloves. The sun was soon about the set and the purple sky would give way to clear shining stars. Stargazing was one of his favorite things to do before bed and he would go onto the roof to lose himself in the endless sparkling black. With the bucket filled, Ludwig carried it with him into the backdoor leading to the temple kitchens. While taking his leave to hang up his cold woolen cloak, Ludwig heard the familiar voice of a boy in a room over.

"But there really ARE fairies!" Cried the boy. Ludwig hung up his cloak and followed the voice to see the young orphan boy speaking with the head monk. "There are! I saw them!"

The elderly monk just smiled and ruffled the boys' shaggy brown hair. "You are a child and only you can see such things. But as an adult, you will soon understand that these creatures do not exist."

"But they do!" The boy had tears in his eyes. "Why won't you believe me? Just because you can't see them doesn't mean they aren't there!"

"There is only one spiritual being in this world, little one, and she is the Green Deity, our nurturing mother. We are her creations along with the foliage and the animals. Nothing else exists."

Seeing the boy was growing frustrated, Ludwig went over to him and gently placed a hand on the small shoulder. "Daniel, go and wash up for dinner. We will be eating soon."

"You believe me, don't you, Ludwig?"

"Of course I do." He didn't believe in these fairies the boy spoke of but he was too kind to destroy a child's innocent fantasy. "Go, and do as I say." He gave the gentle command and the boy smiled brightly, running off to wash up. Ludwig looked at the elder who stroked his long white beard.

"You should not encourage him, Ludwig."

"He is only a child, and an orphan at that." Ludwig looked in the direction the boy had run. "The boy has gone through more than a child should, so why deny him simple fantasies?"

The elder rubbed a green emerald pendant between his fingers. "Only sadness and a lack of trust can come from keeping children believing in that which does not exist. Once they learn these imaginary creatures do no exist, they grow angry and feel betrayed. It only does them harm, so it is best to keep them believing in what is rightfully true."

"Yes, your eminence." Ludwig folded his hands inside of his long brown woolen bell sleeves. "Shall I being preparations for dinner?"

"Hmm, no, not tonight, young Ludwig. Go and see to the boy, he trusts in your company. Make sure he is all right."

Ludwig bowed and made his way through the temple corridors. The castle stone was cold and dark this time of year. Ludwig took the steps to the second floor first to stop in his own room and grab a woolen shawl. Flinging it over his shoulders he made his way to Daniel's room, which was a large space he shared with a few other orphaned children. Ludwig opened the heavy wooden door to the sound of children laughing and squealing as they played. When he stepped into the room the children were delighted to see him. He smiled softly as they all came up and hugged him, both the boys and the girls. While this was a temple for men they allowed little girls into their establishment until they came of age to be sent off to the nunnery (if they chose).

"Will you read to us again tonight, Ludwig?" Asked one of the young girls, her freckles spreading as she smiled.

"We'll have to see. It all depends on if I finish my chores in time." A collection of 'awws' filled the room. "But I will ask one of the others to read to you if I can't make it, okay?"

"But we like your reading best!" Said a little boy with blonde hair.

"I said I would see what can be done. I have a strict order of rules to follow, as you know." Aside from tending the farm animals and foliage, Ludwig was also one of the few who helped with the children. "Now, where is Daniel? I was told to check up on him." The youngest little girl, who was only three, tugged on his brown robes to get his attention. He looked down at her as she silently pointed to the bed in far corner by the window. "Now why did he move it there?" Ludwig excused himself from the other children and went over to Daniel's bed. "Daniel?"

The boy was staring out the foggy window. "Yeah?"

"Why is your bed moved over here? It's cold by the window." Ludwig fluffed the boy's pillow.

"I'm waiting to see the fairies!"

"Oh? Do they come out at this time of the day?"

"No, not always." He turned to give Ludwig a large smile that showed off his missing front tooth. "Sometimes when I wake up late at night, I look out the window and I can see them dancing in the woods! Just there!" He pressed his finger against the cold glass. Ludwig followed the direction of the boys' finger, which pointed to the woods, a place where EVERYONE was forbidden to go. "That's where they live!"

Ludwig turned away to straighten out the bed blanket. "I'm surprised they come near humans at all. I guess it is only children they show themselves to?"

Daniel nodded. "Yup, yup! I wish you could see them, Ludwig! They would like you!" He bounced on the bed.

"Have you spoken to them?"

"Mmhmm! Sometimes they tap at my window! Or if I'm playing in the gardens they whisper from the bushes or the trees!"

Ludwig sat on the bed beside the boy. "What do they say?"

"Lots of things! They like the garden and the fields! And sometimes," he giggled "they play tricks on the men and animals!"

Ludwig frowned. "Tricks, you say?" That sounded like the work of mischievous children, but he wasn't about to say anything of the like to Daniel. "Well, try and keep them from causing trouble. We are a busy group here at Green Hall." He started to get up.

"Oh! Oh, Ludwig, wait!" Daniel pulled him back down. "I got something to tell you, but it's a BIG secret!" Ludwig leaned in to the boy so he could whisper. "The fairies don't want you guys spreading your gardens any farther than they are now."

Ludwig raised a blonde brow. "Do you mean the apple and plum orchards we plan to have in the spring?" They were going to tend a whole other field planting young apple and plum trees come the following spring. But how did Daniel know that? 'He must have been spying or overheard us talking.' "Why not?"

"It would stretch onto their sacred battle ground!"

"Battle ground? What do you mean? There was never a battle here. Not one."

"No, it's true!" Daniel argued. "It was a fairy battle that happened long, long, LONG ago! Lots of fairies died, good and bad! They don't want you going any further! Bad things will happen if you do!"

Ludwig rubbed his temples. He knew it was all just innocent dreams and nightmares the boy was making into reality, but he still could not bring himself to tell the child otherwise. "The others will not believe me, you know that. But I will try my best." He stood up and straightened his robes. "Just what do these fairy folk look like, Daniel?"

"They look just like us! Only they sometimes have wings and can be very pretty! They wear clothes like us too!"

"I see. Well then, next time you see one, try and get me so I can see them myself. I've always wanted to see one." Daniel practically squealed in delight.

"Okay Ludwig! I promise!"

"Good boy. Now you and the others continue getting ready. Dinner will be soon."

/

Later that evening, Ludwig dressed in his warmest robes and cloak to go up onto the roof. He looked up at the stars decorating the sky and smiled, taking in a deep breath of the chilly night air. There was a special spot where he sat between the steeple and the temple wall, the perfect place for watching the stars. He settled down atop the cold stone and stared up into the endless black, allowing his mind to drift away. There were many things he wondered about, like how far did the stars travel along the sky? He had never been out of the town of Emerald Fields, so everything he knew was as a far as his eyes could see. And what was up there behind the stars? Was it the Green Deity and her sacred world, or was it something else? It was said that she painted the sky with stars to help travelers find their way home or where they wanted to go. Was that really what they were?

Out of the corner of his eye, Ludwig saw something running through the churchyard cemetery and leap over the fence. When he saw that it was the form of Daniel, Ludwig jumped up and called out to him. "DANIEL!" He cried. "STOP!" He saw the boy running to the woods. The forbidden woods. "DANIEL!"

Ludwig took the quickest way he could think of, and that was climbing down the heavy dying vines along the wall. Rather, he 'slid' down the vines, but his focus was catching up to Daniel before he entered the woods. When his feet landed on the ground Ludwig took off in a run, dashing around the graves and hopping over the fence. "DANIEL! COME BACK!" He called again, following after the tiny form of the boy. Ludwig was unable to catch up with him and soon the boy's form disappeared into the woods, his giggling laughter traveling along the wind. "DANIEL!"

Ludwig stopped at the mouth of the woods where the boy had disappeared. He felt a twinge of fear while gazing through the maze of trees and the dark mysteries they concealed. Why these woods were forbidden Ludwig did not know, but it didn't change the fact that young Daniel was lost inside of them. Why did he run? And what was he going after? The fairies? Ludwig did not believe in such beings, so there should be nothing to fear within these woods. Taking a deep breath, Ludwig pulled his cloak around his shoulders, straightened his back, and stepped into the woods.

Only six or seven steps into the dark wood, Ludwig already began to feel the strange sensations gathering in his senses. In his ears he could hear the whispering sounds of voices, or what sounded like voices. His nose caught the scent of wet earth, of dirt and foliage. Even though it was dark, his eyes could see faint, shimmering glows among the trees. Curious, Ludwig stepped over to a tree and rests his bare hand against the trunk. Beneath his hands he swore that he could feel the tree breathing, and he quickly brought his hand away. His mouth had gone dry, like walking for hours in the hot summer without water. It was pushing his senses into overload.

'I must find Daniel and get us out of here!' He thought to himself. While he still did not believe in fairies and elements, Ludwig had no answer for what his common senses were showing him. It had to be his imagination acting on old tales and stories told of these woods that he had grown up on. They were reminding him of his childhood innocence. 'I must find Daniel!' "Daniel!" He called. "Daniel, where are you? Daniel!"

The woods had grown silent, eerily silent. His senses cleared and Ludwig felt nothing. Still, he moved further into the woods, searching for Daniel. He called out to the boy but the child never answered. Ludwig began to fear the worst for the boy. What if he had fallen and hurt himself? What if Daniel slipped and fell down ravine and knocked himself unconscious? If there 'were' magical fairies…did they carry him off like they were said to do in the stories? Or what if Daniel was just scared and hiding in a bush or behind a tree, frightened of the dark? "DANIEL!" He called. "DANIEL, IT'S LUDWIG! COME OUT!"

/

"What is all that ruckus?"

"I'll be damned! It's a human!"

"A human? In these woods? You're joking!"

"No! It's a human male! Look!"

Three pairs of eyes looked upon the wandering male.

"He shouldn't be here." Said the first one.

"I think he's looking for someone." Said the second. "Someone named 'Daniel'."

The third looked at his companions. "Daniel is that child we saw running not too long ago."

"That small boy? I thought he was here because of us?" Said the second.

"We never send for children." Said the third. "Something else did." Pink eyes followed the human man. "Something that is not from our court."

"The Dark Fairy Court?" Asked the first. "If that's the case, then let's find this boy and get him to his friend. No child's blood shall be spilled in our realm."

/

"Daniel? Where are you?" The cold was starting to numb his face and feet the further he walked. The boy was out here in the cold with only his sleeping tunic on. Ludwig feared he would find the boy curled up and shivering. "Daniel!"

Suddenly, he heard a soft voice call out his name. "Ludwig?"

"Daniel!" Ludwig looked around. "Daniel, where are you?"

"O-over here! I'm here!"

Ludwig ran to the sound of Daniel's voice and soon came upon the boy shivering beneath a tree. "Daniel! You're alright!" Ludwig scooped the small boy up in his arms and wrapped him in the shawl. "Why did you run off?"

"I heard the fairies calling me!" He shivered into the warmth of Ludwig. "I just did what they said!"

"What they said? What did they say?"

"I…I just came to play with them…like they asked me to." He sniffled. "I'm sorry if I made you mad, Ludwig!"

He sighed. "I'm not mad, just relieved that you are well." Ludwig looked to the woods again and swore he saw something hopping through the trees. He figured it was a bobcat or something of the like. "You're shivering. Let's get you back to the temple."

Ludwig shielded Daniel's face from the cold as he proceeded to make his way out of the woods. He held the small shivering body tightly to his chest, mindful of the broken branches and upped roots that littered the forest floor. Suddenly, from his right, he heard the unmistakable sound of a howl, like that of a wolf. However, this howl was different from the normal wolves he had heard over the years. It was a haunting howl that he felt chill his entire body right down to the bone. He never felt the urge to run like he did now, but he couldn't risk tripping over something in the dark. So holding his breath, Ludwig continued forward only with a little more speed this time. Around his feet he noticed a foggy mist gathering along the forest floor. It frightened him, but he kept Daniel's face hidden. But then, up ahead, just at the exit of the woods, stood a large black form.

It was not a wolf, but rather a large shaggy black dog the size of a calf. Its teeth were pearly white, but the eyes were glowing red, like saucers. Its head was lowered and the shaggy hackles were up at the broad shoulders, as if it were ready to attack. Ludwig gulped, taking a step back from the large creature. Even though he did not believe in such legends, what he saw before him was undeniably the 'phantom black dog', which was said to warn a traveler of their coming death or that of a relative. At the moment, Ludwig couldn't remember much more, but if he was correct, the creature would not hurt them. It was a long shot, but what choice did he have? Those red glowing saucers seemed to bore into his very soul as he took a shaking step forward. The beast did not move, but remained in the spot, just staring. Ludwig gulped and said to himself, 'the Green Mother will protect you…just keep…walking.'

With each step he took Ludwig could feel his knees slowly begin to buckle. The sight of the mystical being was just too much, so he lowered his head to not meet the eyes. Quickly he walked, knowing he was approaching the black dog with each step. He could hear its soft growls as he passed, looking down at the black feet that left no paw prints. With two more steps he was past the being, but cautiously glanced back to see the creature following him. 'What can I do?' The fear was gripping him and as much as he wanted to run it was unwise to do so. 'Keep walking…just keep walking.'

From behind came a sudden snort from the beast, and Ludwig whipped around to see what has happened. If seeing the phantom dog wasn't strange enough then the white fairy fighting it off was even stranger. Ludwig just stared, his eyes wide as the white fairy forced the phantom dog to retreat back into the woods. The fear of the black creature was gone, but now was replaced with queer curiosity. The white fairy was a human form in every aspect except for the four white wings, which looked like snowflakes pressed together, or frost. It was clearly a male, and he could tell by the broad shoulders and narrow hips. Everything the fairy wore was white right down to his boots. His skin was snow white yet his eyes were a hypnotizing pink, not blue, as he would have assumed. There was a sword on his belt, crystal clear white save for the icy blue hilt. Beneath his boots was an elaborate design of frost, and as the fairy walked towards him, the same white substance appeared with each step only to melt away when lifted. Could he really be gazing at an actual fairy?

"Don't be afraid of him." Said the fairy. "Not all of that creature is bad."

Ludwig just stared at him, still shielding Daniel.

"Well? Aren't you going to say 'thank you' to this lonely traveler whom saved you?"

"You're a fairy. A Winter Fairy." The fairy gasped, jumping back and levitating in the air.

"H-How can you see me?"

Ludwig just stared at him. "I can see your wings…they're like snow. A cloud of white is gathered at your feet…you're a fairy." Ludwig finally looked away. "I must be dreaming."

'Oh, you're not dreaming, human. I'm real. But if you can see me…then…'

"Um…thank you for…scaring away that beast. But it is still a bad omen."

"Only to some." Said the fairy. "I wouldn't fear anything for you. However, you mustn't tell anyone what you saw tonight!"

"No one would believe me if I did." Ludwig responded. "What is your name?"

"Tell me yours first." He smirked.

"My name is Ludwig Beilschmidt." He was still staring in awe at the fairy.

The fairy flew higher into the air. "I'm Gilbert! Gilbert the Winter Fairy!" He gave a joyous laugh as he spiraled into a mist of snowy white before disappearing.

"Gilbert." Ludwig repeated the name. "Strange name for a fairy."

Giving a shake of his head and dismissing everything he saw, Ludwig turned back to the temple and ran. Immediately he brought Daniel up to his room and got the boy into bed. He took a blanket from one of the spare beds for extra warmth. The boy was shivering and his lips were blue, his teeth chattering. Ludwig stroked the boys' hair, trying to soothe him. He stayed until the boy fell asleep, and then retreated back to his own room.

There wasn't much to his room. It was a small, quaint little corner room consisting of his bed, a desk, a single shelf with some books, and a painting of the Green Deity. Curious, Ludwig went to his window and gazed through the frosted glass at the spot where he had met the fairy, and the phantom dog. His mind was plagued with their images, one snow white and the other black as the late night sky. But could he have really seen such mystical beings? Ludwig knew he was fully awake and there was no other reasonable explanation he could muster. The black dog frightened him the most because of the dark legend behind it, and then the fairy tells him not to be afraid. What was he to think? 'I must be out of my mind.' He looked to his bed. 'Just go to sleep, Ludwig, and it will all make sense in the morning. Nothing happened tonight. Nothing.'

Yet once he was safely tucked in his bed, Ludwig unknowingly buried himself under the heavy blankets.

/

"Was that really necessary, Ivan?" Gilbert looked down at the black dog from his spot in the tree. "You frightened the poor guy."

The black dog stood on his hind legs and shifted its form into that of a human man. He looked up at Gilbert with violet eyes and smirked, showing only a few of his fangs. "I was just doing my job, nothing more."

"Yeah well, don't do it when little children are around!" The fairy glared at him.

"But it was the child I was warning about." Ivan crossed his arms. "I was going to follow them safely home until you decided to swing that crystal sword at my face."

Gilbert gasped softly. "The little boy is going to die? When?"

"Soon. I cannot say any more than that."

Gilbert was silent as he watched the being disappear into the fog of the forest. His brows furrowed sadly at the news of the young boy. Gilbert wondered how that human man, Ludwig, would take the boy's death? Gilbert stretched his wings, leapt from the branch, and glided through the trees leaving a sparkling glitter of snow behind him. The sun would be rising soon and he had to be back at the Fairy Court before the dawn. He couldn't help thinking about Ludwig, the strange human man that was able to see him. Humans only saw fairies as other humans when the beings walked among them. Engaging in human society was forbidden, but it was something Gilbert had done before. He was never one to properly follow the rules anyway. Smirking, he darted straight up to the top of the trees and gingerly perched atop a towering pine. He crossed his arms and looked to the far east where he could see the monk's temple.

"How very interesting. A human man who can see fairies in their true form? And not just any human, a monk!" Gilbert chuckled. "A celibate monk too I'll bet!" Gilbert remembered the way the human was staring at him. "Either he will be having some wet dreams tonight or he was just shocked to see a real fairy." Playing and pranking humans was one of Gilbert's specialties. Physical contact with humans was strictly forbidden, but there was no law saying you could use the elements or magic to play ones' tricks. "I think I'll pay that monk a little visit tomorrow. Let's mess around with a strict order of celibate monks!" His triumphant laugh echoed through the night.

By early dawn, Gilbert had flown through the hidden floral wall that protected the fairy realm. This realm was unlike the human world. All of the trees were massive and ancient, a whole different breed all in themselves. Some were so big and wide that they were home to fairies. In this realm it was always spring because the current Fairy King saw fit to keep it that way. Gilbert was a Winter Element fairy, just one of many other Winter Fairies. There were fairies for all seasons including autumn, spring, and summer. Some fairies, however, were considered 'All-Season' fairies because they could cast spells pertaining to any season. All-Season fairies were entitled to more than the regular fairy folk. Gilbert wanted to be a Fairy Knight, but since he was a single season fairy the title was lost to him. Only All-Season fairies were allowed to be knights. It was unfair, and it pissed him off. Gilbert stopped for a moment to float down to a rope bridge that held three of his fellow Winter Fairies. They greeted him as he landed.

"Welcome back, Gilbert." Said the fairy woman.

"Thanks. Anything exciting that I missed?"

The first male shook his head. "Nope. Nothing. The Autumn Fairies are flying in a frenzy since the season is almost over."

"Yeah, two actually smashed into each other! It was hilarious!" Said the second male.

Gilbert laughed himself. "Too bad I missed it! I would have liked to see that!" he stretched his wings. "I have to go, though. Need to report to the king and queen. Duty calls."

He waved to his friends as he flew off into the air, weaving around other fairies. A few Autumn Fairies wizzed by him but he paid them no mind. Up ahead he could see the mountainside where the fairy castle was built. The castle had been built in to the mountain eons ago by the first fairies. The front of it, however, was solid white crystal in the form of a castle much like the ones humans built. The rest of the outside was covered in rich green foliage and millions of flowers. Gilbert was welcomed inside by the guards who moved to let him pass. He planted his feet on the floor and proceeded to walk the rest of the way to the throne room. A few noble fairies greeted him as he passed and he just gave them a smile with a wave. Upon reaching the throne room he saw that both the fairy king and queen were present. Standing near them were some of the Fairy Knights. Gilbert made his way to the thrones and took out his sword, resting the tip to the floor as he bowed before them.

"A fine greeting to you, King Roderich and Queen Elizaveta." King Roderich lazily smelled a rose in his hand, hardly acknowledging Gilbert. His warrior queen, Elizaveta, took notice of him with a kind smile. Unlike past fairy queens, Elizaveta had been the only one who joined in the battles with the fairy folk. Beside her on the throne, she kept both her sword and shield. Roderich would fight as well, but he never received enough satisfaction out of it like his wife did. The king was better at plotting than fighting. Even though they were fairly close as friends, neither one would give Gilbert the title of Fairy Knight.

"What do you have to report on the Dark Court?" Roderich asked him, turning to face the Winter Fairy.

"Not much, I'm afraid." Gilbert stood. "I did run in to Ivan, though."

Roderich frowned. "What was he doing?"

"Warning about the impending death of a young child while his caregiver monk stared on helplessly."

"A monk?" Elizaveta repeated the word. "Rarely do humans ever enter these woods."

Gilbert smirked. "Well, he was following a young boy whom ran into the woods. I'm assuming the Dark Fairy Court is behind the summoning the boy. A few companions and I brought the child to the human safely, and that's when Ivan showed up."

Roderich tapped his finger on the armrest. "And this human monk…did he see you?"

Gilbert gave a lopsided smirk. "You see, that's the real funny part!" Roderich did not look amused. "The monk was able to see me in full fairy form! I have to say I was completely shocked when he knew what I was."

"You have to be more careful, Gilbert!" Roderich scolded him, pausing to fix his woven crown of leaves and berries. "We have enough problems on our hands without a human alerting the whole population of our existence."

Elizaveta added in, "I'm sure no one would believe him."

"Quite true, dear." Roderich bunched the rose up his palm. "It still does not change the fact that Gilbert was seen by a human."

Gilbert spoke up then. "But it is very rare for humans to actually SEE fairies in full form. He must be a special type of human if he can see all of us."

"Hmm…" Roderich rubbed his chin "Perhaps you are right. Tomorrow night, go and visit this human monk and see what you can learn about him. If Ivan, by chance, saw that this human could see you, then the Dark Fairy Court may choose to go after him."

Elizaveta smiled. "The aid of a human would be much appreciated in these troubled times. Maybe if we can befriend him then we can have a human ally in our war. He can deliver our messages and terms not just to the Dark Fairy Court but the human society as well. We must not forget that they are trying to expand their farm land over our sacred territory."

"Don't jump to conclusions so quickly. Let's wait and see what Gilbert comes up with." Roderich looked to the Winter Fairy. "You have my leave to go."

Gilbert bowed and sheathed his sword, retreating to the refreshment table for a quick bite. He took a mug of dandelion wine and a handful of dates before flying up to sit upon the balcony. The balcony encircled the entire throne room, giving Gilbert a decent view of all the fairies. He first looked at the two Fairy Knights, Berwald and Vash, standing side by side in their glittering armor. Berwald was first in command with Vash being second. But Vash was also a close advisor of their king and queen during the war council meetings. Gilbert wished he could be wearing that shining armor. Beneath him he heard the familiar laughter of the fairy bard, Feliciano, as he proudly sang a song about summer. Feliciano was a Summer Fairy, but also was a shape-shifter. Usually he took the form of animals, a skill that he used to get out trouble or spy on the enemy. Someone must have said something to make the fairy scared because Feliciano quickly poofed into a rabbit and darted under a table to hide. Gilbert just shook his head with a laugh.

After his wine and snack, Gilbert decided to visit the fairy smith outside of the castle. His sword needed a little bit of magic to repair a few scratches and nicks. Should he let these blemishes go untended then his sword might break in the heat of battle. So he brought it to Sadiq, the head of the weaponry and armory. A Summer Fairy as well, Sadiq's skin was a perfect tan, something that always made Gilbert jealous. Even for a Snow Fairy his skin was extra white and pale. It made him stand out amongst the other Winter Fairies, and even made some of them jealous. If only they knew how much he wanted to look slightly normal. "Yo, Sadiq! You busy?"

The larger fairy rolled his eyes, lowering his magical hammer. "No, I'm not busy at all, Gilbert." He waved his hand over to the many crystal swords that needed tending. "What is it that you want?"

He smirked. "My sword needs a bit of mending. Just brought it here to add a little more fun to your list! You look bored."

"Har, har." Sadiq's laugh was laced with sarcasm. "Put it there with the others. I'll have it ready for you by the evening."

"What crawled up your backside and died?" Gilbert smirked. "Herc threw you out again?"

"Hardly! I left this time! And why am I telling YOU anything? Scram!"

Gilbert put his hands up. "Sorry! I meant no harm." He grinned. The on-and-off relationship of Sadiq and Heracles was the most entertainment their Fairy Court could get on the gossip side of things. "Hope things work out!"

Gilbert retreated from the weaponry and made his way to the Winter Fairy housing. He didn't think that the seasons had to be segregated, but who was he to change tradition? Any time he tried he landed himself in solitary confinement for a day or two. Gilbert flew up to his dwelling within a crystal and entered through the balcony. It wasn't easy being on night duty and he was eager to catch some shut-eye. Everything in his room was crystal, and he loved every bit of it. Let the Summer Fairies have their wooden houses covered in flowers. Let the Autumn Fairies live in their trees and the Spring Fairies in their giant flowers. He was thrilled to be a Winter Fairy when he had the best of the housing arrangements. With a grin he flopped onto his bed, snuggling into the pure white goose-down sheets. "This fairy needs his beauty sleep!" He stretched and yawned, cuddling into the fluffy pillow. When he closed his eyes he immediately saw the monk, Ludwig. Gilbert opened his pink eyes only to quickly close them again, seeing the same image. "Well, I suppose there are worse ways to fall asleep."

/

Far from the Fairy Court territory, there resided a kingdom simply known as the Dark Fairy Court. While all the fairy folk race were one in the same, the Dark Fairy Court held a group of more sinister and malevolent fairies. The Dark Fairy Court residents did not view themselves as 'evil', but to the rest of fairy society, they were. The two kingdoms, Light and Dark, had been at war since fairies first separated themselves. Just like the Light Fairies, the Dark Fairies were also elemental beings. The only difference was the Dark Fairies took over the seasons at night, while the Light Fairies controlled the day. Despite their differences, the fairy folk all shared one common thing, and that was the balance of the earth. The kingdoms fought over dominance for the Holy Fairy Land where centuries ago, before humans, an epic battle between all the mystical beings took place. Thousands of fairy folk had perished in the battle, and their bodies became one with the earth. To gain further power, the surviving kingdoms have been fighting for the rights to claim, build, and expand on the holy burial ground. Each time it was a standstill, and to this day, it still is.

The Dark Fairy Court castle was a jumble of dead trees and black crystals. The Dark Fairy King, Arthur, angrily paced his dining hall in front of a large fire, muttering to himself. His black wings twitched and rattled furiously as his thick nails bit in to the skin of his palms. Sitting at the long black table were his two sons, Alfred and Matthew. Alfred was one of the Dark Fairy warriors, having two large curved horns coming out from atop his head and bat-like wings. His younger brother, Matthew, took after their papa with delicate fairy features. Arthur was able to transform himself between genders during the summer and spring seasons. In autumn and winter he was a male. In summer and spring a female. Alfred was a Summer and Matthew was a Spring. Their father, Francis, was only an explorer fairy employed by Arthur, but was his lover as well. The Dark Court members suspected that Francis was the father of Arthur's sons, but they never had any solid proof. And Arthur would never let it be known, or he would simply punish those who tried to question it. As a king, he should be marrying a princess or a prince; instead he was constantly coupling with a low-born explorer whose main job was to seek out new territory and warn of danger.

"Where is your papa?" Arthur growled through pointed teeth. "He should have been here long ago!"

Alfred, stuffing his face with various charred pieces of meat, took a break between chewing to answer his father. "He's probably running a little late! Just relax."

Arthur glared at his eldest son. "You know how much I hate it when he is late! He doesn't have the power like we have. I fear the Light Court will capture him one day…should that ever happen…!" Arthur growled.

Matthew whimpered, holding his bear made from wool and stuffed with goose feathers tightly to his chest. "I'm worried for papa too. I hope he's alright?"

"Papa's fine!" Alfred boasted. "He can charm his way out of ANY problem! I bet papa just caught a glimpse of himself in a puddle and stopped to admire the reflection."

Arthur grumbled and suddenly conjured up a web of green lightening between his palms. A dark aura surrounded him, and both his sons hide themselves behind their wings. "I SUMMON THEE TO MY HALL, OH SPIRIT OF OLD! COME FORTH, AND DO MY BIDDING!" Arthur let the bolts of lightening strike a spot in the floor, making a large purple circle of ancient incantations appear. From the center of the circle came the large form of the phantom dog, which quickly transformed into the human body of Ivan.

"You called?" Ivan smiled at his king.

"Ivan, have you seen Francis? He is late! He said he would be back this day! Where is he?"

Ivan playfully tapped his chin. "Maybe he ran off with a brunette?"

Arthur frowned. "Very funny. I'm serious, Ivan! Have you seen him?"

"No, can't say that I have. But I did run in to a Winter Fairy from the Light Fairy Court and a human monk."

"Who was it?" Alfred asked. "Who was the fairy, I mean?"

Ivan smirked. "It was Gilbert, the pretty Winter Fairy."

Arthur hissed, barring his fangs. "I care not for what fairy or human you encountered. So you have not seen Francis is what you are saying?"

Ivan nodded. "Yes, my king. Should I see him while I am out, I shall tell him to report right back to you."

Arthur crossed his arms. "Good. I appreciate your time and service. You are dismissed."

Ivan smiled. "Oh, and by the way, that human monk I mentioned earlier? Well, he can see fairies in their full form." Arthur, Matthew, and Alfred's brows went up in surprise and shock. "Bye-bye for now." Ivan disappeared back into the purple circle and it completely disappeared from the floor.

Arthur turned back to his sons. "I'm retiring to my chambers. Don't stay up too late." He walked over to them, giving both boys a kiss on the head. "Rest well, my sons."

"Goodnight father." Matthew smiled at him.

Arthur left his sons to their dinner in the hall as he floated up to his chambers where he locked himself inside. He had so much on his mind that he knew sleep would not come to him. Between the war, the territory, his troublesome eldest son, and his missing lover, Arthur felt like he was going to go mad. Every day the eyes of his subordinates were on him to bring them to the Holy Fairy Land. No matter how hard he tried, King Roderich's army and his own would always end up a standstill. It never failed. Unlike his own army, Roderich's always seemed to keep growing in numbers. Sometimes Arthur feared he was losing his people. Even though he had two sons, there was always the gossip that they were not of pure royal blood. Arthur had a story made up and his sons knew better than to talk, yet he feared many still did not believe him. It was an old, foolish tradition, but one that still held strong. Should Roderich's wife give birth to a pureblooded fairy child then many of Arthur's people may leave him and flock to the Light Court. The thought made him sick to his stomach. 'Where is Francis? I really need him.' He sat on the bed and held his head in his hands, sighing. "I need you with me." He whispered.

"Then turn around and look, you crazy fairy." Arthur's head lifted at the sound of Francis' suave voice. He turned to see the explorer fairy leaning against the wall, having flown in through the window. Only Francis had the key to the balcony door. He smiled at Arthur, moving away from the wall to approach him. "You look troubled, my sweet."

"I'm always troubled." Arthur stood to face him, but ducked away from Francis' attempt at an embrace. "Where have you been?" He asked, walking away from the other.

"Doing what I am told and paid for to do. Exploring." Francis flashed worried blue eyes at his lover. "Yao, Kiku, and I have discovered something interesting, but I'll tell you about it later. Right now, you need this fairy shoulder."

Arthur wouldn't look at him. He gave Francis his back, crossing his arms tightly over his chest. "You're never here when I need you the most."

Francis sighed. "Arthur, we've been through this a million times!"

"I know, Francis! I know!" he stomped his foot. "You weren't there for the birth of either of your sons, and you're never here when I am at my wits end." He felt Francis come up behind him and place two hands on his shoulders. "I can't keep doing this alone." Arthur whispered, leaning into him.

"It shamed me each time I had to leave you when you were nearing your time. Sometimes I can still see those pretty blonde pigtails and these green eyes watching me leave with a belly bigger than her own ego." He nuzzled Arthur's pointed ear. "Sometimes I wish you were a human female during that time, at least that way, the pregnancy would be MUCH longer." It was true. Fairy babies grew much quicker in their mother's bellies than in that of human women. Usually within a month, sometimes two months and very rarely three. "Then I would have a better chance of being here." Francis wanted more children with Arthur, but after the horrid time his lover had bearing Matthew, the explorer just couldn't bring himself to put his lover through that again.

"Sometimes I think you'd rather have me as a woman than as a man. I was born a male, you know."

Francis chuckled, holding him close. "Yes, you always remind me. You are plenty man, as well as PLENTLY woman. I fear you the most in your female form. You won't take nonsense from anyone."

Arthur scoffed. "Carry me to the bed and lie with me until the moon comes up." Francis did so, lifting Arthur into his arms.

"Can I have you?" Francis asked him, placing the king on the bed. Sometimes Arthur needed to take a break from being the king and just be a normal fairy.

"I don't think you really deserve it." Arthur smirked. "You make me worry, and I have enough to worry about."

"I know you do." Francis joined him on the bed. "But I'm here now, and I'll be here for awhile. Shall I tell you about what we found?"

Arthur shook his head. "No, I'm not interested. I've had enough business for one day…just make me feel good. I don't want to be alone."

Francis smiled, leaning over Arthur to bring their lips together in a kiss. For a short time, all of Arthur's fears and worries were erased from his mind and replaced with the reassuring feeling of love.

/

Ludwig awoke the next morning to the sound of the cock crowing. He pulled the pillow over his head, dreading the rays of the sun that peeked through his window. He could hear the others moving around outside of his room, and then that irritating knock that was the signal to get up.

"Ludwig, rise and shine." Came another's voice through the door. "You don't want to miss breakfast."

"I'm coming." Ludwig called from under the pillow. "What strange dreams I had." He said to himself as he sat up, scratching his lower back. "They felt so real…but I know they were dreams." Getting out of bed, Ludwig dressed into his monk's robes and shoes before leaving to join the others. But before he could make it down the steps to the first floor, one of the other monks came running up to him.

"Ludwig! Ludwig, come quick!"

"What is it?"

"It's little Daniel!" Said the other monk, panting. "He's got a nasty fever and we can't seem to bring it down!"

Ludwig's eyes widened. Could it really be from last night? Was it more than just a dream? "I will see him!" He took off in a mad run to the orphan's room, rushing through the door. The other children were gathering around Daniel's bed, each one with a sad or frightened look on their faces.

"Ludwig, Ludwig! Daniel's sick!" Cried one of the girls.

"I've heard." Ludwig went over to the boy, looking down at the red face sweating with fever. His blue eyes widened, remembering the sighting of the phantom dog that foretold a death. 'Oh no, not this child!'

"The Elder sent for the town doctor!" Said one of the boys. "Will Daniel be alright, Ludwig?" The brown eyes were full of fear and tears.

"Let's wait and see what the doctor says." Ludwig said, his tone even and flat. "Daniel is a strong boy. Today let your prayers to the Green Deity be with him. Let's hope that she grants her every caring touch to ensure his health." Ludwig feared that what he was saying would turn out to be a lie, but he could not say otherwise.

All day long, Daniel remained in bed and Ludwig continued to feel remorse for the boy's failing health. The doctor had given Daniel some medicine, but judging by the man's face, the outcome was grim. Ludwig sat on his bed, staring out into the dark sky with a heavy frown. His hands were folded neatly between his knees. Silently, he prayed for the health and safety of Daniel. Daniel was only a child; an innocent child whom was lost in the world and seeking solace in mythical beings. But, were they real? Was what happened last night really true? Did Ludwig really see the black dog and that Winter Fairy? Was the death foretold not his own but that of Daniel's? Ludwig bowed his head. 'I pray that is not the truth. Oh Green Mother, please watch over Daniel and bring him back to health.'

Ludwig's ears picked up the sound of something crackling in his room. Lifting his head and eyes, he noticed that the window had become heavy with frost. Curious, Ludwig stood up and went to the window. It was too dark to see, but there was clearly someone outside his second story window. 'A fairy?' A puff of white appeared on the glass, like someone breathing on the other side. Ludwig watched in awe as an invisible finger traced the words 'meet me in the graveyard' inside the mist. Ludwig stared at the words until they disappeared, leaving only the pattern of snowy frost against the glass. He was unsure of just what was outside his window, but if it WERE a mystical being, then perhaps they could heal the ailing boy.

Ludwig grabbed his cloak and threw it over his shoulders before leaving his room and heading to the graveyard.

End Chapter 1 TBC