Alice helped Klaus move his friends' corpses to a remote room on the second floor of the castle. There, Alice used her creation magic to freeze the room, lowering its temperature enough so that the bodies' decomposition would be nullified. The room was freezing cold by the end of it, but naturally, Alice was slightly more resistant to the cold than Klaus, who shivered in the corner, holding his hands together as he breathed into them.

Alice wiped a small droplet of sweat running down her face, "That should do it, I think."

Klaus finished setting down the final body, his eyes moving to Alice who had already finished, "Thank you..." He said.

"Mhm. It's nothing, believe me. I'm happy to help."

Klaus looked at the bodies once more. Adrien was a terrifying monster, just thinking of him sent shivers down his spine. His hands were still shaky from the fear. It was fresh in his memory; How utterly brutal Adrien's fighting style was. How Adrien's magic suffocated the life out of him. He touched his neck, as if reliving the memory.

His mind shifted, wondering how Alice had formed a connection with Adrien. What could someone like her ever have to offer a being of his power? Was it that he was simply lusting for her? He wanted to ask but he felt it inappropriate to question her. "So... Should we head back?"

It had taken a few hours to get the room to such a temperature, and Alice was so tired that she was about to fall asleep, nonetheless she had things to do. "Let's go meet up with Adrien."

The boy nodded his head but had more to say. "I sense a gathering in the throne room. It appears that your guests have arrived."

"You can sense them?" Alice questioned.

"Yeah..." Klaus shrugged, rubbing the back of his head. "It's a special talent, I guess... Not as impressive as you, though."

Alice smiled, offering her tender words to ease Klaus's anxieties. "Don't say such things. You must be special enough that Adrien decided not to kill you."

The boy remained quiet, continuing to breathe into his cupped hands. "You must be cold. Should we get going?" Alice questioned.

"Lady Alice. If I may."

"Alice is just fine..."

"It might be wise to stay away from their congregation."

"I can't do that. I must be there at the very least. There are those who will be searching for me."

There was a fierce look in Alice's eyes, ones that Klaus admired. "I see. Then it is true what he said, that the bandits serve you."

"It is." She said firmly. "The bandits vowed to serve me, and only me. This is more than just my own feelings. I have an image to maintain"

"An image for thieves and rats." Klaus said, his words laced with poison and disdain for the vermin who called themselves human.

Alice looked at Klaus disapprovingly. It was clear that Klaus bore a hatred towards them. Though she did not know of his reasons, she couldn't allow Klaus to think the way he did. She had to be a figure for Klaus. She needed to step up, to teach him, to discipline him, so that one day he would grow to become something more.

Alice marched across the room and struck Klaus across his face. "They are humans, just as you are. They are doing their best to survive. It is not your right, our right to deem them so."

Klaus raised his hand to his face, feeling the place she struck. "But Adrien can?"

"Adrien is different than us. You already know that."

She was defending him even when he wasn't around. There was something utterly wrong with her own mind. Klaus could not understand what sparked such devotion in her, but it did make him envious of him. Klaus's eyes lingered at Alice, telling her that her explanation was not enough.

She sighed, "Even for Adrien... I don't know what turned him to what he is now, but I do know that there is something deep within him. Even now, he does his best to control his own darkness. His hatred. But the path of redemption is a steep slope to climb, and an even steeper slope to fall."

She gently caressed Klaus's face as she looked into his brown eyes. "I don't want you to suffer such a fate as well. Please, do your best to break free of whatever hate that holds its grip on you."

Alice's words had stirred Klaus's heart. His eyes were wide, as he watched Alice pull back her soft hand from his face. "Now, if you do not mind it, I'd rather not linger here... Please, lead the way."

----------------------------------------

"But we demand blood to be taken! The blood of the woman who has ensnared our lord's heart must be spilled!" a lunatic from the crowd, garbed in dark robes, yelled, representing the red banners' interests. "The witch has corrupted our lord's mind. For that, she must repent!"

Adrien looked on with disinterest at the crowds gathered before him. The reds and the blues were locked in a heated argument, with the blues fiercely defending their leader from the lunatics' accusations.

Their arguments raged on, with one shouting over the next. It was utter chaos in the throne room. Before long, Adrien's gaze shifted to a subtle movement on the second-floor balcony overlooking the throne room. Alice and Klaus were crossing the balcony, casting their gazes down at the crowds below.

They had overheard some of the yelling, including the part where they demanded her head. Alice was troubled by their notions, yet she swallowed her fears to appear strong. They looked down from the balcony until the crowd followed Adrien's gaze to find her and Klaus watching over them.

"There she is!" One of the red's spoke as he pointed a finger at Alice. "I say we kill the wretched elf! Put a stake through her and hang her from the gatehouse of Kaldabra–"

Adrien's hand slightly shifted as he rested atop his throne. With it, the lunatic was lifted into the air. Everyone watched, knowing all to well the fate that was about to befall the man. The reds watched in admiration, grins etched in their faces. Even the man who was about to be slaughtered had that look. The blues watched terrified, averting their gazes.

"ALICE!" Adrien shouted, adjusting himself atop his throne. "It is up to you to pass judgement!"

Alice appeared shocked. She backed away from the balcony, but Klaus urged her otherwise. She then looked to the lunatic, and she knew everyone was waiting for her decision. She wanted to kill him–to pass her judgement. But her speech to Klaus came to her. How hypocritical would it be for her to say what she did and act against every word she uttered. Her eyes then turned to the blues, who pleadingly looked at her to spare him. Despite their differences, the blues sought no bloodshed. When her eyes turned to the reds, they looked to her in silence, but their stance was clear, they wanted him dead. They wanted her to prove herself as a vicious queen, worthy to stand by Adrien's side. Whatever decision she made here would change the view of everyone present.

What would Adrien do in this situation, she thought. He would've killed the man on the spot had she not been here. His following looked up to him for that very brutality he brought. The blues looked to her for her compassion. Her choice was clear. "Spare him."

"'Spare him' She says!" The reds yell with sinister grins on their face as if mocking her. "Spare the man who seeks your head! It will be your undoing!" One of them said, his hand shaking as he pointed at her, "We promise you that!"

Adrien stood up from his throne, and everyone fell to their knees before his anger. Alice watched just how much command Adrien exerted over others. "You will do well to bite your tongue, you pathetic worms. You will fall to your knees and beg Alice for her mercy! I will not hear it otherwise! Do I make myself clear?!"

The crowd whispered among themselves, giving time for Adrien to calm himself. He looked to Alice, and she returned the gaze.

There was a faint smile on her face, but a part of her wished Adrien would have killed the man. She looked to Adrien, watching as he took his seat once more. "I believe my dear Alice might be far too kindhearted for the likes of you. The fact remains, that at the end of the day, none of you hold a fraction of the value to me that she does. Speak ill of her once more, and you will be fed to the hounds and crows. Do I make myself clear?"

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Adrien's gaze shifted to Alice as everyone in synchronization said, "Yes, Lord Adrien."

"Klaus, bring Alice to me."

Alice's eyes turned to Klaus, who stood behind him. Why did he tell Klaus to bring her to him in such a manner? Her mind raced to find an answer. Together, they descended the steps of the balcony to enter the throne room. The crowds parted ways, giving them passage. Alice looked to both sides before marching down the red carpet to meet Adrien. Klaus followed behind her. Instinctively, once before the throne, the two bent their knees to Adrien, their gaze set to the ground.

"I want to make it clear now that Alice is not to be touched. If I catch you looking at her the wrong way, your life is forfeit," Adrien began. "Alice is to be the leader of the Sons Of The Forest. The blues will obey her will. If she demands your life, you will all gladly give it to her. That notion applies to the reds to some extent; However, Alice will only lead the blues. The rest of you will serve under Klaus Reifner."

Alice and Klaus stood to their feet, turning to face the crowd. "This is Klaus Reifner," Adrien said with a gesture of his hand, "he is still young, so be patient with him. You are to teach him our methods, but act with the utmost respect when addressing him. From this day forward, you will refer to Klaus as lord. I will hear no objections."

Klaus had a fierce look in his eyes that sparked respect from the reds. They bowed their heads as he stood tall before them. "We vow to stand by Lord Klaus and accept him as our commander."

Klaus was left at a loss for words, his eyes darting across the room, taking in just how many people were to serve him. It seemed almost impossible, but it was happening. But why did Adrien want him to lead the reds? There must have been some ulterior motive to his move, but he was grasping at straws. The only logical explanation was that Adrien simply didn't wish to lead the reds, believing himself far too superior to do such things, which was partially true.

Adrien stood from his seat, and everyone stood, following his lead. "I want the master bedroom refurnished. Make that your priority. You are dismissed."

The crowds parted ways, making their way in all directions of the fortress. Once gone, Alice and Klaus turned to Adrien with questions. It was Klaus who spoke first, but he was not sure how to put it. "Lord Adrien. The master bedroom has my own personal assets... If I may, would you allow me to leave as well, so I may move my belongings somewhere safe?"

"You may leave."

Klaus nodded, bowing his head slightly before departing. Alice and Adrien stood side by side, Adrien keeping his gaze fixed as he watched Klaus go. "I believe it’s time for us to leave as well."

"Where would we go?"

Alice was rather tired, but so much was happening that she simply couldn't fall asleep. Adrien could sense her exhaustion, but he wanted to push her a little longer. "I sent out a request to bring you a fresh pair of clothes..." Adrien said, his eyes lingering on her dirtied clothes. "I want you to come and see for yourself."

"New clothes, huh?" Alice mumbled, looking down at her dress.

She had longed for a new pair of clothes, but even more, a shower. To have hot water run down her skin... just the thought of it made her body ease. Her dirtied silver hair and sweat-soaked body demanded to be cleaned. She looked at Adrien, who was lost in his own thoughts. "Oh, my apologies, let's go."

The two ventured outside to the courtyard of the fortress, where several wagons were brought to rest. Each wagon contained different supplies. Both the lunatics and the bandits worked together in unloading, with one individual approaching Alice and Adrien. "Master Adrien, the supplies you specifically requested are this way, if you would follow me."

They followed behind the lunatic, arriving at a wagon covered on all sides. The cultist opened the back doors, revealing the clothes inside. The lunatic then bowed his head and left them alone.

Adrien looked at the clothes, and Alice stood beside him, speechless. Was she supposed to wear those?

The clothes were rather revealing. Lingerie was the right word. One set was simply a white bra with an incredibly thin strand holding it together. Adrien pressed his hand against his brow as he saw the clothes, giving her the impression that this was not what he intended.

She continued to look, utterly speechless. Her face flushed pink. Among the clothes, a few pieces looked wearable for their intended purpose, but some were out of the question. She looked at Adrien, who then looked at her with a sarcastic tone, "See anything you like?"

"Um... no..."

Adrien gestured for the lunatic to return. The man hastily approached, averting his gaze from Adrien. "What is this? Who told you to bring me this?" He questioned.

The lunatic glanced at the clothes and grinned. "The doctors suggested that fabric would be far too heavy for the likes of her, and even heavier for your eyes, my lord."

If looks could kill, Adrien's would've torn right through the world itself. The lunatic noticed Adrien's displeasure, hurriedly adding to his previous statement. "Fret not, my lord. If this is not to your liking, we have brought additional—"

"Show me."

The lunatic nodded. "Right away. Please, if you would follow me."

There was a second wagon parked behind the first. As they approached its doors, Alice and Adrien prepared for the worst. The lunatic opened the doors, revealing the contents inside.

There were dresses of white and silver, their fabric soft and smooth. Alice's eyes widened. These were masterworks, the finest fabrics in all the kingdoms, tailored by the most skilled craftsmen. Each dress was unique, and there was a variety, all in the same colors. She looked at Adrien, and he looked at her. "What do you think of these?"

She stepped inside, and Adrien dismissed the lunatic from his sight. She touched the fabric, feeling its silky-smooth texture. The dresses weren't over the top either, just elegant enough for someone like her, similar to what she currently wore but more refined.

They even smelled good. The entire wagon had a flowery aroma that captivated her senses. A bright smile spread across her face as she jumped from one dress to another, examining their textures. Each one was crafted with love and care, to be worn with the same emotions. "Adrien... I don't know what to say... But... thank you... I really mean that!"

Adrien smiled. "Of course. Only the finest for you."

She really wanted to try some on, but her body was filthy, and she wanted to wear them only when she was clean. It disappointed her that she couldn't, bringing down her mood. Adrien stepped into the wagon, crouching as he touched the fabric himself. She looked at him, waiting for him to say something, but he didn't. He continued to rub the fabric. "Is it to your liking as well?"

"It is. This will most certainly do. Care to put one on?"

"I would... but I'd rather not dirty these clothes."

Adrien's gaze shifted to the clothes. "I see, quite considerate of you." He mused, "Speaking of... I believe this castle used to have a spa somewhere underground. I wonder if it's still functional."

The castle became even more impressive with each fact she learned about it. Just how many mysteries did it hold? "A spa... That sounds nice..."

"So... care to visit it together?"

Alice's heart fluttered, beating rapidly against her chest. To go to the spa with him... Well, it did make sense that he would propose it. Still, she wasn’t quite comfortable enough... for him to see her... naked. He clearly wanted more from her, and she wanted to do something for him in return, but this was far too soon. She needed time.

As if saved once more, a lunatic approached the two. "Lord Adrien, the master bedroom has been furnished as per your instructions. We await your approval."

Adrien turned his eyes to the lunatic. "Yes, I understand. We'll be there in a moment."

The lunatic nodded, leaving them alone. "Forget it," Adrien said, turning to leave the wagon.

Alice jumped at his words, feeling his disappointment. After all he had done, she still refused to do something for him. "Adrien! I'd love to go with you."

Adrien's eyes widened, his back still turned to her. He had not expected her response to catch him off guard, but it did. He turned to face her as the wind began to swirl around him, billowing his cloak. He smiled faintly, "It's okay. If you need more time, I understand. Don't rush yourself."

Just as surprised as he was, Alice felt the same. A demon that refused to give in to its desires was a rare sight. She kept forgetting how much Adrien cared for her, but with each interaction, she was reminded of that fact. As she approached, her foot tripped against a piece of wood sticking out of the wagon. She was about to fall.

Adrien quickly reacted, catching her in her trajectory. Everything happened so fast, yet it also felt slow, and by the end of it, Alice found herself in Adrien's arms. A familiar sight. "Looks like you're tired. I'll take you to your room."

She still wanted to do something for him, and to show her effort, she was willing to share a bedroom with him, at least. Nothing intimate, but a step forward... Alice looked up at Adrien, her hands clinging onto him. "You mean our room...?"

"Hm?" Adrien questioned.

"Our room, you mean?"

"You wouldn't mind sleeping beside me?"

His question was suffocating. Alice's eyes trailed off to the fortress, averting Adrien's intense glare, "I wouldn't..."

Adrien brushed her hair to the side, revealing her face slightly more. She looked to him again, and without thinking, she raised her hand, her fingers tenderly reaching up to fix a stray of his long, dark hair that hung loosely over his face. "What are you doing Alice?" He asked with a soft smile.

She wasn't sure why she did what she did. As if something within her wanted to get close to him for once. "I don't know..." She replied.

Adrien held onto her, his gaze shifting to the fortress where she was looking earlier, "It seems that the tides of fate have shifted... It's only a matter of time till our influence grows."

Alice watched as Adrien's gaze set on the distant future. She was unsure how things would go, but she knew that as long as she was with him, she would be safe—safer than with parents who wished her dead, safer than being around people who had envied her for her entire life. Still, Adrien's voice lacked the certainty it often held. It was clear he didn't trust those who had pledged to serve him. His reasoning was understandable, but it seemed misplaced to her.

"You say that is if it were a bad thing."

"Oh, well, it kind-of is." Adrian said looking down at Alice cradled within his arm, "So how about it? Shall we get going?"

"Yes, lets..."

Alice fell asleep in Adrien's arms. He looked at her face as the moon cast its glow on her. She looked strangely calm now, no longer the frightened girl he had met in the forest. With a one last look at the clothes presented to them, Adrien departed from the wagons, his concerns satisfied.