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Post by Germany on May 24, 2013 16:31:14 GMT -5
Ludwig had made a quick detour to his quarters before heading for the meeting. He had made sure to freshen up and noting that he looked a little better for wear now that he had gotten a bit of sleep. It wasn’t that much of an improvement but it was better than nothing, he figured. He fixed up his dishevelled hair and changed shirts, grabbing another jacket before exiting the small room to head to the second floor to meet with Herr Kesselring.
The meeting had gone well in comparison to the many others they had had. It had been straight to the point, efficient and they had already sent orders to the soldiers on the Italian front which was the way Ludwig liked his meetings. He liked when there were apparent effects and changes. They had also discussed the possibility of one of Rommel’s division’s coming in as relief. That news had lightened Ludwig’s mood and he hoped that would mean that Rommel would be coming with them. Kesselring had noticed the relief that had washed over Ludwig at the news and had taken note of it for later. Then again, most of the men in the room had been relieved at the news of back up. It was hard not to be when they were being pushed back so quickly in comparison to their other fronts.
“Ludwig, a word please.” Kesselring spoke up as the rest of the men were making their way out. Ludwig’s brow rose but he nodded as he remained behind until they were alone.
“Can I help you, Herr Kesselring?” He asked his brows knitting together at the thought of what the man could want from him.
“Could you check that everyone is doing what they should be doing? I just need you to go visit each area and assure the work is being done to proper standard.”
The corner of Ludwig’s lips fell but he nodded. “Ja, no problem, Herr Kesselring…” He agrees not at all thrilled with a job that a lower ranked officer could have easily done.
The soldiers had been startled by Ludwig’s appearance. It was not every day Generalfeldmarschall Beilschmidt made rounds such as the ones he was doing at the moment. He did pop in now and then to check up on the soldiers but it was mostly to check the moral of his men. They seemed relieved that Ludwig was in a considerably better mood than he was a day ago and so when he came by to make sure the paperwork was being done properly and the kitchen was being run at top efficiency they greeted him with much more ease.
The task had been accomplished quickly. He had gone to every floor necessary before he was sent out to check up on the men patrolling the streets. There had been rumour that some soldiers were straying from their patrol route and harassing the locals. That was not something Ludwig could accept especially when he had high expectation for his soldiers especially when it came to behaviour. Yes, they had invaded but they needed to show respect to gain support and cooperation from the residents.
This part of the job had taken him several hours. He was disappointed to find near the end of his surveillance that the rumour had been true and he made sure to punish his men accordingly as he sent them back to their headquarters to be dealt with by Herr Kesselring. They would most likely be sent to the front but at least the locals wouldn’t be harassed.
The encounter had soured his mood and when Ludwig returned he made sure to bury himself in some work to calm himself before he would catch a few hours rest and then go visit Feliciano.
When Ludwig had woken from his slumber, he was pleased to find that he had time to actually freshen up and took a quick shower before getting ready for the rest of the day. He fixed his hair, made sure his uniform was sans wrinkles and clean. Again, like he had done the other day, he had stopped by the kitchen and instead of taking one plate for Feliciano, he took one for himself as well. They had gotten a new shipment from Vienna and so there was extra provisions that he could afford to eat. It would also eases Feliciano’s mind and hopefully keep him from worrying about Ludwig’s diet.
The guards had been expecting Ludwig. The tall German greeted them with a curt nod before the doors were open and Ludwig stepped in. The reminder of last time caused him to flush lightly but he quickly pushed that memory to the back of his mind. “I apologize for yesterday Feliciano. I promise today I’ll be better company.” He assures as he steps further in and gently passes the plate of food to him. “I brought some food for the both of us, like I said I would.” He adds taking a seat on the couch he had fallen asleep on the time before.
“What did you do to occupy yourself?” He asks as his gaze falls on the food and his stomach lurches painfully at the thought of finally being fed. Ludwig does restrain himself enough to wait for Feliciano to take the first bite.
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Post by North Italy on May 24, 2013 17:37:09 GMT -5
He had to admit; this time when Ludwig had left he couldn’t help but feel a little melancholy. He’d wanted the German to stay with him and talk a little more, but the sleep had been vital that much was obvious; and Ludwig still had important tasks to attend to (as much as he disliked that thought), so he didn’t begrudge the man leaving at all.
He’d stayed in the same position for quite some time. Curled up on the couch wrapped in Ludwig’s jacket as the memory of his visit insisted on playing on a loop inside his head as he fell into and out of sleep. The way Ludwig had acted when he assumed Feliciano was still asleep was very sweet, and the Italian couldn’t fathom why every time his mind flittered back to that moment a silly little smile would appear.
He shouldn’t be thinking so fondly of him… and a simple act of kindness really shouldn’t be affecting him so much.
Frowning in his confusion, Feliciano pushed himself up and removed the jacket from around himself. He folded it carefully and set it back on the couch before standing and deciding that laying around like an idiot probably wouldn’t help matters or help him to sort out the bewildering thoughts bouncing around his skull.
He paced the room for a short while in order to stretch his legs. They’d become a little cramped from lazing around for so long, and having Ludwig’s head resting on him before that… enough no more thinking on that for a while.
He wandered over to the bookcase and let his eyes scour the titles on each spine before snorting quietly. None of the titles there currently captured his attention, and he suspected he’d only end up reading the same sentence over and over as every little thing distracted him if he attempted to read at all.
Eyes lighting on the large desk, Feliciano trotted over and began rummaging through the drawers there until his fingers grazed exactly what he’d been hoping to find; some paper and a pencil.
How long had it been since Feliciano had taken the time to sketch anything properly? Far too long, the little doodles scrawled on documents during boring political meetings didn’t count. Here was a chance to sit down, clear his mind and really draw for once.
His usual chipper disposition slowly returning, Feliciano seated himself at the desk and began to sketch the view from the window first of all as a practice. It was liberating to finally let his artistic tendencies have free-reign after so long.
Hours passed and Feliciano steadily filled up pages with drawings of things he could see first-hand and things or people he couldn’t; a smile growing with each new project. Finally the sound of the door opening drew his attention away from the page in front of him. He looked up and smiled as Ludwig entered; memory returning a causing a small flush to darken his cheeks momentarily.
Standing up to meet Ludwig, he accepts the food gratefully before following him to the couch. “Eh, you were good company yesterday too you know… and um I’ve been sketching. I hope you don’t mind me using the paper in here.”
He could see the hunger in Ludwig’s eyes and was very glad that his friend had brought a plate for himself this time too. He smiled gently and began to eat, indicating for Ludwig to do the same. “What about you? Or am I not supposed to ask, seeing as you know-“ He shrugged helplessly and took another bite of food.
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Post by Germany on May 26, 2013 6:42:57 GMT -5
Ludwig doesn’t need any more urging as he slowly digs into the food so he doesn’t come off as a starved dog who’s found scraps of food on the streets for once. His stomach had let out a few small growls which had directly caused the flush of his cheeks. A hand had discreetly gone to his stomach clutching the material of his clothes before he had gotten the chance to try the food he had brought them. He took the time chewing the sauerkraut as he made it look as if he were thinking over the questions asked.
“The paper technically belongs to you.” Ludwig answers simply his gaze leaving his plate to meet Feliciano’s momentarily. “Whatever is in this room is free game.” He pauses to take another bite of the food, it was almost hard to hide how much he was enjoying it as he took in the next question.
“It’s probably best if we don’t talk about it.” He also didn’t want to mention to Feliciano that some of his men had been harassing his people. That was far from what the Italian needed to hear and the good thing was that he had dealt with the situation himself so it shouldn’t be a problem anymore.
“Let’s just say I was quite busy and for the most part with work that I technically shouldn’t have been doing.” Again, the reminder of what Herr Kesselring had asked him to do came to mind. He let out a small sigh as he soon decided to concentrate on his food. He wasn’t at liberty to talk about anything he had done as much as he wanted to share his day’s activities with Feliciano.
There was a moment were Ludwig grow completely silently merely concentrating on his food as he tried to think of other topics they could discuss. Then, his mind quickly backtracked and he remembered Feliciano had said that he had been sketching moments earlier. Ludwig had always been impressed by the smaller male’s ability to reproduce real life so accurately and to even reproduce famous paintings with such ease. He, on the other hand, was foul when it came to anything to do with art.
He was actually embarrassed to admit that he had tried his hand at drawing and had failed so miserably he had burned the pictures and never spoke of them again. This was one thing that Ludwig was far from apt at doing and a skill he admired in Feliciano. There was a small part of Ludwig that really enjoyed art and looking at art work but that was a part of him that he had never spoken about.
When he was done his food he got up and placed it on one side of the desk before he noticed the piece of paper resting in the middle of it. His gaze ran over the drawings and soon he couldn’t help but pick up the paper to study it closely. “Feliciano…” He begins his eyes roaming over every inch of it. “This is impressive…”
Ludwig turns around to face the Italian, his gaze shifting from the paper to Feliciano as he makes his way back to sit beside him. “You call this sketching?” They looked far too good to be called or considered sketches in Ludwig’s opinion. His blue gaze was once again on the paper and he couldn’t help following the contour of each line and watching them meet to create an image that was so real.
“I don’t think I’ve ever seen you actually draw something.” He says gently.
Then again, when was there ever time to draw when Ludwig had been so focused in training and the war? He had never paid anything like this much attention or had seemed to care about that side of Feliciano. That had been far from the truth, he had cared…it was just that it had never really crossed his mind at the time. There had been so many things to worry about, not saying there wasn’t many things to worry about now since really, there were plenty more but now that Feliciano wasn’t his ally they were limited in what they could discuss and so it was only now he could focus on such a talent.
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Post by North Italy on May 26, 2013 12:55:42 GMT -5
Feliciano was not a particularly observant person by nature; in fact on more occasion than he cared to remember, he had been accused of not being able to read the atmosphere at all. However he would have to be blind not to recognise the subtle signs of hunger Ludwig had been displaying before he began eating as slowly as his restraint would allow. His stomach had been gurgling quietly since he’d entered the room, and Ludwig had been wearing an obvious flush of embarrassment as a hand had gripped at his shirt in a futile attempt to quell the sounds.
He’s obviously been skipping meals, and yet he still tries to hold that act together… Feliciano glanced at him from his peripheral vision as he continued to eat his own meal, but said nothing that might embarrass the German man further.
Trying to ignore the pang of pity Feliciano felt for his friend, he concentrated instead on what Ludwig was saying and smiled sincerely. That was nice of him, to let him have free-reign of whatever was in this room. That meant he could sketch, doodle, and create to his heart’s content and not worry about Ludwig needing the paper for other purposes.
He continued to listen, it was a shame that Ludwig couldn’t speak with him about his work now they were no longer allies. Feliciano had always liked to hear about Ludwig’s day, and even if he couldn’t help directly, he’d always tried to be there and offer some kind of guidance or support when Ludwig required it. He understood of course the reasons why his friend couldn’t speak about things so freely now, he just hoped this wouldn’t continue for a long time to come; it made him feel like there was a wall between them…
They fell into silence for a while, it was the companionable sort not the awkward kind, and so Feliciano didn’t feel the need to fill it with idle chatter. Taking his time to study Ludwig, Feliciano found it reassuring that the man was eating again and seemed to be enjoying it. He hoped that this excuse of coming to see him would provide him with more chances to eat and so regain his strength.
Ludwig finished his meal before Feliciano, and he looked up from his plate as the German picked up one of his sketches to look at. His face warmed at the praise, and he ducked him head to hide a cheerful blush. It was odd, usually he could receive critique or praise for his art-work and these days it didn’t affect him too much; however if a friend did the same he’d take it more to heart and be rendered to a silly, smiling state of being.
“You honestly think so?” Feliciano put his fork down to give Ludwig his undivided attention. “It’s been some time since I’ve been able to draw so much at once. I was afraid I might be a little rusty to be honest.” He wasn’t fishing for compliments, he was telling the truth. As with any hobby or profession constant practice was advisable to keep that skill honed; and Feliciano was woefully out of practice.
“I’ve never seen you actually draw something either.” He teased gently and picked up another blank sheet of paper and his pencil, shifting the now empty plate to one side. “I know… how about, if you’ve got enough time of course, I draw something so you can see me at work; and then you draw something so I can see too.”
He opened the desk drawer and rummaged around, coming across some more paper and another stub of a pencil. He handed both to Ludwig and sat back down, tapping his pencil against his lower lip thoughtfully. After a moment’s hesitation, a wide smile suddenly bloomed and he chuckled as he readily started to scribble away.
“I’m going to sketch you~” He chirped. “You may sketch whatever you wish.” He added as an afterthought, though his tone booked no room for argument.
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Post by Germany on May 26, 2013 13:40:49 GMT -5
Ludwig nodded at the question, wanting Feliciano to realise that he was indeed serious about what he had said earlier. It was really good especially for what was to be considered only sketches. If he was being honest with himself at all he’d never be able to get anything close to this, his hand writing was more of an artwork than what his actual artwork. That’s why he stayed clear of it and just admired it.
“That’s because I can’t draw.” He answers as he watches Feliciano and reluctantly accepts the paper and pencil given to him. “Honestly Feliciano, I can’t draw and I’m sure you wouldn’t want to see what atrocity I would produce on paper.”
The tall man couldn’t hide the flush that had come across his features when Feliciano said he was going to sketch him. He swallowed hard shifting uncomfortably in his spot as he watched the pencil in the Italian’s hand move around with practiced ease. His gaze soon fell on his blank of paper and then on the abandoned paper filled with sketches.
Gott, there was no way he was going to sketch anything good. It would be hard to decipher what he was trying to draw and it was really not his thing. It had never been…when it came to the fine arts he was much better at music and surprisingly enough certain dances that had been taught to him by Roderich.
However, it didn’t sound like there was room for argument at all. Feliciano was quite adamant on wanting Ludwig to draw something, anything. He let a sigh escape through his parted lips as he closed his eyes for a second trying to decide if he was really going to go through with this and embarrass himself.
Every time he glanced up, he couldn’t help but be amazed at how concentrated and determined Feliciano was as his pencil continued to brush across the paper. It was as if he were watching a dance with the pencil’s delicate movements and graceful curves. For a second, Ludwig did bring his pencil to his paper and he stared down at it, brows knit together as he really tried to think of something to draw.
He sat there, back straight, body tensed and mind frustrated at his inability. He wasn’t sure how many minutes had passed but it looked like Feliciano’s sketch of him was coming along. Actually, another part of Ludwig didn’t want to see the picture being drawn of him. He was afraid of what he would see and embarrassed that Feliciano would even want to draw him in the first place.
“Feliciano, I really can’t do this.” Ludwig sighs a second time as he places the pencil down on top of the paper. “I draw like a five year old.” He admits in frustration.
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Post by North Italy on May 26, 2013 14:30:05 GMT -5
He’d pointedly ignored Ludwig’s initial protest of not being able to draw and lost himself in his sketch; pencil moving over the page in practiced, rapid strokes, smooth and confident as he started to smile. The only way he realised Ludwig hadn’t moved his own pencil at all was during his frequent glances up at the German in order to remind himself of the exact curve and angle of his jaw, or the way his hair was currently styled.
“Hmm, I’ve yet to see staring at a page produce a work of art, Ludwig.” A mischievous chuckle tickled the back of his throat as he scrutinised the man before him.
He had hoped that the teasing remark would spur the man into starting; however it seemed that was not to be the case. He could feel Ludwig’s eyes on him, and the back of his neck grew warm at the attention. His tongue caught between his front teeth as he tried to ignore his friend’s stare and concentrate harder on the task at hand. Feliciano wanted to do the German’s fine features justice in his sketch, and he wanted Ludwig to like the way he’d captured him on paper, it was important for some reason, and so Feliciano refused to let himself be cowed by the other’s gaze.
A few more minutes passed, and Feliciano noted that he’d yet to hear the scratch of a pencil or the shift of paper from the other side of the desk. He still wasn’t drawing then? He hummed softly for a while, a nameless little tune as he poured his focus into getting Ludwig’s eyes just right. It was difficult to replicate that piercing look with pencil alone; what he really needed were pastels or paints to add that intense shade of blue… still he’d do the best he could with pencil.
The sketch of Ludwig was definitely starting to take shape, the lines on the paper beginning to resemble the owner of those looks as he scrunched his nose and tilted his head to deliberate over the sheen of his hair. He looked up again for the first time in several minutes and noted the sudden tension growing in Ludwig’s back and shoulders. Another denial spilled from the German’s lips.
This wouldn’t do at all…
“Ludwig,” He set his own pencil down when Ludwig did and shook his head whilst smiling kindly at the other man. He’d heard the same downtrodden reasoning many a time by other novices just starting out. “You’re giving up without trying at all; I’ve never seen you do that before. How many times during training have I said to you that I can’t do something?” He didn’t wait for an answer and continued. “And how many times have you allowed me to get away with skipping an exercise just because I said that same excuse; that I couldn’t do it?...” He trailed off for a moment to allow Ludwig to think it over.
“Granted art may not be something you have a natural ability with, but if you don’t give it a go and try occasionally, you’ll always stay at the same level and never improve at all. I know at the moment there’s not really any chance for me to start giving you art classes.” He chortled, eyes brightening. “But I’d like very much to see what you can do for myself, and then maybe give you some advice.” His voice held a hopeful undertone, wanting very much to be the one helping Ludwig for once, even if it was with something trivial. Besides he really was curious over what Ludwig could do.
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Post by Germany on May 26, 2013 15:19:23 GMT -5
It was the tone of voice Feliciano used to refer to him that almost made Ludwig feel ashamed that he had even said anything. The roles were definitely reversed at the moment and it was a strange feeling. He was usually the one reprimanding Feliciano for being lazy but then again, he was never nice about it, not in the way Feliciano was at this very moment. There was definitely disapproval and disappointment but he had not once raised his voice and that made Ludwig almost feel bad that he always took his anger out on the smaller man.
However, it was all true what Feliciano was saying. It was uncommon of him to just give up before trying and it was even worse that he was holding a double standard. Feliciano had made the effort, after a lot of yelling on his part, to do the exercises and training set out for him and so he could at least do that much for the smaller Italian.
His lips thinned until they were a straight line. There was a moment where he looked irritated by the idea but he picked up his pencil once again. “Ja, fine. I’ll give it a try.” He grumbled as he stared down at the paper and decided he would draw something he had seen a while back.
Ludwig didn’t say anything more than that and tried to mimic the way Feliciano held his pencil and the way the smaller male’s tip stroked the paper. He took the task seriously and set to work using as much of the paper as possible. There were some moments were he would pause frustrated and erase certain parts of his creation before going at it again.
He was sure he was pressing too thickly because he was leaving smudges on the paper when he erased and especially so when he accidently rubbed the side of his hand against the paper. The more he became absorbed with his drawing the less he looked up to study Feliciano. Sometimes Ludwig couldn’t help but wish the other man had dedicated that much effort in the training the German had set out for him. But, once again, beggars couldn’t be choosers. Feliciano had come at a good time and as much trouble as their alliance had caused there had been a lot of good from it too.
Minutes passed, maybe hours and Ludwig finally put down the pencil as he gazed at a horrible rendition of a rabbit. He couldn’t help the frown that came over his features as he stared down at it in mild disgust. There was no way in hell this would be considered art especially when it looked so out of proportioned and even more so when the animals paws looked completely wrong.
Ludwig let out a sigh as his gaze fell on Feliciano wondering if the shorter male was done his drawing. “All I can say is I told you so.” Ludwig spoke up, his tone clearly conveying that he was displeased with the work he had produced. “I’d almost rather you didn’t look at it.”
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Post by North Italy on May 26, 2013 16:17:53 GMT -5
It was a small sheepish smile that Feliciano aimed at Ludwig as he finally started to draw. True he’d won a little victory by getting the man to finally acquiesce to the task, but he felt some remorse over how he had essentially guilt tripped the other into it.
Feliciano tried not to watch as Ludwig started working, knowing that an audience never helped matters if you were particularly self-conscious about doing something. Still it was with some reluctance that Feliciano returned to his own sketch, especially when he witnessed the death-grip Ludwig had on his pencil. His fingers itched to correct it, but he subdued that urge until he’d given the man a chance and seen his results at least.
After some time Feliciano heard Ludwig’s voice, almost glum in its defeatist view of things, and set down his own pencil so he could go and see what Ludwig had managed to produce. He’d finished his portrait of the stern looking German a short time ago, and had only been fiddling with a few minor details whilst Ludwig sketched.
He stood and walked to stand next to Ludwig, peering over his shoulder at the paper. It was… different that much was clear. A practiced eye analyzed the sketch before him; Ludwig had a terrible eye for proportions this was apparent; that grip on his pencil was to blame for the thick, hard lines and smudges as well, and he certainly needed to concentrate more on the finer details… Still he’d quite accurately managed to capture the image of a rabbit there on his page; no matter how amateurish it may appear.
“What’s wrong with it? It’s not bad considering you didn’t have a rabbit here to actually look at…” He trailed off then, the critic in him subsiding as something about the picture, and the words he’d just spoken, and this whole scenario started to cause an uncomfortable sensation in his mind.
Familiar, it was familiar, startlingly so… but why?
His eyes betrayed him and swept over the image to one particular attribute, and the hauntingly familiar words tumbled from his lips without his consent. “A-ah… the foot.”
He stopped, chest suddenly very hollow, and wetted his lips nervously as his eyes lost focus for a moment or two. It was coincidence that’s all… nothing more, right? Plenty of novices chose animals to practice drawing as they were pleasing subjects… and a rabbit wouldn’t be so uncommon a subject he was sure. And… well anyone can get a foot wrong, or the general likeness to look as if it were someone else’s work.
It was so long ago but he remembered it like it was yesterday…
He took a steadying breath and repressed a shiver as a lump formed in his throat. Forget it, it’s nothing.
Waving a careless hand as if brushing the painful thought aside, Feliciano allowed himself to return to the present, looking over the drawing again. Ludwig was being hard on himself, he decided. Sure he wasn’t very good, but he certainly wasn’t as bad as he made himself out to be, of this Feliciano was certain.
“T-the foot,” he continued as if he’d never paused. “You’ve made it a little too rounded you see? There should be more definition of the toes here-“
He reached out and stopped himself, suddenly uncertain of what he was about to do. If he grasped the German’s hand as he’d done with that boy, and he somehow reacted the same way, Feliciano was certain he’d lose all control of his barely restrained emotions.
Breathing deeply once more, Feliciano grabbed his own pencil instead of Ludwig’s hand, and let Ludwig watch as he corrected the foot of the rabbit.
It was easier once he let his artistic self take over.
“And see the smudges here? The thicker lines? It’s because you’re not holding your pencil quite right, more like this, see?” He demonstrated for Ludwig before carrying on. “The fur, from the distance indicated by the size here, you wouldn’t see each hair individually, so just make an impression of it like so-“
He continued to give advice, his usual disposition returning and a soft smile usurping his lips once again.
“You really did quite well you know, it would be easier if you’d chosen a still life of something in the room already; but from memory your rabbit is really cute.” He giggled, it was the truth. Although a bit childish in execution, Feliciano honestly liked Ludwig’s work.
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Post by Germany on May 26, 2013 16:50:23 GMT -5
Ludwig was not at all convinced and he knew that Feliciano was just being kind. “What’s wrong with it?” Ludwig repeated, his tone alone asking if Feliciano was looking at the same picture as he was. “It doesn’t look a thing like a rabbit.” He answered, not giving into the excuse that there wasn’t a rabbit to actually look at. Rabbit or no rabbit it should have been a decently easy draw and he had managed to ruin it. The anatomy was completely wrong and even for an amateur artist like him, he could easily tell what had gone wrong with the picture.
There was a moment were Ludwig thought he had lost Feliciano. He pulled his gaze from the horrid picture up at the man who was hovering over his shoulder. Ludwig eyed him strangely, not quite understanding what had come over the small Italian and wondering if it had been his picture that had caused Feliciano to freeze up like so.
He was so close to asking if everything was alright before the smaller male came back to life and focused once more on the disproportioned rabbit foot. His gaze remained on Feliciano a few more seconds as if he were making sure everything had gone back to normal before studying the picture and taking in the constructive criticisms given to him.
Ludwig watched in fascination as Feliciano corrected the mistakes he had made. Again, it was amazing how easy it was for the shorter male. It was as if he didn’t have to think about it, that every single image was stored in his head and it didn’t matter where he was if he needed to draw something it would come out as accurately as if the thing had been before him.
When Feliciano begins to explain the reason for the harder lines he lets out a small hum as he re-adjusts his hold on his pencil to the way he was being shown. At first it felt a little awkward but after a few seconds of holding it as such, it didn’t feel too bad. Although, the small pencil between his large fingers did look a little odd, he let it slide to humour the other man.
There was a second where all Ludwig could do was nod lightly before he placed his pencil down and took hold of the paper offering it to Feliciano. “Since you find it so cute, and I honestly don’t know why, you can keep it. I was just going to throw it away anyway.” He explains, his expression softening a little but not by much. The frown was still etched deeply in his features unfortunately.
Blue eyes glanced at the only clock in the room and what little his expression had softened immediately hardened once again. “I need to head out.” He says as he eases himself up and instead of standing awkwardly where he had gotten up he goes over to grab his folded jacket— the weight a comfort in his hand.
“I won’t be coming at the same time tomorrow.” He mentions as he heads back to the desk and grabs both empty plates. “I’ll be coming later on, in the evening.” Ludwig explains he didn’t want to give too much away. Things had been slowly falling into place and since he wasn’t too busy tonight besides the few meeting which he would set up his reason for departing, it would be easy for him to pack for two.
He makes his way towards the door, pausing momentarily to glance at his former ally. “Be awake and ready, okay.” Ludwig adds softly so that only Feliciano can hear as he knocks a few times on the door and barely a few seconds later it opens. “Goodnight Feliciano.” Was the last thing he said before he exited the room, without getting a chance to see Feliciano’s sketch of him.
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Post by North Italy on May 26, 2013 17:21:31 GMT -5
The sheer disbelief in Ludwig’s tone made Feliciano want to laugh and give the negative man a hug; he was so certain that he’d failed that he simply couldn’t see the definite charm in the little sketch. It would be easy to assume Feliciano only liked it because it reminded him of happier times with another person, but this would be incorrect. True there were similarities in the drawing and the scenario that had just taken place, but Feliciano liked the amateur piece of work because of what it was; a bit flawed, cute, and Ludwig had tried so hard with it. Somehow to him that made it special.
He’d seen the scepticism is Ludwig’s face when he’d praised him, how intent he’d been when Feliciano gave him advice; and all of that warmed his heart immeasurably. Ludwig was humble and willing to learn, and that made him ridiculously happy. He hadn’t failed to notice the fascination Ludwig graced him with whilst watching him correct his mistakes as well, it was very nice to have someone seemingly admiring the way he worked, and Feliciano would be lying if he said he hadn’t been enjoying the attention.
Feliciano was slightly confused when Ludwig picked up the piece of paper and offered it to him. Didn’t he want to keep it himself as a reminder of how to improve? Still he wasn’t going to complain one bit. There was something in the scrappy little sketch they had both worked on that Feliciano just adored, and to have it offered so freely made a grin play unbidden on his face. “Eh, you really don’t want it? And don’t you dare throw away something so sweet.” He chuckled and readily accepted the sketch, holding it close to his chest for a second in a silly gesture of gratitude. “Grazie, Ludwig. I really am being honest when I say this; but you should keep trying. You’ll get better at this y’know, and you really aren’t as bad as you think you are.”
The Italian’s praise was interrupted when Ludwig announced he had to leave. Feliciano’s smile wavered for a moment before returning. He had to go already? He knew he couldn’t monopolize the German’s time, but he was always sad to see him go. He watched quietly as Ludwig prepared to leave and felt his disappointment grow marginally when his friend announced he wouldn’t be visiting at the same time tomorrow either.
He opened his mouth to voice that disappointment, but shut it again as Ludwig continued.
Later in the evening? Why was that?
His curiosity was piqued, even more so with Ludwig’s cryptic parting words as he headed to the door. He was speaking softly as if he didn’t want to be heard by anyone but Feliciano… and why did Feliciano need to be ‘ready’, what was going on?
“Goodnight Ludwig.” He replied distractedly as his friend left.
He turned then, pacing and nibbling his thumbnail in thought. He didn’t have to be a genius to realise something was amiss here… what had Ludwig meant by ‘be ready’… were they leaving? Was the base being moved and Feliciano going with them? No Ludwig would have come right out and told him that surely…
The Italian sighed and ran a hand through his hair as he returned to the desk, Ludwig’s little drawing still clutched protectively in his grasp. Ludwig hadn’t had a chance to see his portrait either had he? Maybe he could show him it tomorrow.
Be ready… Feliciano let the words run through his mind again and tried to figure out just what Ludwig meant by them.
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Post by Germany on May 26, 2013 19:12:41 GMT -5
Ludwig had spent a little too long in the office with Feliciano. The drawing had distracted him and although he couldn’t help but be a little disappointed by the loss of time at the same time he was glad he had that time with his friend. After tomorrow, it wouldn’t be long until he wouldn’t see the small Italian for years to come. The thought pained him but it was a fact and one he would have to learn to live with and also know that at least he’d be in better hands, or hope he would be.
The plates had been deposited in the kitchen and then swiftly washed before he had gone out to fix up pack since two would arouse suspicion. He made sure to pack all the essentials given to him for battle. His rifle, luger, a series of grenades, a water tin, some rations (extra because there would be two of them), extra clothes, a blanket and several other objects they would need along the way. Ludwig had them all neatly placed around the floor of his quarters before carefully arranging it in his pack and setting it by the door. His belt, with the many loops, was ready to put on for his departure. The only thing that remained to do was going to inform Herr Kesselring about his plans. He’d have to make it convincing, if he wanted to avoid the other Generalfeldmarschall’s suspicion.
Ludwig had made sure to double check everything on his list before placing the clipboard on his desk and heading out. The walk to the meeting room was short and Herr Kesselring was already there waiting for him. It was strange because Ludwig had arrived a good ten minutes early to give himself a few minutes to sort out exactly what he was going to say but he’d be able to work with what he was given.
“Good evening Ludwig.” Kesselring greeted as he got up from where he was sitting to clasp Ludwig’s hand in a firm hand shake.
“Good evening Albert.” He returned as they both took their seat at the small table.
“So I hear you wanted to explain to me what your plans for the Italian traitor are?” He asked, there was no venom in his tone but it was clear that Kesselring was not pleased by the fact that they were holding such an important Italian figure within the building. The man had made it obvious that Ludwig should have made an example of Feliciano and shot him in the head instead of wasting their rations on an enemy.
Ludwig had tried to avoid the topic for a while until he could figure out how he could execute this without getting anyone else involved. He had never been known to betray the Third Reich and not that he could really betray his own government when he was a slave to them but this, this was one thing he could and would make an exception for because Berlin had no idea about Feliciano being in their custody unless Herr Kesselring had sent a message to them.
However, the taller German had a feeling that he wouldn’t have had time and that meant that his plan was still a go and Feliciano would be safe from pain. “I’ll dispose of him and make sure the allies find his body promptly.” Ludwig managed to say without his tone wavering.
Herr Kesselring’s brow rose at that but he seemed pleased with the plan. “I assume that means you’ll be taking your leave?”
Ludwig nodded. “After depositing the body I’ll join the men at the front and help them in the fight to regain Italy.” He finished.
Albert studied him for a few moments before nodding with a small smile. “Good, very good, maybe we’ll be able to push the allies back with you at the front with our men. You’ll bring them new hope.”
Ludwig didn’t say anything merely meeting Herr Kesselring’s gaze until the seemingly older male nodded getting up, the chair screeching behind him. “In that case, I will let you get ready. Don’t kill the Italian until you’re close to the area you’ll be depositing the body.”
Ludwig got up slowly after Albert as he gave the man another nod. “Ja, of course. I would rather not carry a dead body until its necessary.”
Albert let out a small laugh before making his way over to Ludwig and patting the taller man on the back. Ludwig quirked a brow but allowed the other to do so as they both made their way towards the exit. “Ludwig, send news once you’ve joined our troops.”
Herr Kesselring pulled back stepping back into the room. “I’ll make sure to do so. You’ll hear something from me in three days’ time at most.”
Albert took a moment to take it in, it looked as if he was about to say something but decided against it. “Good luck Ludwig.”
“Danke, Herr Kesselring. Let’s hope it doesn’t come to meeting up in Valhalla.” Ludwig said as he began to make his way down the hallway.
“Yes, let’s hope not.” Came the reply before Ludwig disappeared around the corner. He needed to make sure there was a transport vehicle ready for him and that everything he had organized within Rome remained so when he was gone. He trusted Herr Kesselring but the man rarely went out to talk to all the troops positioned here.
It wasn’t until two in the morning that he was able to return to his quarters. It was quiet, dark and there was no sign of life. Ludwig was mildly glad by this because for once, he could take in the quietness without his thoughts consuming his peace of mind. His uncertainty still plagued him but in his exhaustion, his mind was too tired to concentrate on those thoughts.
It didn’t take Ludwig long to ready himself for bed and upon laying down he could only let out a sigh of relief before closing his eyes to find some well-deserved sleep.
Unfortunately, his sleep was plagued with nightmares; nightmares he had thought he had gotten rid of when he was very young….but tonight they had chosen to come back. The scene was a battlefield and one that was familiar even though it shouldn’t have been. However, instead of modern weaponry like he was used to now, they were battling with swords and old rifles. The clothing could only been from the 18th and 19th century and…he was losing…his men couldn’t hold off the enemy.
Actually, he hadn’t noticed before but he was also bleeding. He must have been wounded a while ago and just not noticed; perhaps because for once he was scared…he was scared he would not make it out of this alive.
The dream was short lived because the next thing he knew he felt a pain that he had never felt before and as he began to fall backwards, he woke up. Ludwig was covered in cold sweat as he took in deep breathes taking comfort in the plain colour of the ceiling. He took several moments to compose himself before he got out of bed dressed in something light and went for a jog. He wasn’t sure how long he had been sleeping for but it had been one of the worse sleeps this year…and it frustrated him that these dreams were coming back all of a sudden.
The cool air of the morning was calming and he took comfort in the fact that he was the only one around. When he had completed his route he found a place to sit down as he tried to catch his breath, stretching and trying to clear his mind although clearing his mind was one of the hardest tasks even after his run.
He ran a hand through his hair before glancing up and staring up at the morning sky. He would need to occupy himself if he really wanted to forget his nightmare. It was an important day and although he had an excuse for smuggling Feliciano out of the office he wanted to be alert and ready for anything that could occur.
And so, Ludwig went back to his quarters, showered up and plunged straight into work.
The guards were dismissed and Ludwig was the one opening the doors to the office this time. It was nearly nine and it was dark enough outside for them to leave without being noticed by too many people. Upon entering the office Ludwig made sure to close the door behind him in case there were some of his men lingering around and it was obvious he didn’t want to waste time with meaningless prattle.
“Feliciano, come, we’re leaving.” He ordered hoping the man was ready like he had asked the day before. “I need to handcuff you; I’ll make sure it’s not too tight.”
Ludwig had brought his large pack with him and he was dressed from head to toe in every part of his uniform that prepared him for combat. “We need to go now. I’ll answer any questions you may have once we’re out of the city.”
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Post by North Italy on May 26, 2013 20:06:14 GMT -5
The confusion caused by Ludwig’s words had not lessened since he left, and Feliciano found himself mulling them over as he worked on yet another sketch; and then again much later, when he tossed and turned on the couch trying to find enough peace of mind to fall asleep.
He couldn’t have meant that they were moving base, it was too much work for the entire unit to achieve at this point in time surely, and where would they go anyway? Was an attack planned? No, he didn’t think so; Ludwig would have given him more of a warning than just ‘be ready’. Was he- Oh Dio, was Ludwig handing him over to someone else!? No… no Ludwig wouldn’t do that he was certain of it. They were friends; he wouldn’t do something so awful.
Huffing and turning onto his side, Feliciano gave up. There was no use fretting over something that hadn’t happened yet; and for good or ill, in his position there was nothing he could do about it anyway. It was best just to try and sleep and see what the next day brought.
Nodding to himself as if to reinforce his own decision, Feliciano shut his eyes and did his best to block out any further distracting thoughts.
Perhaps it had been the incident with the drawing Ludwig had produced earlier; but Feliciano’s dreams started off thin and worrisome. Flashes of a small boy all in black, smiling, waving, and crying only to fade further and further from Feliciano’s outstretched hand. Flashes of battlegrounds and that self same boy being slain as Feliciano somehow watched on in horror. Bits and pieces of memories clashing and melding together with scenes from his overwrought imagination in a strange, frightening, bitter-sweet tapestry behind his closed eyelids. He hadn’t had such dreams in quite some time; the war being too much of a distraction for him to dwell on lost love and childhood angst.
He turned in his sleep, frowning and trembling at those nightmares; until strangely, inexplicably the scene changed again. He was sat with Ludwig, as he had been earlier, sketching and talking of nothing of real importance, he could feel a smile on his face, and the Ludwig in his dream seemed far more relaxed. The part of him that knew that this was a dream noted that the setting was different however; they were not in the office, but somewhere else… Ludwig’s house maybe? Either way this dream was a lot more pleasant than his previous visions, and Feliciano finished his night’s rest peacefully.
His return to consciousness confused him. His final dream had seemed vivid and realistic in its simplicity, so it was with evident frustration that he opened his eyes only to realise he was still a captive and still in the same cursed office as before.
Feliciano blinked owlishly up at the ceiling and then turned his head to read the time on the clock. He was sorely tempted to go back to sleep to catch up on that which he’d missed or that had been plagued with nightmares, but he’d already slept far too long, and the order Ludwig had given him yesterday to be ready weighed heavily in his mind.
Grudgingly he made himself stand and stretch, and began preparing himself for whatever Ludwig had in store for him.
It was already dark when Ludwig returned, Feliciano stood patiently near the couch as the German entered and closed the doors behind him; he smiled in greeting but his eyes held questions that he was barely refraining from asking.
The sharp order took him by surprise, but he made no move to argue. Though a small apprehension was causing an uncomfortable fluttering in his stomach, Feliciano approached the man, only to pause and quickly trot to the desk first, retrieving the two pictures from the day before and tucking them into his pocket.
Why handcuffs?
He tried not to think about it too much, and kept his iron-clad faith in Ludwig and their friendship at the forefront of his mind as he approached the German and held his hands out obligingly.
If the idea of handcuffs unnerved him, recognising Ludwig’s full combat gear made things worse. What was going on? Swallowing the nervous questions, Feliciano nodded in understanding. He’d go with Ludwig and trust him without question until they were out of the city.
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Post by Germany on May 26, 2013 20:32:53 GMT -5
Ludwig had pulled out the handcuffs as Feliciano held out his wrists for him and made sure to put them on gently and loosely. It was mostly for show anyway and when they were out, like he had said, he would answer questions and take off the handcuffs so the smaller man could at least travel in comfort. When they clipped into place Ludwig gave him a grim look before stepping behind him and placing a guiding hand on the middle of his back as he began to stir him towards the door. He only stopped to open them and again they were making their way down the hallway towards the abandoned staircase.
Again, Ludwig opened the door and he was guiding Feliciano down the stairs until they made it to the main floor. The tall man held Feliciano back for a second as he peered out to make sure the coast was clear before guiding him out and towards the make shift parking lot. There he had made sure they would have a vehicle. This trip would have been too strenuous without one and although Ludwig was fit, he had mistreated his body and he’d unfortunately become tired much quicker.
He remained quiet as he led the small Italian across the lot and towards a motorcycle and an attachment for an extra person. It was small but he liked it better like that because it would easier to hide it when they had to stop to rest. The distance to cross over the territory occupied by the allies wasn’t that far in retrospect. However, he would have to stop to change clothes so he wouldn’t be arrested upon crossing over and if they were to meet allied soldiers before arriving at the area he was going to deliver Feliciano.
When he had guided Feliciano into the attachment and made sure his friend was wearing a helmet and seat belt, he took the time to take out some food and pass it towards him. He had forgotten that Feliciano hadn’t gotten any food that day and so while he made the last checks on the bike, it would give Feliciano some time to calmly eat some food. It was slightly chilly out and although Italy was known for being warm, it was November and November in Rome was not as warm as many would expect it and certainly not when the sun was no longer shining on the city.
Ludwig pulled out the only blanket he had managed to fit in his pack and wrapped it around his smaller companion before he put on the extra helmet, straddled the bike and started it up. He glanced at Feliciano once, studying him momentarily to make sure everything was in order before he revved the engine and they were off riding through the abandoned streets of the city. They passed a few patrols but none that questioned them when they saw who it was riding on the bike.
It took even less time to leave the city and in a matter of minutes they were heading south.
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Post by North Italy on May 27, 2013 11:24:53 GMT -5
The face before him was grim, serious, holding none of the usual warmth he’d come to expect when Ludwig visited; however he couldn’t feel anything but trust towards the man, who had thus far, kept him safe. It was telling in the way he kept the cuffs loose and comfortable, and how the hand at his back only guided gently; not shoving him around.
Feliciano was alert, taking in his surroundings carefully as Ludwig took him back the way he had arrived such a short time before. He didn’t dare speak for fear of alerting someone to their presence, or distracting Ludwig at a vital moment. Still he kept glancing back over his shoulder to gauge his friends’ expression. Still serious, his lips thinned and eyes hard; devoid of emotion. If he hadn’t known Ludwig was well as he did it may have caused him concern.
Cold air brushed his face as Ludwig opened the door to the night, and Feliciano repressed a small shiver, having gotten used to the warm confines of the office. Fresh air was nice, he’d admit… but he’d rather it was a bit warmer. He walked only when Ludwig walked, careful not to make a sound. He had the feeling that whatever Ludwig was doing required them to remain stealthy. Eyes widened in the gloom as he realised they were walking across an impromptu parking lot of sorts, towards a motorcycle.
Feliciano looked back over his shoulder again; face quizzical as Ludwig helped him into the side-car. They were leaving? Where were they going? It didn’t seem as if anyone else was joining them on this trip; the surrounding area was quiet and lacking any activity.
The Italian made himself comfortable and smiled in what he hoped was a reassuring manner as Ludwig made sure he was secure and with a helmet. So like the German man to think like that… He watched in interest as Ludwig checked the bike over, and blinked in surprise when he was presented with food. Another softer smile curved his lips and he accepted it with a grateful nod, nibbling away as Ludwig rummaged around for something else.
Again Feliciano was struck by how meticulous his friend was; and the same silly little thought that he surely must be able to read minds crossed his thoughts once more. No sooner had he shivered from the biting November air and wondered how long he might be sitting out in the elements, then Ludwig wrapped a thick blanket around him. He snuggled into the folds of the fabric, keeping a watchful eye on the German as he put on his own helmet, straddled the motorcycle, and started the engine.
Ludwig would certainly be braving the cold… and had he managed to eat too? He was tempted to ask but bit back the question. Instead he took one more bite of his food and then kept the remainder in his lap under the blanket. He’d save it and ask Ludwig later. That way he could offer him something to eat if Ludwig admitted he was hungry.
For one moment, blue eyes met brown in the dark, and Feliciano smiled encouragingly once again as he was studied: Trying to convey that he was just fine, that he trusted the other man, and that Ludwig didn’t have anything to worry about.
The engine revved and Feliciano turned back to face the front as Ludwig guided them through the streets. The patrols around seemed nonplussed by Ludwig passing them by, and didn’t bother to halt their progress. In no time at all they were free of the city and heading south.
Feliciano let out a small sigh of relief, they were less likely to encounter hindrances now he was sure, and for a while it was nice just to pretend that everything was normal between them, that whatever this strange night-time trip was, it was merely for their own entertainment… Foolish indeed to think, but it calmed his nerves. He busied himself with thinking up questions to ask the German once he indicated that he was allowed to speak, and tried to ignore the chilly wind hitting his face. He pulled the blanket up to his chin and watched the scenery pass them by.
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Post by Germany on May 27, 2013 17:52:32 GMT -5
The further they went, the darker it became and Ludwig was sure they had been out on the road for hours. The night sky overhead of them was beautiful, the stars illuminated the sky and the view was even better now that they had left the light polluted city. On any other night, Ludwig would have really appreciated the view, however, tonight, although he was technically in the clear and he knew Feliciano would soon be safe. He couldn’t shake off the feeling that someone knew his true plans concerning the smaller Italian. It could have just been his mind over worrying as it tended to do and a small part of him really did hope it was just that.
Judging by the position of the moon in the sky Ludwig could tell it was very late and it didn’t help that he was slowly becoming drowsier as the minutes went by. It had a lot to do with the fact that he hadn’t slept well thanks to the nightmare that had snuck up on him the night before. He gave it a few more miles before he located a nicely covered area and slowly brought the bike to a stop near the edge of the road. Ludwig got off the bike and glanced at Feliciano momentarily to make sure he was alright, not that anything had really happened to the Italian while they were on the road, before he went off to check the surrounding area. He pulled out his gun keeping it close to his side as he checked the area for the enemy. When he couldn’t find anyone, he holstered his gun and returned to the bike.
Ludwig pulled the key from his pocket kneeling down besides the attachment and unfastening the handcuffs. He pulled them off of Feliciano’s wrists and put them away before standing up again. “We’ll be staying here for the rest of the night. I don’t think I’ll be able to drive any further.” He admitted as he went around the bike to pull of his pack and carry it down into the trees setting it by a tree.
He waited for Feliciano to get out before taking hold of the bike and gently wheeling it down and hiding it between several more trees so it wouldn’t be seen by the highway. “Will you be fine with sleeping on the ground?” He asks as he heads towards his pack crouching down beside it as he pulls out a map placing it down in front of him as he studies it.
Ludwig pulls out a pencil from one of his pockets and begins to draw over the area they had travelled to see how much further they needed to go. They were a bit ahead of schedule which meant that their rations would last them the entire journey and a little longer but there would be no point eating extra. It was better to be safe than sorry in case something did happen and they were delayed for one reason or another.
Folding the map, Ludwig tucked it back in his pack before gently easing himself down on the ground. “We’ll rest for a few hours and then head out again.”
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