Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Okay, did I actually do my Pride Month challenge? No? Well.. Oops. But I figured, why not have this November writing challenge be an annual thing instead? There isn't really a theme for prompts, but having them happen in Autumn/Winter is fitting enough for me.

I figured I'd make the introduction post well in advance so you all have time to suggest ideas - Ships, prompts, ect.. Instead of really last minute like the attempt in June that I never finished. I have a preference for writing about couples I usually write about (Judgement Day, Kaiser/Gunther, Drew/Wade/Sheamus, ect..) but I do want to try branching out and writing more pairings, romantic or platonic.

Angst, fluff, AUs, romantic and platonic relationships are all welcome in your suggestions and prompts. The only thing I won't really write is smut because I don't think I'm very good at it (But there are plenty other fics to fill that gap in the market).

Anyway... I think that's everything. So have fun sending it your prompts and maybe I'll actually finish this writing challenge!

Chapter Text

Axel sighed, rubbing his face as he looked through the clothes that filled his shabby set of drawers. They were.. Nice enough. But in the nicest way possible, Axel was broke. He couldn't really afford any clothes that he really wanted so he accepted an offer of hand-me-downs from one of his cousins who was a similar size to him. Unfortunately, their styles didn't particularly match. While Axel was most happy in more casual clothing, like t-shirts and jeans, his cousin.. Well, was more formal, most comfortable in button-up shirts and cardigans.

After Axel pulled on one of these outfits, a plain white, button-up shirt and black trousers. He wondered if the dark blue cardigan was helping his look or just making him look worse. Axel thought the clothes looked fine, if a bit nerdy and they did, admittedly, look a bit like a school uniform. Axel could ignore it on his own but at training, the boys were relentless.

It wasn't.. Malicious. No. It was just for fun, just jokes and banter. Though he was still sick of it, sick of being framed in a certain light just because of the clothes he wore. If he had any say in the matter, he wouldn't have chosen any of the items on his body. He did try and explain the situation, but nobody really cared to listen. He was the nerd. He was the weird kid that showed up to training wearing a shirt and tie. What was he playing at? Did he think he was better than everyone else? No. But there was no point trying to convince them otherwise..

"Just have to keep saving." Axel mumbled to himself, glancing to the corner of his room.

A jar. A glass jar that was sat, somewhat hidden on his nightstand that held his savings. After every time he was paid, Axel budgeted out what he needed for bills and food and whatever he had left over was put in his jar. His saving. There wasn't much there but.. It was progress.

Though while Axel wasn't a big fan of any of the outfits he wore, Walter didn't know that. Axel never went out of his way to rant about his clothing choices so, like anyone else, Walter assumed Axel dressed the way he did because he liked it. He thought it was cute. Walter never took much notice of the teasing that Axel was constantly putting up with. Perhaps he wasn't fully listening to all the words being said or maybe he saw it as just a joke. Axel didn't appear too upset. So, after saving up some cash of his own, Walter paid a visit to some thrift shops and picked him up a few similar items in different colours. He knew his friend struggled, after all.

"Walter- Really, you didn't have to get me anything." Axel assured his friend as they sat in his home.

"Don't mention it, I just wanted to do something nice for you." Walter told him,"Go on, look inside."

Axel smiled and looked inside the bag.. His smile slipping for just a moment. Maybe he could play that off as surprise. It was some new clothes that he was so grateful for but.. He was so tired of the teasing. There was no way he'd decline Walter's gift, especially since he spent money on him, but he knew the guys were going to pick on him. It was going to be even worse if they knew Walter purchased the clothing.

"So?" Walter raised a brow.

Axel blinked and looked up at him, smiling softy,"Thank you."

"You like them?" Walter asked.

And Axel nodded,"Of course- But you don't need to spend any more money on me."

"You're my friend, Axel. I really don't mind when I know you're struggling." Walter shook his head.

"I've got enough." Axel insisted.

Axel hoped Walter just thought he was being humble, that he didn't want his friend spending money on him, which was very true. But.. Axel really just wanted to save up and buy clothes he actually wanted to wear. But, for now, Axel would just put up with the teasing like normal. He could deal with it.

"Nice shirt." Mack smirked.

Axel breathed in,"Thanks."

"It's different." Mack scanned the shirt,"You pick that one out at the charity shop or something?"

"Mack, I just want to train and go home." Axel sighed.

"Don't we all." Mack shook his head,"I mean, come on, you're the only one 'dressing up' for it like it's a job interview."

"I'm not dressing up." Axel groaned.

"The only reason Tim doesn't laugh at you like the rest of us is because he doesn't want Walter to catch him." Mack hummed before walking over to a group of other boys.

Axel glanced around the room, subconsciously hugging himself tightly. He was.. Uncomfortable. He couldn't shake the feeling that they were all watching him, all judging him. Axel sighed, but he tried to put up his facade as Walter walked up to him and began talking. Axel wasn't listening. He completed his training and did as he said, heading home while others went out drinking. Axel didn't feel like it and he didn't particularly want to be dressed as a schoolboy at the bar.

Eventually though, Axel managed to save up enough money to afford clothes- Proper clothes. He bought himself an albeit baggy t-shirt, jeans, sneakers and a hoodie. Axel grinned as he looked at himself in the mirror in his new outfit. He looked.. Good. He finally felt like himself again, wearing his clothes and not the clothes of someone else. Part of Axel was curious as to what everyone else was going to think, what Walter was going to think and wondered.. If Walter would be pleased that Axel bought a whole outfit on his own.

Axel was so excited as he made his way to training that day, smiling the whole time, and he showed up early too. He didn't expect anyone to say anything to him, although Mack did approach him, giving him a small nudge.

"Finally took my advice?" Mack asked.

"Not your advice, I was just able to finally afford my own clothes." Axel hummed.

"So.. This stuff has always been your style?" Mack raised a brow.

"Mack, my other stuff was fine but no, I didn't want to dress like a schoolboy all the time." Axel told him,"I only did it because I had no choice."

"Well, you look good." Mack told him, patting his back,"It's a good look on you."

"Thanks, I-" Axel began, before he caught sight of Walter.

Walter was looking at him, no, glaring at him from across the room. Axel blinked.. Why did Walter look so angry at him? Axel bit his cheek as he approached Walter, only to be grabbed and dragged out of the room by his arm. As soon as the door was closed, Axel yanked his arm out of Walter's hand and he held it close to his chest as he looked at his friend.

"What's gotten into you, huh?" Axel questioned.

"What's gotten into me? No, what's gotten into you?" Walter pointed,"I didn't think you'd finally cave to peer pressure. I taught you better."

Axel blinked, almost a little offended,"Excuse me?"

Peer pressure? This had always been Axel's style, he just didn't have the money to afford many clothes of his own and was practically forced to rely on the multitude of hand-me-downs.

"You're dressing like this to fit in with those boys and you don't have to." Walter stated,"You have to ignore them."

"With all due respect, Walter, I got these clothes because I wanted them, not because I felt like I had to 'fit in'." Axel informed him.

"Axel." Walter warned him,"Don't lie to me."

"It's not my fault I've had to wear my cousins clothes for the past couple years." Axel raised his voice,"And have you seen what they say to me? Do you care?"

"Just go home and change, you have time before we start here." Walter ordered.

And Axel paused before shaking his head,"No."

"No?" Walter furrowed his brow.

"I'm not changing." Axel spat, pushing past Walter.

And Axel made his way out of the building, using the fire exit at the back so he didn't have to face anyone else after being, well, embarrassed. Axel did one good thing for himself, one selfish thing and suddenly he's succumbed to peer pressure when all he wanted was his own clothes and to not be teased by people who were meant to be his friends. Why couldn't Walter be happy for him, just this once? Was he not worth even pretending for?

When he arrived home, Axel slammed the door and threw himself onto his sofa. He bit down on his lower lip as he could feel tears stinging in the corner of his eyes. He just wanted his friend to be happy for him, to be proud of him and Walter couldn't even do that. He shouldn't have even got these clothes- It was a waste of money. Axel sat up and kicked off his shoes, letting his hoodie fall off and he pulled the t-shirt off. He sat there and looked at it for a minute, before throwing it to the floor.

Axel wasn't sure how much time had passed, how many tears he'd desperately scrubbed away, but.. There was a knock at the door. But Axel didn't answer. Then another knock. And Axel still refused to answer. By the third or fourth knock, Axel was fine ignoring it... Until the door opened. Of course he forgot to lock it- But he was emotional and wasn't in the mood to see anyone. Especially not-

"Axel." Walter spoke calmly,"I don't like being ignored."

"I don't care." Axel mumbled.

"Axel." Walter sighed, walking over to him,"Can I sit?"

"..Fine." Axel huffed.

"Come here." Walter shook his head, stubbornly pulling Axel close to his side.

"Walter-" Axel looked up at him.

"I was wrong." Walter admitted slowly,"I.. Mack and I talked and.."

Axel rested his head on Walter's shoulder as they sat in silence, Walter unsure how to apologize and Axel just wanting some sort of comfort. Walter, not sure how to convey his feelings through words instead took off his own hoodie and wrapped it around Axel.

"I want you to feel as comfortable as possible." Walter looked away,"And, if you like, you can share some of my clothes."

"What?" Axel's eyes widened.

"I know it would feel like relying on hand-me-downs again but-" Walter began.

But Axel placed a hand on his chest,"You would do that for me?"

Walter felt the heat in his cheeks rise and cleared his throat,"Yes. Yes, I would."

"Thanks you." Axel smiled softly, nestling himself against Walter's side,"So much."

Chapter Text

"Drew, please, I just need you to be honest with me." Nick sighed.

Drew and Nick were sat in the latter's office, Nick behind his desk while Drew slouched in the chair across from him. All this fuss over a backstage attack. Come on, they happened all the time! Sure, this time Jacob was bloodied and probably lost a couple teeth, but why was that Drew's problem? It just guaranteed Drew the title match that he watched and totally deserved. Or was this because he was a Fatu? Maybe Drew should change his surname to Fatu, maybe then he'd get some opportunities around here.

"Did you attack Jacob?" Nick asked him.

"No, and I've already told you that." Drew crossed his arms.

But Drew knew that Nick wasn't asking him, no, Nick was accusing him. Nick just assumed that Drew was to blame, similar to how Liv Morgan was blamed for the attack on Jade Cargill. And what happened there? Liv was innocent on all counts, just like he was.

"I didn't attack Jacob." Drew stated,"Have you asked Cody?"

And Nick sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose,"Yes, I asked Cody-"

"And did he get this sit-down interrogation? Or is that just for me?" Drew questioned.

"Drew." Nick sighed.

"It's favoritism, Nick. Besides, I don't know why you always go around asking people who was responsible when you've got cameras all over this place." Drew rolled his eyes,"People lie, cameras don't."

"It's a precaution, Drew. To see who is willing to lie to me and who's willing to be honest." Nick told him,"I just want to get to the bottom of this."

"So ask someone else instead of wasting time with me, I'm innocent." Drew shot back.

"Well, you're the only one with motive, Drew-" Nick began, but Drew cut him off.

"Only one with motive? Only one? Are you serious?" Drew scoffed,"Cody, as much as I hate to admit, has beaten me before. He thinks he can take me. But he doesn't know Jacob."

"Drew, let's be reasonable here." Nick tried.

"This is me being reasonable." Drew continued,"Cody has as much a motive as I do. And what about Jimmy? His brother screwed him over, why wouldn't he want to screw over Jacob to maybe weasel his way into a match?"

"Right, that's enough. We're getting nowhere here." Nick shook his head.

"No, you're getting nowhere. I've got plenty of theories lined up for you, got a cork board and everything." Drew corrected,"Come ask me about them anytime."

"I won't." Nick responded coldly,"Now get out of my office."

"Gladly, it feels like I've been here for ours." Drew hummed as he stood up.

Truthfully, it had only been around fifteen minutes inside the office but that was approximately fifteen minutes too long and he didn't want Wade waiting on him too long. He knew his boyfriend would be waiting to drive them both home and it was late! Nick keeping him so long after the show was pointless. Still, Drew made his way out to the car park and found Wade in the car as expected, scrolling through his phone.

"Finally free." Drew let out a sigh of relief as he opened the door and sat down.

"Oh- There you are." Wade looked up at him, sliding his phone into his pocket,"What did Nick want to talk to you about anyway?"

"Jacob." Drew rolled his eyes,"He thinks I did it."

Wade seemed to hesitate before asking,"..And did you?"

"Wade." Drew turned to him sharply.

"What- I wouldn't tell anyone." Wade shrugged,"Besides, you deserve that title match regardless."

"I didn't do it." Drew insisted,"It was Cody, I bet it was."

"Huh.. I can see it." Wade nodded slowly.

The rest of the car journey was pretty quiet, the occasional question and a brief answer. It was tense. And Drew refused to look over at Wade as a silent anger began to bubble underneath the surface of his skin. Wade.. Didn't believe him. Wade didn't trust him and that hurt way more than anyone else suspecting him of the crime. Out of everyone, Sheamus and Wade were supposed to trust him and.. And he didn't.

When they arrived home, Drew wanted to grab Wade and give him a good shake, snap him back to his senses.. But he didn't. He watched as the Englishman walked just slightly ahead of him, opened the door and walked inside. Drew hesitated, pausing in the doorway as he just kept watching Wade. He took off his shoes and put them away, shrugged off his coat and hung it up, began making himself a cup of tea... Drew shook his head and headed upstairs, headed to bed where Sheamus would be waiting for him. Sheamus did tend to wait up for them sometimes, but there were some nights that ge went straight to bed, like tonight.

There in bed, already fast asleep, was Sheamus. Drew barely took the time to throw off his clothes before climbing into bed and wrapping his arms around Sheamus' midsection and rest his head against his back. He felt his boyfriend stir and then felt Sheamus roll over and rest his head against Drew.

"You're back.." Sheamus mumbled.

"I am, now get back to sleep." Drew kissed the top of his head.

"Do I.." Sheamus was interrupted by a yawn,"Do I have to?"

"Yes." Drew hummed,"I'll make us all something nicefor dinner if you do."

"You drive a hard bargain." Sheamus looked up at him, his eyes barely open.

"Well..?" Drew smirked.

"Fine." Sheamus huffed,"Just keep holding me, I've missed you."

"I can do that." Drew agreed.

And he did, Drew held Sheamus close to him as they both lay there. Sheamus was quick to fall back asleep, but Drew remained awake with his eyes closed until Wade appeared. Wade entered the bedroom quietly, gently running a hand through Drew's hair and.. Drew wanted so badly to hate it. He wanted to despise the action, yet it felt so good and.. It comforted him. He wasn't sure if Wade knew he was awake or if he was purposely trying to soothe him, but it worked. Then, Wade walked around the other side of the bed and got in, also embracing Sheamus from the other side.

Though that feeling of warmth didn't last. When Drew woke up the next morning, he was alone. He didn't realize it at first, keeping his eyes closed as he reached out, gripping at the empty sheets until he opened his eyes. Alone. Sheamus and Wade were nowhere to be seen and Drew let out a sigh, his only companion left being their cat, Fang, who laid on Wade's preferred side of the bed. Even though he didn't want to, Drew slowly sat up and shook his messy hair out of his eyes. He felt an uncomfortable feeling burning beneath his skin, similar to his anger. Something felt wrong.

So Drew headed downstairs, slowly at first and he heard voices. Two very familiar voices. Wade and Sheamus, obviously, but Drew paused and waited to hear their conversation.

"So.. What do you think?" Sheamus asked.

"You already know what I think." Wade shook his head,"It's pretty obvious who did it."

And Drew froze up, clenching his fists as he resisted every urge to march right up to Wade and yell at him- Sheamus too! They were his boyfriends and they didn't even trust that he could control himself.. Drew could feel himself trembling, unsure if it was his anger or if it was another feeling creeping up his throat. Until..

"I mean, come on. Cody's got the most motive out of anyone." Wade hummed.

And Drew was abruptly yanked out of his thoughts by Wade's voice. Wade.. Believed him?

"And Drew's easy enough to frame." Sheamus added.

"Exactly." Wade pointed,"What better way to get the fans back on his side than to be the hero again, to fight the violent Scottish Warrior?"

Drew felt the tension melt from his body as he grinned. They did believe him.. Drew didn't even want to stay in the staircase any longer and was quick to head down into the living room. He knew he was smiling from ear to ear and didn't care what he looked like as Wade turned around and noticed him.

"Ah, you're up." Wade nodded slowly,"And.. Very happy?"

"You believed me." Drew breathed out, unable to make a proper noise.

"Of course we believed you." Sheamus told him,"You may be an idiot sometimes, but we knew you'd admit it if you did something like that."

"To us, at least." Wade added.

Wade held his arms out and Drew, while initially acting stubborn, hugged onto Wade as the Englishman wrapped his arms around him. Drew nestled his head against Wade's shoulder and just let the older man hold him close, let himself be comforted for once. It was nice.. Sheamus was quick to join them, wrapping both men in his large arms and pressing a kiss each to the side of their heads.

"..I love you guys." Drew mumbled.

"What was that, Drew? Hm?" Wade smirked,"Care to say that again?"

"Do you love us?" Sheamus chuckled.

"Shut up.." Drew hid his face in Wade's shoulder.

Chapter Text

Axel let out a shaky breath, clutching his bruised wrist close to his chest. He didn't think it was broken, but it hurt to touch and just knew that completing all his chores with a new injury would be hard. But when things got hard, Axel always tried to remember what his Mama would have done to calm hin down and protect him. Axel closed his eyes tightly as he heard a gentle hum in his head, his Mama.. She would have sang to him. Eventually, Axel began to quietly join in, humming to himself before he heard the door slam downstairs and flinched.

"Axel!" Otto, his stepfather, snapped from downstairs.

Axel winced at his harsh tone, but got up and followed the command, unable to stop himself from shrinking at the sight of his stepfather and stepbrother. They had been his sole caregivers since he lost his parents. His Papa first, then his Mama remarried and.. And now he was alone, with no one to shelter him from that harm he would suffer at the hands of his supposed family.

They were angry. Axel didn't know why but he could just tell, a skill he'd picked up over years of living with people like Otto and Bernard. Unpredictable people. Violent people. Maybe if Axel just.. Did what they asked of him, they wouldn't hurt him this time? Though that thought was short-lived as Otto yanked him closer by his collar.

"Bernhard tells me you haven't completed your chores." Otto started to speak, his voice no louder than a low growl.

"I did, sir-" Axel answered quickly before Bernhard shoved him down.

"Don't lie to me!" Otto barked,"We have company over and you thought you would be lazy?"

Axel just shook his head, unable to make a sound as he tried to steady his racing heartbeat. The house wasn't messy at all, and he'd done everything he was supposed to! Axel held his breath as Otto grabbed his hair, pulling his head back and forcing the terrified Axel to look up at him. But something stopped his punishment.. A knock at the door.

"That must be them." Otto shook his head,"Go, answer it. I'll punish you once they've left."

"Yes, sir." Axel forced out, slowly getting back to his feet.

Otto delivered a swift smack to the back of his head, a minor punishment for being too slow, but Axel made his way to the door. When he opened the door, it was a man Axel didn't recognize. Axel instinctively straightened yet bowed his head to the man who just seemed to exude confidence and power.

"Is this the residence of Bernhard Hoftstadter?" The man asked him.

And Axel nodded,"Yes, sir. I can bring him to you, if you'd like."

"That would be very helpful." The man responded with a polite hum.

Axel offered a small smile, all he could muster, before leading the stranger inside. When Otto and Bernard, who had joined him, turned and saw the man, he froze and gave Axel a look.. Maybe this wasn't the guest he was expecting.

"Mr Hahn." Otto blinked.

"Mr Hoftstadter." Mr Hahn crossed his arms,"I'm here for your son."

Bernhard's eyes widened,"Me?"

"Don't try to play dumb with me." Mr Hahn glared at him,"You broke a window at my estate."

"It was an accident." Bernhard spoke quickly,"I just-"

"I don't want your excuses." Mr Hahn pointed.

"I'm sorry, we can't pay for the window, Mr Hahn." Otto shook his head,"We don't want any trouble, but-"

"Then I want service. If you can't pay, your boy will give me a year of service or I'll take you to court." Mr Hahn stated simply.

Axel watched the looks on his family's faces, watched how they morphed in fear.. It was weird. He'd never seen Otto or Bernhard look like that ever. Then, he watched as their eyes landed on... Him.

"Mr Hahn, what if we give you something better than my son?" Otto suggested.

Mr Hahn raised a brow,"I'm listening?"

"My son is useless when it comes to service.. But my stepson is very capable. Anything you need done, he can take care of." Otto explained,"Efficient, polite, and he's so quiet you won't even notice him."

Mr Hahn seemed to consider the option thoroughly and Axel studied each minor change in his expression. The contemplation, the curiosity, the anger that seemed to fade away every time Mr Hahn glanced over at Axel's expectant face.

"Fine. I'll accept your scapegoat." Mr Hahn spoke finally,"Come on."

Mr Hahn grabbed hold of Axel's brusied wrist and he couldn't hold back the wince that left his lips. As he was pulled from his house, Axel did everything he could to stop shaking. But he was terrified. He had seen some of the men that worked at the Hahn estate permanently, just in passing as he picked things up for Otto, and Axel was afraid that they'd all have pent-up anger over this situation. But that was okay, Axel could take it. He'd been through enough with Bernhard and Otto.. Though this had to be so much worse. Because now, instead of two, there was going to be at least five, large, angry men in charge of him.

But Mr Hahn's demeanor changed once they reached his car. Axel was directed to sit in the passenger seat and once Walter sat in the driver's seat beside him, he looked at Axel.. Differently. Axel couldn't understand exactly what was different, but then he spoke.

"You're hurt." He stated, glancing down at the wrist Axel tried to discreetly cradle.

"I'm fine, sir." Axel insisted.

"Don't lie to me." Mr Hahn gave him a look that made Axel tense,"Show me."

Axel looked down at his sleeve and closed his own eyes as he rolled it up, having purposefully ignored it ever since he sustained the injury. When Axel did peek his eyes open, he nodded slowly. It still stung but.. It didn't look as bad as he expected it to, which was a relief. But Mr Hahn seemed concerned, taking Axel's wrist but.. Gentler this time.

"What happened here then?" He questioned.

"A punishment, sir." Axel answered quietly,"I was too loud and disturbed Bernhard's sleep."

Mr Hahn studied Axel's face for the truth before nodding slowly,"Once we arrive home, that will be bandaged and you aren't to work it too hard."

Axel relaxed slightly despite his confusion. Mr Hahn.. Was going to help him? Though if he was a servant for a year, Axel assumed it was solely to make him more useful. There's no point in having a servant that can't work properly due to injury, that's just a waste. They drove all the way back to the Hahn Manor and Mr Hahn, who Axel learned was actually named Walter, didn't seem overly awful. But.. He was probably putting up a front to get Axel to trust him. Axel didn't expect to survive this year... But if he was finally gone, he could be with his parents again and.. And nobody would hurt him.

When Walter stopped the car, Axel got out first and opened the door for him. Walter just looked at him for a moment before he got out of the car, already impressed by his good behavior. Walter let out a small chuff and patted Axel's head, taking a mental note of how despite Axel smiling.. He tensed beneath his hand. They had a lot to do with him, to get him used to this. No, Walter wasn't going to baby his new member of staff but he wasn't going to harm him. He'd been through enough of that.

The pair walked inside together, Axel doing everything he could to keep his posture perfect as he could. Though he immediately felt like he could crumble as he looked at the group of four men awaiting their return, all with serious faces. One looked very confused when seeing him and was quick to shake his head before approaching. He got closer and closer until he was stood right in front of Axel and reached out at him, but Walter stepped in front of him.

"I know, Tim. This isn't the one you saw." Walter told him,"This is Axel. They offered him us instead and.. Well, I accepted."

"Huh." Thatcher nodded slowly,"I thought this was meant to be his punishment."

"It was, but I made this decision because it was necessary." Walter stated.

Thatcher just gave Walter a look before he stepped back and Walter hummed, wrapping an arm around Axel's shoulder. He was the introduced to the other five men he would be staying with. Tim Thatcher, broad, American and an intimidating presence. Alexander Wolfe, equally intimidating but more quiet. It definitely felt like there was.. Something behind those eyes. Ilja Dragunov, shorter than the rest but not a small man by any means. And passionate, very passionate. And Fabian Aichner, and Italian with good form and his brow almost permanently raised as he studied the situation.

It was Wolfe who took Axel away to fix up his wrist and Axel remained silent as the elder German brought him to a small bedroom. Axel began looking around the undecorated room as Wolfe left briefly to grab his first-aid supplies.

"Sit." Wolfe pointed,"There on the bed."

"Yes, sir." Axel spoke quietly as he sat down, gaining a small look from Wolfe.

"You don't need to call any of us 'sir', apart from Walter." Wolfe told him.

"Sorry, force of habit." Axel nodded, keeping his eyes on the ground.

"Wrist." Wolfe held his hand out.

And Axel complied, holding his wrist out to him. He looked at the size difference between them, his slender arm looking like that of a doll's when it rested in Wolfe's large hands. They both sat looking at their arms for a moment or two before Wolfe started bandaging.

"So, how did that happen?" Wolfe asked.

"My stepbrother." Axel answered simply.

And Wolfe stopped completely, looking up at him,"Your stepbrother?"

Axel nodded,"It's okay, it was my fault- I was too loud and disturbed his sleep while I was cleaning."

"..Were you hurt often?" Wolfe questioned, a look of concern in his eyes.

"Only when I needed to be." Axel shrugged,"I was punished a lot, but it wasn't always physical."

It was there, as he worked on bandaging Axel and learned about his homelife, that Wolfe seemed to realize why Axel had been chosen. Yes, he would have to work hard, but he would be safe as well. Even if Walter wanted to, Wolfe wasn't sure he'd allow any physical punishments to befall Axel. Not now, not ever. Axel smiled up at him once Wolfe finished bandaging his wrist and Wolfe promised right then and there to keep him safe... And he was going to make the others promise as well.

"Thank you." Axel looked up at him.

"Just doing my job." Wolfe nodded slowly.

Once he was fixed up, Wolfe informed him that this was.. Axel's new room. And Axel was silent. He was being given a room to sleep in? Not only that, but Wolfe told him dinner would be ready soon and one of them wpuld come get him when it was time to come eat. Wolfe then left him alone and Axel laid back on the bed, rolling onto his side. He was only resting, which was strange in itself but it was so comfortable. Axel could lay there forever... But he didn't, and he wouldn't.

When Wolfe brought him down for dinner, Axel sat beside him. He looked at the plate in front of him and froze. Was.. No, this couldn't be real. It had to be some trick, right? There was no way Axel would be allowed to eat all of this, especially since he hadn't done anything to earn it. But as everyone else joined them, they all begn to eat.. Aside from the nervous Axel. He didn't touch his food, despite his anxious hand resting over the fork, until Walter gave him a nod of reassurance. Permission. It felt weird eating something so wonderful, being allowed to finish his plate without being yelled at or stopped. Though, once he'd eaten, Walter then began to discuss his expectations.

Axel was reminded that he was allowed to eat, even if the thought of eating regularly was a strange one. He was also informed that he was to work 'reasonable hours' and take breaks. Axel wasn't.. Quite sure what that meant, but he nodded and agreed. Walter went over basic house rules too, but Axel was still stuck on his expectations. They couldn't be real.. Right? Axel found out the hard way that Walter was very serious.

It had been a few weeks into his service at that point, still very much under the impression that all this was an elaborate trick. He'd been hurt far too many times to just trust that he wouldn't be hurt anymore. But Axel took breaks. Sure, they only lasted a few minutes, but he took them. And Axel kept working, even after others had stopped. He simply worked in other areas of the manor to ensure nobody saw him and tried to stop his hard work. And even with his room and food provided, Axel struggled. He could barely sleep, regardless of how comfy the bed was, because he was scared it would be taken away and.. He wasn't used to eating regularly so after a few days he was unable to completely finish his plate and felt awful about it. Until that night.

Axel was working, as usual, much later than was expected of him. He was exhausted, rubbing his eyes and his wrist, though mostly healed, was starting to sting again.

"Axel, what are you doing?" Walter questioned as he approached,"It's late, get to bed."

"I will- I just.. Let me finish this bit. Then I'm done." Axel shook his head.

"No, you're done now." Walter stated, taking the broom away from him.

But Axel stumbled without the broom keeping him upright and Walter lunged forward, quickly catching Axel as he collapsed. Walter paused, unsure of what to do before he scooped Axel up in his arms. He was light, incredibly so, and Walter carried him all the way back to his room. He laid him down in bed, covering him with a blanket and.. Then placed a gentle hand on his side. He wasn't usually this soft, but Axel needed it. Walter knew things were bad with Otto, even if Axel never went into detail, but he knew. He'd also picked up on how protective his other men had gotten around Axel, even if they were trying to be discreet about it. It was.. Cute.

It took months for Axel to get properly adjusted. He soon began eating right again, but he was still doing a lot of work. The decent amount of food and manual labor he was doing meant Axel went from looking like a twig to being svelte. Elegant. Just like a rose... And Walter adored him. As Axel worked around him, Walter couldn't help but watch, couldn't help but stare at him. He desperately wanted to him, wanted Axel, but was afraid to make a move while Axel was forced to be there. When they were alone, Walter made attempts at softness, typically a guiding hand to his lower back, but that's all it ever ended up being.

Walter approached Axel as their contracted year together came to a close, lingering in the doorway as Axel cleaned the counters. He wanted to speak, but he couldn't. Walter wasn't ready for what he was going to say.

"Axel." Walter cleared his throat.

"Ah, sir." Axel smiled at him as he turned around,"I'm nearly done in here, is there something you need?"

"I just need to speak with you." Walter told him.

"Oh, what is it?" Axel raised a brow.

"Well, your year of service is coming to an end and.. I have an offer for you." Walter informed him.

Axel nodded slowly, almost like he'd was processing the words,"An offer?"

"Yes." Walter swallowed,"If you wish to leave, I'll give you money, a car and whatever else you need.. Or you can stay with me."

The pair stood in silence. Axel seemed to think hard on the offer while Walter just watched him, as always, just hoping that he wanted to stay. But as Axel smiled up at him, eyes wet with tears, Walter knew what his answer was.

"I.. I want to go- Just to try things on my own, sir." Axel spoke slowly, thinking about each word carefully,"It'll give us a shot at equal footing, right?"

Walter nodded and held his arms out. Axel let out a chuckle before hugging Walter, nestling his head underneath his chin. Safe. For a moment, Axel didn't want to leave, he wanted to stay.. But he knew he couldn't. If he ever wanted a proper relationship with Walter, he needed to go. And later that week, he did, with everything Walter promised. Walter watched him go from the window, unable to properly say goodbye.

"You're letting him go?" Thatcher asked, arms crossed.

"I am." Walter sighed.

"None of us thought you would, thought you'd gotten attached." Thatcher told him.

"He did." Wolfe scanned Walter's face,"That's exactly why he let him go."

Thatcher furrowed his brow,"Wait-"

"The only way they could have some semblance of a 'healthy relationship' is if Axel chose it on his own." Dragunov explained,"It wouldn't really be right if Axel was forced to be here and immediately offered a relationship."

"He'd feel forced to accept, scared to decline, perhaps." Fabian spoke up.

"I suppose that makes sense." Thatcher nodded slowly,"Sir, do you think he'll come back?"

"I hope so." Walter nodded,"But that is his choice to make, not mine."

Despite the sentiment that he held, Walter wasn't really the same after Axel left. He wasn't extremely different, just.. More tired, quiet. He clearly missed having Axel around and often found himself calling out to him some days, forgetting that he was gone. For his sake, the others hoped Axel would eventually return, just to see the light return to Walter's eyes. And after a year that felt like an eternity.. There was a knock on the door. Walter didn't send Dragunov or Fabian to answer it like normal, no, he went and checked himself. When he peered put of the curtains, his eyes widened at the sight of a familiar car outside and quickly pulled open the door.

There, stood in front of him.. Was Axel. He hadn't changed too much, but he looked healthy and happy. His smile was the same, soft yet bright as his eyes met Walter's. Axel still held the same elegance as before yet he held a lot more confidence and that made Walter feel much better about his decision.

"Walter." Axel hummed,"I.. I'm ready to give a relationship a chance now."

"You are?" Walter breathed out, almost in shock.

"Well, I've proved it to you. Now you know that I can take care of myself." Axel told him,"..And I missed you, a lot."

"Axel, I missed you too." Walter pulled him in close, cradling the back of his head,"So much."

Axel didn't fight the unusual display of affection and most certainly didn't complain when Walter lead him to his room later that evening. Walter cradled him protectively, pressing a quick kiss to his forehead. Axel chuckled and held onto Walter, making sure he was comfortable against Walter's chest.

"I'm glad you're back where you belong, my rose." Walter let out a soft sigh.

"And I'm never leaving again." Axel smiled up at him, cupping Walter's face with the same hand he had bandaged the year prior.

"Good." Walter gently took his hand and kissed it,"You'll be cherished here, safe here."

"I know, and I really can't thank you enough." Axel told him.

Axel couldn't stop smiling as he and Walter laid there together, safe and happy. Yes, he had his year on his own, but Axel was glad to be back where he felt the safest. Otto and Bernard couldn't hurt him ever again and if they ever tried... Axel was sure Walter would take care of them.

Chapter Text

Training that day.. Wasn't going well. Okay, it was going well in the way of everyone was doing what they were supposed to, but.. Gunther could tell something was wrong. As he was watching Kaiser and Tiffany, he saw how she was pushing herself and was growing ore concerned by the minute. Yes, he expected maximum effort in his training sessions, but he didn't want his friend hurting herself and getting injured, which was sure to happen if she kept this up.

Tiffany was a loveable brat most of the time, playfully bickering with him over uniform colours and teasing Kaiser to fluster him. But during training it was like her headspace was worse than Kaiser's on his worst day. Gunther knew how that worried Kaiser, knowing his girlfriend was struggling just as badly if not worse than him and being unable to help her. She never explained much of what she'd been through before, but Gunther had a sneaking suspicion that her history as a gymnastics for Team USA had something to do with it, and her problems were only exacerbated by Nia and her abuse. It made Gunther want to scoop her up in a hug and turn Wolfe and Thatcher on whoever did this to her. He was sure they'd be quite happy to do so.

All of this culminated in their training session that day. Gunther was worried and he could tell from the quick glances across the room from Kaiser that he was feeling the same way. Tiffany was working too hard, pushing herself not to her limits but far past them. And as Tiffany readied herself for more, she paused. Both men turned to her immediately as she swayed, clutching her head as she shakily lowered herself to her knees and then to the ground. Kaiser was immediately at her side, his hand resting on her back as he desperately tried to check on her.

"Tiffany- Are you alright?" Kaiser asked her, his voice laced with concern and panic.

Tiffany couldn't muster a sound, unable to force any words out of her mouth. All she could do was lay there, breathing heavily, nodding her head ever so slightly.

"Tiffany?" Gunther tilted his head as he approached, looking down at her.

At the sound of his voice, Kaiser felt Tiffany tense beneath his hand. Then, both men watched in almost horror as Tiffany tried to quickly get back to her feet, mistaking Gunther's concern for anger.

"I.. Sorry, I.." Tiffany's voice was shaky as she spoke, before collapsing back into Kaiser's arms.

"Shh, you're alright." Kaiser pressed a kiss to the top of her head,"I'm here and you're safe, I promise. Gunther isn't angry at you."

"He's right, I'm not." Gunther bent down to their level.

Gunther tried to reach out to Tiffany but she flinched, hiding her face in Kaiser's shoulder as he held her close. She was terrified and Gunther wasn't sure how to convince her that he wasn't the bad guy, especially since even Kaiser forgot that sometimes. Thankfully he didn't now, at least, not fully.

They cut their training short after that, and it was decided that Kaiser and Tiffany were going to stay for dinner that evening with Gunther and Jinny. Gunther added that if they felt safer doing so or would feel better if they did, the pair were welcome to stay the night in the couple's spare room. Just wanting Tiffany to be able to rest as soon as possible, agreed. When dinner was served, both blondes were hesitant to eat, Tiffany especially, but Gunther gave them a look and a nod, reassurance that it was okay. And they ate, and were both so grateful to do so. The conversation was intentionally kept light and Jinny continued to sprinkle compliments throughout to try and bring up Tiffany's self-worth.

After dinner, Kaiser led Tiffany to the guest room with a gentle hand on her back and he made sure she was comfortable in bed even if she insisted that she didn't really deserve it after messing up training. Kaiser hated seeing his girlfriend like this, the girl he thought deserved the world believing she deserved nothing. He got into bed beside her, wrapping his arms around her as she cuddled into his chest.

"Are.. Are you sure about this?" Tiffany asked, still hesitant.

"I'm sure, Schatz." Kaiser nodded,"This is what the General wants, he wants us to feel.. Safe. I want you to feel safe."

Tiffany smiled softly,"You always make me feel safe."

And it was true. Whenever Tiffany needed reassurance or protection from a threat, real or not, Kaiser was there. He would embrace her and whisper comforts in German, he would kiss her forehead and promise her that she would be safe. Tiffany.. She knew Kaiser would do anything to keep her safe, and she would do the same for him. But she knew just how good they both had it right now and didn't want to lose it.

"Kaiser.. What do you think we should do to convince them to keep us around?" Tiffany asked slowly.

Kaiser bit his cheek,"I wish I knew.. I mean, Gunther and I have been friends for years now and I don't know why he tolerates me so much."

"Because he loves you." Tiffany looked up at him.

"But I don't know why- It must be so much effort not getting angry at me and he just.. Doesn't." Kaiser shook his head,"I just try to keep quiet and be helpful. That's all I really know how to do."

"Yeah.." Tiffany nodded slowly as she thought.

After being introduced, Tiffany struck up a rather fast friendship with Jinny, Gunther's girlfriend. When it happened, Tiffany expected and was fully ready for it to be superficial, based solely on the fact that their boyfriends had a relationship that raised as many questions as Hunter and Shawn's did. That made Tiffany question her confidence, how she used it in a similar way as Kaiser, as a shield to protect herself. It was superficial.

"What if I just.. Don't put on the confidence?" Tiffany suggested,"Just around Gunther and Jinny, let them take center stage."

"That could work, yes." Kaiser agreed, even if he didn't particularly want to lose that part of Tiffany.

The thought burned and stung, but only a little. Tiffany had already done so with Nia and received so little of the promised protection in return.. But Jinny was different. Jinny was kind and no longer an in-ring threat. And Gunther treated Kaiser so well most of the time, caring for both of them so well. Tiffany was willing to stay in Jinny's shadow if it meant keeping what she and Kaiser had.

Meanwhile, Gunther and Jinny were still sat at the table having a very different conversation. Both of them adored their friends, but they were both so broken. Jinny had heard Gunther mention Kaiser being broken but until she met him properly and then befriended Tiffany, she really didn't know just how broken they were. Poor things..

"If I ever meet who hurt them, they won't make it out unscathed." Jinny pointed.

"I believe, and wish I could do the same." Gunther sighed.

"Tiffany's just so.. Broken behind that mask." Jinny shook her head,"I want to help her be honestly confident and comfortable, though I'd accept her not being terrified."

"Don't set your expectations too high." Gunther warned her,"Remember how long ago Kaiser was harmed and how he still struggles often."

Jinny nodded slowly,"It's just so.. Hard seeing them like that and not being able to just take away all of their pain."

"I know." Gunther swallowed,"So let's make a promise, a promise to help our friends as best as we can and to keep others from taking advantage of them."

Jinny looked over and smiled at him,"I can agree to that."

"Good." Gunther leaned over and kissed her cheek.

Chapter Text

"That is enough!" Regal snapped.

Marcel and Fabian shared an unamused look as smiles creased both of their lips. Both men were stood over Thatcher and Ciampa who they'd ambushed again after one of their matches. Though it seemed Mr William Regal had grown sick of their antics, not like Imperium cared. Soon enough, they were joined by Walter and Wolfe who stood at their side as Regal continued.

"I am so tired of watching you, all of you, interfering in matches that don't concern you." Regal pointed,"If you really believed in restoring the honor of this great sport, you wouldn't be pulling things like this."

"We have our reasons, sir." Walter countered.

"And I don't care for them." Regal shook his head,"Though I've got an idea to sort all of this out."

And Walter sighed slightly before asking,"Which is?"

"A tag match, Imperium against Thatcher and Ciampa." Regal stated,"If Imperium wins, Thatcher and Ciampa must join Imperium. But if Imperium loses, you have to disband."

"Sir, you can't be considering this." Marcel looked to Walter, his voice quiet.

But Walter paid him no attention and raised his mic again,"We accept."

Marcel tensed, though did his best to appear composed and refined as usual. While he didn't mind ambushing Thatcher and interfering in his matches, Marcel didn't particularly enjoy the idea of a match with the man. After all, he saw exactly how Thatcher glared at him, how his stare pierced through him like daggers. That man was just itching to get his hands on him and punish him specifically for any discrestions that occurred. And Marcel was right.

The match was brutal, especially between Marcel and Thatcher. Throughout the whole match, he was barely able to any relief by tagging out and bringing in Fabian as Thatcher simply dragged him back to the center of the ring. Marcel was battered by a barrage of heavy-handed chops and beaten until he was bruised and practically bloodied. Marcel did attempt to fight back and Fabian was practically pleading with him to get to the corner, hating seeing his tag partner be torn to shreds by the angry beast that was Timothy Thatcher. As the match drew to a close, it looked like Thatcher was going to pin Marcel... Before it happened.

Wolfe grabbed Thatcher's leg and pulled him out of the ring, saving the match for Imperium as Marcel slowly crawled to the corner. But that's when the twist happened. Thatcher.. Didn't attack Wolfe. No. Instead, both men gave one another and look before both standing to attention. Marcel was sat in the corner, watching on in confusion as Fabian tagged in to attack Ciampa. After briefly recovering from his beat down, Marcel joined in on the attack of the now alone Ciampa, allowing Fabian to get the pin. Afterwards, everyone bar Ciampa made their way to the back where.. Marcel had a lot of questions.

"Alright, what the hell is going on?" Marcel questioned as he looked around at everyone, Thatcher in particular.

"Hold still." Wolfe hushed him, grabbing Marcel's face as he held a wet towel to his bloodied nose,"Tim."

"Walter and I talked, I had some issues but wanted to get back with the group." Thatcher shrugged.

"Oh, only 'some' issues?" Marcel gave him a look.

"Yes, with you." Thatcher nodded.

Marcel furrowed his brow,"What have I done? Tim, if this is about-"

"I was angry about the way you left wXw, left Ringkampf." Thatcher answered,"It just felt like.. You abandoned me."

"Tim.." Marcel sighed, a new softness to his voice,"It wasn't personal, you know that."

"Of course I knew that." Thatcher shook his head,"Visa requirements and whatnot stopped me from being the most.. Reliable tag partner, but I still took it to heart."

"Why?" Marcel asked, the only word he could force out.

"Because you're my little brother." Thatcher told him,"And that meant I would never really be able to avoid standing at your side."

Marcel was quiet, his eyes never leaving Thatcher's face as he searched for any signs of him lying. But he found none. But Thatcher wasn't done as he walked right up to Marcel, looking down at him.

"But if you ever abandon me again without warning again, I'll make that match look like school kids." Thatcher jabbed his finger into Marcel's chest.

Marcel nodded before resting his forehead on Thatcher's shoulder,"..I missed you."

"I missed you too, kid." Thatcher wrapped an arm around Marcel's midsection, allowing the brief softness.

Marcel was slightly annoyed by being the only person out of the loop, minus Ciampa, when it came to Thatcher's betrayal, but it was necessary. If Thatcher was to get his anger out properly, Marcel needed to believe the match was real so he would fight back. If he knew it was all a ruse, there was the chance of him half-assing it, just letting Thatcher beat the ever-loving shit out of him... That happened regardless, but at least Marcel attempted to fight back against the larger man. Everything went down because Thatcher approached Walter after a show, at the hotel, while the others were already in the room.

"Tim." Walter nodded to him.

"We need to talk." Thatcher stated.

"I'm sure we do." Walter crossed his arms,"Go on."

"I know we've been at odds recently but.. Look, I want to put it behind us and join you again." Thatcher told him.

"But you're still angry." Walter noted,"And I presume it's because of Marcel."

"I think you know all too well how I feel about how he left." Thatcher looked away.

"I had a feeling that was the case." Walter hummed,"But I already have a plan to sort that out. I've been trying to get a hold of Regal to schedule a one-on-one match between you both."

"You have?" Thatcher raised a brow.

"Of course. Even if you weren't intending to join us, it's a good way to clear the anger out of your system." Walter told him.

"Huh." Thatcher nodded slowly,"I supposed you're right, actually."

While that had been the plan originally, multiple things changed before the suggested match took place. Originally, the idea from both men was a clean, but brutal, one-on-one match with Thatcher joining Imperium regardless of the outcome. However, Regal chose the tag match before Walter could have a word with him. Then as they discussed things backstage, it was Fabian who suggested the betrayal element which would work for the overall story they were supposed to be telling, though Walter decided all of the specifics. And only Wolfe was aware of the precise timing... A singular test of Thatcher's loyalty, would he recall Walter's orders or forget them in the heat of the moment?

And he did. But obviously, two people were involved in this and one was not happy at all about joining Imperium. Ciampa.

They knew he would and so did he. While Thatcher wanted to reunite with old friends and repair old wounds, Ciampa had no interest in the teh group that had been screwing him over for the past few months. The rest of Imperium didn't want him there either, but they could cope with him being there for now, knowing that at the first opportunity he can get to leave, Cianpa is going to take it. But that would take time. There was definitely an issue in.. Understanding. Ciampa simply didn't understand Imperium.

"Ciampa, hurry up." Marcel looked back at him, his words short and blunt,"The General wants us in the hotel room before he arrives."

"I'm not listening to you, kid." Ciampa scoffed.

Marcel simply lowered his eyes,"When Der Ring-General is not present, I am the one whose orders you follow."

"Whatever you say." Ciampa muttered.

He watched Marcel practically strut away as they headed to the hotel room. Marcel.. He's the one Ciampa understood the least, and could anyone really blame him? He gave orders to all the others when 'the General' wasn't around, but when they reached the hotel room, he curled up on the floor beside Thatcher's bed like some sort of pedigree poodle. And, sure, he could respect Wolfe for being an unhinged psychopath, but the man was also a freak. Again, Marcel gave the orders about attacks and the like, yet Ciampa could cleary recall times when Wolfe had nudged Marcel and told him the TV show he was half-watching wasn't appropriate. And the kid would just.. Turn it off. Fabian was no better, more than willing to go ten miles out of his way to get Barthel's preferred laundry detergent to prevent him from stressing. Ciampa simply could not understand how a grown man was babied so much.

Until he met the General.

Now Walter treated Marcel like a prized lieutenant and some sort of show dog all at once. He'd gently raise his chin and check over his body for bruising, but he also expected the man to obey any and all orders immediately and perfectly. There was no leniency when it came to Marcel. But Marcel.. Seemed to thrive on that, strangely enough.

But that night, as they slept in their hotel room, Ciampa made a discovery that he wasn't sure he was really supposed to. He was lying on the sofa of their hotel room, having not been given a bed this time around for his disobedience earlier in the week. He didn't care really, but it wasn't the most comfortable thing to sleep on and he also didn't trust Imperium not to do something as he slept. So.. Ciampa usually waited until they were all sleeping before he attempted to rest. But.. Tonight was different. Tonight, as he lay on the sofa he heard a sharp inhale followed by multiple panicked breaths. So Ciampa slowly sat up and peered around the edge of teb couch and corner of the wall.

It was.. Marcel. Pure terror was etched on his face as he struggled to steady his breathing or stop the flow of tears that arrived shortly after. But that's when Thatcher's hand moved and he began trailing his fingers through Marcel's hair. The German choked back a sob as he reached up and grabbed onto Thatcher's arm. That's what got him to open his eyes and sit up slightly.

"A really bad one, huh?" Thatcher raised a brow, his voice gravely after just waking up.

"..I'm sorry." Marcel whispered.

"Don't even start with that." Thatcher pointed,"Now, come on. We've got a match tomorrow and you need rest."

Ciampa thought that would be the end of it, that Marcel would be chastised by Thatcher for waking him up and acting like a child. But that's not what happened. Thatcher adjusted his covers and Marcel climbed in beside him, almost immediately curling up against his chest as Thatcher continued playing with his hair.

"There we go.. Better?" Thatcher asked.

Marcel nodded,"Thank you."

"You know I wouldn't make you deal with this alone." Thatcher reminded him,"I promised, after all, promised I'd watch out for you."

"You remember that?" Marcel chuckled slightly.

"Obviously. Now, try and get some sleep." Thatcher wrapped his arms around Marcel and held him close.

"I love you, Tim." Marcel smiled softly as he closed his eyes.

Thatcher hummed softly as he closed his eyes too,"I love you too, kid. Always will."

Ciampa watched the pair fall asleep together, shaking his head as he did. That was how he discovered that Marcel suffered from awful nightmares and, after asking Thatcher's later on, found out his only comfort was being near those he trusted. He learned Marcel slept beside their beds so they could roll over and reach him easily if needed. He also learned that the rules about what Marcel could watch or listen to were similarly related, though he didn't get details on how. Regardless, it caused Ciampa to lose respect for him completely.

"Tim, I just don't think that anybody that fragile should be a wrestler." Ciampa looked to his former partner.

Ciampa expected Thatcher to agree with him, expected them to have a good shit-talking session about the entire group. But Ciampa was wrong. Wolfe entered the room almost as soon as he spoke and froze. Thatcher hadn't noticed Wolfe but almost immediately grabbed Ciampa by the collar of his jacket and thrust him against the wall.

"Don't you dare speak about him like!" Thatcher yelled,"My brother has been through so much- And you don't get to decide who is and isn't fragile!"

"Tim, I didn't-" Ciampa shook his head, but it was too late.

Ciampa expressing his opinion got him more than an ass-kicking. Thatcher's anger, once directed at Marcel was now placed onto Ciampa but multiplied tenfold. And Ciampa found out the hard way what one of Wolfe's rampages felt like. The beat down was brutal, almost worse than the initial tag match they'd had against Imperium.. After that, both Thatcher and Wolfe headed to Regal's office and asked him to try and remove Ciampa from Imperium as soon as possible. They didn't want him around any longer than they had to. But waiting for them outside of the office was.. Marcel.

"There you boys are." Marcel sighed,"Come on, the General wants-"

And Thatcher instantly pulled him into his arms,"We can get to that later."

"Oh- Is everything.. Are you alright?" Marcel looked between them.

"We're fine now, little one." Wolfe assured him, patting his shoulder.

Marcel nodded slowly, not fully believing them,"Right.."

"You aren't fragile." Thatcher mumbled into Marcel's shoulder,"You deserve to be here."

"Tim, I know." Marcel hummed, reaching up and ruffling his hair.

And Thatcher relaxed slightly, though he kept holding onto Marcel,"And you're always going to be my little brother, no matter what."

Marcel smiled softly,"No matter what."

Chapter Text

Kaiser was ever so quiet as he bandaged his wrist, just as if he was taping his wrists for a show. It wasn't broken or anything, but his last punishment involved repeated strikes to his wrists. They.. Stung. But it was his fault anyway, he should have listened properly to Walter's instructions and not failed him. He didn't mean to be disrespectful.. And Kaiser made up his mind that he was going to make sure to fix that he'd done wrong. Before Gunther even stirred that morning, Kaiser prepared his breakfast and coffee for him and sat them down on the table. Just the way he liked it.

"Kaiser." Gunther's voice immediately caused him to straighten as he walked out,"What have you been doing?"

"I made you breakfast, sir. Just the way you like it." Kaiser answered, doing what he could to keep his talking to a minimum.

Gunther peered around him and looked at the plate, giving Kaiser a nod once he deemed it satisfactory. Kaiser was quick to take his place on the floor by Gunther's seat, not even sparing a glance at the second chair at the table. Kaiser was very rarely permitted to sit on the chair like an equal, that right was saved for those like Wolfe and Thatcher that occasionally came over to eat and dicuss things with Gunther. Kaiser was never included in these talks and spent those nights alone. He served food, usually before a guest arrived, and was promptly sent to Gunther's room where he sat in silence. Kaiser was very good at that. Sitting in Gunther's bedroom, making no noise and pretending he didn't exist..

Kaiser kept his eyes laser-focused on the floor, not wanting to even be tempted by Gunther's meal despite the uncomfortable sensation of hunger in his stomach. If he could behave himself long enough then Gunther would hopefully offer up his scraps to his subservient partner. Gunther reached down, running his hand through Kaiser's hair like he was petting a loyal dog. That's.. Really all Gunther saw him as. A loyal pet, an obedient dog that did as he was told and always stayed at his side, no matter how much he was harmed.

Eventually, Gunther finished his meal and sat the plate on the floor before leaving to get changed. It wasn't much, not nearly enough to sustain him but.. After failing to keeping their home as clean as he was supposed to, Kaiser didn't really deserve to eat. He was lucky Gunther fed him at all, and Kaiser was grateful for what he was given. As Kaiser finished what remained of Gunther's breakfast and began cleaning the plate in the kitchen, he thought back and.. And he couldn't remember a time where he hadn't been Gunther's.. Thing. But Gunther had been kinder before, right? Hadn't he? If Kaiser was just well-behaved, Gunther wouldn't need to punish him and things would get better. He just knew it would.

Meanwhile, while Imperium was exactly as people expected it to be, another group was not... The Bloodline. The serious, no-nosense, family drama-filled faction was relatively relaxed behind the scenes. Roman wasn't a dictator and was actually quite caring when it came to his family, not liking to see the hurt. Jimmy and Jey were just as fun-loving, often making jokes about their family situation. And Sami was just having a blast with them.

"So.. You think we could all wear thongs, like dad did?" Jey smirked.

"Roman would kill us." Jimmy hummed,"We totally should."

"You too, Sami." Jey pointed.

"We'll have to learn all the choreography." Sami chuckled.

"Trust us, we already know it all." Jimmy assured him.

"But will dad kill us for it?" Jey raised a brow,"Or what about Uncle Sika, you think he'll whack Roman upside the head for letting us do it?"

"I'm sure it'll be fine." Sami shook his head.

"I can convince them, just gimme an hour." Jimmy looked between them.

"Oh- Pompous Europeans at three o'clock." Jey nudged Jimmy, his voice no louder than a hushed whisper.

All three members of the Bloodline turned and looked, catching sight of Imperium as they marched down the hall. They watched Kaiser follow after Gunther, his General, like a loyal soldier and nodded at the pair as they passed by. Neither man took notice of them, or at least they pretended that they didn't. Once Imperium was out of sight, it was Sami that spoke up first.

"You think they're like us?" Sami asked, his eyes still focused on the corner that Imperium disappeared around.

"What do you mean?" Jey raised a brow.

"Like.. All serious on camera and then jokes backstage?" Sami looked back at the twins.

"Obviously." Jimmy nodded,"Nobody can be that serious all of the time."

"Yeah, it's just character stuff. They probably act it backstage so they're completely in character." Jey agreed,"You know how seriously they take this job."

"Yeah.." Sami nodded slowly.

"You alright, Uce?" Jey placed a hand on his shoulder.

"Oh- Yeah. I just.. Something feels off about Imperium." Sami shook his head.

"What do you mean?" Jimmy raised a brow.

"I don't know.. But I don't trust Gunther." Sami bit his cheek.

"Look, if it makes you feel better, we can keep an eye on them." Jey assured him,"But you're probably just worrying over nothing."

"Yeah, more people would be saying things and be investigating if there was something going on." Jimmy added.

Sami nodded, but stayed quiet. He tried to ease his worries about Imperium, but he just couldn't shake the feeling that something was wrong. He'd never seen Kaiser smile or relax and.. And he barely spoke at all, only ever if he was spoken to. Whenever Sammi did overhear the German, he was incredibly soft-spoken and polite to a fault. Sami just tried to reassure himself that everything was fine... Until that night.

Kaiser lost his match and subsequently received some chops in the ring from Gunther. The Bloodline had been watching backstage and struggled watching without looking away or clutching their own chests. Gunther left Kaiser in the ring, storming off backstage and letting Kaiser make his own way to the back. From their locker room, they heard a few doors slamming but again, the boys thought nothing of it. Doors got slammed all the time by lots of different people for lots of different reasons. They eventually headed to catering to grab some snacks when they saw.. Kaiser. He was trembling with his luggage at his feet and phone in hand. Kaiser typed in a number and held the phone to his ear.

"S-sir, I-" Kaiser began quietly, although he was quickly cut off.

They watched Kaiser flinch as another voice, Gunther's voice, yelled down the phone. They couldn't make out any words that he was saying, assuming they were in German, but they caught Kaiser's reaction. He was still shaking and opened his mouth a few times to speak, yet nothing came out.

"I didn't mean- Sir, I could.." But Kaiser stopped himself as Gunther continued his tirade of abuse.

Once the yelling stopped and Kaiser lowered the phone, the Bloodline kept watching. They watched as Kaiser sighed, picked up his luggage and just started walking. That was when Sami hurried forward, followed by the Usos.

"Hey, Kaiser." Sami called to him.

Kaiser paused and looked back,"Sami?"

"Yeah, we just noticed you by yourself for once and wanted to.. Ask if you were okay." Sami titled his head.

"Oh- Don't worry, I'm fine." Kaiser assured them.

"Where's Gunther?" Jey asked.

"He was.. Displeased with my loss, so he's already headed back to the hotel." Kaiser answered.

"So he's making you walk?" Jimmy questioned, crossing his arms,"Over one loss?"

"Guys, it's fine.. Besides, I could use the time to clear my head. It would do me some good." Kaiser nodded,"I should probably get going- I'll see you boys next week."

And like that, Kaiser walked on ahead and out of the building. But the Bloodline was not about to let that happen. The hotels closest to the arena had already been fully booked, so most wrestlers had to book rooms further away. The drive wasn't so bad, but it would be a longer walk and it had already started to rain. Kaiser was going to be cold, soaked and alone at night and none of the Bloodline wanted to see that. So they went straight back to their locker room, to Roman.

"Roman, we need to go." Jey told him.

"Yeah, like, right now." Jimmy nodded quickly.

And Roman looked back at them, a brow raised,"What's the rush?"

"Kaiser." Sami sighed,"He's walking back to the hotel."

Roman paused, his expression becoming more serious,"What do you mean he's walking back?"

"He said Gunther was 'displeased' with his loss and left without him." Jey answered,"He said he was doing okay but.. He didn't look it."

"Paul." Roman spoke,"Get the car."

"Yes, my Tribal Chief." Paul nodded, wasting no time in leaving the room.

"..Roman, I'm really starting to get worried about him." Sami shook his head.

"And I'm sorry for doubting you." Jimmy bit his cheek,"Until just now, I didn't even consider things being bad."

"Don't worry, boys." Roman looked between them,"I'm going to make sure he gets to the hotel safely, and he remains safe."

As soon as Roman heard about Kaiser walking back to the hotel, he'd essentially made up his mind about helping him. He'd watched the match backstage and it was a touch watch. Kaiser was probably hurting and deserved to rest after such a fight.. And Roman was going to make sure that happened. The Bloodline all got into the car and drove their way to the hotel, spotting Kaiser walking alone in the rain not too far from the arena. And at Roman's instruction, Paul pulled over beside him and rolled down the window.

"Kaiser." Roman called to him.

Kaiser turned immediately, his shoulders tense,"Roman- What are you.."

"You're not walking to the hotel." Roman stated.

"Sir, it's okay." Kaiser tried,"I don't-"

"Kaiser, get in the car. You'll make yourself sick like this." Roman shook his head.

And while hesitantly, Kaiser nodded and climbed into the backseat along with the others. Sami was right. He was soaking from the rain and trembling too, though nobody could tell if it was from the cold or fear.. Maybe it was both. If he was with Gunther, Kaiser wouldnt have dared to get in or accept an offer from Roman. But he heard an order and complied, knowing full well it wasn't his place to argue with his betters.

Kaiser was.. Ever so grateful to be helped by the Bloodline and thanked them multiple times after he was dropped off. It was really the most they'd ever heard him speak. Roman, despite being concerned for Kaiser's well-being, assumed maybe that was a one-off, that things would get better. Until the next Smackdown. Roman was just waiting outside of Nick's office when he saw it. Kaiser walked past, swift and quiet... But he had a black eye. It was in the process of healing, sure, but the fact that he had it told Roman all he needed to know.

"I'm gonna kill him." Roman muttered.

"My Tribal Chief, let's be reasonable." Paul tried to calm him.

"Reasonable? Really, Paul?" Roman scoffed,"You and I both know who gave him that."

"But you don't need to go about this violently, not yet." Paul told him.

"Not yet?" Roman furrowed his brow.

"I have an idea, and it's one I think you'll like." Paul hummed, resting a hand on Nick's door.

Roman's eyes lit up once he realized exactly what Paul was implying. So, instead of bringing up what he was initially coming to talk to Nick about, Roman suggested a feud. A feud between himself and Gunther. A brilliant idea, they both agreed, but with an even more exciting prize. Kaiser. If Roman won, if he beat Gunther, then Kaiser would join the Bloodline. During the build-up to their match, Gunther became even more.. Open about his treatment of Kaiser. He was more willing to push him around, to punish him for any transgressions. Maybe Gunther was just confident in his abilities, perhaps overconfident. Because in the end, Roman was victorious.

He and the Bloodline celebrated in the ring, with Sami bringing Kaiser close with them before all heading backstage. Before they could say anything, Kaiser ran. He huried straight back to his and Gunther's locker room. Jey went to run after him but Roman held him back and stopped him. Kaiser needed time to process it all, and Roman gave him as much as he could before the Bloodline entered the locker room. Gunther wasn't there, all of his belongings gone.. But Kaiser remained. He was curled up in the corner, teary-eyed as he clutched a paper note to his chest. Jey tried to read it from where he stood but it was all in German, definitely from Gunther.

"Hey, Kaiser." Roman spoke slowly, getting down to his level,"You're safe now."

But Kaiser was still tense, still trembling,"Sir, I.."

Yet Kaiser couldn't force out any words, all that came out with a pathetic whimper. Sami was the one to start comforting Kaiser, wrapping an arm around him and rubbing his back. He hated how the poor man flinched just because of that.. God, what had he been through? But Kaiser didn't seem to mind Sami's comfort, letting the Canadian touch and try to soothe him all the way back to Roman's home. It wasn't the most effective, but Kaiser did eventually stop crying. Still, he was terrified to his core. Why did Roman want him so badly? Kaiser had been with Gunther so long and had never dreamt of leaving.. And now he would be with Roman, inside and out of the ring because he was no longer of use to his General.

When they arrived home, Kaiser was asked to sit down with the Usos and he did.. On the floor. Jey was the one to correct him, practically pulling him up onto the sofa and in between him and Jimmy. Sami and Roman worked on dinner, even though that was Kaiser's job.. Maybe Roman was just showing him how he expected things to be done from now on. Kaiser hoped that he would at least be given the scraps here as well, there was enough people here that the scraps would probably be enough for an actual meal. Roman proved Kaiser wrong by handing him a plate of food.

"Sir, is this.. I didn't think-" Kaiser looked to Roman.

"I don't know what he did to you, Kaiser, but you're getting a plate of your own." Roman pointed.

"Oh." Kaiser blinked.

"Food isn't a privilege you need to earn here." Roman continued,"You're family now, and I wouldn't dream of starving my family."

Kaiser didnt understand. He was also still hesitant but after looking around between the Usos and Sami, all happily eating, he began to slowly eat as well. Kaiser.. Hadn't realized how hungry he was until he started eating and before long, he'd finished his plate. Jimmy offered him a smile, patting his back before taking all the dishes through to the kitchen. Kaiser didn't understand that either, but he assumed maybe dishes were a chore that was rotated each night. Though as Kaiser was taken around the home, he saw something. Roman had cleaners and gardeners too.. So why would he need Kaiser?

Kaiser could only think of one thing and subconsciously hugged himself tightly. He didn't want that. Not even Gunther had gone that far but.. He was terrified Roman might. Kaiser didn't have a choice either way. He was just a prize to be won, like a Championship Belt, an object to be passed around whenever his usefullness disappeared. It wasn't his place to argue with his betters, and it most certainly wasn't his place to speak out against his treatment.

As the days passed with Kaiser staying with him, Roman was just.. Horrified. He couldn't understand how a person could break another this badly. Kaiser didn't even watch TV. He sat on the floor, his back facing the screen before he got up and started serving them. Nobody wanted him to do that. But.. Roman asked for a glass of water, just to try and maybe make Kaiser happier, let him feel useful while they tried to figure out how to convince him that he wasn't being kept around for his usefullness or anything like that. He was being kept around to protect him, to make him feel like himself again.. Whoever that might be.

But they were cut off mid-conversation by the sound of glass smashing. Roman turned instantly to the kitchen and got up quickly to see what was wrong, worrying that maybe Kaiser had fallen and hurt himself. Instead, he found Kaiser on his knees as he tried to clean up the shards of glass with his bare hands.

"Sir- I am so sorry.. Truly, it was an accident." Kaiser spoke quickly once he noticed him,"And I can pay for it, just letting me-"

"Shh.." Roman hushed him, kneeling down to Kaiser's level and taking his hands,"It was a glass, Kaiser. I don't want your money."

Kaiser nodded slowly,"I still damaged your property. What will my punishment be, sir?"

"No, Kaiser‐ I don't punish accidents." Roman sputtered out, taken off guard by the question.

But his answer made Kaiser's face light up like a Christmas tree. Poor thing.. Kaiser thought that, if that was true then maybe it was safe here in the Bloodline. He would never be willfully disobedient. And Kaiser didn't stop smiling as Roman bandaged his hands, making sure there was no glass and that they wouldn't get infected. Roman ruffled his hair and Kaiser leaned into the touch, feeling an unfamiliar warmth in his chest when Roman did so. Is this what safety felt like?

"Go sit on the couch, I'll get this mess sorted, okay?' Roman pointed.

"Yes, sir." Kaiser nodded.

"And at home, you don't need to call me 'sir'. Hell, only call me 'sir' at work if there's a camera in our faces." Roman added.

"Yes.. Roman." Kaiser agreed, despite how weird it felt saying it.

And Kaiser did as he was asked, carefully taking his place on the sofa while the others were immersed in their show. He didn't want to disrupt them so sat at the very end beside Jimmy and.. Woah. This felt.. Good. Kaiser forgot how it felt to relax properly and held back a yawn as he cuddled against Jimmy's side. He wasn't allowed to watch TV, so he might as well nap. What Kaiser didn't realize as he dozed off was how excited the others were.

"Jey- Jey! Look!" Jimmy whisper-yelled.

"Bet you're so proud of yourself." Jey rolled his eyes.

"You're just jealous he chose to sit and cuddle me." Jimmy smirked.

"If your little disagreement wakes him up, I'm going to fight both of you." Sami looked between them.

"Right- Right, sorry." Jey nodded.

"..He's safe." Jimmy smiled softly, resting his arm around Kaiser.

"He's always going to be safe." Sami added,"He's.. Part of our family now."

Chapter Text

Walter sighed, sinking further into the sofa where he honestly planned to sleep that night. He was tired, too tired and sore to even want to get up and head to his bed. He was actually quite content to sit there and doze off, maybe get some late-night reading in. The rain was gently pattering down against the windows and he was honestly quite relaxed here. But just as he closed his eyes.. He heard it. Footsteps.

"Walter.. Are you still awake?" Axel asked softly.

"Of course I am." Walter looked up at Axel with undoubtedly tired eyes,"Now, come here."

Axel was more than happy to oblige, sitting on Walter's lap and cuddling into his shoulder as Walter wrapped his arms around him. He watched as Axel smiled softly, one hand clinging onto his shirt as he tried to just fall asleep. But Walter knew what was keeping him awake. After his father passed away, Axel had difficulty sleeping so Walter often spent the night with him, even just being in the home helped. Moving in with one another helped this immensely, though Axel's sleep schedule had been getting better... Until this feud with Jurn Simmons. One offhanded mention of his dad and an unforgiving match was all it took to give Axel a restless night.

"And you're sure those bruises aren't bothering you either?" Walter questioned.

Axel snickered,"Walter.."

"You're my bets friend, Axel. I don't want you hurting mentally and physically.. I don't want you hurting at all." Walter sighed.

"Aw, isn't that sweet?' Axel smiled up at him,"You're such a softie deep down."

"Repeat that phrase to anyone and I will not hesitate to chop you." Walter warned.

"Hey- I thought you didn't want to see me hurting." Axel pointed.

"Shh, just sleep." Walter gave Axel a small squeeze.

"I'm sleeping." Axel mumbled, his eyes closed.

"Sleeing people don't talk." Walter gave him a look.

"Sleep talking." Axel whispered.

Walter rolled his eyes and quietly continued running his fingers through Axel's hair to soothe him to sleep. It worked like a charm, his friend falling asleep almost instantly in his arms. Walter fell asleep shortly after, resting his head against Axel's as he did so. To both of them, this was something normal, something they did because they were closer friends... But everyone else had other ideas. They were constantly being mistaken for a couple. The issue with that is that Walter was straight and Axel was asexual with no interest in relationships.

The main thing that got people assuming their relationship status wasn't just Axel's clinginess, but Walter's overprotectiveness of him. Walter had actually started doing this thing where he would wrap an arm around Axel's waist to guide him closer to or behind him when he sensed any sort of danger. Axel found it so funny and cute whenever Walter did it, because it was such a subconscious reflex at this point. And gradually, it morphed into Walter doing it regardless of his anger... Even when it was directed at Axel himself.

"You treat all these things so.. Emotionally." Walter sighed.

"Emotionally- Are we seriously on that again?" Axel scoffed.

"You lost your championship, you're upset, I understand that." Walter told him,"But when you're a three-time world champion you see things differently."

And Axel rolled his eyes,"Walter, I've known you for ten tears but I'm really sick of hearing that."

"Hearing what? Axel, I'm trying to give you advice that you need." Walter stated.

"And it's the same advice you've been giving me for ten years." Axel shook his head,"I get that you're more experienced but don't you think I've grown at all since then?"

"Axel, it isn't like that." Walter sighed.

"Then what is it like?" Axel questioned,"You know I'm not the same kid you beat across the Markthalle until I bled. It's not 2013 anymore. Don't you think I've stepped up?"

"Well.." Walter looked off to the side.

"Walter- I can't believe you still think I'm some fucking child!" Axel snapped,"I just lost my title and you're already taking a shot at it? Really?"

"Really, maybe you'll listen to me if I'm a four-time champion." Walter nodded.

"Wow." Axel scoffed,"It's really great to know how little my feelings matter to you."

"I didn't say that." Walter pointed.

"Well, that's what it feels like. That's how I feel when you and Christian talking behind my back- Do you really think I can't hear? Can't see what's happening?" Axel continued.

"Axel, enough." Walter warned him.

"No- You're not telling me how to feel or how to act!" Axel shook his head,"We're going to sort this out right now-"

But before Axel could finish, he was cut off as Walter wrapped and arm around his waist and pulled him close to his chest. Walter went quiet, knowing instantly that he messes up. Yes, he intended to calm Axel down but.. His first instinct was to pull him in close. Walter was internally cursing at himself for not thinking before he felt the tension melting from Axel's body and.. He began to giggle. Walter felt himself relaxing too, just at the sound of Axel's laughter even if he tried to keep up the serious look.

"Walter-" Axel looked up at him.

"Shut up." Walter stopped him.

But Axel just laughed, resting his head on Walter's shoulder,"This isn't going to help the rumors, y'know."

"Fuck the rumors." Walter muttered.

"Guess we can agree on that." Axel nodded, wrapping his arms around Walter.

"Don't even think about getting comfortable." Walter looked down at him.

"Too late." Axel hummed.

But Axel was right. It was crap like that, Walter pulling Axel close and Axel letting it happen that made people think they were a couple. No matter how many times they disputed this fact, no matter how often they reminded people of their orientation, it was always the same. No one believed that Walter played solely for one team and they didn't believe that Axel wasn't in the game at all either. It all came to ahead while Axel was waiting in the locker room, blissfully unaware of what was about to happen... Until Walter stormed in and slammed the door behind him.

Axel tensed,"Who's pissed you off now?"

"Everyone!" Walter groaned as he sat down.

"Careful, they'll probably be in to change soon so make it quick." Axel sighed as he walked over to him.

"If I need to answer one more question about how our night was, I'm going to put them through the wall." Wakter threatened.

"Our night?" Axle blinked before he realized what Walter meant,"Oh.. Right."

"Because I know stuff like that makes you uncomfortable and I hate how they just don't believe us." Walter shook his head,"It's not right, I just-"

Walter let out another groan before he wrapped an arm around Axel's waist and pulled him close, pulled him onto his lap. In the past, they'd tried to just laugh all this off but Walter was clearly getting frustrated by it all. Axel knew it would do nothing to silence the rumors, especially after a few people walked in and out, seeing the pair in that position.. But they didn't care. It calmed them both down. They breathed deeply, as one, as Walter nestled his head against Axel's neck and Axel pressed his back to Walter's chest.

"They're never going to understand, are they?" Axel asked quietly.

"No, Axel.. They won't." Walter sighed.

"..That's okay." Axel swallowed.

"It isn't." Walter stated,"You know it isn't, and I know it upsets you."

"Maybe." Axel shrugged,"But.. You understand me. And I think that's all I need for now."

Chapter Text

"So.. You think this is a good idea?" Thatcher raised a brow.

"Why not?" Walter shrugged,"We were bound to need an apprentice sooner or later to continue on the Ringkampf ideas."

"I know that, you just didn't strike me as the.. Mentor type." Thatcher nodded.

"Not particularly, no, I'm not." Walter shook his head,"But this is necessary."

"Will they be staying with me or you?" Thatcher asked.

"Me." Walter answered quickly,"With your visa issues, I think I would be a better fit. Consistency is key."

All of Thatcher's questions about the situation were answered by Walter. Essentially, wXw was going to hold its own version of Tough Enough where instead of a WWE contract, the winner would receive a year-long apprenticeship in Ringkampf. Those competing would go through Walter's wrestling school and the last one remaining would be declared the winner. It took about ten seconds of the trainees arriving at the school for Thatcher to study each one and scribble down two or three names out of the twenty starting out that he thought were possible winners.

Now, Tim was never a betting man, but within minutes of knowing these people, he knew who he wanted to win. Walter repeatedly asked at the end of each day who he thought was going to win, yet the Californian stayed silent. Day by day, people were eliminated, they dropped out, quit and gave up. By the end, only one person truly deserved a spot at their side... Axel Dieter Jr. He would never admit it out loud, but Thatcher had grown quite fond of the boy for being such a stubborn, little weed. It reminded him of himself.

Of course he excelled in the wrestling and promo sections compared to the others, but Axel also won largely by virtue of his respect and work ethic. Pure dedication. His age wasn't lost on either man either. Axel was the baby of the trainees, barely eighteen years old. That also earned him points in Walter's eyes as the boy would be more malleable, easier to get him into good habits that those a few years older may struggle to get fully invested in. Walter was twenty-eight by that point and Thatcher was a few years older than him. There was a maturity gap, Walter knew that, but he assumed that would make it easier for Axel to respect him.

"Thank you for this opportunity, sir." Axel grinned up at him as they made their way to Walter's home.

Yes, Walter did enjoy Axel looking up at him all star-struck and full of wonder.. But he was getting tired of the 'thank you' stuff already. He could tell Axel was grateful, but it was tiring listening to him rambling even for just this long.

"Don't mention it." Walter nodded as he opened the door,"You'll be staying here for your apprenticeship, after that we'll assess whether you should remain with us going forward."

"Yes, sir, of course. I really can't thank you enough for this." Axel shook his head.

"While we're at it, don't talk so much." Walter pointed,"I prefer a quite home and it's much easier to think without constant chatter."

"Right." Axel blinked, nodding slowly,"Sorry, sir."

"Don't worry, I wouldn't punish you on your first day. You don't even know your rules and expectations yet so it would hardly be fair." Walter told him.

Axel simply nodded, trying to hide how he physically shrunk after Walter's comment. He'd only just been given this opportunity and here he was, finding some way to mess it up for himself. But it was okay, because Axel was going to fix it, he was going to be a good apprentice. If Walter preferred the quiet, then Axel would stay quiet- Hell, he'd be silent unless spoken too if that's what Walter wanted. He just wanted to please Walter..

As Walter's apprentice, Axel had many rules that he had to follow. Pretty much all the chores were Axel's responsibility, to teach discipline, and he had to complete them to a high standard. He wasn't to watch TV or even listen to music unless said songs were agreed upon by Walter. There were rules about what he ate too, and while Axel was never starved, there were no indulgences or treats permitted, even after exceptional behavior. The only leniency Axel was really allowed was when it came to his uniform, allowing him to wear more causal attire that was approved by Walter when not training or at shows, but it had to be earned and there were still restrictions. Screen time too, that was a privilege, not a right.

Walter never intended to but as he and Axel spent a significant amount of time together, Walter started to grow fond of his apprentice. Initially, that's all he was viewed as. An apprentice. But Walter began seeing him moreso as a younger brother, though not an equal. Never an equal. In Walter's mind, it had become his sworn duty to protect Axel and raise him right.

Axel was excited and honestly still honored to have this opportunity, doing what he could to stay in Walter's favor. The wrestling school trained three days a week and there was some extra ring time available to him, which he took full advantage of, but that was it. They worked privately on fitness, saving their actual wrestling practice for when they were in the school with others. There was one thing Walter always seemed to forget, no matter how mucht time he spent with Axel. His age. After all, Axel was still a teenager and he wasn't perfect all of the time.

One afternoon, after training harder than usual, they both returned to the house but.. Axel was so tired. His muscles ached and he could feel himself struggling to stay awake in the car. He really hadn't slept well the night before so he was exhausted... But Walter didn't seem to take notice or care.

"Hm.. If you start on your chores now, you should have enough time to finish them before you have to start on dinner." Walter told him.

"..No." Axel mumbled, his voice coming out more like a whine, rubbing his tired eyes.

But Walter paused,"Excuse me..?"

"Walter, I'm just tired." Axel shook his head,"I promise I'll do my chores later, can I just.. Lay down? Five minutes, that's all I-"

But before Axel could even process the words he was saying, a hand came hard and fast against his chest. Axel staggered back, the air knocked out of him and he tried to resteady himself.. What-

"Down." Walter spat.

"What?" Axel's voice came out as a pathetic whimper, quiet and shaky.

"Remove your shirt and put your arms down." Walter repeated, his sharp glare following Axel's every movement.

Axel didn't speak, just completing the instruction he was given. He took off his shirt and kept his arms at his sides.. Was he shaking? Axel didn't get to think too long on it before Walter chopped him again and he had to swallow down the cry that tried to escape his lips. No. Don't cry. He couldn't cry in front of Walter and prove that he was just some.. Weak-willed boy. He'd disappointed Walter, therefore Axel deserved every strike that came to him.. However many Walter saw fit. Thankfully, it was only one more.

"Firstly, you always address me as 'sir'. Not Walter." Walter pointed,"I am your mentor, not your friend. We are not equals."

"Yes, sir." Axel nodded.

"Second, if I ask you to do something, you do it. I don't care how tired you are, that's life. You have to remain disciplined if you want to stay here." Walter pointed,"Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes, sir." Axel answered.

"Good. Now, you get those chores done and go sit in your room." Walter instructed.

"Yes, sir." Axel finished.

And he did. Despite his exhaustion and the ache in his muscles and the now constant sting of his chest.. Axel completed his chores. Then, he prepared dinner, just for Walter. He was sure Walter would agree that he didn't deserve anything after speaking out of turn and being so disrespectful. He plated it up and placed it in front of Walter, refusing to make eye contact before heading to 'his room'. Axel's room was just Walter's room where he slept on the floor in a little corner by Walter's bed.

Axel sat down in his little corner and pulled out his little journal. He didn't write in it much, barely having the time, but when he did it was only really to note down feedback given by Walter during training and shows and to keep track of his progress. This time, Axel made a list of all the traits he could think that he had. Within a few minutes, the page was filled and Axel sat there, underlining some and scoring through others. In order to be perfect, Axel would need to.. Adjust himself, remove parts of himself that Walter wouldn't approve of until he was left with a list of traits and behaviors he thought Walter would be approving of. Quiet. Respectful. Disciplined. Organized. Serious. Obedient.. If he didn't think he had a certain trait, he would list the the opposite of one he had, like organized, and decided that those were simply which parts of himself needed worked on.

Axel had been left alone for a while, yet never left the room. He wasn't instructed to. But.. Then Walter entered the room and looked down at him, still sat on the floor before he... Placed a small bowl in front of him. Axel blinked, realizing it was a bowl of rice and he had to try and resist grinning like a small child.

"Thank you, sir." Axel looked up at him.

"I didn't want you starving, even if you didn't deserve a proper meal." Walter told him, patting Axel's head,"Eat."

And he did. Axel was more than grateful to eat, even if it was only a bowl of rice, it was more than he accepted to be given. Walter sat on the edge of his bed as he watched Axel. He hadn't wanted to strike his apprentice, but he needed to learn sooner or later what would happen if he was intentionally disrespectful. Walter really had no choice but to respond with marked heavy-handedness. He wouldn't tolerate that from anyone, let alone his apprentice.. But he was sure Axel learned a valuable lesson and would never act up like that again.

But this just created a very.. Unhealthy dynamic between the pair as they lived together during those months. Axel felt wanted and valued within Ringkampf, but only if he behaved, and Walter felt like Axel was a valuable member of Ringkampf and a friend he wanted to keep around.. But only if he behaved. So Axel changed more and more of himself and who he was before to better suit what Walter wanted. Thatcher was really in for a shock when he returned from America.

It was Axel who answered the door and even of it had only been a few months, Thatcher almost didn't recognize him. He didn't look different, but he certainly acted different. Axel was.. Quiet and almost all traces of the excitable, young boy he met before were gone. The one he noticed most was.. His smile. Axel used to have such a bright smile and Thatcher couldn't see it anymore. When he entered the house and started talking to Walter, Axel didn't speak up or interject. He stayed quiet. In fact, he stood to attention nearby, just in case either man needed him until Walter sent him away.

"Walter, what did you do to him?" Thatcher questioned.

"I've just been teaching him how things work around here." Walter shrugged.

"You haven't put him on our schedule, have you?" Thatcher raised a brow.

"Of course I did, how else will he keep up with us?" Walter asked.

"Walter." Thatcher sighed,"He isn't ready to be worked like us. He's exhausted- You need to work up to it, you can't just push him."

"Not going soft over and apprentice, are you?" Walter gave him a look.

"Not going soft, being reasonable." Thatcher shook his head,"If you keep going like this, you're going to kill him."

Walter didn't seem to believe Thatcher when he said that, but.. Thatcher wasn't used to being the reasonable one. He and Walter were both stubborn, butting heads often but.. Thatcher couldn't agree with his friend here. He was all about being strict with himself but he could also see that Axel was just a boy and doing this to him.. Was dangerous. In a few months, everything Thatcher remembered about their apprentice was that he was kind and hard-working, that he had a sweet smile and a love of their great sport.

Thatcher got up and headed towards Walter's room, instead coming across Axel as he left the bathroom. His eyes were still tired but red now, like he'd been crying. Thatcher sighed and crossed his arms as Axel straightened under his gaze.

"Kid, are you okay?" Thatcher asked him.

"I'm more than okay, sir, I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be." Axel nodded.

Thatcher blinked, not ready to be addressed like that,"You sure? You look pretty tired to me."

"I'm fine, sir." Axel insisted.

"Axel.. How much have you given up for him?" Thatcher questioned,"Because you don't smile anymore."

Axel paused before shaking his head,"I.. I don't really know who I am anymore, sir. But it's worth it- All of it is, I promise."

"Shh." Thatcher hushed him as he pulled Axel close.

Axel tensed,"And- And one day, Walter will see all I've done for him, to make him happy and.. And he'll see me as an equal."

"Axel." Thatcher sighed, rubbing his back.

"He will." Axel clung onto him tightly,"..Right?"

Thatcher stayed quiet as he held his apprentice, doing what he could to calm and soothe him. He still thought it was worth it, after everything he'd given up for Walter. His personality, his freedom, his light.. It hurt Thatcher to witness, how his once sweet and somewhat loud apprentice had become a shell of himself, carved out his undesirable traits and developed such a need to please for.. A man that would never care for him the way he deserved. But Thatcher would care. He had to... Because nobody else would.

Chapter Text

Kaiser whined as he rolled over onto his side, now awake and struggling to get back to sleep. Bright.. The light was on- Why was the light on? He knew Thatcher and Wolfe had stayed over since they were all driving to the next show together, but had they stayed up late? They didn't usually, especially not in sight of Gunther. But then it hit him. Gunther. Kaiser sat up on the floor where he'd fallen asleep and checked Gunther's bed beside him, finding it empty. Of course.

So Kaiser rubbed any lingering sleep from his eyes as he got up and wandered out into the living room, dragging his tired feet with him. That's where he found him. Gunther. Gunther was sat upright on the sofa, his eyes fixated on the floor and his hands tightly gripping his thighs. Kaiser immediately softened at the sight and approached him slowly, taking his place on the sofa beside him but giving his friend enough space, unsure if he was just upset or if he was in a more.. Aggressive headspace.

"Gunther, are you okay?" Kaiser asked him after a few moments.

"..I'm fine." Gunther mumbled.

"Was it another nightmare?" Kaiser tilted his head to the side.

Gunther finally moved at the question, turning his head away,"You know I don't get those."

"You know I'm here for you, right?" Kaiser hesitated before covering Gunther's hand with his own,"I care about you, we all do, and you can always talk to me if you need to."

After he finished, Kaiser closed his eyes and braced himself. He was ready for Gunther's hand to be ripped away from him and for a chop to cut across his chest.. But it didn't. The anticipated chop never came and as Kaiser opened his eyes, he saw Gunther's shoulders sink. Gunther couldn't speak, couldn't get out any words as he looked at Kaiser. And Kaiser smiled, scooching over to Gunther's side and hugging onto him.

"Kaiser.." Gunther swallowed.

"Shh, I'm here." Kaiser rubbed his back,"You're safe, I've got you."

"God dammit.." Gunther cursed under his breath as he leaned into Kaiser's touch.

"I know." Kaiser nodded slowly,"Please.. If you need me at all, just wake me. I'll take a little less sleep if it means you get more."

"I couldn't, not to you." Gunther shook his head,"I mean, I should be comforting you."

"We're not doing this again." Kaiser pointed.

"Look at me, Kaiser. Do I look like the type of man that would-" Gunther shook his head.

"Gunther, please.." Kaiser stopped him, pulling his friend closer,"That doesn't change what happened to you and you're allowed to feel.. Like this."

Gunther went quiet again, letting Kaiser cuddle him because.. He was comforted by it, even if he didnt think he should be on the receiving end of said comfort. Imperium were the only ones who got to see this side of Gunther, the broken and vulnerable side and Kaiser.. Saw the most. Maybe it was because Kaiser understood what he'd been through and was desperate to try and help him heal. Gunther.. Struggled. The first step of healing was usually coming to terms with the fact that someone hurt you, and Gunther would still never admit that it happened. Because it shouldn't have happened, not to him.

It was his ex-wife. Everything between them was perfect, until it wasn't. Until he wasn't. All of Imperium knew that something went down, but Gunther vehemently refused to give them any details whatsoever. And for the most part, Imperium accepted that. It wasn't their place to force Gunther into speaking, no matter how much they wanted to shake him until he told them exactly what went down. Part of Gunther hated how patient Kaiser was with him, sitting and talking with him when all Gunther would answer back with was snappy responses and glares. No matter what, Kaiser kept sitting with him..

"It.. It was a nightmare." Gunther spoke up.

"I know." Kaiser hummed softly,"Do you want to talk about it?"

"..No." Gunther shook his head, though he didn't consider it.

"Then we don't have to." Kaiser nodded,"Just remember, I'll never judge you for them."

Gunther bit his cheek as he wrapped his arms around Kaiser,"Thank you.."

"Gunther, you're my best friend. You don't have to thank me for this." Kaiser told him.

But Gunther didn't answer him, and Kaiser was okay with that. They'd made a considerable amount of progress that night, considering this was the first time Gunther had ever admitted to suffering from a nightmare. Gunther's headspace probably helped with that. When he was more.. Stuck in what was in his head, he tended to yell and lash out, physically. Kaiser was the one to bare the brunt of this punishment, especially since it often happened on TV. It was usually in the script, but sometimes Gunther got lost in the moment. Sometimes it.. Wasn't scripted. But Kaiser wasn't going to turn his back on his friend, no matter what.

The rest of their day went normally, a quiet breakfast and then a long drive down to the arena. Thatcher drove and Kaiser spent his time in the backseat trying to keep Gunther calm, but it was clear he was still on edge. The drive only made him worse, more tense, so Imperium played along. They acted as obedient soldiers at the arena, followed Gunther's every command, no matter how snappy or how much they wanted to push back. Gone was the soft-spoken early morning talk.. It was replaced with sharp words that cut through Kaiser like daggers. There was no reprieve.

Before his match, harsh words and rough shoving by the shoulder. After his match, chopped to the floor with more strength than usual. In the locker room that quickly emptied as he raised his voice..

"You were a disgrace out there tonight- You represent Imperium. You represent me. And that is how you act?" Gunther snapped at Kaiser.

And Kaiser stood to attention,"I'm sorry, sir."

"Sorry? You're sorry, huh?" Gunther shoved Kaiser's shoulder, yet he didnt react.

"Yes, sir. It won't happen again." Kaiser nodded.

And Kaiser was becoming nervous. His stoic facade seemed to be making Gunther angrier. Did he want an argument? Did he want him to fight back? The thought dawned on Kaiser that, yes, that's probably exactly what Gunther wanted in that moment. From what he'd gathered, picking fights over nothing was something his ex had done. She wanted a reaction. He wanted a reaction. But Kaiser wouldn't give him that.

"It better not." Gunther glared at him.

"It won't." Kaiser repeated,"I'll make sure of it."

"You better not fail me again." Gunther grabbed Kaiser's shoulder and pulled him in,"Because failure is not tolerated in Imperium."

"..Would you kick me out? After everything?" Kaiser asked, unable to prevent the fear from slipping out in his voice.

"Everyone is replaceable." Gunther spat before shoving Kaiser back, quite forcibly.

Kaiser, slightly shaken, wasn't ready for the more powerful shove and stumbled back against the lockers. He clattered against the metal and almost instantly grabbed the back of his head as he slid to the floor, letting out a small wince. His back stung and before he could respond, Thatcher and Wolfe.. Were protecting him. Thatcher had knelt at his side, a firm hand on his shoulder while Wolfe stood in front of them.

"Move, Alex." Gunther sighed.

"No." Wolfe shook his head,"You know I love you, but that is enough of that."

"Do you want replaced next? Because I can get rid of you all if I must." Gunther threatened,"Do you understand?"

"If that's what you really think, sir, but not if you're just saying what she told you." Thatcher scoffed.

"Tim." Kaiser looked up at him quickly.

Gunther.. Paused. He had no retort, despite how his face twisted, searching for something. He clenched his fists, still angry but.. Said nothing. In his on edge state, Gunther hadn't realized he was just repeating her words, her threats to his men. They knew he would never get rid of them and.. And Kaiser. Gunther watched on as Thatcher helped Kaiser to his feet, the slender German still smiling over at him. Fuck... Gunther needed to fix this, didn't he? No, he needed to fix himself.

They drove all the way back to Gunther's house, with Wolfe sat in between Gunther and Kaiser this time and they all gave Gunther space. He hated it. He wished they'd come and speak to him so he could.. Try and make things better. But he didnt want to initiate it. Thankfully, someone did come to see him. Kaiser. Kaiser yawned as he entered Gunther's bedroom and went to take his place on the floor before Gunther wrapped his arms around his waist and pulled him onto his lap.

"Sir-" Kaiser began, but Gunther stopped him.

"I.. Kaiser, I've been horrible to you." Gunther rested his head on Kaiser's shoulder.

"Gunther.." Kaiser sighed,"I'm not angry or upset- You're dealing with things."

"I hurt you." Gunther forced out, his voice breaking.

"Shh, come here." Kaiser wrapped his arms around Gunther and rubbed his back.

And Gunther.. Cried. He sobbed into Kaiser's shoulder as he tried to process what he'd done. He got tense, then angry and lashed out.. And he hurt the one person he cared the most about, the one person he couldn't lose. But Kaiser was gentle as he soothed Gunther, even trailing his hand through Gunther's hair to calm him in the same way that Thatcher did to an anxious Kaiser.

"There, there." Kaiser cupped his face,'I'm still here."

"But.. You deserve someone better, someone who wont hurt you." Gunther mumbled.

But Kaiser simply kissed his forehead,"I'm not going anywhere."

"Kaiser.." Gunther swallowed.

"We don't need to make anything serious, not now but.. Maybe once we've both done a bit more healing we could.. Try." Kaiser told him,"You can say no, I just-"

But Gunther laid back, holding Kaiser close to his chest,"Just- Stay. Promise me you'll stay."

"I promise." Kaisef whispered, making himself very comfortable against Gunther's chest,"..I love you."

"I.." Gunther began slowly,"I think I.. Love you too."

Chapter Text

"An apprentice." Walter nodded slowly.

"That's what management said." Wolfe hummed, arms crossed as he leaned back in his chair,"A young thing, they want him to learn from us."

"Great." Walter groaned,"How much experience does he have?"

"Not a lot, from what they've told me but.. It's Dieter's son." Wolfe told him,"He wouldn't be here, at Regal's request, if there wasn't.. Something."

Walter nodded again as he thought. Dieter's son? The son of Axel Dieter? His apprentice? Being a mentor to the son of a man who.. Was greatly looked up to by him. But that boy, someone who Walter saw briefly in the crowds of shows could only be around eighteen.. Just a boy, really. It was a tough industry and if he was Walter's boy.. Well, Walter would make sure he knew that.

"You're thinking." Wolfe gave him a look.

"If he's our apprentice, does that mean our say goes when we're training?" Walter raised a brow.

"Well.. If Regal wasn't lying to me, I suspect that the trainers will be more open to our influence when it comes to Axel." Wolfe answered.

"Axel.." Walter repeated the name,"After his father."

"We can always give him a chance and, if he's useless, hand him back over to management." Wolfe shrugged.

"Good point, though hopefully we won't need to resort to that." Walter pointed.

"Hopefully." Wolfe agreed.

Both men already had one student, Dragunov, though he was mainly Wolfe's responsibility since he was his trainer at wXw. Dragunov was also older, younger than them but closer to their age than Axel was. This was going to be their apprentice, a shared apprentice, but it was looking likely that Walter would take more responsibility. Again, because Wolfe already had Dragunov. Walter felt this was his chance to prove he could train one on one and not just a group.

Meeting Axel was so.. Strange yet oddly refreshing. He was very respectful for his age, already addressing Walter and Wolfe as 'sir', but the overexcited teen couldn't stop rocking back and forth on his feet. Walter would be able to fix that. Walter wasn't sure.. What he was expecting exactly. A kid, sure, but what else? Honestly, he expected arrogance from the boy. A kid with that sort of wrestling pedigree acting like a spoiled brat made perfect sense to Walter. But this? A respectful and relatively sweet kid? Walter.. Wasn't ready for it. But he didn't hate it.

Walter and Wolfe went over all Axel's rules with him in the car and then again in the apartment. He wrote them down on his phone in the car but.. Wolfe took it off him and handed him a notebook instead. Wolfe assured the boy that he wpuld give the device back at some point, but not until he'd applied parental controls and put on a screen time limit. Having to earn screen time and not being allowed a lot was one of his rules, so Axel didn't fight it, even if he looked nervous with his phone in Wolfe's hand.

Walter and Wolfe would handle training with him on most days that they weren't at the PC and when they were, the trainers at NXT UK were allowed their say, but Walter and Wolfe took their advice and were the ones to give it to Axel through exercises. It seemed to work well enough as the boy began making quick progress. And food. Axel wasn't starved because that would just be cruel, though he did eat plain foods, smaller portions and willingly partook in intermittent fasting. Restricted, but not starved. He had a uniform too, but that was more or less so Axel wouldn't just be mistaken for a kid in his jeans and hoodies.

Axel didn't realize how much people enjoyed watching him and his two teachers, how they thought it was cute. But Axel looked up to Walter and Wolfe like they'd hung the moon and stars- They were everything to him. Any command he'd follow without question, well, maybe he questioned some in his head but he didn't verbalize those thoughts at all. Axel.. In the nicest way possible, seemed like a small child who woudl copy the mannerisms of his parents. Exhibit A was when Imperium were talking backstage and were stood to attention, backs straight and arms crossed behind their backs. Axel noticed. Then, he assumed the same positioning and kept glancing up at Walter to mimic his stoic expression and to check if his mentor had noticed. When Walter did notice after the conversation with Regal, he let out an amused huff and ruffled Axel's hair. Good boy.

Aside from that, Walter was known to guide Axel with a gentle hand on his back. Axel loved it, the constant reminder that one of his mentors was right there beside him. But as they walked, Walter stopped to speak with an official and Axel's attention was.. Captured by something else. Someone else. Axel got lost in watching other stars with their bright hair and bright clothes. Woah.. But before long, Walter had finished his conversation and noticed his apprentice wasn't listening so he grabbed him by the scruff of his neck and pulled him in.

"What have I said about saying attention, Axel?" Walter looked down at him.

"To never lose focus, sir." Axel spoke, struggling to make eye contact with Walter.

"And what did you do?" Walter's gaze sharpened and Axel shrunk beneath it.

"I lost focus, sir." Axel swallowed.

"What do you have to say for yourself, hm? Would you allow yourself to be so easily distracted in the ring?" Walter questioned.

"No, sir, and it won't happen again." Axel insisted.

That's the only issue with his apprentice that Walter ever really had. In training and at work, his focus was unmatched. Total concentration. But outside of those environments, his attention could be caught by the slightest movement or a flicker of light. His mind just seemed to wander. And while Walter hated it, his apprentice was always so apologetic and.. He noticed how Axel always gave himself a hard time for struggling to focus, to the point where Walter ended up feeling bad. Like here. Axel wasn't saying anything but Waoter could tell he was mentally berating himself so.. He scooped him up in his coat, breaking him out of those thoughts.

"Sir-" Axel blinked.

"Shh." Walter hushed him,"Just.. Let me do this."

Axel smiled up at him and rested his head on Walter's shoulder. Walter.. Allowed it. He didn't really enjoy such affection, but Axel needed it. All he really needed to do was not pay attention to anyone lingering around because that action, of Walter scooping Axel up in his coat, always made people hide laughs. It was nobody else's business how he treated his apprentice.

While they had their moments such as these, the training was brutal. It definitely wasn't built for the body of an eighteen year old, but Walter and Wolfe.. Seemed to ignore that to an extent. They knew it was hard for Axel, but did they realize just how strenuous their training program was. They had already altered it to better fit Axel, but the boy was always exhausted afterwards, not that he'd let on to them. Dragunov was often around when they trained, grateful that Wolfe allowed him to just train at the PC if he so wished but.. He also respected Axel quite a fair bit. When he was a student, it was in a class with Wolfe as their instructor. Dragunov wasn't sure he'd be able to handle the pressure of being Walter and Wolfe's sole student, especially not at eighteen.

But Dragunov also served another role within the group. Mediator. He knew what both men were like, knew they could be temperamental and irritable, especially if training wasn't going well for them. Dragunov was there to make sure they didn't take their own training frustrations out on Axel. He was just a boy and he didn't deserve that. Like, one session where Wolfe had been redirected on a certain move and both he and Walter were struggling to grasp it.

"What does he even mean?" Walter muttered.

"It doesn't make sense- We've done it that way for years and no one has complained." Wolfe shook his head.

"This is why I avoided coming here for so long." Walter cursed,"Trying to change us, I knew they would."

"Sorry for interrupting, sir, but I've finished what you asked me to do and I was wondering-" Axel began, looking up at Wolfe as he approached.

But Wolfe, not fully processing Axel, swung at him. His hand hit hard against Axel's chest and the boy instantly recoiled, just barely holding back a whimper. Wolfe would've went straight back to his conversation if Dragunov didn't hurry over, wrapping an arm around Axel's shoulder.

"Alex." Dragunov glared at him,"You know you're angry at yourself, not him."

"Ilja." Wolfe sighed.

"No. You don't take your own training aggression out on him." Dragunov pointed,"It isn't fair on either of you."

Wolfe went to fire back.. Until he saw the look on Axel's face. Pain hidden just beneath his eyes, visible as he tried desperately to hide it. And so Wolfe sighed, giving in and placing a hand on Axel's shoulder, causing the boy to quickly look up at him.

"I'm.. Sorry, apprentice. That wasn't fair on you, was it?" Wolfe shook his head.

"I'm okay, sir." Axel assured him.

"I know, but I won't do that to you again. You shouldn't be the one punished for me being angry at myself." Wolfe told him.

Axel resisted his urge to hug Wolfe and simply smiled up at him,"Thank you."

Axel was very thankful for Dragunov, who often stepped in when Axel struggled to find his own voice. He was like an older brother to him, someone looking out for him in a way that his mentors just.. Didn't. Dragunov loved and looked out for him, but he also made sure Axel didn't break any of his rules. But Axel was good, he only needed a few gentle reminders about certain behaviors that were expected of him.

Though one day, Axel was completely drained after training. But he didn't voice a complaint. He did his chores, as he was asked to before wandering back into the living room. Maybe his teachers wouldn't mind if he just went for a quick nap, just a little rest. Axel yawned as he curled on the sofa, trying to take up as little space as possible and covering himself with Walter's hoodie which engulfed him. There. Safe. It only took a few minutes for him to fall asleep... And then only a few more minutes for his mentors to find him.

"So.. Do we wake him?" Wolfe asked.

And Walter shook his head,"No, let the apprentice rest."

"Really?" Wolfe blinked,"He's a good influence on you."

"Shut up." Walter rolled his eyes,"He's been working hard.. He deserves it."

Wolfe nodded, gently ruffling Axel's hair,"He really is just a kid, huh."

"He really is." Walter sighed,"Our kid, in a way."

"Our kid." Wolfe chuckled slightly,"I guess you're right."

Chapter Text

"Such a pretty face." Bernhard purred, trailing his hand over Axel's cheek.

"Thank you." Axel almost had to force his smile, hating how such a simple touch made him feel physically ill.

"But.. If you ever stopped being this beautiful, I'd have no choice but to put you out." Bernhard sighed.

"..Put me out?" Axel blinked.

"Yes, of the house." Bernhard nodded.

And Axel froze, knowing the Bernhard would be able to feel him tense beneath him. No.. He wouldn't be as cruel as that, right? He wouldn't get rid of him, right? But as Axel looked up at the unchanging expression on Bernhard's face, he knew he was serious. He meant it. If he wasn't pretty enough, his boyfriend was going to have him kicked out of the house. Axel had.. Nowhere else to go, not wanting to burden any of his friends with any of his problems. They deserved better than that..

"Aw, don't be scared. Just keep using your little products." Bernhard patted his head,"They'll keep you beautiful."

"I will- I'll be pretty." Axel nodded quickly.

And Bernard smirked, kissing his forehead,"I know you will."

Axel spent many sleepless nights wondering if he was still pretty enough, worrying that at any minute he could be kicked out. This lead to him developing many, many unhealthy and, at times, dangerous habits that were only encouraged and enforced by Bernhard and his cruel desires. Axel had to be weak and rail-thin, easy to overpower and such a delete to watch and admire, but still strong enough to be a believable wrestler. And when Axel got into skincare, at Bernhard's request, to stay beautiful it was all expensive products that Axel could barely afford altogether with his meager salary. It was an easy way to control Axel's finances, keep him dependent, especially if some of his recently purchased products.. Happened to accidentally get thrown out.

And Axel.. Just got used to it. He was expected to fork out the cash the afford new products each time Bernhard wasted them. He was expected to starve and still perform every other night to the best of his abilities. He was expected to be beautiful... And he did it all without voicing a complaint. Axel didn't think anyone would listen, even those he considered friends. They had more important things to focus on and Axel was afraid maybe he'd come across as.. Arrogant or self-absorbed if he mentioned how he felt about having to look good.

"Axel!"

And Axel blinked, realizing where he was as the sudden voice snapped him out of his thoughts. Walter's- No. His and Walter's apartment, the sofa. It was relatively cold that evening so Walter insisted on Axel wearing his hoodie while they shared a blanket and watched one of his favourite documentaries.

"Axel, are you alright?" Walter asked him once he was sure he had Axel's attention.

"Oh, yeah. I was just thinking." Axel shook his head.

"Don't lie to me." Walter grabbed Axel's face, forcing him to look at him,"I know your thinking face. That wasn't it."

Which was true. In Walter's opinion, Axel had a very.. Nice thinking face. He'd furrow his brow and often tilt his head slightly to one side as he tried to think, his lips sometimes forming a pout if he was really trying to come up with an answer. This wasn't that. His demeanor in general was off. Walter knew Axel wasn't thinking, he had zoned out and began worrying.

"Just tell me what's wrong." Walter sighed.

Axel seemed to hesitate, his eyes failing to meet Walter's,"Do you.. Think I'm pretty?"

Walter paused. That.. No, that really wasn't the question Walter expected to hear at all. But Walter wasn't going to lie about how he viewed Axel and his appearance.

"I do." Walter answered, letting go of Axel's face and trailing his hand through Axel's hair instead,"I'm not one to focus on beauty but.. It's hard to ignore yours."

That made Axel smile and his cheeks reddened slightly, bringing some welcome colour to the pale man's face. Before his last relationship with Bernhard, Axel had never seemed to care much about his physical appearance. There was the occasional mumble of self-consciousness, but Walter just brushed most of it off as a young man in a visual business worrying about how he was perceived. He got like that sometimes, even if he wouldn't admit it out loud. But.. This was different.

Axel often sought out his approval, especially when it came to his physical appearance. And Walter would be honest, offering a compliment in the only way he could. But Walter had started to realize that something deeper was going on. Axel wasn't just worrying about his appearance like an anxious teenager, someone made him feel like his worth was dependent on whether or not he was beautiful and Walter had a sneaking suspicion of who.

While Walter worried about him, Axel was actually doing way better than he'd been doing with Bernhard because.. Things were different with Walter. Because his friend didn't demand the expensive skincare, Axel was able to shop around in bargain stores, finding the same brands for way less than before. And because Walter never threw away and wasted any of his products, they lasted much longer as well. That meant that, as long as he was good with his usage, he only really needed to buy his skincare as haircare around twice yearly, maybe more if things went 'off'. And Axel was as grateful for that as for the privilege of eating regularly. Walter was very insisted on that.

In reality, the pair were broke, just like he'd been with Bernhard but.. Better. They had the same amount of money coming in, but it was going to better things so.. Occasionally there was a little extra left over. Axel ended up playing a part in money getting saved as he got very creative with preparing their food. He'd make a roast and then use the leftover bones to make bone broth and vegetable soup. Truthfully, he was grateful to be allowed to eat anything, but especially things like the bone broth because it has collagen. It would help him stay pretty for longer, maybe long enough that Walter would keep him out of pity or.. Fondness.

But all Walter could see was his friend hurting. He saw him shivering in the cold because he was built like nothing. He saw him staring at his reflection in mirrors, the pain of not realizing how beautiful he really was hidden just behind his eyes.. Walter hated seeing his friend like that, so he tried to help. He'd seen Axel choke down green tea daily, so while he was at one of the discount shops, he managed to buy him a variety pack of nine flavors for just ten dollars. When he presented to Axel, he was quiet for a few moments.

"Thank you- So much." Axel smiled up at him,"But I don't want you wasting any money on me."

"Axel, it's not a waste. You would've bought it for yourself if you saw it." Walter shook his head,"Besides, it's got ten of each flavor. For ten dollars, it's actually cheaper than what you usually get."

Axel bit his cheek,"I just-"

"You're not used to people caring about you or people spending money on you." Walter crossed his arms.

"I was always expected to get all the things that were for my skincare." Axel nodded, his voice quiet.

"That doesn't need to be the case anymore." Walter pulled him into a hug,"And.. I can tell you don't really like green tea. You don't have to drink it anymore."

"But I do." Axel told him,"I have to be pretty and.. And you'll keep me around."

And Walter's heart practically shattered hearing his friend talk like that, so he pulled him in tighter. Axel was still talking, telling Walter that he really loved the green tea set and was really excited to try out some new flavors, Walter wasn't listening properly. He just wanted to hold Axel there and not let him go, not let him go until he knew how loved he was. Walter wished he could but he just didn't think he would be able to convince Axel that his value wasn't about his ability to work himself into the ground or be beautiful.

Things came properly crashing to a halt on afternoon when Axel fell ill. Walter had been out all day with Thatcher, talking about things with Christian and he was set to arrive home shortly. Axel, while completing his chores, had decided to try a new recipe that was supposed to be good for his skin. And it tasted alright, but after a while it felt really not good in his stomach. Axel was in a fair bit of pain first, clutching his stomach as he tried to finish his work so he could lie down. Unfortunately, he never got to lie down and rest as he had to hurry to the bathroom to be sick.

Axel, despite everything he'd been through, had never felt this pathetic.. Whimpering over stomach pain, trying to wipe away tears as he threw up in the toilet. He felt awful and probably looked even worse, but he was desperate for Walter to get back. He never wanted to be seen like this but.. But Axel didn't care as much in the moment. Thankfully, he was saved when Walter returned and discovered him curled up by the toilet.

"Axel.. What happened?" Walter asked as he walked over,"You're unwell?"

"I.. I didn't mean go- I was trying to be pretty and it made me feel really bad." Axel forced out, still wiping away tears.

"I'll throw the rest of.. Whatever that is in the kitchen away then, hm?" Walter raised a brow.

And Axel nodded slowly,"Please.."

"Come here." Walter carefully scooped Axel up and the latter immediately held on tightly, burying his face in Walter's shoulder.

"Mm.." Axel whined.

"Shh, I've got you." Walter gently kissed the top of his head as he carried Axel through to his room.

Axel was quiet as Walter laid down, letting him curl up and rest on his chest. It was warm and safe and.. And Axel snuggled in as close as he could get, desperately trying to ignore how his stomach continued twisting and turning.

"Axel, I love you.. Okay?" Walter cupped his face,"I'm willing to support you and help you, but you need to know that being pretty doesn't have to kill you."

"But.. But what if I'm not pretty enough for you anymore?" Axel questioned, eyes still full of tears.

"I've never seen and never will see anyone more beautiful to me than you, but I also love you because of you." Walter stated,"I'm never going to get rid of you because you 'aren't pretty enough'."

Axel sniffled as he held on tighter,"Do you promise..?"

"I promise, Axel." Walter spoke softly, pressing another kiss to the top of his head,"Now rest.. I'll be right here when you open your eyes."

Chapter Text

Gunther let out a quiet hum as he entered his office to start work. Already awaiting him was Kaiser, his campaign manager and most loyal staff member. In his hand, a cup of coffee, made just how Gunther always liked it.

"Sir, there you are." Kaiser hummed as he marched up to him, handing out the cup,"Your coffee?"

"Did you make it for me?" Gunther asked, the faintest hint of a smirk on his face.

"Of course I did." Kaiser nodded, seeming mildly offended by the question,"Nobody else makes it right, so I have to."

And Gunther smiled, ruffling Kaiser's hair as he walked past and sat at his desk. The other man rolled his eyes and fixed his hair before he began explaining what was on Gunther's rota that day. Meetings, forms that needed signed, paperwork that needed filled in and sent away, all the important stuff. Gunther adored just how.. Efficient Kaiser was. Precise. Elegant. Organized. Everything he needed to run for chancellor was essentially handed to him on a silver platter by Kaiser, who he kept close and respected in return.

Yes, the pair were very serious in their political work but.. Gunther did allow a level of understanding between them, an amount of softness. No other employee would receive a playful hair ruffle, no other employee was trusted to know all of Gunther's important business or trusted with all these specific task and no other employee was permitted to sit at Gunther's desk with him and work. Only Kaiser. Most of the time they'd be working on separate tasks, but sometimes they would sit in silence beside each other working and.. Even though Kaiser was always good with getting tasks done, he always seemed to work better with Gunther, even if they didn't interact.

"So.. Do you think I'll get the job?" Gunther asked, halting the movement of his pen.

"Of course I do." Kaiser answered, his eyes not leaving his paper,"You're the most qualified and professional. Plus, the people like you. There's no reason why you shouldn't."

"Elections are always tricky though." Gunther sighed.

"Sir, you'll be fine. You have nothing to worry about." Kaiser hummed, sitting his pen down and finally looking over at Gunther.

Kaiser was.. Special. The way he carried himself, his eyes, his smile, all of it. Gunther couldn't get enough of that, he needed Kaiser close at hand at all times. That was his most trusted advisor and the only true friend he could say he had in the world of politics. Everyone else could lie to his face or stab him in the back. But Kaiser wouldn't. And Gunther trusted that completely.

"I'll be with you every step of the way, like I always have been." Kaiser assured him.

"I'm very thankful for that. Truly, I couldn't have done any of this without you." Gunther told him.

And Kaiser smiled softly, quickly looking away,"I merely do what I can to help you succeed."

"Merely? Please, give yourself some more credit." Gunther sighed,"You're the most hardworking person in this office, by a long shot."

"Sir." Kaiser chuckled, slightly embarrassed by the praise.

"I'm serious. You have such an extreme workload and you still manage to do all of it better than people doing half of it." Gunther pointed.

"I just.. I do my best." Kaiser shrugged.

Kaiser was too humble, in Gunther's opinion. At his rank, with his skillset and abilities, most people would expect Kaiser to have the ego to back it up. He didn't. In public, with Gunther, he acted in a way that made it look like he did, carrying himself with such poise and elegance, scanning the crowd and remaining utterly focused during speeches. When he spoke, which was rarely, he was articulate and to the point. Honest. The people trusted him, which was a strange rarity in politics.

And as the election date grew closer and closer, Gunther and Kaiser spent more and more late nights at the office. Typically, they left together but as they stayed later and later, Gunther began making Kaiser go home to rest so he didn't end up overworking himself and getting ill. Tonight was one of those nights, far later in the office than either of them should've been. Kaiser finished his own work hours ago, but Gunther was still working on finishing a few things.

"And sir, if you add.." Kaiser yawned, rubbing his eyes,"Add that to the formatting then-"

"Right, you've had enough." Gunther stopped him.

"Sir?" Kaiser blinked.

"Kaiser, you're exhausted. I've kept you far too late, it's nearly eleven." Gunther shook his head,"Go home and get some sleep before tomorrow."

"Can't I help you finish this, sir?" Kaiser asked him,"You're nearly done, after all."

"No. Go and rest." Gunther pointed,"That's an order."

"..Yes, sir." Kaiser nodded.

"Good boy." Gunther sighed.

Kaiser did seem to linger as he packed up his things, almost waiting for Gunther to change his mind. But he never did, adamant that his employee actually went home. Knowing Kaiser, he'd be more than happy to stay the night and sleep there, but Gunther couldn't allow that. So, Kaiser left the office that night and tensed in the autumn chill as he clutched the strap of his bag close to his chest. Alone. Kaiser didn't much like walking alone... But he wasn't alone for long.

"Look what we have here boys- The campaign manager, all on his own."

"How about we send him back to Gunther with a little message, hm?"

"A message he won't forget."

Kaiser barely had time to react as he was forced into a nearby alley by the group of men. They forced him to the ground, one of them restraining his arms as they kicked his ribs. That night, Axel was kicked, stamped on, punched.. He was bloodied and brusied on the street, trembling as he tried to pick himself up from the concrete. Everything hurt- It stung and he just wanted the feeling to go away. Kaiser didn't know these men, only assuming them to be Gunther's rivals by their attitudes and the sayings they kept spouting. And Kaiser.. Didn't know what to do.

What if they knew where he stayed? What if they were still around? What if they were nearby? Kaiser felt scared and unsafe and unsure of what to do so.. He decided to make his way to the safest place he knew. Gunther office. Kaiser knew he wouldn't be able to drive like this and he knew that Gunther's office was close enough to stagger and limp back too. And he did, taking in as many shaky breaths as he could while trying to ignore the pain throughout his body. Eventually, he made it to Gunther's open door and knocked on it, seeing Gunther still sat at his desk.

"Yes?" Gunther responded, not looking up.

"S-sir?" Kaiser forced out, his voice shaking.

"Ah, Kaiser. Did you forget anything?" Gunther looked up at him before his face dropped,"Kaiser-"

"I-I.. I didn't know where to go." Kaiser swallowed, unable to stop himself from trembling.

Gunther was quick to stand up and help Kaiser over to his desk. The poor man was shaken and didn't speak much at all as Gunther bandaged his cuts and tended to his bruises. The poor thing was terrified and Gunther eased him into his arms, holding him close to his chest. Gunther felt the shaky rise and fall of Kaiser's chest as he let out each shaky breath. It only hit him then, seeing Kaiser in that state that Gunther realized how real this politics thing was and that there were real consequences for his actions.

Kaiser didn't go home that night. Gunther helped him out of the office and to his car, driving Kaiser back to his home instead. He didn't think the German noticed, still struggling to calm his breathing as Gunther brought him inside and to the spare room. Gunther got Kaiser into bed, letting him wear one of his shirts that drowned his slender frame and gently patting his head.

"I'm sorry.." Kaiser sniffled,"I didn't mean- I.. Everything just.. Happened."

"Shh, it wasn't your fault." Gunther told him.

"It wasn't..?" Kaiser asked quietly.

"No. No, it wasn't." Gunther wrapped an arm around Kaiser's waist.

"I didn't want to.. Embarrass you." Kaiser admitted, resting his head on Gunther's shoulder,"But- Sir, I was scared. I-"

"I know." Gunther rubbed his back,"And I'm sorry I wasn't there to protect you."

"Sir-" Axel went to speak.

"Don't. I should have been there." Gunther stopped him,"I kept you late and you got hurt because you were alone.. And I'm sorry."

Kaiser stayed quiet before cuddling against Gunther's chest. He just needed the comfort.. He needed to be close to his safe person. And Gunther allowed it, holding onto Kaiser quite tightly. His boy, his closest friend was hurt because of him and.. That hurt. Just knowing this was his fault, looking over all the bandages and bruises.. Gunther rested his chin on Kaiser's head, making a silent promise to protect him that night. Kaiser would be safe under his watch from now on and nobody was ever going to touch him again.

Chapter Text

"Papa.." Axel sniffled, refusing to come out from under the sink.

"I know, Axel. I know it hurts." Dieter sighed softly,"Just let me see, okay?"

But Axel shook his head,"No- No, please.."

"I won't touch it." Dieter raised his hands,"I just want to see so I can help you."

Then, Axel looked up at him, eyes wet with unshed tears and his face covered in red spots. Since he started puberty, Axel developed quite painful acne over his face, to the point where he couldn't, or wouldn't, go to school. It hurt Dieter to see his son in so much pain so he did his research and figured out some things that could help him.

Firstly, a rather complex skincare routine. Dieter purchased all the products and figured out an order, making Axel a list to follow just to make things easier for him. He also put Axel on a strict diet, which Axel was less fond of than the skincare.. But at that point, he was just desperate for the pain to stop. And over time, it did. Axel's acne cleared up almost like it was never there, but he continued with his skincare and remained on the diet until.. Well, now, really. Axel was scared that if he ever stopped, then it would come back worse.

Hell, it did come back but only briefly. Axel was curious to see what would happen if he did stop using all his products so.. Gradually, one by one, he stopped. It only took a few days of taking out some steps for the beginnings of spots to start to appear again and Axel was quick to get right back to using everything. Axel did end up enjoying his routine for the aesthetic benefits, the soft, porcelain skin that attracted more attention than he was expecting, but it was mostly healthcare for him. If he didn't moisturize, his face was dry out to the point of bringing him to tears.

But whispers traveled far and rumors ran wild throughout the training school. They spoke of Axel's 'unhealthy' relationship with food and his body issues. Axel knew he had a rather strict relationship with food, but it wasn't unhealthy. He just knew what his body needed to not have a reaction. His complex and 'obsessive' skincare routine always ended up in the conversation, despite him only really moisturizing after training because he'd probably sweated off the rest. Allegations of him being abused or generally mistreated was what came up the most, that was why they assumed he was the way he was instead of just.. Asking. They assumed. They assumed he was fragile, breakable. Axel wasn't fragile.

Nobody said any of these things to his face, no, it was all whispering behind closed doors that fell quiet when he walked in. It was the sympathetic look or looks of concern that came his way whenever he was simply existing in his own space. These worries.. Probably came from a place of care, but Axel still hated them. He used to respond to people who whispered, he used to tell them the truth but.. Axel found out quickly that nobody believed him. There was no point trying to reason with people like that, people who refused to listen. It just meant Axel ended up isolating himself from people who he used to consider friends, which didn't help any rumors either.

"Axel." Walter called him over during their break.

"Walter?" Axel raised a brow, walking up to him,"Is there something you need?"

"After class, I want to speak with you." Walter stated.

"About what? My training?" Axel blinked.

"No, some.. Concerns have been brought to my attention. I'd rather speak to you directly than listen to any rumors." Walter explained.

"..Not used to people bringing things to me directly." Axel nodded slowly.

"I'm nothing if not straight to the point." Walter gave him a slight nudge,"Now go, we'll talk after class. You've got training to do."

"Whatever you say, sir." Axel smirked and turned around.

But Walter repaid him with a light smack to the back of the head,"Don't call me 'sir'."

"Right- I'm sorry." Axel clutched the back of his head, unable to hide his grin.

Axel wasn't sure why Walter didn't like being called 'sir'. He dealt with it if addressed that way in training by simply nodding and trying to ignore the phrase. But even someone like Axel, probably one of the only two people in training that Walter could tolerate outside of said training, would receive light reprimands for even jokingly calling Walter 'sir'. Axel just.. He was worried. He was worried about what Walter would say, what he would ask. Axel had all but given up trying to explain himself to everything else but.. Maybe Gunther would be worth the effort. Maybe Gunther would finally listen to him.

For the rest of that training session, Axel was lost in his own thoughts. He was so excited to explain himself and to be listened to but.. He was scared, too. What if Walter didn't listen? What if his friend didn't understand? What if he just ended up even more isolated and alone? Axel wasn't sure he'd be able to handle loosing Walter as a friend.. But Axel took in a deep breath, trying to keep his face as neutral as possible as he met up with Walter after class.

"Walter." Axel spoke softly, unable to hide the worry in his voice.

"Axel, come here." Walter beckoned him closer.

And Axel sat beside Walter on the bench, trying to keep his posture straight.. But his hands were shaking. Axel was quick to dig his fingers into his thighs to stop the trembling. It wasn't really helpful.

"You don't have to be afraid, Axel, I just want you to be honest." Walter told him, placing a firm hand on his shoulder,"Are you okay?"

Axel nodded, relaxing under his touch,"Yes."

"And.. Are you aware of the rumors about you?" Walter asked him, his brow raised.

"Too aware." Axel shook his head,"But Walter, I promise you, they aren't true."

"And you're being honest with me?" Walter gave him a look.

"Yes, Walter." Axel nodded quickly.

"I believe you." Walter hummed.

"I promise I would- Wait.. You do?" Axel questioned.

"Of course." Walter patted his back,"You have no reason to lie to me when we're alone. And I.. Your face says it all. You've been dealing with this for a long time, haven't you?"

Axel nodded, rubbing his eyes,"So long.. Nobody believes me. I was scared you wouldn't either."

"So.. Tell me why you do all these things." Walter pulled Axel closer to his side,"You must have some sort of reason, hm?"

Axel bit his cheek,"Acne. I.. I started puberty and got really bad acne. It hurt moving my face at all, nevermind trying to go to school."

"I see." Walter nodded slowly,"Has it ever came back?"

"Not if I use my products and stay on my diet." Axel answered,"I tried to gradually stop once but.. It just started appearing again."

"So it's all just healthcare then?" Walter tilted his head to the side.

"You get it.. I didn't really think it was hard to understand, but I guess it's easier to believe I'm fragile than listen to the truth." Axel sighed.

"I'm always going to listen to you." Walter told him, rubbing his arm.

"I know." Axel leaned against Walter's side,"Thank you."

Chapter Text

Axel hummed as he waited outside of Walter's house, rocking back and forth on his heels as he waited to be let inside. It was getting colder and looked like it was going to rain, going off of the dark clouds overhead. It was strange going to Walter's house just to hang out, not to train or anything. Axel was glad when his friend finally answered the door, smiling at the sight of him.

"Walter." Axel grinned.

"Axel, you're early." Walter told him.

"I didn't want to be late." Axel mumbled.

Walter rolled his eyes,"Come in, it's supposed to get cold soon."

"Thank you." Axel hummed.

Wallter shook his head, unable to hide his own smile as he welcomed Axel inside. Since he knew the temperature was supposed to drop, he made sure the heating was on and he'd already set up everything they needed to watch this documentary. Walter knew Axel was probably sick of him banging on and on about this new documentary, but he was excited to see it when it came out and Axel was more than willing to join because of how excited Walter was over it. Who wouldn't want to watch a documentary about wrestlers of the past and present from all over the world? They certainly did.

The pair sat side by side on the couch, Axel occasionally leaning against Walter's side. He couldn't help it, his friend was just.. Comfortable. Both of them were so focused on the documentary that they didn't notice the change in the weather, how the rain they'd anticipated became snow all too quickly.. But soon, the documentary was over and they'd have to come to that realization themselves.

"So.. Enjoy yourself?" Axel looked over at Walter.

"I did, yes." Walter nodded,"Maybe next time they'll include your dad."

Axel's face softened slightly,"Yeah.. Maybe."

"Oh- Axel, looks like it got a little colder than anticipated." Walter cleared his throat.

"What?" Axel blinked as he turned to the window.

The entirety of the outside was coated in a blanket of pure white snow, and it was still falling too. Rapidly. They were in the midst of a rather intense and sudden snowstorm.. Axel got up quickly and reached for the door, trying to open it. Twice. And nothing. The door was probably frozen shut or they were snowed in, either way, Axel was stuck.

"Huh.. I hope you don't mind me staying a little longer, Walter." Axel looked back at him.

"Of course not." Walter shook his head,"Come sit."

The heating was running the whole time the pair were sat in the couch but now, with the addition of colder weather outside, it was struggling to keep up. Walter had put on an extra layer and offered it to Axel, but his friend declined. Not because he wasn't cold, but because he knew better. Axel was like a block of ice, the tips of his fingers and nose turning red and painful from the cold as he trembled at Walter's side. Despite that, Axel didn't even consider asking for another sweatshirt to borrow or even a blanket. Bernhard.. Taught him better than that.

But Walter saw Axel in that sorry state, saw his friend shivering and struggling to stay warm and.. Instinctively, Walter scooped Axel up and sat him on his lap and covered them both with a blanket. It took no time at all for Axel to cuddle against Walter's chest, leaning into the warmth.

"T-thank you." Axel stammered out.

"I'm not going to let you freeze, Axel." Walter looked down at him.

"Walter.." Axel wrapped his arms around his friend and squeezed tight.

Walter smiled as he held Axel a touch tighter, waiting until his friend slowly but surely stopped shaking. He loved his best friend dearly and hated seeing him in this state. He didn't understand why his friend was so willing to suffer through unnecessary pain rather than ask for help. There was something there, hiding in plain sight, but Walter was going to figure it out.. He was going to help his friend. He had to.

"Walter." Axel whispered.

"Axel?" Walter raised a brow.

"Is it okay if I.. Sleep here?" Axel asked him.

And Walter chuckled, ruffling his hair,"Axel, just close your eyes. Of course you can."

It took moments for Axel to practically pass out in Walter's arms and Walter simply held him close. That was his best friend. Walter wouldn't dare allow anyone else to get this close to him like this, but Axel was different. He and his best friend saw sides of each other that nobody else did and nobody else ever would.. They'd always be safe with one another, they'd always protect the other be it from a physical threat or from something as simple as a snowstorm.