(And here is where things get interesting! Honestly, does anyone remember when movies just ended and did not have an extended universe?! Sure, that works for Star Wars, Marvel, DC, and others, but this should not be the case for the princess films! Yes, I enjoy it, but we do not need an answer for everything! Sometimes it is just magic! He's a prick! Sigh, whatever. Enjoy!)

           The prince was up before the morning sun and at the vast library filled with knowledge from the past that can be used for the present to improve their future. Lukas stayed with Vlad who was still recovering for his hangover. His brothers would mostly be fast asleep and caring for themselves until it was breakfast. Arthur knew he had plenty of time to do his research before his brothers could annoy him with their jabs and questions.

"Arthur bash? What are you doing up this early?" Dylan's soft voice asked as he startled his brother, "Ah, so sorry. I didn't mean to do that. Here you go! A nice warm cup of tea usually gets me going in the morning!"

He snapped his fingers to make a fresh, warm cup of tea appear before himself. Dylan had a few books in his arms and approached the desk to place it down and let the cup float into Arthur's hands. He thanked his older brother before taking a nice, long, relaxing sip of the tea. He placed it down with a perplexed expression.

"Ah, wonder what I am doing here, right?" Dylan asked in a knowing tone before pointing to the books, "Well, simple answer. Ever since we were separated, I was tasked with learning as much as I can. Anything that can help us and our kingdom of course. Although, you may have noticed that one of the books isn't one of knowledge. Fairy tales aren't often used as books of knowledge, but that isn't true at all. Even fairytales have their knowledge that can help us. So, Arthur bash, what brings you here?"

To be honest, he had a lot of thoughts running through his mind right now. He wasn't sure what to even ask at this moment.

"I have numerous questions now honestly" Arthur confessed as he rested his face in his hand, "But do you and our brothers have stuff you do in the morning?"

Dylan was caught off guard before laughing and nodding his head, "Oh, sure! Well, Liam sleeps in just as much as you do, but Duncan and Sean are up even earlier than us! Duncan is training the knights and doing some early meetings. As for Sean, he is working in the fields and often helps with the cooking. Don't worry about it! This is what we do!"

Arthur only nodded his head as he realized how much they do for the kingdom and himself. He also wondered what Liam does in the morning, but he shook his head when he realized something about Dylan. Arthur slammed his hands on the desk which startled his brother and nearly caused the tea to spill almost.

"Dylan! You're smart in everything, right?! Then please! Help me! A dear friend of mine is in trouble, and I know there can be something I can do! I refuse to not do anything!" Arthur yelled in desperation as Dylan leaned back and blinked a couple of times.

Dylan was surprised to see his little brother's emerald eyes glowing with vigor and resolve. He wondered who did this to Arthur. This is a welcome changed as Dylan nodded his head and listened to Arthur's plea. He was shocked to hear such a thing and held a thoughtful expression with his little brother sitting down.

"Well, to my knowledge, before mother was queen, there was a law that did do this to punish people who were trying to take advantage of other people's money. This was placed on the tax collectors though. There was trouble with that. However, happening to a common baker is unusual. Do you know anyone the baker could've angered at all?" Dylan explained with a thoughtful expression.

Arthur's eyes were wide. He did recognize Dražen and wondered if this was revenge.

"Yes" Arthur spoke slowly as he confessed what had happened on his first day in the village.

Dylan snickered before laughing at the situation before shaking his head when he noticed Arthur's pouting expression. Dylan waved his hand and head to calm his little brother's pout before composing himself.

"So sorry, Arthur bash" the Welsh brother reassured, "But that is something that would happen to you. Anyway, well, it sounds like petty revenge. That's easy to fix, but now we've come to another issue. You mentioned how your friend dislikes the monarchy. Is he aware that you're a prince?"

Arthur's face soured as he grimaced at the little detail.

"I thought as much" Dylan spoke as he rested his face in both hands and leaned forward, "Well, the new problem is how we will deal with this and why we would. You see, it would be one thing if it was more than one and if a huge commotion happened too. This is only one group, and we only know about it through you. Do you see what I mean?"

He hated to admit it, but Arthur nodded his head in understanding. There was no way they could logically go about this. He slumped in his chair in defeat with Dylan closing his eyes and tilting his head back and forth. What could they possibly do?

"Oi! There you lot are! What are ya, deaf? We've been calling ya for hours!" Sean spoke in a frustrated manner before noticing their pondering expressions, "What's going with you lot? You look like you're trying to solve the murder of two princes"

Arthur groaned as Duncan and Liam soon arrived in the library and listened to Dylan explaining everything. Duncan broke a pen in his hand with ink dripping!

"Duncan! What is wrong with you?!" Sean snapped as Dylan sighed and used his magic to heal his older brother's hand.

"I'll tell you what is wrong with me! It is those damned advisors! Who the fuck do they think they are?! Letting this happen! No, that's it! I am settling this an old fashion way that I am sure dear old mum would do! I'm getting a sword!" Duncan stated in frustration as well as being the most obvious choice to make.

Sean and Dylan reacted first with Dylan wrapping his arms around Duncan's waist and Sean standing in front of him with his hands out.

"Woah, woah! Are you trying to commit a murder?! We can't have you do that! Think clearly, you big, muscle headed idiot!" Sean snapped and tried to reason with him.

Duncan only glared as Liam was standing off to the side, lost in his thoughts and nervous to interject his opinion to them. Arthur noticed his older brother's thinking expression and raised a brow before coughing to gain the attention of the room to give to Liam.

"Oh, well!" Liam said as he fiddled with his hands, "I don't mean to overstep, Dylan, but I've noticed something about this man in question"

Everyone turned to him and waited as he fidgeted in place until Sean placed a hand on his shoulder to calm him down and smile. Feeling relieved and better about speaking, Liam took a deep breath.

"Well, Dražen seems to be angered easily. He's driven by revenge purely. Basically, he's angry easily and doesn't like it when others get in his way. He always wants to have his way, no matter what. So, when Arthur's friend interfered, I am assuming that's not the first time he's done that"

Arthur was surprised Liam picked up that from a simple retelling, but that does make some sense. Francis and Clarisse seemed to know Dražen, so it wouldn't surprise Arthur if Francis did butt heads with Dražen on occasion.

"This seems like a good chance to get rid of someone who has always messed with him. Since we know that, I also have another idea" Liam suggested with a shrug, "You see, Dylan is right. We can't simply interfere when only a single group is involved. However, and I am merely suggesting this, if he were to get into trouble and arrested, then he will not be able to take their bakery since he broke the law. If I am correct, am I, Dylan?"

Staring at the nervous Liam with stunned expressions, no one spoke a word. That solution is the most obvious and simplest one they could use! It would work in their favor completely! Sean let out a holler as he wrapped his arms around Liam's with Duncan holding a satisfied expression, Dylan cheering, and Arthur sighing in relief. This could work!

"Yes! Liam bash is correct! If Dražen is arrested, then he cannot take their property!" Dylan confirmed with delight.

"Aye, and it will be a reminder to those foolish, advisor fuckers that they're not above the law as they believe" Duncan said in a satisfied manner with his arms crossed, "But we need to add more to this plan of ours. One of us needs to be there, and by one of us not Arthur. He's got to be with his friend when this happens. I believe it should be Liam since you are the one who figured it out. I'll need Dylan with me to have the law ready to go and the sentencing. As for Sean, he's going to help me make sure those advisors are ready to hear it. Do I make myself clear?"

"Crystal" Arthur said with a delighted smirk as he and his brothers were ready.

They left Arthur to inform the baker and his group as they got to work ensuring of the plan's success. The prince returned to his room to express the good news only to find Vlad throwing up in a bucket with Lukas attending to him. Arthur covered his nose to avoid the smell before explaining the situation to both.

"Liam's plan is rather risky, but it does make the most sense" Lukas agreed with a nod of his head, "But you'll be in danger. I know your brothers act like they do not care, but they do. Don't forget about your friends too. We don't want anything to happen to you. Are you sure you want to do this?"

"Of course, I do" Arthur answered without hesitation, "He is a dear friend of mine, and he doesn't deserve to suffer for my mistake. I will ensure that his bakery is safe and that Dražen is brought to justice"

Lukas stared at his friend who was not wavering at all as well as a strong emotion of care for the baker present. While Lukas was delighted that his friend did have something to care for, he didn't want him to go alone.

"La dracu!" Vlad cried out in pain as he struggled with his hangover.

And yet, the fire mage did not recover. Lukas grumbled about that as Arthur placed a hand on his friend's shoulder with an attempt to comfort the ice mage with a smile.

"Please do not worry, Lukas" Arthur reassured warmly, "I know this may seem dangerous, everything will turn out find in the end. I will not be alone either. I will have our other friends with me too. Please look after Vlad for me too. He's going to go through a rough time"

"I can still hear you, prince!" the fire mage remarked with a shake of his head, "Geez, just let him go! He's so loud and annoying!"

Arthur fumed with Lukas only smiling at their banter. He created a sphere of ice before handing it to Vlad. Vlad took it and used his fires to slowly melt it to keep him cool. Lukas turned around to grab his bag and pull out three charms. Each charm has a star at the end and is held by a black yarn. The stars were different colors. One is blue, another red, and the last one is green.

"I meant to give this to you when it was your birthday party, but this will do" Lukas explained as he gave the charm to the prince, one to Vlad, and holding his, "It is a special communication charm. If you need our help, put your magic into and think of us. We will answer your call for help. I know you can do this, Arthur, but if you need anything, let us know and we will help"

Arthur stared at the charm before smiling and embracing Lukas as he used his other hand to hold Vlad's.

"Thank you so much" Arthur said with a thankful whisper, "I promise if anything happens, I will contact you. Thank you for everything"

He pulled away, held a confident grin, and turned to leave to help the baker. Vlad groaned when the door was closed with a thud as Lukas only grinned, trusting his friend to handle everything on his own.

"Keseses!" an obnoxious laugh echoed in their shared hotel room that woke Roderich up with a groan, "Morning prissy! Wow! You look like crap! How did that happen mister "I take care of my appearance"?!"

"Please Gilbert" Roderich spoke to his brother with a sigh, "It is too early to deal with your stupidity. Let me gather myself before we do anything you want to do against my will"

Roderich and Gilbert are brothers and are the current rulers of the Kingdom of Clovers. Right now, the rumors are true. Their youngest brother, Ludwig, is set to inherit the throne, but he's still a baby. Realizing they would need someone to rule, the three brothers and sister decided to take on the throne until he was of age. One of the requirements is marriage for one of them. Vash, another brother, did not wish to marriage, and the three brothers agreed that they would not force Eirika to marry. In conclusion, Gilbert and Roderich decided to find a partner. They left their precious kingdom in the hands of Vash and Eirika until they return with someone.

Their hotel room was small but enough for them. They didn't want to spend a lot of money on their travels, so they did everything they could to be frugal with their money. So, the room had two beds, a washroom, two cabinets, and a bookshelf for them to read from.

Roderich left his warm bed to head to the washroom to prepare himself as Gilbert laughed. Ah, that's right. Gilbert has messy, silver hair and a pair of red and purple eyes. He wore a red scarf and a black shirt. His dark, blue jacket was hanging from his shoulders. He has tough, black pants that can even withstand the tough winters and a strong pair of boots too. His belt holds two black bags that can carry items for him.

Gilbert snickered as he approached the window and opened it to feel the fresh morning breeze. He held his hand out to have his precious and most trust pet bird, Gilbird, land on his hand. Gilbird is a small, yellow bird with an orange beak that was currently holding a small piece of parchment.

"I am surprised you came back to our rooms so early, Gilbert" Roderich commented as he stepped out of the washroom, "I thought you would've rushed to your old hideout to find Francis"

Gilbert waved his hand to answer, "I tried, believe me. I even went to the Celebrations, but it was so crowded! Also, since it was getting late and he, much like you, prefers to sleep, he probably went to bed. I'll find him and then he'll hang out with the awesome me! Also, it looks like we've got a letter from home!"

Roderich crossed over to his brother who took the parchment from Gilbird who flew above their heads. It was indeed a letter from Vash and Eirika. Both were happy to inform their brothers that their home was safe, and Ludwig was growing up well, much to their relief.

"At least we know they're faring well" Roderich expressed in relief as he ran his hand through his chocolate brown hair.

Gilbird tweeted as he landed on Gilbert's hair. Gilbert turned the paper over to see that the bird had been pecking it with breadcrumbs. Breadcrumbs?

"Wait, did something happen to Francis?" Gilbert asked Gilbird who nodded at his owner, "Why didn't you lead with that first, Gilbird?! Come on, priss! My awesome friend needs help from the awesome me! Let's get going!"

Roderich rolled his eyes at his brother's rough language and nature before following his reckless brother to the bakery. They basically stormed the bakery to find a concerned Francis standing over his little sister who was counting everything. Yao was sitting across from her and pondering.

"I am so sorry, but we are closed unfortunately. Oh, it is you, Mister Roderich!" Erzsébet said softly as she stopped in her tracks to gaze at him before bowing, "What brings you here and who is he?"

"My worst nightmare and Francis's best friend" Roderich answered in a pained expression as he adjusted his glasses while Gilbert laughed obnoxiously loud.

Hearing that familiar, obnoxious laugh, Francis and Clarisse shared a happy expression before the baker turned to run to embrace his best friend! Gilbert let out a laugh as he and Francis shared a few jokes and giggles with Yao staring at the brothers with a pointed expression.

"What is the matter with you, Yao?" Clarisse asked as she raised a perplexing brow at the chief.

'Ah, that's right' Yao pondered as he turned his attention to the accountant, 'She's more observant about others than you would think. She could almost read people easily. I should be cautious around her'

"Don't pay any attention to me. I am a silly old man who listens to idle gossip" the citizen of Hearts commented with a wave of his hand and leaving himself to his thoughts.

'For now, it would be best to not say anything until either say something' Yao thought to himself with another chuckle, 'Though, it is a little amusing. I am not the only royal who wanted to expand his horizons and have some enjoyment in life'

Clarisse tilted her head to the side at that comment and wondered what he meant by that while being equally frustrated that she could not read him! She couldn't understand what was going through the mind of the chief, but she would hopefully figure him out soon enough! For now, she was focused on Gilbert who happily embraced her older brother.

"What are you doing here, mon ami?" Francis asked warmly as they let go of each other, "Were you here for the Celebrations? I hope you had a wonderful time. I did!"

Gilbert laughed before answering, "Ja! I was! But I didn't see you there. Where were you? Also, why is Gilbird in a tizzy about you? What's going on?"

Seeing his best friend's expression drop, Gilbert was ready to do anything to help him. He would do anything for Francis and Antonio. Both are his best friends after all!

When Gilbert left the Clover Kingdom to find out what he wanted to do, he encountered Antonio selling tomatoes and trading goods with his brother while Francis was doing everything to get his bakery up and running while taking care of his little sister. Sure, they were working hard whereas he never had to work a day in his life, but they made time for him and go on adventures together! One day was helping Antonio with picking fresh tomatoes, another helping Francis get the word out about his bakery, or Gilbert dragging them to have a fun night, they were through it thick and thin!

So, when the Clover prince heard the Bonnefoy siblings' situation, he was even more frustrated than before! He considered Dražen lucky that he wasn't present. That jerk wouldn't see him coming with his cold, steel, lightning blade! In fact, the prince decided that now would be a good time to do just that!

"Got it. Well, send Gilbird a description of the man. I'll take care of him" Gilbert stated with a wave of his hand and the other on the hilt of his sword before turning to the exit.

Roderich and Francis stopped him from marching out and doing something reckless. Gilbert growled at them as Erzsébet sighed at their behaviors before turning to a distraught Clarisse and concerned Yao.

The accountant put her face in her hands and sighed, "I can't think of a solution. There is no winning deal, but I don't want us to lose the only place we have left"

Francis released his good friend before embracing his little sister to soothe her by stroking her neat, blonde hair. He hummed and held her close with the others watching the siblings. Yao would risk everything for his younger siblings without hesitation. Regardless of their bickering, if Ludwig was ever in danger, Roderich and Gilbert would put their differences aside and do everything to ensure their precious little brother is safe. It frustrated everyone that they couldn't find a solution so easily!

Luckily, they didn't have to wait as the Prince of Spade arrived at the bakery with his cloak over his head.

"Hello? Frog?" Arthur called as he knocked against the wooden door, "Are you there? I believe I have a solution for you"

Gilbert was perplexed by that nickname as Francis was astounded to hear from him so soon and with a solution no less. He opened the door and was met with a delighted and smirking Arthur who made his way in. The prince noticed how distressed the baker was and would do everything to change that expression. He was holding a parchment in his hands as he entered the room.

"If I may, Clarisse and Yao" Arthur excused as he placed the document on the table and let everyone gather around to read it, "I was able to ask for help on the matter from my brothers. They found a solution and even helped me with this plan. I know it does seem rather risky, but I am willing to do it if it means your bakery is safe, Francis"

Everyone read the document and the plan as their expression were delighted, excited, and relieved! This plan of theirs could really work! The bakery would be saved! Yao held a satisfied expression with his hands in his sleeves, Erzsébet let out a cheer before embracing Roderich who happily held her close, Gilbert let out a holler himself, and Clarisse placed a hand over her racing heart. Arthur crossed his arms over his chest with a satisfied expression and turned to Francis to see a different one.

The baker held a disapproving one before stating seriously, "Non. We cannot do this"

A silence fell before they turned to him.

"Are you daft, frog?!" Arthur snapped, the only one who was willing to ask the question all on their minds, "We have a solution, and we should take it! What do you dislike about it?"

The baker rolled his eyes before answering as if it was a simple answer, "You putting yourself in danger. Do not give me that look, lapin. I can see it. You're going to be reckless, aren't you?"

Arthur growled to reply, "I was going to put myself in danger only to ensure that you and your little sister would be safe! What is so wrong with that? I'll be safe! I am smart, and believe it or not, I can handle myself well in a fight!"

"And what of tes frères? How would they react if something happened to you?" Francis countered.

Arthur scoffed before snapping, "They are the ones who helped me with this plan and make it. They are fully aware of the consequences and dangers I will be in. They are also aware of how strong I am since they made sure I had the best training. Francis, I will be fine!"

The baker had another counter as he gestured to their friends, "Et nos amis? Will they be fine with this? Non. We are not having you be in danger alone! I refuse to let that happen!"

As for their friends, they did feel ignored, but they were more fascinated with the tennis match happening between the baker and the prince. Roderich found it to be a waste of time as he crossed his arms, but he did notice how Erzsébet seemed to swoon at their display. Yao even snickered to himself with a cheeky expression at it.

Gilbert's eyes were wide for he had never seen his best friend behave in such a manner. He glanced to Clarisse who nodded her head in agreement. Chuckling and realizing what he needed to do, the prince stepped between the baker and prince while placing his hands on their shoulders.

"Ja, ja! I hear both of ya! Seriously, I am sure that even meine bruder can you hear too!" Gilbert stated with a snicker, "So, Francis doesn't want you in danger alone, and the mage knows he can handle himself in a fight! The solution is simple! I am staying with the mage!"

"WHAT!?" the baker and prince snapped as they turned their attention to the Clover prince who only held himself high.

"I know, I know! I am so awesome for thinking of such an amazing idea! All you need to do is thank me in the future!" Gilbert declared with his hands on his hips, "But that way, the plan will continue without any problems! Nothing to worry about at all!"

Arthur was the first to agree as he nodded his head before snapping to the Clover prince, "But you better not slow me down! I want to make sure we can him!"

Gilbert only nodded his head in understanding as he turned to his best friend. The Clover prince knew the baker was holding a stern expression with worry drenching his sapphire eyes. The Clover prince let the Spade prince go who turned to their friends with a confident expression as well as boastful too.

Gilbert placed a hand on Francis's shoulder to whisper in a knowing tone, "I get it. Really. I promise that nothing will happen to him. You know I strike like lightning compared to that washing undertow you have! Wish we could see that more often if you ask me! Kesesese!"

Francis rolled his eyes at the comment before answering, "Bien, I will trust you with this, Gilbert. Also, I don't use my water because it ruins the bread. You should know that"

His good friend grinned with a bright expression before pulling Francis to the group to go over the plan.

With their plan in motion, Francis, Clarisse, and Erzsébet remained in the bakery, carrying on their day as if nothing was about to happen. Yao, Gilbert, Roderich, and Arthur were outside and each standing at certain locations. Roderich was near the entrance, Yao was in the village with the people, Gilbert was standing on the roof of another building, and Arthur was near the entrance of the castle.

He gripped the charm in his hand to pour some of his magic to it to speak with his friends and brothers.

"Oi! Artie! Are you ok?" Sean's voice asked loud and clear with a cheeky expression, "Do you need our help yet?"

"Not yet, but soon enough. We are in position. Is Liam ready?" Arthur asked as he made sure his cloak was secured over his head and no one was listening to his conversation.

Sean was standing with Lukas as the ice mage was the one holding the charm in his hand to speak with the youngest prince. They were in the knights' chamber with the knights out doing their evening training with Duncan. Dylan was preparing Liam to go outside by adjusting his outfit and going over their laws and important details.

"Almost. I am glad everyone was going along with this" Lukas answered in relief, "I was sure that Francis would've disagreed with asking for help from the royals"

"He was more upset that I wanted to be the bait. I can't fathom why. It is his bakery on the line along with his livelihood. He's such a fool at times" Arthur informed Lukas who turned to Sean who was covering his mouth to prevent his snickers from being heard.

Sean couldn't believe how oblivious his little brother was being with Lukas holding a pleasant expression. Both let Arthur rant, but the prince was not the only one ranting.

Francis furiously cut up the bread into slices while ranting to his little sister and Erzsébet about Arthur being so reckless. Clarisse was rolling her eyes as she was counting their money and keeping their plan hidden. Erzsébet was holding her face in her hand as she listened intently to him.

"That eyebrowed idiot! Who does he think he is?!" Francis complained as he waved the knife, "Does he not realize how much everyone cares for him!? It almost sounds like he wants to charge through this dangerous plan without thinking! Honestly! How he is alive is beyond me?!"

"Really? How do you feel about this Francis?" Erzsébet asked as she was twirling her hair and happily listening to him speak about his viewpoints on Arthur.

"Tu te moques d'eux?!" Francis exclaimed before slamming the knife into the piece of bread and looking at his waitress, "He's being so stubborn! How could he not realize how much I am worried for him?! Does he not realize how important he is to me?!"

Erzsébet was stunned to hear that Francis was so open about his love for their friend as she glanced to Clarisse who even stared at her brother.

"Big brother" Clarisse spoke softly with that calculating tone of hers, "Are you being serious right now? How much do you know about this "Arthur"? You've only met for a few days! Yet here you are expressing your care for him! Confess, dear older brother of mine, do you have feelings for Arthur?"

Erzsébet held her hands over her mouth while staring between the pair of siblings. Francis was even holding a stunned expression as he gazed at his intelligent little sister. She hit the nail on the head with observations as he covered his blushing face! He stumbled a bit before nodding his head to her. He didn't want to say anything until he confirmed it himself, but there were too many pieces of evidence before him. The most obvious piece was his cares and worries for Arthur's well-being in trying to save his bakery.

Clarisse was surprised as well as her eyes were wide, and glasses nearly fell from her well-cared face. She always knew there would be a day when her older brother would fall in love, but she couldn't believe it would be now. She stood up and approached him while holding his other hand.

"Est-ce vrai?" she asked in a whisper almost as if it was a deadly secret, "Do you feel amour pour Arthur?"

"Oui" Francis whispered back as he slowly moved his hand away from his red face before shouting in delight, "Je suis amoureux!"

He was spinning and letting out a delightful cheer as Clarisse fell to her knees and had tears falling from her face. Francis ceased his spinning, held a horrified expression, kneeled in front of his little sister, and spoke in soft and worried tones to her.

"Non, non" she reassured as he wiped her tears gently, "I am not sad about you being love, mon frère. I am happy for you, true. I am only sad that your love will be with someone else in your life now"

Francis shooed and embraced his little sister close to him. He stroked her blonde hair without messing it up. He spoke soft words to her as she cried for a moment. Erzsébet was frozen at the sight before her. She held a soft expression at the siblings who were holding each other and giving relief to the other. She held herself and waited for the right moment to interject.

"Mon petite soeur" Francis said sweetly, "My love is too big to be in the arms and will be more than enough for you and him. It will not be for him. You will have nothing to fear for I will love you always. Do you know that now?"

She nodded her head as she continued to wipe her tears with her big brother comforting her. Erzsébet sighed in relief with a hand over her chest as the doors opened to reveal Roderich.

"He's almost here! Are we ready? Oh my, is she ok? Does she need help?" he asked politely with his eyes staring at the siblings.

"We are fine" Francis reassured him as he realized that his little sister would want enough time to recover, "Erzsébet, I can handle Dražen by myself. Please take my little sister and help her. I want to make sure she is safe"

The waitress nodded her head as Roderich raised a brow at their sudden change in plan. He knew something had occurred, but he knew that would have to wait. His sharp gaze turned to the windows to see Dražen approaching!

"He's right. Erzsébet, please look after Clarisse" Roderich said as he kneeled beside the ladies, "I know it is rude to rush those who need a cry, but we need to trust in Arthur's plan. Hurry and get to the kitchen. Erzsébet, please stay with Clarisse and by the door in case we need anything"

Erzsébet only nodded her head as she gently took Clarisse's arm and helped her to the kitchen. They picked up her papers and accounting records before entering the kitchen. Francis went to the counter as Roderich took his seat at one of the tables. They shared a nod before pretending to be going about their day without a care in the world.

Dražen roughly and rudely kicked the wooden door to the bakery with a chuckle. The door nearly fell from the hinges as Francis winced at how much he would need to pay to repair it. Roderich was horrified by Dražen lack of manners.

"Ah, baker, do you have my money ready?" Dražen asked as he leaned over the counter with a sneering expression.

Francis held himself from speaking out against the trader. He was not going to ruin Arthur's plan and ensure that his little sister was not discovered crying about their situation.

"Non" the baker replied as he went to wipe down the counter, "We still have time and are doing everything we can to ensure we deliver the money on time, Dražen. You will have to be patient"

Francis hoped that comment would be enough to egg the trader on. Roderich realized this too as he silently formed an idea in his head. He finished acting distant and approached the counter to stand behind the trader to wait to order.

Just as both reasoned, Dražen was a little annoyed with Francis's response and growled when the baker turned his back to him. Francis went to place his recently cut bread on the display case before turning his attention to the trader and Roderich.

"S'il te plait" Francis said as he went about his work, "If I am going to make up the money to pay you, I will ask that you move away and let me help the customer behind you. Bonjour! Comment vas-tu? What would you like to have?"

Dražen didn't enjoy how Francis dismissed his threats so easily and always interfered with his plans. Now, he was outright ignoring him! No, this transgression would not stand against him as he let his hands fall to his sides. Vines and plant life began to grow outside of the bakery in a violent manner.

Roderich acted horrified at the notion of Francis losing his bakery and opened his wallet to pull out a ring of coins! Francis and Dražen were stunned to see so many coins in Roderich's possession. Francis wondered who Gilbert's friend was because he could carry this much money on his person.

"I am dreadfully sorry to hear about your situation, good baker" Roderich said in a dramatic tone with his hands flying at his face and side, "You see, my siblings always enjoy your pastries and hard work. I cannot imagine this place being close. I do hope this will be enough to help you. Do not pay me back, baker. I like your pastries and hope that I can continue to eat from your lovely bakery"

Catching Roderich's idea, Francis accepted the coins in an astonished manner. He quickly counted the coins with his eyes slowly widening at the coins in his hands! The baker took a step back with his other hand holding his mouth in astonishment. Dražen realized Francis's mood and growled.

He slammed his hand against the counter to demand, "Hey! What is happening? How much did this arrogant noble pay you for your pathetic excuse of bread?!"

Francis whispered in relief before his voice was at full volume, "Nearly the rest of the amount I would need to pay you back, mon ami. Oh, merci bien monsieur! This is so amazing! I shall get on it! Oh, merci, merci!"

As if the vine of a grape snapped in half, Dražen's eyes were narrowed as he shoved Roderich to the floor! Roderich grunted in pain which made the baker turn sharply to see his friend no longer standing there!

"Excusez-moi! What is the matter?!" Francis yelled in anger, loud enough for Erzsébet and Clarisse to hear, "What did he do that was so wrong?! He paid and will earn his pastry! Are you so petty and bitter that you cannot accept that your debt will be repaid so soon!"

Fully fed up and anger blooming, Dražen had enough of it. Drawing a dagger and lacing it with leaves, he threw it at the baker! Francis barely had time to duck as the weapon struck the fresh ingredients and other decorations. The baker covered his head with his hands to avoid any of the shattered glasses and items. Roderich covered his mouth as Erzsébet had to restrain and cover Clarisse's mouth to prevent herself from getting hurt and doing anything reckless.

Francis was ready to give Dražen a piece of his mind for doing such a foolish thing until his eyes were wide with horror. The ingredients and other material used to help him bake began to dissolve into a black, charred substance! He covered his mouth and slowly backed away from it until he heard Dražen's wicked laughter and spite.

"What is wrong with you?!" Francis shouted in anger as the trader twirled another dagger in his hands.

Backing away from the trader and searching for an option to escape, the trader closed in on him!

"You see, budalo, I am fed up with you for everything you've done" Dražen snapped before clutching the dagger tightly in his hands, "You always stuck your nose in everything and tried to help! People like you are supposed to die! So, if you won't die through lack of money, then I will ensure you die by my hands!"

Francis realized that look in the trader's eyes was that of murder. There was no going back for him and everyone now! The trader lunged at Francis who scurried away and out of the bakery!

"Sacre bleu! Not in my bakery, toi idiot!" Francis yelled as he left with one more insult, "If your heart wasn't made of steel and ice, then you would've had all the wealth you could've desired!"

That last jab was enough to make the vines snap the trader. He cursed under his breath before chasing after the baker, completely forgetting about Roderich as he held his daggers tightly.