(And here is where the plot really kicks off. I love England's older brothers. As a history nerd, this is beyond funny to me. Scotland is the oldest, so good luck changing my mind about that! As for Ireland, he'll leave at the end, for now, let him have this. I will write one with the brothers just annoying the frick out of England. This is a close second! Enjoy!)

             "MY LOVE?!" Arthur's voice echoed throughout the palace, starling everyone who were carrying out their respective jobs.

Currently, his brothers, Vlad, and Lukas were in the library as they informed the prince what Francis's phrase meant. Duncan knew what it meant because he did learn the language while Sean, Dylan, and Liam knew some but not as much as their oldest brother. Arthur only learned enough to have a simple conversation. So, when the brothers decided the next day to tell their youngest brother what the phrase meant.

"There must be some mistake!" Arthur denied profusely as he dropped the textbook that Dylan placed in his hands on the table before gesturing and shouting his viewpoints on the matter, "There is no way! Why on earth would a frog want to be with me?! I've barely met him! Not to mention he's rather arrogant and willing to butt heads to prove his point! Do not get me started on how he would make comebacks instead of listening to the plan before him! And another thing!"

Duncan was sitting on a comfy, plaid red chair with a chalice of whiskey in his hand that he did not drink from. He was enjoying the sight of his youngest brother going off on a long tangent about the baker that only furthered proved his point that they were in love. No one could talk this much with evidence about a person and not be in love with that person. Duncan knew this and could not wait to tell his friends about his little brother's antics and love for the baker. In truth, he was beyond relief that Arthur did find someone to love and be himself around. He knew it was hard for him to be in the castle with them, and now, this were going to change for the better!

Vlad had his head on the table and groaned at this with Lukas sitting next to him with a book open in his hand. Vlad was beyond frustrated that Arthur was going to be in denial about this. The problem is Arthur is very stubborn, so that would make things even harder for the prince to realize he was in love. As for Lukas, he was reading about the red string that Yao commented about. The ice mage closed the book with a huffed expression, realizing the seemingly young man was correct about his friend in love. He wondered how the chief could see it, believing the chief to be ordinary. Lukas was starting to have second thoughts about him completely.

Dylan was sitting next to them with a cheeky expression as he took the dropped book to close it. He thought it was rather sweet that his youngest brother was in love! It would be nice for him to have someone in his life to care for. He could tell that the baker made Arthur happy, so it wasn't a bad idea for them to be a couple in Dylan's opinion!

Liam was the only one who saw Francis and knew the baker clearly cared for his little brother's well-being. He found it so sweet that the baker protected Arthur from the trader and even tried to heal him with water! That was something he struggled with personally. Regardless, he also noticed how Arthur didn't shove the baker off and let him embrace Arthur! Liam knew they were close at least! But he was worried about trying to force his suggestions to Arthur.

Sean recovered from fainting and processing that someone actually loved his youngest brother in a romantic manner. To be honest, he believed Arthur would be married off and work with his partner. That was the plan, anyway! He was going to be married off to secure a relationship with the Kingdom of Diamonds! Now, Sean didn't believe Arthur would find love because of his rough personality and tough exterior. Now that he has, Sean was ready to have fun! Sure, he wanted Arthur to have a wonderful partner and loving relationship, but that doesn't mean he won't cause some brotherly annoyance to him!

"In conclusion!" Arthur yelled as everyone now decided to tune in on his pointless rant, "The baker is not in love with me! I am not in love with him! I must've heard him! Good day to you, I will go to my room and forget this ever happened!"

He swiftly turned to leave, but for some reason, Arthur still felt flushed and warm despite his tangent on the baker. Why is his heart racing? Why does he care what the baker thinks of him? WHY DOES HE GET SO FLUSHED AROUND HIM?! Nothing is making logical sense to the prince anymore!

The doors closed in front of the prince who blinked and turned to see Duncan and Sean as the culprits! Both standing on the sides of the doors with mischievous expression and placing their hands on it to close it.

"What are you fools doing?" Arthur asked as he took a cautious step away from them.

He bumped into Dylan and Liam who were at least holding smiles as they placed a hand on Arthur's shoulders. The prince felt dread as he realized he could not escape from his brothers. What were they planning to do? Why weren't Vlad and Lukas going to help him?! What is going on?!

"Now, now little rabbit" Duncan spoke first with a snicker, "I believe we need to calm down here! After all, we can't have you running away like one! You need to face your feelings!"

"I beg your pardon?" Arthur asked as his brows furrowed at Duncan's tone with him.

Sean snickered before adding, "Ah yes! You see that is the problem with you, little bunny! You always run and never face anything you don't like! This time, we won't let you run from it at all!"

Now, his brothers were being ridiculous! Him? Running? When has he ever ran away?! Never! He has faced challenges head on and handled any task without any issue whatsoever! They're absolutely mutters they are! He shoved Dylan and Liam off his shoulders before marching right up to Duncan and Sean.

"Excuse you, but I do not run from anything! I've handled everything you've given me and have made strides to help the kingdom! I work very well with others and will continue to put in my efforts to anything! I never run!" Arthur declared with a wave of his hand as his brothers didn't even move.

Instead, they circled him before laughing at his defiant expression! That only made Arthur furious as he let out a yell and tried to get them to listen to him. He couldn't understand what brought this on!

"What are you, vultures?!" Arthur expressed with frustration, "What are you doing?! Get away from me!"

His brothers shared a knowing expression, refusing to let their youngest brother go. Especially since he needed help with his feelings and how he truly felt. Also, it is fun for them as well!

Duncan coughed to gain everyone's attention with a knowing smirk before placing a hand on Arthur's right shoulder.

"Spade, the kingdom of love, is glowing this evening!" Duncan sang as Arthur raised a brow at his oldest brother for his behavior and checked to see that the sun was setting in the distance, even thought that had nothing to do with this!

Liam joined in excitedly to lean against Arthur while knowing exactly the word to use to help him understanding his feelings, "True, that's because you caused a fire! But still, there's l'amour!"

That comment made Arthur flush a deep red shade as he shook them off. He struggled to escape only for Sean to hold his left arm and Dylan hugging his other arm. Arthur could feel his heart race at this as he slowly realized what they were trying to do, and there was no way in hell that he would let them get away with this! As he prepared to snap, Sean didn't hesitate to cover Arthur's mouth with his hand.

"You know, somewhere out there in the night!" Sean sang in a knowing tone as he pulled Arthur to a hug and happily swung him side-to-side, "His heart is also alight!"

"And we know the man he just might be burning for!" Dylan finished as he pulled a stunned Arthur into his embrace and sighed when he heard his little brother's heart racing.

"No, no, no!" Arthur snapped as he pulled himself away from his brothers with his arms out, "There is no way this is love! He doesn't feel the same about me! This is ridiculous! Also, did none of you consider how I felt about the situation? No! I don't have feelings for the baker!"

His brothers shared a knowing expression before disregarding his little brother's statement when they saw his flushed expression and annoying denial that accompanied it. Duncan and Sean ran forward to grab Arthur's arm to drag him out of the library as Dylan and Liam happily followed them.

Vlad and Lukas were surprised by this intervention, but they were not against it in the least! Happy that their friend was getting one, they shared a nod and decided to help as they ran to join them in the hallway.

The oldest brothers released Arthur to have him stand before one of his paintings as a young child. Arthur groaned at the painting of himself and despised his appearance. He was a child when that painting was done. He wore a fancy red shirt with a puffy, white collar. He was sitting in a velvet chair with his hair neatly combed with a silver crown on his head. He scowled at it and wished to use his lighting to destroy it, but he recalled Francis's words of being a painter. He wondered if the baker would enjoy painting again? He wouldn't mind it if the baker painted him, he supposed.

"Oh, no" Arthur whispered with dread as he felt his blood warm at the thought with Duncan holding a smirking expression.

The oldest prince stopped in front of a painting to slam his hand against it to point out how he thought of the baker so easily, "A guy like you, he's never known, kid!"

He ruffled Arthur's head as he then roughly pushed him forward to another painting! Arthur nearly tripped if Dylan didn't catch him. Then, he adjusted Arthur's appearance to then show him to the painting of him in the armor of a knight. Another painting Arthur disliked as he couldn't fathom why they wanted him to wear that when Duncan was the one who fought and trained with the knights daily. He wondered if Francis could paint him in a better light? Oh, he did it again...

Arthur hid his red face in his hands in an embarrassed manner as Dylan pulled his hands away to only smile at him, "A guy like, a boy does not meet every day! You've got a cute look!"

That did it! Arthur was enough with the teasing as he threw a punch at his older brother who ducked and let his fist be caught by Liam!

Liam happily pulled his little brother close to embrace him in relief with his head back, "That's all your own, brother! Could there be two?"

Sean answered without hesitation and crossing his arms over his chest in the form of an X in front of his youngest brothers, "Like him?"

Liam released Arthur who was confused by all this. Why? After everything they've been through, did he truly deserve their help? Why would they want to help him when he caused them so much trouble? Would Francis still think highly of him despite this? Ah, and his mind was back to the baker again.

Seeing their youngest brother lost in his thoughts with his flushed expression, they knew it was their time to strike again! Each grabbed an arm and leg, snapping Arthur from his face as he looked at them.

His brothers grabbed Arthur to throw him up on their shoulders with him screaming as they sang, "NO WAY!"

Vlad laughed at the sight with his hands over his stomach. He was close to crying and shaking his head. Lukas snickered as he followed the brothers before reflecting on his friends and brothers as they would pull the same stunt if any of them were in love. Well, they did do that with Timo and Beward as both danced around their feelings. It was funny to see Magnus lose his mind over it in a similar fashion to Arthur's brothers.

The brothers happily carried their youngest to the throne room despite Arthur's constant protest over this. The throne held five seats, one for each of them. It was a throne room made of stone with a fireplace behind it to keep them warm on cold days. This is the place that belong to their mother and future rules like them!

Above each throne was a tapestry for each of the brothers. The strong gold throne was for Duncan and his tapestry with the unicorn standing strong amongst his foes in a blue background. Sean's was emerald color with a determined elk charging through the forest. Dylan's is a red color with a graceful dragon with intelligent eyes. Liam is a white color as his hawk was flying and observing the area around him. Lastly, Arthur has a flying mint bunny that is flying in the night's sky with glorious stars behind it.

The brothers didn't hesitate to toss Arthur to his seat as he let out a yell when he crashed onto his throne. He groaned before turning to his brothers with a reshelved appearance and disbelief expression.

"Those other guys that he could dangle all look the same!" Duncan sang as he used his flames to hang over Arthur's head only for him to smack the hand use his lighting to steal the energy from to put out.

Sean leaned against Arthur's side as he created an iris in his hands to place in Arthur's hands, "From every boring point of view, you're a surprise to him!"

"From every angle, mon dieu above, he will love a guy like you!" Dylan happily sang as Arthur sparked the iris to burn it to ashes.

Liam put out the flower with his water and rubbed his cheek against Arthur's, "A guy like you will get extra credit, because it is true! You have a certain thing more than others do!"

Already at his limit with their absurdity, Arthur stomped off the throne and marched in front of them with lightning sparking in his hair and hands. He waved his hands downward to make the lighting disperse and not actually shock anyone in the room even if he wanted to zap his brothers. No one was afraid of him and knew that he wouldn't hurt them. Their hair did stand up a bit and was static, but they held smiles, cheeky expressions, and grins filled with delight at their situations. Arthur was fed up with them as he ran a hand through his dirty, blonde hair, trying to make sense of everything.

"Please cease being stupid. It might actually kill you" Arthur expressed with tiredness in his voice as he rubbed his head, "For the last time! Francis does not have romantic feelings for me, and I don't at all! Vlad! Lukas! Tell them!" '

Arthur crossed his arms over his chest in a satisfied manner. He was sure his best friends would be able to help him, no doubt! After all, they knew him just as well as his brothers did! They have his back in anything! He had no reason to fear nor worry with them at his side!

Vlad and Lukas shared an expression before staring at his brothers. Duncan held a knowing smirk with his arms crossed over his chest, Sean snickered as he barely held it together, Dylan has a mischievous smile, and Liam was sighing in a dreamy manner at their preciously, oblivious, youngest brother. The brothers knew that Arthur was denying it, so it was up to his best friends to ensure that Arthur realized his feelings.

Vlad placed a hand on Arthur's shoulder to snicker, "You're aces, my friend!"

Arthur's eyes snapped with his expression broken by betrayal, annoyance, and frustration. Could they not understand that he did not have any feelings for the baker?! The baker who is his best friend who didn't treat him differently, is an honest fellow, loves his friends and little sister so much, and felt the safest in his arms. Oh, dear lord, Arthur realized he had caught feelings!

"You see that face" Lukas pointed out in a knowing tone as he tapped Arthur's nose, "You don't forget it"

Vlad leaned against Arthur with Lukas patting his shoulder to both point out, "Want something new? That's you for sure!"

The prince was mortified by this revelation as his close friends and brothers were delighted to see their attempts were succeeding! All that is left is to drive it home and have him confess!

Duncan grabbed Arthur to swing him around before stopping him by effortlessly lifting him to sit on his shoulders to sing with a smirk, "We all have gaped at some Adonis!"

Arthur raised his hand to gathering lighting to zap his oldest brother only for Sean to whisk him off Duncan's shoulders using his vines to have Arthur land at the table with a stew. Sean picked up a spoon to grab some of the stew to then forcefully feeding Arthur who nearly choked and couldn't make a comeback!

"But then we crave a meal more nourishing to chew!" Sean commented until Arthur grabbed his brother's wrist to throw him off until Arthur fell into Liam's arms.

Liam adjusted Arthur to stand up and look his best before praising in a singing voice, "And since you're shaped like a croissant is!"

Dylan pulled Arthur to his side to add warmly as he finished fixing Arthur's hair, "No question! He's going to love a guy like you!"

All four of Arthur's brothers then each took a limb and raised him up! He let out a scream of distress with Vlad and Lukas each using their magic to illuminate the throne room is colors of red and white, fittingly matching the youngest prince's aesthetic. Arthur was completely confused by everything. In a blur, Arthur found himself in the garden with everyone around him, each doing a dance or using their unique ability to help the prince.

Vlad dramatically grabbed Arthur's shoulders to create a ring of fire to show a burning heart to the prince who was beyond flushed. He tried to hide his face in his hands since he could not hide his feelings anymore.

"Call me a hopeless romantic, but Artie, I feel it!" Vlad announced as he elbowed the prince in a teasing manner before pulling his hands away from his face.

Lukas coated his hands in a gentle ice before placing it over the prince's cheeks to have steam appear from it! The prince let out a frantic, embarrassed cry as Lukas used the ice to produce snowflakes in the same shade of blue as Francis's eyes. It warmed Arthur's heart to see the sight which also left him open to their joined attack to help him realize his feelings.

"He wants you, so any moment he'll walk through for your heart" Lukas sang softly that Arthur smiled softly at the beautiful snowflakes that shined the blue light that reminded him of the wonderful baker.

Vlad and Lukas each took a hand from the prince and delightfully spun together with fire, ice, and lightning dancing with them. Arthur closed his eyes as his lightning sparkled in wonderful sparks that made the castle aglow. He felt the same joy when he danced with Francis in the Celebrations. Seeing his wonderful smile, Vlad and Lukas shared a smile before releasing their hands to spin Arthur to Liam first!

Liam delightfully took Arthur's hand to waltz with him as lightning and water worked together in a guiding manner. Water delightfully supported the lightning and twirled with it as Liam spun his little brother in a happy manner. The water washed over them with lightning illuminating it above.

"For a guy so swell!" Liam cheered in delight as he twirled Arthur to Dylan.

A gust of wind blew around the brothers when Dylan supported Arthur with a warm expression. The lightning was now flowing with the wind's support before tossing it around. Instead of a waltz that Liam gave, Dylan only hopped around with Arthur struggling to catch up with his brother. The wind tossed the lightning about in support before creating sparks together.

"A guy like you!" Dylan happily sang before letting the wind gently push Arthur backwards into Sean's arm, "With all you bring him!"

Without even hesitating, Sean wrapped his arms around Arthur's waist to spin him around as Arthur let out a surprised cry at the motion. Leaves and lighting sparked to burn a delightful, comforting scent with Sean laughing warmly. Some of the leaves burned from the lightning's strikes to warm the area up as well and give strength to them.

"I'll tell you, what, Artie!" Sean sang with laughter in his voice before basically throwing him into Duncan's arms, "A fool could tell!"

This time, Duncan helped Arthur stand before taking his hands in his to dance slowly with his little brother. For some reason, Duncan's dance was different from his other brothers. His brothers were each delighted and had unique ways of showing their support to him and his feelings to the baker. This was cautious yet relieved dance between. It held pride and joy, but there was a hint of sadness in it too. Although they couldn't tell, Duncan was struggling with the idea that his youngest brother was growing up, and that he would have to trust this stranger with him.

Arthur stared at his oldest brother who held a prideful, happy grin as blue flames made the lightning spark and soothe gently. He couldn't see it, but he felt that his oldest brother was coming to terms with something important.

"This is why he fell" Duncan sang softly with his eyes closed in relief and in a knowing tone, "There he was, was he? For you to be you. From a prince to you to the baker! You cast the magic! They're all second-rates!"

Arthur flushed at the song's meaning and leaned his head away from his oldest brother to stare at the blue ceiling with stars decorating it with their elements joining in harmony. He gripped his oldest brother's hands gently as he reflected on the elements as he wondered what the baker would think of the sight. Even more so, would Francis love this part of him, or would he hate him? It worried him, but somewhere in his heart he knew that whatever life they have, Francis would be with him.

Delighted to see their youngest brother accepting his feelings, they jumped and happily embraced him with laughs, cheers, and shouts of agreements at this beautiful conclusion.

"You cast the magic! When he wants oo-la-la!" they sang as they each jumped around the prince who spun in delight with their support, "Then, he wants you la-la! He will discover that you're one heck of a guy! Who wouldn't love a guy like you?!"

Vlad and Lukas then joined in to take Arthur's hand to join in on the dancing with the prince laughing in delight.

"You have a lot that the rest have not!" both sang with Arthur letting out a wonderful laugh of his own filled with love and relief, "So, he must love a guy like you!"

With his friends and brothers holding Arthur close, he felt relieved, loved, and prepared to face his feelings for the baker. They fell before the thrones while holding each other with laughter, cries, and cheers filling the once cold, quiet, empty throne room.

"Alright, alright!" Arthur shouted over the loud voices that surround him in a loving manner, "I promise I will tell him how I feel, or at the very least, that I want to pursue a relationship with him. Are you happy now?!"

"YES!" everyone shouted before jumping to embrace him again as he let out a cry again.

They couldn't believe the youngest prince and brother was growing up and handling himself. It was wonderful to them. This precious moment was interrupted when a royal messenger entered the throne room and bowed.

"Ah, your highnesses?" he spoke in a quiet voice filled with respect.

"Yes?" the brothers responded in unison as they looked at the surprised messenger.

He jumped before bowing to inform, "Well, the royal leaders of the other kingdoms are soon arriving. The castle is prepared, but we wanted to make sure you were ready as well"

"Aw, shit, is that today?" Duncan asked as he rubbed his head in a confused manner with Sean elbowing him about his rough use of language.

"We will be ready soon enough! Please show them into the commons. Liam and Sean will come and greet them!" Dylan answered politely as he took control of the situation before any of his brothers could snap something they would regret saying.

The messenger held a warm smile before running off to deliver his message to the other royal leaders with the brothers and Arthur's friends standing up.

"We know, we know!" Vlad reassured them with a wave of his hand, "Back in Arthur's room where we belong! Yeesh! You don't need to worry about us! Haha!"

Lukas shook his head before both disappeared in ice and fire to arrive in Arthur's room. Vlad fell on the bed with Lukas sitting at Arthur's desk again. Though, both were happy about their friend admitting his feelings for the baker.

"Well, each take yer seats" Duncan ordered as the brothers stood up and used their magic to clean themselves up, "The sooner we do this, the sooner we can get back to work. I mean it! Oi! Just because the youngest is going for love is not going to get him out of his share of the work! We've got to help the people first!"

His brothers agreed in a chorus of mocking annoyance, "Yes, dad"

Duncan rolled his eyes at them with a shake of his head at their antics before sitting on his throne. The rest soon followed before sitting on each of their thrones except for Liam and Sean who went to retrieve the other royal leaders.

The grand, wooden doors opened again to reveal Liam and Sean leading the royal leaders behind them.

"And here we are!" Sean greeted warmly as Liam could only nod his head in agreement due to his shyness, "You can see our brothers are here, so let's get this meeting started and all that!"

Sean and Liam approached their thrones before taking their seats. Duncan, Dylan, and Arthur each cast their magic to create grand chairs for their royal counterparts and a large table in the middle in case of food, drinks, and documents that would need to be looked over.

"So! Who wants to start first?" Duncan asked warmly before creating a chalice to hold some refreshing water, "I am sure everyone's been up to date with the news at our place, correct? We are sorry about that. Things have been a little rough here"

"This isn't anything we haven't seen nor heard before, my friend" an oddly familiar, sophisticated voice spoke that made Arthur turn his head to see Roderich sitting across from them, "Truth be told, the rumor about my brother and I have reached far and wide. It is rather annoying"

"Eh, but who cares?!" Gilbert spoke with a snicker and laugh, "It is honestly hilarious to see their reactions! Also, they haven't been able to tell it us! It even fooled those two!"

"YOU TWO?!" Arthur and Liam shouted in unison as they stood up and stared the at Clover Prince Brothers.

Duncan, Sean, and Dylan turned their attention to the youngest with surprised expressions. Gilbert could only laugh with Roderich sighing at their situation.

"Yes, well, it is a rather long story" Roderich spoke over their shouts and his brother's laughter, "Allow me to explain everything"

After hearing the state of the Clover Kingdom and the plan that he and his siblings have created, everything made sense to Liam and Arthur about their arrival in the kingdom well before the meeting it to take place.

"So!" Sean said without hesitation with his hands in front of his face, "You're trying to get hitched"

Roderich ran a hand through his brown hair and nodded his head with a falling posture at how brash Sean's choice of words were. Gilbert only shrugged as he leaned his head back before realizing something odd about this.

"So, was that stunt in the market your plan? If so, what was the goal?" Gilbert asked in a knowing tone when Arthur's cheeks flared a red color.

This only caused Gilbert to laugh even more until a ball of blue fire barely hit his face! It flew right over his left shoulder that only made Gilbert eager to annoy Duncan for an answer. His brothers were surprised at the oldest for throwing a sphere of blue fire at Gilbert.

"How about you mind your own personal business, ya daft fool?" Duncan threatened with another blue flame burning in his hand, "Or, do you want me ta strike ya?"

"Bring it!" Gilbert expressed in mad excitement as he stood up with lightning sparking from his form.

Everyone in the room sighed until the earth shook to knock both off their feet! Gilbert crashed on the floor that only made Roderich snicker with Duncan falling into his throne with the flame put out.

"And everyone wonders why the Kingdom of Hearts has a strict entrance and exit policy?" an exhausted voice spoke up with aa sigh following him, "Must you start a fight now? We've barely been here for five minutes and already you want to fight each other. I wonder what is going through your minds as well as the mind of our prince"

"And you are?" Roderich asked as he raised a brow at the person who didn't even stand from his chair to shake the earth under their feet, "I believe the current prince of the Kingdom of Hearts is a young man named Yao Wang. You are not him that much I know"

Another name that Arthur recognized and felt dread before staring at the person in question. Sitting before them with a sigh escaping his prince like features, was someone that no one recognized.

"Yes, namaste to you" he spoke as he composed himself, "And you would be correct, Roderich. I am not Yao Wang. I am looking for our prince. There is a tradition in the Kingdom of Hearts that members of the royal family are allowed to travel to the other kingdoms for two years. It has been three. I had caught wind of Yao being here, so I am killing two birds with one stone by attending this meeting and searching for our prince. As for my name, I am Rajesh Thakur, the royal advisor to Prince Yao Wang"

He took a graceful bow that gave off an aura of a prince. His has a slender figure with pale brown skin. His brown hair is neatly parted in the center with a bindi on his forehead and elegant amber eyes present. Decorating his wrists, ankles, and necks are various golden bracelets, anklets, and necklaces holding different, colorful gemstones. A silk made puce shirt is present with a Nehru collar with flowers pinned to it as his churidar trousers present. The softest shoes made of silk covered his feet with a yellow sash hanging from his right shoulder. A gold turban is on his head to show his status as an advisor and someone of power and wealth.

"I don't believe we've seen the prince here" Dylan answered as he tapped the sides of his face, "At least, he hasn't been brought to the palace"

Rajesh sighed in frustration as he disagreed, "No, he wouldn't even bother to come here. He would live amongst the people. If you don't mind, I plan to visit the village and ask for him. This has gone on long enough for me and our people"

There was no denying it now. Arthur, unbeknownst to himself, had met the prince of the Kingdom of Hearts, Yao Wang! The same Yao who only claimed to be a chief, skilled with the element of fire, and only replied in riddles and phrase to end with "I am an old man". Arthur grabbed his head with wide eyes as he tried to process this that caught Rajesh's attention.

"Is he going to be alright? I fear he may faint at any moment" Rajesh pointed out as he gestured to Arthur.

His brothers stared at him with curious expression who only nodded his head to face the advisor of Hearts.

"I know where he is. Actually, I've been tasked with something that is similar to your traditions in Hearts. If you would like, I can take you to the prince, Advisor Rajesh" Arthur offered as he was struggling to handle these reveals until he realized something about Gilbert that he would ask later.

"Wonderful, Arthur. That will do nicely. Thank you. Now, what else do you have to discuss? Ah, right, Princess Iryna! Is everything ok in your kingdom?" Rajesh asked as his aura changed to relief and floaty nature of a relaxed prince.

Everyone turned to the princess in question who was sighing in a tired manner.

"I am doing my best to handle it, but things have been rather chaotic as of late" she confessed with a tired expression as a hopeful smile was present on her features, "I am sure I will be able to handle it. I recently hired the Nordic Crew to handle a few of the troubles present"

Iryna Bragniskaya is the current princess of the Kingdom of the Deck. She is a tall, gorgeous young woman with a larger bust than most ladies would have. She has her short, blonde hair held back by beautiful white headband adorned with colorful flowers. Her tired, blue eyes still shine with hope as she wears many red beaded necklaces around her neck and a pair of flower earnings. She is wearing a vyshyvanka. The blue was deep and royal with the white sleeves holding wonderful, red, violet, and green flowers. The white dress flowed with red following it. She has a pair of royal black boots.

"Advisor Rajesh, I am deeply sorry for the unrest raids happening near our boarders. It appears some dark, magical jewelry has fallen from out of our hands during the raids. It may be in other kingdoms as well. We will take responsibility for it, but I am unsure of where it could be" the princess spoke in a dismayed tone before lowering her head, "I should've done something about it, but my kingdom is still recovering from the wave of illness and famine"

Needless to say, the Kingdom of Deck was hit harder than the rest of their kingdoms. Due to the cold climate and mountainous terrains, the kingdom was more isolated than the others. As a result, the illness and famine did trap the princess and her kingdom longer than the others.

The princess sighed in a tired manner until she felt a pat on her shoulder to see the Princess of Diamonds stare at her with a warm expression.

"Do not worry, Princess Iryna!" the Princess of Diamonds spoke with a warm tone, "I will make sure my kingdom can help and send you the support you need!"

"Oh, Dyakuyu, Princess Laura!" Iryna said in relief as she clasped the younger princess's hands in a warm manner, "That does bring my heart joy to hear and relief as well!"

Princess Laura Janssens is the current ruler of the Kingdom of Diamonds as well as Arthur's betrothal. She has sweet brown hair and eyes the color of green and yellow. Her soft hair is held by emerald ribbons and a red bow behind it. She is wearing a royal dress colored in yellow with brown gloves covering her hands with matching strong, brown boots covering her feet. She has a beautiful golden tiara on her head with matching necklace and earrings adoring her figure.

She waved to Arthur who held a small smile and waved back as he suddenly wondered how he was going to break off his engagement to her. Well, it seems life decided to throw more troubles his way.

"La princesa es muy generousa, si?!" a duke of diamonds spoke as he fawned with a dreamy expression, "You should thank her! She's working hard and doing her best too!"

Arthur raised a brow at the duke, completely confused as to why he was here when he noticed Gilbert rush to embrace him in a side hug. Arthur's eyes were slowly wide as he recalled Francis's words about his two closest friends. If Gilbert knew him, then this must be Antonio!

"Ja, ja, Antonio! We know! Geez, you always make sure we know how great ihre prinzessin is!" Gilbert teased as both were soon laughing, "Hey! Once we are done, let's take a night on the town! We need to meet up with Francis!"

Arthur wished he could slam his head against the stone wall. What did he do in a past life to deserve this?!

Antonio is wearing a jacket made of red cloth with golden embroidered stitches and shoulder pads. He has a white shirt that exposed his chest a bit to show off his muscles. With a golden cloth acting as a belt to hold his flexible and strong, brown pants up. The pants had golden stitches on the sides and frills at the edges. He is wearing a pair of white socks and black boots. Tied around his waist is a red cape and axe. The young duke has lightly tanned skin with messy brown hair accompanied with strong green eyes filled with light.

"Si, si!" Antonio agreed happily before waving to everyone, "¡Hola! Cómo estás? Me llamo Antonio Fernández Carriedo! Soy un Duque de Diamantes!"

Well, the only complaint Arthur could give Francis's friends is that both are loud and obnoxious people. That is something at least. Well, it could be worse, he supposed.

"Excuse my brother, he's too happy and light headed at times" the other duke spoke next him with a pleasant expression, "Olá! Meu nome é João Silva Ferreira! Um Duque de Ouros também!"

João did have a similar appearance to his brother. He has tan skin, a pair of light green eyes, and long, brown hair tied in a ponytail. He has a pair of goggles hanging from his neck that were a bit dirty and used a lot. His white shirt was button up and covered himself with a tan, long jacket that was neat and well-made. His brown pants were held by a white belt that also held a lot of tools that Arthur had never seen before with some white bags to hold other supplies. He has long, brown boots that were used to help him through tough situations.

"Uh, how come you don't have the same name despite being brothers?" Liam asked curiously as Sean sighed and shook his head at his little brother to not say something like that.

"It is fine!" Antonio said with a wave of his hand, "Nothing to worry about at all! See, we grew up together after we decided to leave the orphanage. We worked together to establish our business. We lived together since!"

Arthur found that rather sweet as he glanced to his brothers with a rare warm expression of understanding. And soon, the meeting was finally underway as the rulers discussed what their next goals were for each kingdom. Everything was going smoothly for once. They were getting along rather well and enjoyed their company as well as coming to good conclusions with each other which was a rare moment of peace between them.

"Ah! Do not forget!" Laura said with bright, faltering grin, "The Ball of Diamonds is approaching for our important engagement! Everyone remembers that, correct?"

Arthur picked up a hint of uneasiness from her as he raised a brow at her. This was unlike the Laura he knew. She was more forthcoming and wouldn't hesitate to speak her mind. Why did it bother her so much about the ball? It was a tradition of sorts where the royals would meet and enjoy a relaxing night together after their work for their kingdoms. Was something else supposed to happen at the ball? In a sense, Arthur had this nagging feeling that he wouldn't like it.

"Oh! Your engagement to Arthur!" Iryna exclaimed as she clapped her hands in delight before embracing the little princess, "How wonderful! A beautiful announcement to celebrate our unity and proving that we are at peace with each other! Oh, I cannot wait!"

And there it was. Arthur only nodded his head as his brothers were sharing concerned expression amongst themselves that did not go unnoticed by Rajesh and Roderich. As for João, he wiped his head to stare at his brother to find his joyful expression changed to a solemn one with his olive eyes wilting a little.

"Well!" Rajesh stated as he stood up and clapped his hands to gain everyone's attention in the room, "I believe that concludes the meeting, correct? I would like to find my prince and Arthur did promise me that. I would rather not waste daylight! Come, come!"

The advisor simply pulled Arthur with him who didn't protest due to his thoughts lost in his engagement to Laura. Iryna agreed as she yawned and stretched a little.

"I would like to rest as well. I am staying at one of your local inns before departing to the Kingdom of Diamonds for the Diamond Ball. I cannot wait to see you there! Do pobachennya!" she expressed in delight as she rushed to give Laura another hug before embracing the Kirkland family in warm embraces despite her cold hands.

Roderich and Gilbert both rose from their seats with Gilbert giving Antonio another hug and laugh.

"Please excuse him again" Roderich said in a tired tone before elegantly bowing, "We are grateful to have attended the meeting. We will be at the ball as well. Until then, verabschiedung. Come Gilbert! We need to tell out siblings before you run off to get drunk with your friends!"

Clapping his hands to create a gust of wind to pull his reckless brother with him, Roderich and Gilbert left together with Gilbert waving goodbye and shouting in a cheery manner.

Laura nervously shook her head before composing her to bow before the brothers with João on her left and Antonio to the right. Both followed her examples and remained kneeling as she rose to face them.

"Yes, we should retire as well. Thank you for hosting the meeting, Spades. I look forward to seeing you at the ball as well. Tot ziens!" she said with a sad yet warm expression before gasping to turn to Antonio, "Oh! We are staying here for a few days! Please see your friend. I know you want to check on him. Do not worry, your brother will watch over me. My dear Antonio, please have fun"

She held her hands out to him who only stared at her with a grateful expression as he took her hands in his. He gave it a squeeze with her giggling at his affection. This exchange did not go unnoticed by João and the Kirkland brothers. The brothers then shared a knowing expression with relief.

"Gracias mi princesa! I shall see you tonight after the fiesta! Look after her, por favor hermano!" Antonio said with some joy in his voice as he released her hands and turned to leave.

Laura fondly watched him leave before skipping to leave with João at her side. Once the doors were closed and no one could hear them, the Kirkland brothers swiftly turned to each other with determined, bright expressions.

In unison, the brothers shouted in delight, "THEY DON'T LOVE EACH OTHER!"

"Lads, this is a fucken miracle!" Sean cheered while throwing his hand up and hugging Liam.

Dylan said in utter relief, "That means Arthur can be with the baker and Laura could court the duke! Oh, how wonderful!"

Duncan proudly smiled before declaring with a calm, smirk on his features, "Yes, well, we've got our work cut out for us lads! Let's get to work to do, boys! Let's go!"

Their loud yells and cheers echoed throughout the castle that warmed the hearts of the staff. It had been a while since they heard such delights in their castle and found it to be a good change. They happily saw the brothers running through the castle to their meeting chamber to begin their work without any frustration, anger, nor despair in their presence. Seeing the change warmed their hearts deeply.

"Before we depart, you must change your attire" Arthur informed the advisor as they reached his room, "You see, the people must not be aware we are living among them. At least not now. Just until the time is right!"

That, and he wanted to tell Francis he was the prince at a proper time. He wasn't aware when that time would be, but he wanted it to be perfect! Oh, and the engagement with Laura would be another issue he wanted to resolve before doing anything!

"Very well" Rajesh agreed with him as they stepped into his room, "But I am surprised that your kingdom is adopting our traditions. What is the occasion? Oh? And who are they?"

He was greeted with an interesting sight of Vlad laying on the prince's bed while sleeping and drool dripping from his open mouth to even show his fangs. Lukas was normal and waving to them with an observing expression.

"Ah, well, it was an idea that I proposed to my brothers with my friends help. Right, introductions. This is Vlad on the bed and Lukas at my desk" Arthur explained as he used his magic to conjure up his cloak and another for Rajesh, "You can wear my best one. It should complement you"

It was a white cloak that hovered before Rajesh. He placed a hand on his chin and nodded. He took off his turban, jewelry, and sash to lay on the desk before taking the white cloak to secure of his shoulders.

"It will do. A little bland, but I suppose that is the point of it" Rajesh commented and sighed at the lack of color and shine.

Arthur huffed before offering his hand to the advisor. Rajesh stared at the hand with a curious expression with Lukas surprised.

"Arthur is skilled with magic just as his brothers and we are" Lukas reassured as he made snow appear from his hand, "He's only going to use his magic to teleport you close to the location of wherever you want to go, Advisor Rajesh. I suppose we are staying here?"

"Is that alright with you? I know you would want to come, but it would be best if we travel small for now" Arthur requested of them with Lukas only nodding his head in understanding.

Shrugging again, Rajesh took the prince's hand. In a flash of lightning, Arthur and Rajesh disappeared from Arthur's room. Lukas hummed and gazed at the sleeping Vlad until both sensed something amiss with Vlad sitting up, wide awake.

"What was that?!" the Clover mage asked as he turned to the Deck mage who stared at the window.

Lukas's eyes were not wavering from the distance of the border of Spade and Deck. He couldn't place it, but he was sure of it. Something was occurring at the borders of their kingdoms. Vlad sat up from the bed with a smirk before standing next to Lukas.

"Why don't we figure out what this is?" Vlad suggested with a grin, "Come on! Arthur's going to be fine! We should make sure nothing is happening in home too! Well, that and it is your home too!"

Lukas only nodded his head before both disappeared in fire and ice to appear outside of the palace to head to the borders.

"Oh, my!" Rajesh commented as he and Arthur appeared behind the bakery who was able to gain his footing with ease, "Well, that was a new experience. Though, knowing Yao, he's done this a bunch of times. Sigh, I can never understand him at times"

Arthur was on his feet and only shrugged before motioning him to follow. They walked to the bakery's entrance to find some customers present. Arthur made his way to the front of the line to find Clarisse managing the counter with Erzsébet taking orders. She waved and approached them with a wonderful smile.

"Hello to you, Arthur. Oh! Did you bring a new friend as well?" she asked politely, "Welcome to the boulangerie! If you're looking for Francis, he's in the kitchen. He would benefit from seeing you, Arthur"

She gave him a wink as he huffed with his arms crossed over his chest. He marched forward with Rajesh holding an interested expression. The prince opened the doors to the kitchen to find Francis cutting up some cakes and sweets for the customers.

"Ah, so frogs can do more than swim. Could've fooled me" Arthur remarked which threw Rajesh off.

Francis's entire body was relieved as he spun on his heel with his arms out to embrace Arthur.

"Well, at least us frogs have manners compared to you, mon lapin!" Francis commented as he hugged the prince close, "You only pick fights"

Rajesh remained quiet as he hummed at the sight of Arthur's flushing expression against the baker. He chuckled as he noticed their obvious affection for each other. Arthur effortlessly pushed Francis off him before holding a hand out to Rajesh.

"Well, we should hurry this up! I don't want to keep you from your work" Arthur reminded as he gestured to the crowd, "We are looking for your chief"

This surprised Francis who leaned against the table to ask, "Yao? Pourquoi?"

Before Arthur could figure out a way to explain to the baker, the chief entered the kitchen as he easily carried an entire crate of fruits. He placed it on his side of the kitchen with a satisfied expression until everyone stared at him. Yao gave them a smile until his eyes fell on Rajesh to change into a nervous one.

"Yao! There you are! Don't you dare do anything!" Rajesh snapped furiously as the chief turned to the doors to run.

Simply clapping his hands, a wall of earth rose from the ground to block the only escape for the chief. He growled at the sight as he swiftly turned to only be met with Rajesh's serious expression.

"Ah, ha" Yao spoke with a caught expression before shaking his head, "Is it time for me to return home so soon? I thought I had at least another year"

"You are overdue by a year, you fool!" Rajesh snapped with his arms crossed and dissatisfied expression clear across his features, "You cannot leave me to run our home like that! What is wrong with you, abe saale?!"

He was soon defaulting into Hindi that Yao could clearly understand, Arthur could barely understand, and Francis could not understand. One thing he did understand was Yao might be leaving him.

"Excusez moi, but why must Yao leave?" Francis asked with concern, "I believe he is obligated to work for me until his quota is met. Unless this is an emergency, he must stay with me"

Francis can be agreeable, but he didn't want to lose Yao. He was a hard worker and enjoyed his craft as well. He got along with his little sister and worked very well with Erzsébet. However, if the chief needed to depart, Francis would let him go without any trouble.

Rajesh rubbed his temple as he glanced to a worried Arthur and cheeky Yao before understanding the situation. He wouldn't cause trouble for the Prince of Spade, but he would definitely give the Prince of Hearts some trouble.

"Oh, yes, he does have to leave" Rajesh spoke in a frustrated tone until a smirk appeared, "For you see, Yao Wang is the Prince of Hearts. I am his advisor!"

Francis's eyes were wide along with Arthur's, but both were shocked for different reasons. As for Yao, he pouted before sighing in defeat with his secret out.

"That is true" Yao said as he rolled up his sleeves to show a golden dragon bracelet with jade eyes, "I am the Prince of Hearts, Yao Wang. I am sorry for keeping this a secret, but there is a reason"

Yao explained of the traditions of the Kingdom of Hearts to them and how it was normal for the prince to leave his kingdom and see the world. After being a part of it, the prince would return to the kingdom and use the knowledge he has learned to help the kingdom.

"Normally, this is a two-year adventure" Yao finished explaining with his hands in his changshen, "But I decided to do one more year! I do not regret it!"

"One of us does" Rajesh snapped with a glare and arms crossed at the prince who only snickered.

Yao composed himself before bowing to the baker to apologize, "I am sorry about this. I understand your frustrations with your monarchy. I did not mean to trick you, but I believed it would be best to keep it quiet for obvious reasons. Francis, I signed that contract as Yao Wang the chief. I did not sign it as Yao Wang the Prince of Hearts. If you wish for it to be terminated, then so be it. I will not fight with you on whatever choice you decide. You may also take out your frustrations on me as well. I did lie, and I promise to make up for it by any means"

He was still in a bowing form and waited to hear from the baker, whether it is his actions or words. Arthur waited as well and wondered what Francis would do. The baker had his eyes closed and a hand on his stubble. He was quiet throughout Yao's explanation.

"I would like for Yao to finish his contract with me, s'il te plait" Francis decided as he held an understanding expression, "I do not like lies, but I understand. It should be until the end of the year. Once his contract is up, he will return to your kingdom. Is that alright with you, Monsieur Rajesh?"

The advisor groaned in a frustrated manner before sighing in defeat. It was a contact.

"Very well" Rajesh acquiesced with a sigh, "It will be till the end of the year. I expect you and your little sister to bring him to the border. Do not let him escape!"

Yao finally raised his head with a thankful expression to the baker. He couldn't thank him enough for letting him stay as Francis held a warm smile.

Francis answered in a knowing tone, "It is not like I do not understand. I would love a life that doesn't involve too many worries and could easily provide pour mon petite soeur. If I could do that, I would trade it in a heartbeat. Ah, but I was given a different hand at life. I do hope that the Princes of Spade will realize this too"

A jab to Arthur as he wanted to protest that he and his brothers were doing their best until he realized an issue. If he defended the princes, Francis may not prefer that. Deciding to hold his tongue for now until he recalled something that the baker wanted to see.

"Hey!" Arthur snapped as he gained the attention of the room and grabbed Francis's hand, "So, with all that settle, I believe you need a break. Don't you dare argue with me, baker! I know you need one! I am sure your little sister, Erzsébet, Yao, and now Rajesh can help! Come on!"

Without even fussing, Francis shrugged as he let his crush pull his hand and depart from the bakery while waving to Clarisse who held a perplexing expression. She knew something was up and was determined to find the answers she wanted now!

"Ah! Clarisse!" Yao spoke with a smile that held more one reason of joy, "This is my good friend, Rajesh. He will help take over your brother's work for the day. I hope you don't mind showing him how to make bread!"

She sighed in defeat as she realized the number of customers that still need to be served. Since her brother ran off to have some fun, she knew it would be best to acquire all the help she would need. Letting a sigh, she marched right back to the kitchen to prepare another loaf with Yao snickering and Rajesh rolling his eyes at the prince.

"You are enjoying their love too much, aren't you?" Rajesh asked with a glare and knowing tone at the real reason Yao wanted to stay here.

Yao only shrugged before laughing as he and Rajesh returned to the kitchen, "Ah, but I am a young prince still learning the ways of the world. What could I possibly know about love?"

He couldn't help himself and laugh at the situation with Rajesh sighing in defeat before following his prince into the kitchen. Rajesh only cursed at the prince's antics until he realized why Arthur and Yao did what they did as well as Francis's statement on the royal family. The baker had no idea that Arthur was a Prince of Spade. Fascinated by this knowledge, Rajesh only smiled and went to help the bakery.

Finally having the baker to himself, Arthur knew exactly where to go. True, Francis hated the monarchy, but he always wanted to see the palace and the gardens. Sneaking out of the palace enough times allowed Arthur a chance to show the baker it. After all, it was only fair for him to show him the palace when he saw the village.

Francis found Arthur's jealousy over him adorable. He had not reason to be jealous since the baker only had eyes and his heart for him. The baker gripped their joined hands tightly before laughing at the situation while wondering where they were even going.

"So, did you kidnap me from my work? Very daring, mon lapin!" Francis teased at the flushing expression Arthur soon held, "Mon dieu! Are we heading to the castle?!"

The prince was annoyed with how loud the baker is! He would give away their presence and that would ruin his plan! He had to find a way to keep the baker quiet!

"Ssh! You must be quiet!" Arthur spoke as he pressed a finger to Francis's lips while holding a mischievous grin to counter his flushing expression.

Francis responded by giving the finger a kiss to then whisper, "Oui, whatever you say, my lord. Although, I don't know how you snuck into the Palace of Spade so easily. I thought this place would be heavily guarded"

Arthur flushed at the gesture and worry if Francis would know of his origin. After all, Francis spoke that he wished to see the palace that rarely anyone ever saw, but he expressed his disdain for the royal family. Luckily, the only advantage Arthur had was Francis had no idea what the princes looked like. He hoped he could keep that up.

"Well, let's just say this isn't my first time sneaking in" Arthur answered before turning on his heel to hold Francis's hand and marching forward, "And you wanted to see the garden, so I shall take you there!"

Even though Arthur had two true friends, he had no idea how to properly act before a person he truly wanted to get to know more. He knew Francis would give anything to see the garden, so Arthur thought this would be the best way to prove himself to his crush! This sounded more complicated than it ever needed to be, but he was flustered! He only hoped his brothers were nowhere near the gardens.

"Alright, now, we can lower taxes! Thank Christ!" Duncan expressed in relief as he was looking over the papers, "Thank bloody Christ that Arthur decided to have his little adventure now too. He would've raised 'em! Now! Onto engagement cancellations! What do we need to do about it?!"

Sitting at the large, round table were his other brothers. All four were handling the kingdom as best as they could with help from some of their friends, and now they were trying to make sure they could find a way to cancel the engagement.

"So, how do we do that?" Duncan asked as he cleared a stack of papers.

Sean answered with determination as he looked through his share of work, "I've got no clue. Still working on my share. I am overseeing the farms. We need to get started on that. Don't want a bad harvest!"

Dylan stood up excited while expressing in excitement, "Do not worry, Duncan bash. I know we will find a solution to help Arthur bash. Oh, let's not forget that we wanted to expand the education system too!"

Duncan sighed with a tired smile, "Aye, that's right. Ok, so do we want to divide this lot up?"

As the three oldest brothers were reading the papers, Liam was glancing out of the windows and caught their youngest brother leading the baker into the garden! Liam jumped from the chair and rushed to the window as he nearly pressed his face against it. His brothers heard the thump of his chair hit the stone floor and turned to him.

"Oi! What's gotten into you, Liam?" Sean asked with concern, he always had a soft spot for him.

"Arthur's back!" Liam announced excitedly with Duncan rolling his eyes.

"Aye, wonderful, but he's not gonna help. Knowing him, he'll be off rebelling again. Let's get back to work. Hopefully, we will be done by the time dinner rolls around" the oldest prince remarked before looking at a form about education.

"Liam bash, is there something more?" Dylan asked curiously.

He approached Liam with a gentle expression as Liam jumped and nodded his head excitedly.

Liam announced as he vibrated with excitement, "He brought the baker! Not Vlad nor Lukas! Look! They're even holding hands!"

The room was deathly silent until Duncan stood up, knocked his chair over, and pushed Liam into Dylan to stare through the windows to find the person with Arthur!

"Where?! Where are they?!" Duncan exclaimed as Liam clung to Dylan with a frightened expression at Duncan's pure strength.

"Sheesh, ya eejit! Didja have to push Liam that hard?" Sean asked before looking through the window to find their little brother and seeing the baker with him, "Oh, my gods, no way did he snag a handsome man while he was out"

Duncan and Sean continued to stare as Dylan and Liam joined them to see Arthur with his new friend. Duncan held a bright grin, Sean's eyes popped out of his face, Dylan only hummed, and Liam captured the moment in a magic photo. Dylan took a step back and shook his head at them.

"Come now, let's give them some privacy!" Dylan said as he tried to defend Arthur, "He's showing the baker around! I am sure he wants to have some fun and enjoyment. We don't need ta be spying on em, right?"

Duncan and Sean shared a mischievous expression before standing up and adjusting their clothes. They turned to Dylan, who was hoping they would listen to him, and Liam, who hoped they wouldn't listen to their Welsh brother. Luckily, they didn't and rushed out of the castle to chase after Arthur and Francis! Dylan cursed in Welsh as he gave chase with Liam laughing excitedly.

"Ok, ok, I am going to cover your eyes" Arthur spoke as he placed his hand over Francis's eyes, "Don't you dare peek, frog!"

"Oui, oui, but what are you doing, lapin?" Francis asked as the baker grabbed Arthur's hand and laughed at their situation, "But where are we going?"

"It is a secret" Arthur answered with confidence and nervousness growing in his voice before stopping before the sight, "Alright, I will remove my hand"

As the prince slowly took his hand off the baker's eyes, the baker only gasped at the wonderful, beautiful sight before him. The legend of the famed Emerald Garden tells if anyone took a lover here, they would be blessed with happiness in their marriage and family. Besides the legend, the rumors and words of the people did not do the garden's justice in the baker's opinion.

Colorful roses grew in green bushes as well as the hedges that made paths and divided the gardens. Speaking of the paths, it was made of stones and neatly cut up to make a simple yet elegant path for anyone to walk on. Five, small, clear streams flowed from the center where a fountain poured from along with a strong tree growing. The tree is a magnificent oak one with beautiful, emerald leaves growing from it that also held pinecones, fruits, and other materials.

Arthur only grinned at Francis's reaction before coughing to ask, "So, what do you think? Too much?"

The baker chuckled to answer with a dreamy sigh, "Non. It is beaut if you ask me, lapin. Merci! I hope to take Clarisse one day! I shall never forget this, Arthur"

The prince turned to see Francis only smiling at him with a bright expression which caused Arthur to flush even more. He took a step forward only to trip over himself and fall!

"Oh! Look out!" Francis spoke in worry as he lunged to catch the prince by his waist and hold him close, "Are you alright, lapin?"

"I think so? Thank you, Francis. Oh" Arthur spoke as he found himself staring right at the baker with his arms wrapped around Francis's neck.

Arthur didn't realize how handsome and how blue the eyes of the baker's were. It almost reminded him of the color of the castle but brighter and filled with life. As for Francis, he marveled at how wonderful and dazzling the emerald eyes. This reminded him of the great green fields in the countryside that he used to visit.

Both shared a sweet expression to each other until they heard Duncan's gruff voice, "OI! HANDS OFF HIM, YOU FLIRTLY, WINE LOVING BREAD MAKER!"

Francis nearly dropped Arthur as both turned to the entrance to see Sean and Dylan holding Duncan back with Liam waving his hands happily. Francis and Arthur pulled apart with Francis wondering if they would be in trouble before Arthur took control of the situation. The youngest prince ran to his brothers and bowed! Francis followed his example and waited as his brothers simply stared, completely caught off guard by this reaction.

"Uh, lot, are we sure this one is ours?" Duncan asked in disbelief from the sight and how much their little brother has changed.

"There's no way the little rabbit respects us at all" Sean agreed with Liam wanting to rush and embrace his youngest brother until Arthur used his magic to speak to them.

All his brothers stared at Arthur with a surprised expression as he remained bowing and hiding his flushed expression.

"Look, this is a long story, but please don't say anything about me being a prince" Arthur pleaded with his brothers, "He doesn't particularly like monarchy because it hasn't been doing a in the past. I know that is in part of us and our mother's passing. I am sorry that I haven't done a good job to help with it. I promise, I will. Please, don't tell Francis that I am one of the princes"

Their youngest brother's voice pleading for their help and apologizing stunned them equally. Liam only smiled with Dylan tearing up. Sean crossed his arms in satisfaction as Duncan stared at Arthur and then Francis. Duncan hummed in understand before taking a step forward to speak.

"I am sorry about that" Duncan spoke with a grin, "But the garden is only open to the royal family and caretakers. It is not normally open to the public. We should fix that law up. Well, you better be off before the advisors find out. Honestly, we don't give two shites, but well, we've got laws to follow too, you know. Now, caretaker Arthur! Take your partner and leave before they find out!"

Arthur could finally breath and nodded his head in understanding as he gave his brothers a grateful grin. He turned to hold out his hand for Francis to take. The baker was surprised to hear the eldest prince didn't agree with the laws and knew changes would need to be made. It warmed his heart as well as relieved him.

"Well, you heard Prince Duncan! We should go! Back to the bakery, right?!" Arthur asked as Francis took his hand and left the gardens.

With that, the couple left the castle's grounds as Arthur knew his brothers were laughing and enjoying this which they are. The prince knew he would receive teasing remarks from Sean, Dylan's tears of joy, Liam's chatty voice that would ask questions about their relationship, and Duncan's jokes about their relationship. And yet, Arthur only smiled as he gripped his hand with Francis's before turning to share a laugh with him as they returned to the bakery to help as his brothers went to work to find a way to break off the engagement with Laura somehow.

"Ah, I wish I could take a siesta, but duty calls me!" Antonio said with a yawn as he walked from the castle in his merry way to his old hideout.

The Duke of Diamonds was excited! He already saw Gilbert and couldn't wait to see Francis! He had so many stories to share with the baker! Not to mention, he was thankful for his princess and brother to let him see his friend. Ah, he meant the princess. His cheeks were red, but he wasn't going to be embarrassed about his feelings for her. He truly loved her and wished what is best for her, even if she will be married to another.

"As long as the princess is happy, then that is all that will matter" Antonio said in a soft tone before arriving at the old hideout to see no one present, "Ah, I suppose I did arrive in unannounced. They must still be busy. Well! That means I can take a little siesta after all!"

He prepared to jump on the couch and take a little nap only for a voice and screams shouting in the distance!

"¿Qué?" he whispered as he stood up and searched for the source of their cries of help.

Without even hesitating, the duke charged from the hideout and ran to the boarder of Deck and Spades to find a terrifying sight! It was just as Queen Iryna spoke of. A darkness spread between the travelers who were doing trade between each other. A fire must've erupted, but that didn't scare the duke at all!

"Yiyah!" the duke shouted as the people stared at him who spun his axe to slam it into the ground.

Vines grew and wrapped around the people and their goods to pull away from the raging fires. Commanding the vines by waving his axe, Antonio used his powers to continue to help the people and retrieve their goods.

"Apurarse! Apurarse!" Antonio urged the people as he created a wave of vines to protect the people and helping another one from the fire's clutches, "Are you ok?"

The trader nodded as Antonio focused his attention on the flames before him. He knew he would have to put it out and took a deep breath in.

"Relajate por favor!" Antonio announced with confidence and reassurance in his voice, "The fire will not bring you harm as long as I, Antonio Fernández Carriedo, the Duke of Diamonds, will ensure of your safety above my own!"

He let out a hearty cheer before snapping his hips and spinning with his axe following his movements. He danced with the vines growing at his side and slowly throwing dirt to cover the raging fire. A confident smirk never left the duke who spun again and clapped his hands to a rhythm of his own. Taking a spin, he threw the axe upward to clap his hands above his head to have the final vines subdue the remaining fires. He caught his axe and took a bow before no one.

"That is done!" Antonio said with a grateful expression as sweat dropped from his face and saw the people with their goods safe, "Good thing too! I was worried that someone would get hurt in all that! Well, time to go! I hope Francis and Gilbert are ready for a fiesta!"

He wiped some sweat off his forehead before putting his axe on his waist to walk forward.

"Is that all you want? To wait for others?" a dark voice called out to him, causing him to stop his in tracks, "Why not take matters into your own hands? Why not make things happen in your favor?"

"Qué?" Antonio asked as he searched for the voice and could only see the people carrying on from the fires.

Shrugging and deciding it was nothing, the duke prepared to leave only for the voice reach him again.

"Are you sure? Power for yourself, your brother, friends, and her? Wouldn't that be perfect?" the voice asked in a honey like tone at the offer that caused Antonio to stop in his tracks, "Ah, that caught your attention. Well, come along! This power will be here for you at your choice!"

Antonio turned to the burnt areas of the forest to find the voice grower stronger. He decided to approach it and soon kneeled before a charred box to find a ring of darkness. He picked it up and examined it cautiously. The voice vanished as Antonio felt tremendous, dangerous power from it! He threw it on the ground as he took a few steps away while holding his axe.

"No. Whatever this is, it muy mal!" Antonio declared as he shook his head, "I don't want this power. No! I will destroy it! No one needs this darkness!"

He took a swing only for the ring to activate and release dark whips to tie the duke up! He shouted in a surprised tone. He struggled against whips and soon found himself suspended! The axe fell from his hands with the whips wrapping around his body and mouth! The duke couldn't cry out for help!

"I am sure of it" Lukas whispered as he and Vlad ran through the forest to find the ominous source of power, "It is here"

They continued to run and stopped at the sight of the whips holding the duke!

"Ce naiba?" Vlad asked in disbelief with fire gathering to his hands, "I've read stories about darkness with jewelry. Is this it, Lukas?"

"Ja" Lukas answered as ice covered his hands, "I've heard those stories as well. Jewelry cursed by a wicked person to cause harm and misfortune to others. We must purge it!"

They stood side-by-side before casting a blizzard and burst of fires to strike the ring. They would not let it reach their friends and would find a way to destroy it! The blizzard covered the ring as the fire rained down upon it! Steam soon filled the area as both remained still, waiting for the ring to retaliate.

"Is that it?" Vlad whispered with Lukas shaking his head.

A wave of darkness erupted from the ring and washed over them! The mages created barriers of ice and fire for protection only for it to completely cover Vlad in time. Dark spikes lunged and struck Vlad's back! He let out a gut filled cry before collapsing on the ground. Lukas gasped as the darkness unleashed a whip to strike his throat and then his head to render him unconscious. He faintly saw the darkness pour into the duke before his vision completely blackened.

"Ah, a vessel" the possessed duke spoke in delight as the whips finally released him to read his memories, "What a fascinating life you've lived, duke. What wonderful friends you've made as well. Oh? Another mage and a royal one at that. Not to mention the countless royals you've met as well. Oh, I wouldn't mind bringing about their downfall! How wonderful!"

The vessel laughed wickedly as it reached for the ring to put on. Snickering at the sight of the mages that dared stand between the goals it desired to achieve. After all, what power could ever triumph before the malicious powers of the darkness fueled by revenge and find endless power?