The sound of singing birds was loud enough for Alfred to hear and awaken him from his slumber. Opening his eyes the first thing he saw was the large window near his bed that led out onto the balcony, and found that it was still somewhat dark outside but it was close to dawn. There was an unusual amount of birds hopping around the potted plants that decorated the balcony, singing away to welcome the new day. On the horizon he could see the sun was still a few minutes away from rising as it grew brighter.

As he sat up he hissed in pain as sleeping in an armchair was not as comfortable as it looked, his muscles aching from resting in such an awkward position. It was then that he realised that he really needed a shower as the stench of his body odour made him feel a little grossed out. He stretched his muscles and clicked his bones back into place, before glancing over at his occupied bed.

“Arthur?”

He was still fast asleep but Alfred couldn’t resist carefully crawling onto the bed and peered down at him. Arthur was sleeping peacefully, almost as if he was stuck in time. He smiled as he could see that he was still healthy, and as he looked out the window a thought hit him. Placing his hand on Arthur’s shoulder he carefully shook him, trying to get him to wake up.

“Arthur? Arthur, come on.”

Arthur didn’t stir but groaned as Alfred tried to awaken him.

“Arthur? Arthur, you need to wake up.”

It didn’t seem to work as Arthur rolled his head to the side. Alfred folded his arms and pondered on what to do.

“Hmmm... well, it worked last time.”

Alfred then cupped Arthur’s face and gently kissed him on the lips.

SMACK

Alfred hissed in pain as he pulled back, but realised he should’ve seen that coming. Still at least it worked.

“What the hell are you doing, you idiot!”

Arthur had awoken but he was still weak and could barely support himself as he tried to sit up. “What kind of person wakes people up like that!?”

“I was trying to wake you up but you wouldn’t, so I tried what I did the first time,” whined Alfred, massaging his sore cheek. “It worked last time.”

“Well you should’ve waited until I’ve awaken by my own accord,” huffed Arthur. He then looked around, confused with his surroundings. “Where are we?”

“My room.”

“Your... r-room?”

Arthur’s face went red. He then looked down at himself and realised that with his change of clothing he had been naked at some point. His face went redder and he started to weakly bash his fists against Alfred’s chest.

“You pervert! What the hell did you do to me whilst I was asleep!?”

“Nothing!” Alfred cringed as Arthur pelted him with those weak punches of his. “I didn’t do anything!”

Arthur cried out in anger and suddenly rolled himself into the sheets until he was completely smothered. “How dare you strip me without my consent,” he cried out from underneath the sheets.

“Well I couldn’t let you sleep in my bed with dirty clothes!” argued Alfred.

“What the hell am I wearing anyway? Is this a dress?”

“That’s my... pyjama top...”

“This is a shirt!? I could fit another body in here along with mine!”

“What the hell was I supposed to put on you? Would you have rather slept naked!?”

Arthur cried out in anger as he couldn’t think of a comeback and went silent, hiding under the sheets as he was unable to look at Alfred in the face. Alfred couldn’t help but smirk at the hidden form but as he looked out the window he realised he didn’t have a lot of time left. He hopped off the bed and without giving Arthur any warning, he scooped him up along with the sheets he hid under.

“W-What are you going?” Arthur’s limbs were kicking and waving about as he was hoisted up by Alfred, his head still hidden from sight. “Put me down!”

“Nope, not yet.”

Alfred carried Arthur out onto the balcony, trying to dodge those waving arms of his, and ignoring those silly insults of his. Once outside he reached over and pulled the sheet off Arthur’s face that was red with anger and embarrassment.

“What’s the matter with you!? Why did you carry me out here, you idiot!”

“Because I promised you this, remember?”

Arthur blinked. “I don’t recall you promising me to carry me around in this ridiculous fashion! Now put me down before I-...”

Alfred placed a hand over Arthur’s mouth to silence him, and with his free hand he pointed outwards. Arthur followed where his hand was pointing and finally understood what Alfred had meant.

“...o-oh.”

From the balcony the pair of them could see the entire Spade Kingdom stretching out before them, the vast metropolis waking up to greet the new day. The city lights were slowly extinguished as the sky grew brighter and brighter, and already there were people moving about like tiny ants. The horizon started to glow as the sun began to rise up, the rays of light beaming onto the city and illuminating the windows until they looked like the were on fire. It grew brighter and brighter until everything looked like it was glowing, the Kingdom bathing in the light of the newborn sun.

Arthur had remained speechless throughout the whole thing and could only look on in awe. He looked at the sight as if it was the first time he had ever seen such a thing, marvelling at everything his eyes beheld. Alfred could only stare at him, feeling somewhat giddy that he finally got to show Arthur the dawn that he had been deprived of for too long.

“Told you I’d show you the view from the top,” chortled Alfred, beaming with pride.

“What... how are those buildings so tall!?” Arthur squirmed out of Alfred’s arms and leaned over the balcony edge. He was staring at everything and he looked like a kid in a toy store. “What is that! What is-... oh my, what is that!? Alfred, what are those things!?”

Alfred peered over to see what Arthur was pointing at. “...cars.”

“Karrs?”

“You know, cars. You-... oh yeah.” Alfred had completely forgotten that Arthur was from a hundred years ago and back then they didn’t have any automobiles. In fact there were a lot of things here that didn’t exist in Arthur’s time, realising that he was going to have to adjust a great deal to all of this.

Arthur was still looking around with wonder. “Why are those buildings so tall!? Are they made of glass!?”

“Those are skyscrapers and not exactly.”

“What are those things!?”

“Electronic billboards.”

“THEY’RE MOVING!”

“Yeah... they do that...”

“How!? Is it magic?”

“Not quite...”

“What’s that up there!? A bird?”

“That’s a plane.”

“A plain what?”

“No, no... a plane. It’s like a... sky bus.”

“What’s a bus?”

“Um... a big carriage like thing?”

“What are those things!? What is that!? What the hell is that!? How is that moving!? What are those strange things there!?”

Alfred couldn’t help but chortle as Arthur bombarded him with hundreds of questions about things that were common knowledge. It actually reminded him of that time traveler movie he watched a while ago, realising that Arthur had sort of travelled through time... or rather he left time and Alfred had to pull him back in... it was complicated. Still it was rather adorable to see how Arthur reacted to all these things, his eyes full of wonder and amazement. Every direction he looked he saw something new, and had to ask what it was. Alfred would answer him and explain as best he could, but he wasn’t that good of a teacher. Not wanting to overwhelm him with all this stuff he wasn’t used to, he took him back inside.

“You’ll get used to it,” he promised, hoping that Arthur would eventually understand it all. “A lot has changed during the past century.”

“I never imagined that things would get this advanced,” mused Arthur, looking around the room to see what else this era had to offer. “What is that black mirror over there?”

Alfred looked over to see he was pointing at the television. “That’s a TV,” he explained, picking up the remote and pushing a button.

Arthur flinched when the screen flickered on and the early morning news report was displayed. “How did you do that?”

“With this,” explained Alfred, waving the remote.

“Is that... a wand?”

“A what!? No, it’s a-... you know what yeah, it’s a wand.”

Alfred gave it to Arthur and watched him as he studied it. Arthur pushed one of the buttons and the channel changed. The simple action amazed Arthur and he did it again, waving the remote around as if it were a wand. Although Alfred found it hilarious, he realised he was still filthy from the events of yesterday and decided to take a quick shower.

“Arthur, I’ll be right back. Just going to clean up.”

Arthur was too distracted by the TV to notice, looking at it more closely to try and figure out how it functioned. Alfred dashed into his washroom, stripped, and jumped in the shower. As the warm water hit him he sighed with delight as the dirt and sweat was rinsed off his body. He wanted to stand under there forever but the noises he heard in his room got him concerned. The last thing he wanted was for Arthur to hurt himself. He quickly washed himself and shampooed his hair, jumping out and wrapping himself in a towel. He was going to dry off properly but a loud crash made him dash back into his room without a second thought.

“Arthur!?”

He looked around to see Arthur holding a ruined alarm clock, looking back at him with a face full of guilt. “It startled me...”

Alfred cringed, realising that he had set the alarm to go off around this hour and of course it would confuse him. A small box making a loud noise would cause the out-of-time man to lash out at it. Arthur was trying to fix it but he smashed it really good, bits and pieces falling off.

“It... started making a loud noise.” Arthur held it up, the digital face no longer displaying the correct time. “I didn’t mean to break it. Was it meant to do that?”

Alfred sighed with relief. “It’s fine... I needed a new one anyway.” He was just glad he didn’t get hurt.

Arthur sighed heavily and flopped down onto the bed, staring down at his exposed knees. “Everything feels so... different now.”

Alfred sat next to him. “That’s a good thing... right?”

“Oh yes, it is... I just didn’t expect it to end up like this.”

“Like what?”

“Well I didn’t exactly predict I’d end up sleeping for a hundred years and find myself in an advanced future, populated with people I don’t even know.”

“You know me.”

Arthur smiled a little but it faded. “But what about those other Kings and Queens... I feel out of place here.” Arthur frowned and peered up at him. “What if I... don’t fit in? I feel like I don’t belong.”

Alfred should have expected this and he cursed himself for not predicting this would happen. Arthur had spent most of his life ignored and left alone, until he was taken away by the past King of Spades and locked away for five years. His title as the Queen of Spades was stolen from him, his own subjects unaware of his existence. Left all by himself in that lonesome garden with only his plants for company, it was a miracle he didn’t go mad. Then when they met everything changed for him, he managed to open up a little and grew a little more confident with himself. He was now in another time and it was understandable that he’d have concerns about fitting in, as well as taking up his true role as the Queen of Spades.

He didn’t want him to feel this way. Alfred wanted him to feel like he belonged and that he wasn’t going to get shut away ever again. He placed an arm around Arthur’s shoulders and pulled him into a small embrace.

“Don’t worry about a thing, I’m going to be with you every step of the way,” he promised.

Arthur still appeared uncertain. “How will your Kingdom react? A Queen finally returning after a hundred years?”

“They’ll welcome it, I’m sure if it.”

“And the other courts? Will they be concerned with-...”

“Arthur, trust me in this. Everyone has been waiting for you to come back. In the beginning I didn’t really care if I had a Queen or not, but after meeting you I realised I can’t live without one... I can’t live without you.”

Arthur’s face went red and he tried to hide it. “Idiot,” he mumbled.

“Aren’t you happy to be with me?”

“O-of course I am!” Arthur’s face was still red but he was scowling. “I’m really, really happy! I’m just... a little... nervous...” He then buried his face against Alfred’s chest. “It feels like everything is moving too fast.”

Alfred ruffled his hair, smiling as if it was the first time he had been able to do so. “Then we’ll take baby steps.”

Arthur said nothing but remained where he was, trying to hide his embarrassment. It was adorable and Alfred had to fight back the urge to pull him into a tighter embrace. However he sensed one of Arthur’s arms moving and before he realised it he could feel the other man’s hand upon his head, running his fingers through his golden hair.

He felt Arthur chuckle against his chest. “It feels much softer than I imagined.”

“I did just wash it.”

Arthur continued to run his hands through Alfred’s hair, his head still resting against that exposed broad chest. “I was... actually glad when I woke up and you were there.”

“Really!? You hit me remember?”

“Y-yes... but I was relieved that I woke up here... and not there.” Arthur’s hand stopped petting Alfred. “I was actually too scared to wake up... thinking it was all a dream and that I... that I...”

He didn’t need to say anything else. Alfred squeezed Arthur’s smaller frame against his. “This is your reality now. Not locked away and hidden from the world. You’re my Queen now and soon the whole world is going to know it.”

The small speech seemed to have done its magic and he could feel Arthur relax against him. As much as he wanted to remain like that for a little while longer, a knock at the door made the pair sit up. Before Alfred could ask, the door opened and in walked a couple of maids. One was pushing in a trolly filled with a large variety of breakfast items, and the other was carrying some finely pressed clothes with polished boots.

“Your highness, we doubled the portion of your daily breakfast for you and the... the Queen.” The maid appeared flustered when she said that, peering at him as if he was a popular celebrity from some tv soap. “We even got a fresh batch of honey in... that is if y-you like honey, my Queen?”

Arthur appeared flustered himself as no one had ever spoken to him like that before, but when he tried to answer the other maid butted in.

“I also w-went ahead and fixed your clothing my Queen...? um... your highness?” The second maid placed Arthur’s clothing down on a nearby table. “I used your old clothes as a pattern and made you a new fresh set of clothing, f-fit for a Queen... I hope... though my embroidery isn’t that good I’m afraid, I hope it doesn’t offend you.”

Before Arthur could even thank her, the maid ran off with a red face. “Excuse me, your Queen... highness! I need to work on my embroidery!”

Arthur tilted his head. “Did I do something to... upset her?”

Alfred laughed. “I think she was just trying to not offend you.” His eyes then landed on the trolly. “Oh, they went all out today! They got my favourite pop tarts!”

“Pop... tarts?” Arthur stared at the trolly, some of the items he recognised and some he didn’t.

“We have the traditional royal breakfast, including pancakes, waffles, a variety of cereals, bagels, continental, pastries, a selection of fresh fruit, bacon, fried eggs, poached eggs, hard boiled eggs, toast with a selection of jams, coffee freshly brewed and orange juice.” The maid stood there beaming with pride. “And we also have porridge with honey.”

Arthur could only stare at it all. “Are we expecting company?” he asked in bewilderment. “This looks like it could feed at least ten people!”

“Nope,” replied Alfred as he started piling food onto his plate. “This is all for me and you!”

“What!? I can’t eat all of this!”

“Then take what you want and I’ll eat the rest.” Alfred had already stuffed a bagel into his mouth, and Arthur could only stare at him with disgust. “Better get it fast before its gone.”

With a sigh, Arthur looked back at the maid. “I don’t suppose there is any tea?”

“Tea?” The maid suddenly appeared flustered. “Oh my goodness, I’m so sorry! The King rarely drinks it so I didn’t... I’ll go get you some right away, I’m so sorry!” She then ran off like the wind.

Arthur sighed as he slumped into a chair. “This still feels strange.”

“Relax,” insisted Alfred, dumping a plate filled with everything in front of Arthur. “Now eat up! I promised you a big breakfast, remember?”

“This?” Arthur looked at the food and cringed. “I think I’ll pass.”

“Oh no you don’t,” chuckled Alfred as he raised a fork with a piece of sausage, bacon, a bit of pancake drizzled in maple syrup, and some egg rammed onto it, waving it around Arthur’s face. “You haven’t eaten in a hundred years, so we gotta get some food in you quick.”

“I’m not eating that, you-... MMPHH!?”

Alfred took advantage of Arthur opening his mouth and forced it all in. With his mouth stuffed with a mixture of food, Arthur had no choice but to chew it and forced himself to swallow it. He gagged as the taste didn’t sit too well with him.

“That was disgusting!”

“Well you have to eat,” insisted Alfred as he reloaded the fork. “You’re soooo skinny.”

“You can’t just force me to eat this crap, you-... MMMMPH!?”

Once again Arthur found his mouth stuffed with food he didn’t particularly like. He swallowed it against his will and swatted his hands at Alfred.

“I’ll eat, I’ll eat! Just stop making me eat that!”

Alfred giggled. “Aw, but feeding you was fun.”

Arthur growled at him. “I don’t want to get fat like you!”

That made Alfred darken his eyes. “You know Arthur, every time you called me fat back in the garden, I really wanted to get even with you.”

“Oh really?” sneered Arthur, folding his arms.

Alfred then grinned. “Only now we’re not in the garden anymore, are we?”

Arthur’s expression dropped. “Um... no we’re not...”

Alfred grinned wickedly. “I always wondered if you were ticklish or not,” he cackled, raising his hands and wiggling his fingers.

Arthur jumped up and started to back away from him. “N-now Alfred, hold on a second. D-don’t you want to eat your breakfast first?”

It was too late. Alfred grabbed him and pulled him close to his body, his hands immediately diving in to find ticklish spots upon his skin. Arthur made a yelp sound and tried to hold them in, but he was soon forced to laugh as Alfred assaulted him.

“S-stop it, you idiot!” Arthur was trying but he was unable to hold back his laughter.

“Not until you say you’re sorry,” teased Alfred as he continued.

He was sure if Arthur could actually manage to say anything as he continued to howl with laughter. Every now and then he’d say something like, “no,” or “stop,” but Alfred was having too much fun and continued. Having Arthur close to him, running his hands over his body, hearing him laugh like never before, it almost felt surreal. He felt like he had to keep going to make sure this was all real. It made him want to laugh as well.

A loud and noticeable cough caught Alfred’s attention and he ceased his attack on Arthur, glancing over to see that Yao had entered the room. His eyebrow was raised as he stared at the scene before him.

“I’m not sure which shocks me more,” he sighed, “the fact that you haven’t finished your breakfast, or the fact that you’re torturing this poor man whilst being half naked.”

Arthur pushed himself away from Alfred, his face turning red from embarrassment and he glared up at him with daggers in his eyes. Alfred smiled sheepishly at the Jack, a little embarrassed himself upon realising how the whole thing looked.

“Morning Yao,” he greeted, “just getting Arthur used to-... oh right.” Alfred put an arm around Arthur and pulled him in close. “Arthur, this is the Jack of Spades, Wang Yao. Yao, this is Arthur.”

Yao smiled gently at Arthur and bowed before him. “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you, your highness.”

Arthur was still getting used to being spoken to like this, his face expressing a mix between being embarrassed and being uncertain. He did finally react and took a step forward, bowing politely back to the Jack.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you as well,” he said, standing back up straight. “I’m assuming that you’re the one that keeps in line here?”

“W-What!?” Alfred was shocked st the accusation.

“Something like that,” chuckled Yao in response.

“Yao!” Alfred stamped a foot and poured. “You’re not supposed to say stuff like that.”

The Jack rolled his eyes. “Anyway, the other courts are making their way to the Gathering Hall. They expect you to be there in ten minutes.”

Alfred cringed as he almost forgot. He dashed over to his wardrobe and started forcing clothes on as fast as he could.

“Are you like this every morning?” asked Arthur, who was once again not impressed. “Running late for meetings you knew about?”

“A lot of stuff has happened,” argued Alfred in his defence.

“Actually this is rather normal around here,” sighed Yao.

“Dammit Yao, don’t tell him that!”

Once dressed Alfred skipped over to the trolly and stuffed as much food into his mouth as he could, making sure he didn’t get any on his fresh clothes.

“Um... what about me?” asked Arthur suddenly.

“Uh? There’s still plenty left for you to-...”

“Not that, you idiot!” Arthur huffed in anger. “I mean... should I... wait here?”

Alfred shook his head upon realising what Arthur had meant. “No, no!” He ran over to Arthur and planted his hands upon his shoulders. “I want you to come down and meet everyone! They’re going to want to meet you.” Alfred then looked over at Yao. “Could you help him get ready and bring him down as soon as you can?”

Yao nodded in agreement but Arthur appeared unsure. “Are you sure they-...”

“Trust me Arthur, they really want to meet you. Now I gotta go greet them, I’ll see you down there.” Alfred ran over to the door. He paused before dashing back to to Arthur’s side and planted a kiss on his cheek.

“Idiot!” shouted Arthur in a bashful yet angry tone.

“See you later,” responded Alfred with a grin as he ran off.

Alfred knew Arthur would be alright with Yao to help him get ready, plus he wasn’t certain if Arthur knew how to operate a shower. He made his way to the Gathering Hall, passing the palace staff whom greeted him as he passed them. They all seemed pleased to see that their King was in a much better mood, but as Alfred passed them he could hear some of their hushed conversations.

“They say he brought the Queen back with him.”

“Is it true? We have a Queen now?”

“I saw him last night! He had the mark.”

“Gosh, this is so exciting!”

He could feel the buzz in the air. Everyone he passed seemed to be thrilled and it was obvious why. Soon the whole Kingdom would be aware of the news. In fact he passed by a staff member with a portable radio, the reporter talking about the rumours of the Queen of Spades suddenly appearing in the palace. Alfred knew that he was going to have to make an official announcement soon and it actually had him excited. He could wait to show the world his new Queen and he could wait for Arthur to see them all.

Once he arrived at the doors of the Gathering Hall, he straightened himself out before entering. Everyone was already there and they looked up in anticipation as Alfred entered the hall. They all appeared better looking now that they had a decent night rest, and were all eager to hear what Alfred had to say.

“Morning,” greeted Alfred casually as he took his seat. “Is everyone feeling alright?”

Francis was about to say something but Ludwig cut him off. “We’d feel a little more at ease if you would explain what exactly happened yesterday.”

That was fair. There were probably things that still confused them all and they wanted to hear the story from Alfred’s own mouth.

“It’s going to be a long one,” he promised.

“We have all morning,” replied Ivan, still smiling eerily.

Alfred sighed. Where to begin?

He started by telling them the truth about what had happened a hundred years ago, filling them in on details they missed out. He told them how a forgotten King of Spades felt threatened by the power of his Queen; a man named Arthur Kirkland. The forgotten King locked him away in a lost part of the palace, and placed a false Queen on the throne with the aid of Gilbert the Joker. For five years Arthur was trapped in a garden, but through some circumstances he acquired five Elder Tree seeds and cultivated them in his garden.

The Elder Trees grew thanks to Arthur’s magic and developed a desire to grant Arthur’s wish; to have a King who would love and cherish him. Since no such King existed in Arthur’s time they looked forward in time instead, a hundred years into the future where Alfred was. Through complicated magic they pulled him back in time to meet with Arthur, who Alfred was unaware at the time was the true Queen of Spades from a hundred years ago.

During the time spent together both Alfred and Arthur bonded, both men unaware of the others identity as well as the fact that they were a hundred years apart. However the forgotten King became paranoid, thinking that Arthur was planning to overthrow him. He eventually learned that Arthur was growing Elder Trees in his garden, and in a blind panic he destroyed all but one of them.

In order to stop the vengeful spirits of the four destroyed Elder Trees, Arthur sealed them away within the roots of the surviving Elder Tree, the one whom he named Guinevere. However it was not enough and Guinevere told Arthur that he had to go to the Forest of Eternity and seek out the Grand Elder Tree in order to put the vengeful spirits to rest before they destroyed the world. Arthur set out willingly but the Grand Elder Tree tricked him, telling him that as long as he ate a supposedly poisonous fruit all would be forgiven. Arthur are the fruit but it was the false Queen who died after he consumed it. Arthur himself fell into a death like sleep and was pulled out of time so that seal he made would be maintained.

It turned out that Arthur’s life was not what was needed to redeem what the Kingdom of Spades had done. Since it was a King who committed the crime, it was a King who needed to pay for it. Guinevere knew that the only King who would willingly do this was Alfred and decided to wait for him. In the meantime the Kingdom of Spades believed that they lost their Queen, when in reality Arthur was sleeping and since he wasn’t dead there was no need for a new Queen to be born.

Meanwhile Guinevere waited patiently for Alfred to be born, watching over her tortured siblings and maintaining the seal on her end. When Alfred became King and entered the garden for the first time, she knew it was time and started preparing Alfred to do what needed to be done.

After learning everything Alfred himself went to the Forest of Eternity willingly, preparing to suffer for what his predecessor had done. However he managed to calm the spirits of the four destroyed Elder Trees and put them at rest. After completing this task Alfred was invited into a realm where Elder Trees flourished as far as the eye could see, with the gigantic Grand Elder Tree looming over them all. He was lead to Arthur and after waking him up they were brought back to the palace.

Unfortunately Guinevere has used up all her strength to maintain the seal and withered away before their eyes. She died happy, knowing that she had granted Arthur’s wish that the world was now safe so there was no need to grieve or be concerned. Now Arthur was alive and well, and even though they lost an Elder Tree the Kingdom of Spades had gotten their Queen back and all was right with the world.

After telling them all everything that had transpired, every member of the Diamond, Heart, and Club courts sat in silence and tried to take it all in. Alfred sat there and wondered in he should say something to end this silence.

“It sounds like something out of a fairytale,” said Erika suddenly, her eyes sparkling with wonder.

“I was actually just thinking that,” chuckled Francis. The Diamond King then turned to Alfred. “So this whole time the Queen of Spades was sleeping in an enchanted forest, waiting for the King to come wake them?”

Alfred nodded.

“Ahhh, it sounds positively romantic,” sighed Francis with a dreamy look in his eye.

“So if I am understanding correctly,” said Ivan suddenly, “our world was almost doomed because of what a Spade King did?”

Alfred gritted his teeth but it was the truth. “Rest assure I will be bringing this information into light, and my Kingdom will know the truth of what happened,” he declared. “And also... I would like to apologise for what my predecessor has done.”

“It wasn’t your fault,” insisted Elizabeta, giving Ivan a quick glare of disproval. “It’s all been taken care of now, right?”

“True,” sighed Alfred, “But it was my Kingdom that almost ruined the world.”

“It matters no longer no,” declared Ludwig out of the blue, “what matters is that the world is safe and you have fully redeemed your legacy. It is a burden you no longer need to carry.”

“Exactly,” agreed Kiku, “the danger has passed Alfred. I dreamt of bright and beautiful futures our Kingdoms have now, so be at ease.”

Alfred felt a little satisfied with how everyone took it. “I guess that means we can all enjoy the upcoming dinner party now, right?”

“Actually... about that.” Ludwig sighed in embarrassment. “I think we need to return to our respective Kingdoms and ensure all is well.”

“Agreed.” Although Ivan was smiling, it almost felt like he was a little saddened. “I was looking forward to it though, but I’ll feel better once I know the Club Kingdom is well.”

“Same here,” declared Francis with a guilty smile. “I have to make sure all is right with the Diamond Kingdom.”

Alfred felt a little disappointed, but he couldn’t blame any of them for wanting to go back to their realms and make sure that everything was alright. It was a shame to cancel the dinner party but Alfred knew there would be more in the future.

“When will you leave?”

“Probably this afternoon when the tide is high,” replied Ludwig.

“I think we’ll leave around then too,” responded Francis.

“The engine will be ready by then,” stated Ivan.

Alfred smiled sadly, not realising it’ll be that soon but respected their decisions. He was about to ask if there was anything else they’d like to talk about, Kiku suddenly raised his hand.

“Um... forgive me for asking,” he began, his cheeks turning a little pink, “but... would it be possible to meet with the Queen of Spades before we depart?”

As soon as he said that, everyone looked over at Alfred with eagerness.

“Oh yes, when can we meet your little lovebird,” cooed Francis.

Just before Alfred could answer them there was a knock st the door. They all looked up to see that Yao had entered but kept the door opened, and Alfred had a good guess as to who was standing behind it. He ushered Yao to enter, the Jack opening the door fully and revealing the hidden figure.

Arthur stood there, now wearing prettier and improved clothing that appeared similar to what he used to wear, but was more modern. He still appeared uneasy about the situation and it took him a minute before he found the courage to take a step forward. Once inside he just stood there, looking at everyone and was uncertain at what he should do. Everyone else just stared at him, waiting for something to happen.

Alfred felt like he had to fix this so he hopped up and dashed to Arthur’s side. “Relax, don’t be nervous.”

“I’m... I’m not nervous,” lied Arthur in a hushed voice.

Ignoring him Alfred dragged him closer to the table where the others sat. Wrapping an arm around him, Alfred introduced him to the other courts. “Everyone, this is the Queen of Spades, Arthur Kirkland.”

Arthur gulped and was about to greet them but Alfred cut him off.

“Ok Arthur, that’s the Diamond King, Francis.”

“Alright-...”

“And that’s his Queen, Erika.”

“I-...”

“That’s their Jack with the scowl, Basch.”

“Ah-...”

“And that’s Ludwig, the King of Hearts.”

“Alfred-...”

“And over here is Kiku, the Queen of Hearts with their Jack, Feliciano, hiding back there.”

“Al-...”

“And that big creepy looking guy is Ivan, the King of Clubs and-...”

Arthur had enough of this rushed meet-and-greet and bashed a fist against Alfred’s gut in frustration. It caught Alfred off guard and he had to hug himself whilst Arthur shouted at him.

“You’re going too fast for me, you idiot!”

“You didn’t need to hit me,” whined Alfred as he massaged his bruised belly.

“I’m surprised that you felt that given how big your gut is, you gluttonous brat!”

Before Alfred could make a comeback from that, Francis was already laughing very loudly from the whole thing. Even some of the others appeared amused by the spectacle that unfolded before them, the action proving to be quite the ice breaker.

“Oh, I like him already,” laughed Francis, standing up and walking over to get a closer look. “Alfred, you never told me how cute he looked in the flesh. Aside from that messy hair of his and those horrendous eyebrows, he’s quite a catch.”

Alfred was expecting Arthur to get flustered by Francis’ natural charm, a little worried that he was going to woo him, but Arthur merely scowled at the Diamond King.

“I can hardly say the same thing regarding that thing you call a beard,” sneered Arthur. “And what’s with that ridiculous attire? Are you trying to be a clown or did you get confused halfway when getting dressed?” It turned out that Arthur did not like getting hit on by complete strangers and whipped out his sharp tongue to attack, the blow was clearly fatal.

Francis was not expecting that and the remark actually made Basch snicker. “Ack, I take it all back,” he pouted.

Before Francis could try and think about getting even, Kiku pushed in front of him. “It is a pleasure to meet you Mr Kirkland. I am the Queen of Hearts, but you may call me Kiku.”

Arthur’s attitude suddenly changed to a calmer one upon meeting the well mannered Queen. “Oh, a pleasure to meet you.”

“You have such a lovely accent,” said Erika as she squeezed up against Kiku, “oh, my apologies. I am Erika the Queen of Diamonds and I apologise for Francis. He tends to act first and think later.”

Arthur snorted and glanced over at Alfred. “Sounds like someone I know.”

Erika giggled. “Oh Alfred is actually quite charming when he wants to.”

“Is he now?” Arthur now glared at Alfred, a hint of jealousy in his eyes.

“Oh don’t worry,” chuckled Elizabeta, squishing up with the other Queens. “Alfred has made it quite clear he has eyes for you.”

Arthur went red with embarrassment. “Oh,” he mumbled.

“So it’s true you’re the past? I mean, from a hundred years ago?” Erika appeared intrigued. “What was like back then?”

“Um... I don’t think I can compare just yet.”

“I think he needs a few years adjusting to this era before he can answer that Erika,” said Kiku with a chortle. “So how are you faring so far Arthur?”

“A little... out of place to be honest,” admitted Arthur.

“Or in your case, out of time,” giggled Elizabeta.

The Queens chuckled amongst themselves, seemly getting along quite well as they chatted away. Eventually Arthur ended up speaking with the other members, liking how strict and efficient Ludwig was and Ludwig actually liking how polite Arthur was compared to the rowdy Alfred. Ivan seemed to take an interest in him too, and despite how Arthur felt a little intimidated by his height he found he could talk to him quite easily, especially when the topic involved flowers. Roderich and Basch were respectful towards him but Feliciano was too scared to get near him, claiming that Arthur had a scary face. Ludwig has to apologise for his behaviour but soon everyone was talking and asking Arthur many questions, and Arthur answered back as best he could whilst asking his own.

Alfred watched him, happy that Arthur was fitting in so naturally and that he was actually smiling. It was like that he truly belonged here.

“Finally got your navigator.”

He flinched when he felt Francis pat him in the back, the Diamond King smiling at him.

“He’s a little meaner than I pictured, but I can work with that.”

Alfred glanced back at Arthur, who was talking with Ivan about the variety of roses and how to properly tend to them. “I think he’ll be ok... no... he’s going to be ok.”

—————————

During the morning so much was happening. Whilst the four courts were preparing to return home, Alfred gave Arthur a quick tour around the palace, wanting to show him around his new home. He was introduced to other members of the Spade Court and met some of the palace staff. He was shown all the gardens and the decorative rooms, even Alfred’s office. Alfred showed him all the data he collected whilst he was trying to figure out why he was meeting him, which actually impressed Arthur as he looked at it.

Alfred also took him to his former prison, which was now the empty Elder Tree garden. Seeing how much it changed seem to overwhelm Arthur and visiting his old room, which was now in ruins, left him feeling a little strange. He could feel the emotions starting to build up before he could no longer bear it. The moment he asked Alfred to take him away from there, Alfred practically dragged him away and already began to formulate a plan to level that accursed place. To cheer him up he showed him more gardens, only these had no walls and were huge. Arthur was amazed and inspired by such beautiful landscapes, wondering out loud if he could make a new garden. Alfred promised him he could, only this time there wasn’t going to be any walls.

Despite the joy he was having with showing off Arthur’s new home Yao was pleading with Alfred to make plans on the official announcement of the return of the Queen of Spades, as rumours were now spreading around the Kingdom like wildfire. Alfred thought it was too soon but agreed, promising he’d make a public announcement tomorrow once the other courts had returned home. He also instructed Yao that he intended to reveal the truth of what happened a hundred years ago, believing that hiding it away will do their Kingdom no good. Yao didn’t disagree but showed some understandable concern.

When time came for the other courts to leave they all said their goodbyes and thanked Alfred for hosting them, despite the fact there was no dinner party. Alfred promised he’d invite them all to when Arthur got his official coronation, knowing that it’ll be a huge event and would drag in crowds from everywhere. Given that he had a reputation to uphold he vowed it was going to be a party like no other. He even promised Ivan that they’d have a garden party in his finest garden.

Before they all left Arthur stopped them all, announcing that he had a promise to keep to a dear friend. He stood before Kiku, Erika and Elizabeta, and presented them each a strange looking seed.

“The Elder Tree-... Guinevere asked me to do this for her. After Alfred put her siblings to rest she found these four seeds beneath her roots. She asked me to give one to each of the Queens of the other Kingdoms, wanting them to flourish in each realm.”

The three Queens could only look at the seeds as if they were a priceless treasure they were not worthy of holding. They thanked Arthur over and over, unable to believe that they had just received such a prize despite it being tight there in their hands. Arthur warned them that they will most likely leech off their power, like the five he grew before leeched off his. He also asked them to make certain to sing to them everyday, knowing that they loved music and nothing was sweeter than the singing of a Queen. The three Queens promised Arthur that they would care for them as if they were their own children.

They showed off their rare gift to their Kings and Jacks, all of them feeling honoured, and rather ecstatic in Ivan’s case, to receive such a thing. They once again bid both Alfred and Arthur farewell before making their way to the vessels that would take them home.

“They seemed nice,” sighed Arthur, watching them as they departed.

“Told you they’d like you,” chuckled Alfred.

“However I don’t like that Diamond King fellow. He looked like an overdressed frog and I disliked his attitude.”

Alfred couldn’t resist laughing. “You’ll get used to him.”

“We’ll see about that.”

Now with the other courts gone, Alfred found he was now quite alone with his Queen. Although Alfred was happy he had Arthur to himself, he had his own promises to keep and he wanted to uphold them all before the days end. Only telling Yao that he was taking Arthur out for a quick walk, Alfred dragged Arthur into the grand city that was his Kingdom. Arthur was hesitant at first but ended up following him, knowing that Alfred would keep him safe.

He took him around the town showing him all the sights. Arthur marvelled at the many things he was not used to, looking at common everyday things like they were magic. The way he acted made people look at him funny but Arthur was too distracted to pay attention. Alfred had to stop himself from laughing whilst Arthur was trying to figure out how how a car worked, even by trying to pop open the hood much to the chagrin of it’s owner. He was also trying to figure out how the traffic lights functioned and wondered why people were talking into little rectangle objects in their hands.

Alfred wanted to take him shopping, as Arthur didn’t exactly have much on him and needed some certain necessities. He took him to shops that sold things like antiques and fancy old fashioned clothing, liking how Arthur seemed to feel at ease in these places but was mortified at how things that were new to him were considered old. Still he was happy when Alfred bought him a rather pricy antique tea set. He even took pleasure in sampling some alcoholic drinks in an exclusive brewery and bar, so much so that Alfred carried him away in fear he’d get drunk. It was only when he took him to places like arcades and amusement parks did Arthur feel like he stepped into another world. The light from the games screens gave him headaches and the noises irritated him, but he was trying to enjoy himself and was still very curious about everything. Alfred wanted to show him everything, everything that he missed out on. At the same time he wanted to educate Arthur on how things worked, hoping that in time it would all be second nature for him. He tried to get him a few games but he was terrible at it, though he did to win.

With Arthur getting a little weary from all the tech he wasn’t used Alfred decided it was time for a break. They had tea in a fancy tea house, much to Arthur’s delight. It took him forever to decide which tea to order, so much do that Alfred managed to eat all the cakes as he waited. After that Alfred managed to convince a coach rider in a nearby park to let him take the reins for what was supposed to be a romantic carriage ride around their finest park. Arthur had to cling onto him as Alfred rode the carriage round the park like a madman, with Arthur yelling at Alfred to stop and calling him a reckless idiot. It took a few arguments until Alfred called it quits. They ended up walking around the park on foot, which Arthur preferred and gave him the chance to enjoy the scenery.

Even though they were enjoying the afternoon they spent together, other people were starting to notice, or rather they were noticing Arthur. The rumours were spreading fast and many approached Arthur out of curiosity. Arthur spoke to them all politely, not realising that he was enjoying the attention but Alfred was getting fed up, especially when he noticed the paparazzi. Last thing he needed was for some desperate tabloid to confuse Arthur with their disappointing questions. He ended up dragging Arthur away from the crowds, wanting to keep him for himself a little while longer.

They walked almost everywhere to the point where they were too exhausted to go on, yet they continued anyway. Alfred showed Arthur the older parts of the city, where old buildings had been refurbished into modern settings. Arthur recognised that they were from his era but he never actually seen these buildings before, given that he had lived in a village for most of his life before being dragged away to the palace in secret. It saddened Alfred but it was all the more reason to go in and explore some of them. One of theses buildings happened to be the Spade Kingdom’s Grand library and Arthur almost fainted at the sight of all the books that it held. He wanted to read them all but the day was ending fast so he just took an application for a library card, a little confused at the concept and trying to figure out what an ‘e-mail’ was and why he needed one.

When evening came Alfred took Arthur to the fanciest restaurant he could think of, managing to get an exclusive VIP room away from the public eye at the last second, and treating Arthur to anything he fancied whilst ordering his own. Arthur wasn’t impressed to see the amount of food that he had ordered, whilst Alfred cringed at the disgusting looking food that Arthur had chosen. Nevertheless the two enjoyed what they had and were just happy to be in each other’s company. Arthur even tried the soda Alfred was so fond of, the fizziness making him choke at first. Alfred couldn’t help but laugh.

They talked about how the day went, from the sights they saw to the people they met. Arthur was amazed at how the Kingdom had flourished and was still getting used to the fact that he was going to rule all over this alongside Alfred. It also concerned him that many people might not be happy with him as Queen. Alfred insisted he’d be alright and that everyone was going to love him. They talked about many other things until at long last the restaurant had to close its doors. When they left a car was waiting for them with Yao standing by. He told Alfred off for disappearing with Arthur, concerned that since this was a place out of his time he wouldn’t adapt too well at first. Arthur insisted he was alright, and had enjoyed the day though he forced Alfred to apologise for worrying their Jack.

They returned to the palace, the pair of them worn out but content with how the day went. It felt like a dream for Alfred, spending such an eventful day with the one he loved. Arthur looked exhausted so Alfred scooped him up and carried him up to his room... their room.

Despite Arthur shouting at him and demanding to put down out of sheer embarrassment, Alfred’s mind was wandering elsewhere. His heart started to thump loudly. It dawned on him that this would be their first night together. Should he... should they sleep in separate beds first? Maybe he’d sleep on the couch tonight, but he didn’t want to be weird about it. What if they did share a bed? Was Arthur ready? Was he ready? He didn’t want to rush this but at the same time he couldn’t help but feel giddy about the whole thing. What should he do?

“Alfred? Are you going to put me down or not?”

“Huh?” Alfred glanced at Arthur, still in his arms. “O-oh yeah. Yeah, once we’re in our- MY... my room.”

“We... are in your room.”

It just dawned on him that they were indeed in his room... alone.

Alfred gulped as he released Arthur and tried to think of a plan. He really didn’t want to make this situation awkward but it pretty much already was. Walking over near his bed, Alfred pondered on what to do.

“Alfred?”

Hearing his name, he looked over to see Arthur staring at him with a befuddled expression.

“Are you alright?”

Alfred could feel the sweat running down his neck. Without thinking he suddenly blurred out, “I get couch, you bed!”

“I beg your pardon?”

“Ack... sorry, sorry.” Alfred cringed as he tried to amend it. “I was just thinking that I’ll sleep on the couch tonight and you can sleep on the bed... y-you know, just until we-...”

Without warning Arthur suddenly ran into him with such force they both ended up falling on the bed, with Alfred laying beneath Arthur. Alfred gasped as he hit the rift sheets and looked up to see that Arthur had buried his face into his chest, his hands clutching the seams on his coat.

“Arthur?”

“A hundred years...” mumbled Arthur, his head still buried against the broad chest, “we’ve finally got to be together... and you want to sleep on the couch!?”

Arthur peered up to look at him, his face expressing anger but also something else. His face was red but Alfred could feel his heart pounding against him. Despite the strange way he was acting, Alfred couldn’t help but think at how cute Arthur was when he was like this.

“I just... didn’t want to rush you,” admitted Alfred.

“Well you should’ve asked me before assuming,” hissed Arthur.

“I was trying to be polite.”

“What exactly about that was polite!?”

“I thought it was.”

“It seems I have to educate you on basic manners!”

“I didn’t want to hurt you, I mean you are kinda old.”

“O-old!?”

“Yeah, you’re a old coot.”

“How dare you!” Arthur began bashing his fists against Alfred’s chest. “I’m a young man, you horrid little fat brat!”

“Nope, you’re an old man,” replied Alfred, suddenly wrapping his arms around him and carefully manoeuvring his thin body until he was now underneath him. “You’re my old man.”

Arthur scowled at him. “That sounded terrible.”

“It sounded better in my head.”

Arthur snorted. “Was that a joke?”

“I was trying to be sweet.”

“You’re failing at it.”

Alfred decided to shut him up and without thinking about it, pressed his lips against Arthur’s. For a while they stayed like that, enjoying the sensation of each other’s warm lips before Alfred reluctantly pulled away.

“Was that it?” asked Arthur, his arms snaking their way around those wide shoulders above him.

“Didn’t think you were so perverted,” teased Alfred.

“Idiot,” muttered Arthur.

The two men said nothing after that and kissed again, pulling each other close into a loving embrace, as the bright moon illuminated the night sky and the world was at peace.