Cardverse Hetalia ~ Kingdom Of Spades ♠️

Chapter 8 ~ Everything went blank

One evening, The king threw a welcome home party to celebrate his second son's return. Something that Matthew insisted it wasn't necessary but his father proceeded with it anyway. The two boys were sorting out their outfits to look their best for the night. Arthur was tending to Alfred and Matthew at the same time. Alfred wasn't smiling once which concerns Matthew.

"Al, is there something wrong?" he asked but was answered with nothing but silence. Arthur didn't dare to say anything considering the conversation he overheard last night.

Yesternight, Arthur was returning from tucking his master to be. On his way back to his own sleeping quarters, a faint sound of voices could be heard from the King's office. He was only able to pick up snippets of it.

"...you sure, your majesty? Will the young master be aware?"

"I only want him to socialise..........if he finds someone to....."

Arthur could only guess what they mean but two likely scenarios spring to mind. Either Alfred's father wants him to open up so he can talk to people outside the castle circle, or...He's trying to offer Alfred a chance...to find that someone. Arthur initially shook off the thought as it didn't concern him so he kept walking, pushing the foolish ideas out of his mind.

"Hey Arthur." A voice spoke loudly, snapping Arthur out of his space. Alfred looked in confusion. "What's going on? You've been spaced out for about 2 minutes, man." He said. Arthur sighed and brushed it off. "Forgive me, sir. I don't know what came over me." He replied, trying to finish off the outfit without thinking about it. Alfred didn't like this attitude and grabbed Arthur's arms to stop him. "Arthur." he said, as the servant lowered his arms nervously. "I know that look on your face. You usually give that face when something is going on. What is it?" He asked, with a blunt tone. Arthur could only gulp, unsure of what to say to him.

Matthew felt as if he couldn't stand by, thinking how fragile he is emotionally. "Al, please. Don't try to get anything out of him. He probably isn't sure himself." He said in defence. Alfred looked over to his brother and then back to Arthur. He sighed and lowered his arms to allow Arthur to continue with dressing them ready.

The evening party was in full swing with fancy men and women everywhere. Aristocrat like characters peppered around the ballroom. Classical music was playing peacefully accompanying the servants and maids offering refreshments and food to the guests, including Arthur. For a servant who never got involved in anything this classy before, this was exciting and overwhelming all at once. Alfred on the other hand wasn't so thrilled. Matthew knew how his brother felt and stood next to him. "I know this is something father didn't have to do, but you have to admit that this is nice isn't it?" He said attempting to lighten the mood but to no avail. Alfred remained silent until spoke up. "What is he thinking? The minute mom died, everyone seems to act like everything is all sparkly and happy. How do they do that?" he said with a tone of annoyance. All Matthew could do was sigh.

"I'm sorry I asked." He said, not phasing his brother at all. "Think about it Matthew. Isn't it obvious why there are more young women at the ball for this occasion?" He asked. Matthew felt dumbfounded for not noticing it sooner. There are more young women than men and older women as a whole. Alfred continued to rant without giving it much thought. "God...I know what he's thinking but I just don't feel ready yet. I'm not a kid anymore..."

Matthew felt terrible and tried to hide his face which was showing signs of wanting to cry. Alfred looked over and just sighed. "Matthew, I'm not upset at you. It's just been difficult recently and I don't know how to deal with this. It seems like dad wants me to grow up quickly." He said in a calmer tone this time. Matthew looked over with tears welling up. Alfred gave him a comfort hug, not caring who was observing them from a distance.