Ello one and all! Thank you to the following people: Kitsume13 for reviewing my latest two chapters, Symphonyk for reviews my last chapter and to the Anon who reviews I am sorry but I hope you do come back and finish the rest of the story as there is going to be some USUK action soon c; Also I will promise to thank all those who review in future and I will send lots of love, cookies and maybe for those special few who review from now until the end I might give you a little prize… like a one shot or something… c: ONLY if you keep reviewing though!
Lots of Love Nexanda!
xxx
Arthur was swamped at his Kingdom. This and that needed to be signed, these plans needed to be changed, something was missing, something went wrong. Half of the day, Arthur couldn't tell which way was up anymore. Everyone just expected Arthur to know how to do everything on his own. Finally though by late afternoon, things were being settled easier. The Kings, Queens and Jacks of Hearts and Clubs were settled. The matter of Diamonds was spoken of, and help would only be granted shall it be needed when the time comes. Eventually, Arthur was looking at the lay out for their wedding, the idea of marriage making him feel better suddenly. He was nervous yes, a downright wreck even, but excited about it. "Only a little longer..." He told himself with a light smile before he went to spend the rest of the day setting relations for other countries to join in to the celebration. Until it was time to sleep, which Arthur couldn't, he just stared up at the ceiling until exhaustion took over.
William hesitantly knocked on the door and wondered if he should have done what he did. He looked at the blossoming rose in his hand and was rather surprised as the thorns did not make his hands bleed as he cut off one of the roses. He waited at the door before he was told he could enter, but he kept the rose behind his back. "S-Sir… I have something for you… Please do not get mad I did not mean any harm but the flower has grown so beautifully and with the magic it will grow back rather fast too…" He explained before extending out his hand and passing the flower over to him. "I thought… you should see the garden… but I guess the rose explains it all…" Although the flower has not fully opened it was almost there.
"Enter" The Queen murmured and sat up from his bed smoothing his clothing out. He looked over to the door and smiled as William entered. "Good evening, what is it you have brought for me?" Arthur pushed away from the bed and walked over to the gardener, carefully taking the rose in his hands with a smile. "I understand that they need to be trimmed. Tomorrow evening I'll come and visit the garden when I have some free time…. If I have any free time..." He brushed his finger against the petals calmly with a fair smile on his face. "Thank you… this is great" The rose was beautiful, the colour only shades darker from Alfred's flawless blue eyes. Seeing the rose practically fully bloomed like this was… amazing. So real that they were blooming, showing that their love was real. "This means a lot for me, thank you" He moved to the bed and set the rose on the side that Alfred would sleep, on the pillow and smiled again.
The gardener smiled and sighed. "I do hope everything goes well tomorrow for you and the Prince, you both do truly belong with one another…" He stated before giving a bow and slipping out of the room to let the Queen mull over things for a while.
"Yao!" Alfred called from the floor. "Give me something to do!" He yelled pathetically; face down so bored out of his mind. It was midday and he still couldn't sleep with some much on his mind he couldn't even meditate to make all of the running thoughts in his mind stay at bay so he could sleep.
He gave another small smile then lay down on the bed to sleep, which came a lot easier that time then before. Just a small nap, some time for himself really. Once he woke up, he was to entertain the guests and give tours of the Kingdom, which he did with much pride. The Clubs Queen was buzzing around Arthur, asking him if he was excited about tomorrow and things like that. It was safe to say his face was red for most of the time. He spent the rest of the evening with the two other Queens, the first male Queen named Kiku and the vibrant Miss Elizabeth. Towards dusk, Arthur slipped away from everyone and ventured to the garden where he sat in front of the roses, brushing his fingers across the velvet soft petals. "Alfred…"
The called Jack rolled his eyes and smacked Alfred on the head. "If you're so bored then make sure your things are packed…" The poor adviser had been setting things up so that Arthur and Alfred could marry and the Kingdoms would be joined easily, it seemed the Land of Stars was excited to be under the protection and care of the larger Kingdom, it will allow faster trade and more land options. "We could go and study some, if you really wish to."
Alfred whined as he sat up to rub his head to try and take away the pain that he had. He sighed and got up and sat on the bed to look up at his most trusted person. "Sorry… I would do the things myself you know… I just… you know what to do with the documents and such. Also I was wondering…" He stated off and found that his cheek dusted with a slight pink in embarrassment. "Would you… read me a story, like you would when I was younger… I need some sleep and I didn't get much last night and if I go to sleep now and sleep all the way thought the night I will be able to be bright eyes tomorrow… you know how much of a morning person I am not" he chuckled and looked down to the ground as he fiddled with his fingers. He had not had a story read to him since the age of 11 or 12, he was a rather young prince at the time and Yao had became both a father and mother figure in a sense… to Alfred this felt like it would be a closure on his younger years as he would not continue to grow up around Arthur and now Yao would take more of a back seat into culturing Alfred in the sense that, he was to rule a Kingdom and do it well or others would suffer at his hand.
Yao shook his head lightly and ruffled Alfred's hair. He was used to the Prince acting childish and worried about acting childish, since being placed into royalty Alfred had been asked to grow up faster than he was supposed to. "It's my job, it is fine. I enjoy doing this for the two of you." The man sat on the edge of the bed and motioned for Alfred to lie down, probably no matter what happened, to him, Alfred would always be that bright eyed little boy. "You need to be rested and refreshed for tomorrow; I'll wake you tomorrow so that I'm sure you'll be in good spirits by the time we travel." Yao was always up at least an hour before Alfred, sometimes more, depending how late he slept. "A story… How about the Princess and the Pea…" The Adviser tucked Alfred in confidently, making sure he was safe like he should.
"Once upon a time there was a prince who wanted to marry a princess; but she would have to be a real princess. He travelled all over the world to find one, but nowhere could he get what he wanted. There were princesses enough, but it was difficult to find out whether they were real ones. There was always something about them that was not as it should be. So he came home again and was sad, for he would have liked very much to have a real princess.
One evening a terrible storm came on; there was thunder and lightning, and the rain poured down in torrents. Suddenly a knocking was heard at the city gate, and the old king went to open it.
It was a princess standing out there in front of the gate. But, good gracious! What a sight the rain and the wind had made her look. The water ran down from her hair and clothes; it ran down into the toes of her shoes and out again at the heels. And yet she said that she was a real princess.
'Well, we'll soon find that out,' thought the old queen. But she said nothing, went into the bed-room, took all the bedding off the bedstead, and laid a pea on the bottom; then she took twenty mattresses and laid them on the pea, and then twenty eider-down beds on top of the mattresses.
On this the princess had to lie all night. In the morning she was asked how she had slept.
'Oh, very badly!' said she. 'I have scarcely closed my eyes all night. Heaven only knows what was in the bed, but I was lying on something hard, so that I am black and blue all over my body. It's horrible!'
Now they knew that she was a real princess because she had felt the pea right through the twenty mattresses and the twenty eider-down beds.
Nobody but a real princess could be as sensitive as that.
So the prince took her for his wife, for now he knew that he had a real princess; and the pea was put in the museum, where it may still be seen, if no one has stolen it.
There, that is a true story."
Arthur closed his eyes while in the warm green house, the scent of the roses and other spices in the room were calming, lavender and mint. After half an hour William woke him to escort the Queen up to his chambers, where Arthur curled up in the bed, hugging Alfred's used pillow and sighed happily. A little longer… For in the morning, Arthur woke early and went to breakfast but only nibbled. His nerves were kicking in, even his hands were shaking.
As true to the old form, Alfred too fell fast asleep like a log as he did desperately needed the sleep. He knew the story off by heart by now but he couldn't help but smile it was sweet, but there was a hint of curiosity, as his dream started to form the princess in the form of his soon-to-be Queen, Arthur and wondered if Arthur could be able to do such a thing. He in his dreams tested it but his mind thought that Arthur would not complain about the sleeping standards but the fact that he did not have Alfred to sleep by his side to help him get to sleep.
Although he was probably not meant to be, Alfred was sound asleep well into the morning of his wedding and groaned as Yao came bursting though the door and ripping the curtains open. "Five more minutes mother!" He complained and allowed a pillow to cover his ears and eyes as he did not really want to get up that morning.
"Everything alright sire?" Alexandria asked as he walked up to his King and stood right by him. Although the knight felt rather excited as did most of the Kingdom he couldn't help but feel a little sorry for the Queen as he knew not many people were there to support him in person like Alex could at that moment.
Yao shook his head with a cheerful laugh, "Just because my hair is long does not make me your mother, sire." He pushed open the windows so that the birds could be heard and the breeze could sweep the room. "Time to wake up Alfred… it's your wedding day!" The adviser reached over and yanked away Alfred's blankets then walked over to call in the maids to help the Prince to change and get ready for the journey to Spades and the wedding. "Wash him with cold water to wake him faster." Not going easy on him, huh? Yao laughed again, still in good spirits as he left the room to gather things for their journey.
The Queen rubbed his eyes and looked up to the Knight beside him. "Good morning, fair knight. I am... Feeling rather nervous…" He admitted, feeling no qualms about sharing it with his friend. He sighed again and pushed the plate away and stood up from his seat, running a hand through his hair. "I'm scared to be honest. Like I have told him before… There is hint of war... He's young and inexperienced with such things. I'm worried if this is too much for him. D-don't worry, I do...love him and wish to marry..." His cheeks flushed some. "Forgive me, I am babbling."
Alfred whined as he was dragged out of bed and slightly groaned as he remembers his wedding day. Oh yes! A wonderful event but he had to get up early for it as he also had to go though the coronation of him becoming King from his Princely title. He was dumped into the cold bath once the maids had managed to get him undressed, in which he yelped and let a few tears leaked as he was washed. His teeth chattered at the coldness but it surely woke him up. "T-Thanks…" he muttered as he was finally able to get out of the bath, dry and warm himself up. He brushed his teeth and looked into the mirror with a sigh. The maids had left at this point to which he grinned. He had some stubble growing thankfully which meant he was becoming more of a man. "Look at yourself man… You're finally getting married… And becoming a King… Wow… Congrats…" He said to himself with a proud smile before he walked into the bedroom and hoped for some breakfast from Yao as he waited for either his wedding clothes or his coronation clothes to be brought out first.
Alex hesitantly placed a hand on Arthur's shoulder and patted it as his armour rattled loudly in the rather large hall. "He is not inexperienced with war… Yao has helped him countless times as others tried to invade his land and failed… And he will be your King I'm sure he will be able to handle anything… as long as he has his supported with him" Alexandria gave a bright smiled before beckoning maids over to clean up the plates and table to prepare for that afternoon feast. "Just… I wish you good luck, I wish I could go there with you… but I cannot… commoners such as I was not invited… so be sure to keep a smile on your face for me alright?" He asked hopefully and slowly started to back away and back to his post.
Yao brought Alfred his breakfast, Ham and eggs with sauce and biscuits, then sat next to him, mulling over what outfit Alfred was to wear. It was normal for a King to being a Queen to wed, not for a Queen to find a Prince to wed. If it was the other way, if Alfred had been King, then Arthur would be crowned Queen directly after the wedding. He wondered if Arthur planned to do it the same way. Maybe the other way around? A queen couldn't marry an uncrowned King could he? Poor Yao's brain was steaming while he thought. Right, Coronation clothing first. He didn't want anything to get dirty or messed up so they would wait until just before they left to put it on. The adviser had a simple breakfast of rice with some egg. "So soon to be King, are you excited yet, or nervous? Not going to throw up like you did during the play when you were 11 are you?" Actually he was trying to calm Alfred, but it was a worry for him.
Arthur on the other hand had smiled up to his friend, thankful for the kindness shown. Being a high stature, the Queen never was to have many friends… However, the gardener and this knight were his closest friends. It did sadden him that his two friends could not attend. Perhaps he could find a way for them to be there, even if in the back, he wanted them there because like Yao was for Alfred, Alexandria and William were his support since his own advisor had betrayed him. "I know that... I'm just fussing it seems. One could call it pre-wedding jitters." He chuckled lightly and nodded his head as the Knight backed off. "Good day to you... Thank you for your support." The Queen lowered his head slightly and slipped out of the grand hall to make sure the other Royal Kingdom members would be content there, and then went back to the garden to relax before Alfred would arrive... Even though the maids were searching for him to change. William didn't give up the Queen's hiding spot; he didn't know actually, the gardener was in the grand hall, setting up the wedding decorations.
Alfred quickly finished his breakfast before he was helped into his Coronation clothes before shrugging and looking out the window as people were singing tunes and gathering together to celebrate. He blushed as Yao had brought up his past experience. "I am… very nervous…" He admitted and looked down to his hands. "I-I'm… not sure if I should go…" He admitted as he did dream quite a bit of how the wedding could go wrong and he rather not have it like he did in his dreams. He groaned and ran a hand though his hair. "I don't think I would make a good King… I'm too young…" He admitted.
William smiled as the Queen came into view and continued on with his work in the hall. There was a window where he could see Arthur from his height on the ladder. He sighed and watched the Queen for a few moments before climbing down the ladder.
"Not sure you should go... Forgive me sire." Yao brought his hand up and slapped the back of Alfred's head. "Who searched him out? Who asked for his hand?" Who knew that Alfred would be the one with 'cold feet' and not Arthur? The adviser sighed and messed up the Prince's hair like a child. "Listen here. Isn't this what you were trying for? Wouldn't it sadden you to think that Arthur was having the same thoughts? Come now. You'll be late…" Giving him a gentle tug, Yao fixed up the mused hair then waved him to follow. "Think not of your age… Arthur had been fixing the King title for many a year now, having starting at a younger age... And I have been watching you for a long time as well; I believe you will make a glorious King. If not, what have I been raising you for?" The adviser chuckled lightly and swatted Alfred's back. "We'll be late if you don't get moving."
Arthur felt no worry about sitting on the floor, watching the roses and the sun refracting through the windows. It would be wrong for him to say he wasn't rethinking things, scared and worried about the wedding and ceremony. He had checked and checked that Alfred was old enough to carry the title of King of Spades, which he was, barely. Arthur hugged his knees, knowing his solitude was coming to an end, which was good in a way, but it was unsettling in another. The Queen understood that he wasn't easy to get along with and a murmur on the castle about Alfred growing bored of him, what if that really happened… Arthur lowered his head some. "Don't leave me..."
Alfred blinked as Yao laid a hand over the back of his head. Though he blinked and looked up as he listened to Yao. He sighed smiled as he rubbed his arm nervously. "T-Thank I guess…" He mumbled with a smile as his nerves had calmed down a little as Yao sorted out his hair. He tied his uniform out before walking out of the castle that he had grown up in and put on a grand smile for his people. He waved and shook hands with a few people as he passed but he couldn't help but stop for a moment and looked behind his at his home. "I'll come back as a Grand King…" He muttered before coming back to reality and hopping into a cart which will be pulled by his black stead and other horses. He continued to wave and smile until he got out of the Kingdom. He sighed and rubbed his face in his hands. "Yao… I hope I don't mess up…" He chucked but groaned lightly.
"He won't leave you" William smiled as he had finished his duties and came back out to help out in the garden. "He tied to you too much" He chuckled and offered Arthur his Queen crown. "It was still in your room… a maid told me to give it to you and I knew where you were…" He mumbled and licked his lips. "He should be arriving within an hour or so… you need to get going my King" he addressed Arthur as that title for the last time before he bowed and watered the roses. "I'll be sure to give you a rose once it has blossomed fully…"
Nodding, Yao helped Alfred get situated then helped him into the carriage, sitting across from him. The adviser folded his arms together and gazed out the window as they moved. "Don't be afraid to make mistakes, it is how we learn. Remember your teachings and that I am here as your loyal follower and protector. Don't be afraid to ask me anything." He reached forward and patted Alfred's hand gently then leaned back again with a calm smile. "This is your destiny. Everything will fall properly to place."
Not expecting anyone, Arthur jumped a bit then laughed nervously. "Aye, I know he won't... I'm just worried." He pushed away from the floor and smoothed his clothing carefully before taking the crown in his small hands, brushing his fingers across the smooth gold and gems. "Thank you. I fear I would lose my head if it is not attached to my body." Arthur admitted lightly and set the crown upon his head gently. "Aye, I am about to make my way. Thank you Sir William." The Queen bowed his head very slightly then smiled nervously. "I would enjoy that, thank you very much." He said softly again. The idea of the roses fully blooming was glorious to him; finally his people would be lifted from the curse they were under. "Pardon me." Arthur excused himself and walked down the hall and up to his chambers, in which he was fitted with his most expensive and formal clothing for greeting, then he was escorted down to the main hall, where they would await Alfred's arrival.
Alfred started to shake slightly as he could see balloons, banners and people from the Spades Kingdom. He started to shake and his breaths became rather ragged. He unlaced his hands to place them on his knees and to try and calm them down. "Y-Yao…" He stated trying to keep calm but failing rather badly. "I-I'm… scared…" He admitted as he was rather afraid of all the changes that would happen and the power he would have a hold of and be scared that he would become rather power hungry.
The priest smiled over to Arthur and bowed. "You look wonderful sir… You do take after your mother" He stated and waited for the king to arrive.
Yao looked a bit startled, worried about Alfred getting sick from nerves. The adviser quickly closed the curtains and moved over to sit next to the Prince, rubbing his back gently to calm him down. "Take deep breaths, it will be all right." He knew that the sudden change of power, the change of title and having thousands of people looking up to him for instruction and clarity. Yao smiled gently and hugged Alfred, "Come now, ease your mind. Think of how Queen Arthur will smile?" The carriage slowed to a stop and turned, signalling that they were at the castle now. "Everyone is supporting you… Because all of yours and Arthur's people love you." He kissed the top of Alfred's head like a parent and stood up, holding his hand to the Prince with his other hand behind his back. "Dear Prince of Stars, shall we?"
The Queen sighed lightly and smiled. "You think so? That means a lot to me." He reached up and touched his hair, which had been flattened down for the day, his clothing was hanging perfectly on his body, hangs wringing in front of him as his face was pale with nerves. "Thank you kindly. I'm nervous..." A knight called to him and Arthur bowed his head slightly to the Priest and moved to the door to look out to see the carriage. A happy smile pressed to his lips as he watched his people happily call greetings to their guests.
Alfred licked his lips nervously a little as Yao rubbed his back to try and calm him down he knew he would probably be ill by the end of the night. He took Yao's words in and although it didn't really help he couldn't help by smile. "His smile is beautiful" He commented before adjusting his cape of a Prince from the Land of Stars before standing and gently lying his hand on top of Yao's. "Yes we shall… my dear Advisor…" He mumbled out before he saw Yao open the carriage and lead the both of them out into the yelling crowds in which he smiled and waved before looking up and wondered he had got the order right.
The priest chuckled and looked to Alfred before back to the Queen. "He sure is young… And good looking. You did well My Queen" He chuckled and winked to the man before going back into a straight face and waited for the Future king walk up to them.
"H-Hello…A-Arthur" He said bashfully after he was given a nudge from Yao and he offered a shaking hand to Arthur.
All Yao could offer were words of encouragement as they exited the carriage, being a good adviser, he kept his gaze forward but smiled contently. Alfred was making the right impression; everyone had already loved him here in the Spade's Kingdom. That was the first step to being a great King for them. Diligently, Yao led them into the castle and to the grand hall where Arthur was. He gave a polite bow to his head then nudged Alfred to speak up. The silly boy was a mess of nerves, maybe seeing Arthur would help some? He pulled back and spoke of going to take his place, since the coronation was to be first, as he prepared.
Arthur blushed at the Priest's statement, it was true that Alfred was good looking, quite handsome actually, but Arthur never took it to account. But now, when he looked up to his future husband and King, he could see the looks radiating off him. Why did he always seem so perfect? He reached out his own slightly shaking hand to Alfred's, but then tilted his head up with a smile. "Hello Alfred... nervous, love?"
Alfred smiled nervously and nodded a little. "Y-Yes" He stuttered out before shifting on his feet. "Q-Quite a bit actually…" He grinned a little more at that and looked around him. "So… How should we um…start this?" he asked and just continued to hold onto Arthur's hand and looking for inspiration as he didn't not know what to do.
Knowing the nerves Alfred was going through, Arthur brought up the Prince's hand to his lips and placed a soft kiss on the knuckle and the held his hand to his cheek with a calm smile. "Everything will be okay. For the coronation, you have three exchanges with the Priest." Normally after the ceremony there was a banquet but their wedding and reception shall take place of that. "To start, we must wait for them to ready everything, which should be done. Then as the Jack, Yao will replace your cape with a long blue one used for only this ceremony and wedding, after the oath, the King's crown will be placed." He explained softly, Arthur tilted his head again and laughed nervously. "You're pale... are you going to be okay, love? Anything I can do?"
Alfred smiled and shook his head. He breathed deeply to try and keep calm before he turned. "I-I'll be fine… Just…let's get started" he stated before he grinned and stood up straight. He repositioned himself in front of the priest. He held a hand a hand over his heart and waited for him to start. Once he did though he smiled. He tried to shift into a comfortable position but he couldn't help but continue to fidget in his place with nerves.
The Queen lowered his head with a smile, he was proud of Alfred for this. He took his position behind the priest in his seat, the one next to him empty, meant for the King. Everyone in the hall quieted down and Yao stood next to the Queen, holding the robe and the crown. The Priest turned to the seated Queen and spoke directly to him, kneeling down respectfully, "Sire, I here present unto you …, your undoubted King. Wherefore you have come this day to do your homage and service, are you willing to do the same?" "Aye." Arthur said confidently, with a positive nod from the Priest, the man began the prayer while Yao removed Alfred's Prince of Stars cape and replaced it with the coronation royal blue one, it was so long it spilled out down the stairs. Finally the Priest had his attention to Alfred.
"Will you solemnly promise and swear to govern the Peoples of the Spades, and her outer lying lands along with your own Kingdom of Stars and of your Possessions and other Territories to any of them belonging or pertaining, according to their respective laws and customs?" He waited for Alfred to respond positively then continued loudly, "Will you to your power cause Law and Justice, in Mercy, to be executed in all your judgments?" Waiting again, the Priest finished. "Will you to the utmost of your power maintain the Laws of Ace and the true profession of the Cards? Will you to the utmost of your power maintain in the Spades Kingdom the Protestant Reformed Religion established by law? Will you maintain and preserve inviolable the settlement of the Church of Ace, and the doctrine, worship, discipline, and government thereof, as by law established in Spades? And will you preserve unto the Bishops and Clergy of Spades, and to the Churches there committed to their charge, all such rights and privileges, as by law do or shall appertain to them or any of them?" With Alfred's reply, Yao was motioned forward, where Alfred's Prince's crown was replaced and the Priest held up the King's crown. "With this I hereby declare the out monarch, King Alfred Franklin Jones of Spades."
Alfred continued to keep his head level as his cape as removed and replaced with the Kingdom of Spades. Although he did feel the weight increase and he almost toppled over but he managed to keep still. When he was first asked about to govern the land and share him Kingdom's wealth with Arthur he nodded a little and gave the response of. "I, Alfred Jones, agree to govern both Kingdoms which will become one with kindness, respect all thy laws and to work on peace with all lands" He smiled and looked up lightly. He listened to the male in front of him before he answered with a grip of his clothes over his heart as he answered. "Aye thy shall" He licked his lips nervously before taking a few more deep breaths. "By the Ace I will be sure to keep up and even reform religions of the Kingdom of Spades" He looked up even more as the crown was placed on his head he grinned but he couldn't help but feel rather ill as he knew he was about to get married now as he just became king. He blinked and rose as he looked behind him. Thousands upon thousands where cheering for him and waving for attention. With his nerves fully kicking in now he looked weakly to Yao and tried his best not to wrench up with too much nerves and stress."Y-Yao…" He mumbled as he looked to him weakly as his shakes had gotten worse. "I-I… Don't… well…"He mumbled out as he tried to get across that he wasn't feeling to his best.
Arthur couldn't hide his bright and happy smile. He was so proud that this was happening, his people were happy and cheering, even the other Kingdoms that had joined in were cheering. It was no lie that having the spades Kingdom finally complete would be a helping hand to all of the Kingdoms. He nodded to the Priest and stood up as Alfred had turned around to the people. Yao stood at Alfred's side just as confidently, but blinked and turned to the newly appointed King. "Just another moment..." He murmured to him and turned to Arthur behind them giving a shake of his head. Worry phased over his face before he took control again.
"Honoured guests, please give us a momentary break so that we may change and ready ourselves. Please make yourselves at home." Arthur said loudly then walked forward quickly, grabbing Alfred's hand and leading him behind the alter to where a door stood for them to lead into a private room. Yao busily followed behind them and once the door shut, the both of them led Alfred to sit. "Love, are you okay?" Yao bowed and moved over to a table to get Alfred some water.
Alfred was rather grateful for the short pause he would be given to calm down. He rubbed his head as he was guided into the back private room and sighed. He tried to calm down his nerves as he knew it wasn't going to get better until it was over. He waited for some water before he nodded and smiled a little. "E-Every time… something big happens… like this. I get ill from my nerves, They just all pile on me… and I start to feel as I will throw up… but I-I'll be ok when… I get some water and calm down." He explained to Arthur and smiled a little as he rocked slightly to his shaky hands and body. He smiled and gratefully took the water as he started to sip at the drink and mumbles something about the Ace and hoped that it would be kind and let him at least get though his wedding without throwing up for a change.
Arthur gently rubbed soft circles into Alfred's back, hoping to calm him some. It was easy for Arthur to handle the crowds; he had been brought up to deal with them. Gently he pushed some of Alfred's hair out of his face as Yao handed him the cup of water and left the room to gather their wedding attire. "It's going to be fine... All you have to do is focus on me, no one else is there, and once we turn around we can run away." Arthur gave Alfred a light smile and kissed his cheek softly. "You did it though... You're a King... my King." Reaching over, he held Alfred's hand in his and smoothed his other hand across the top. "I'll place a calming spell on you... so that you don't panic too much."
The new King smiled as the rubbing of his back did help somewhat. "Aye… At least we won't have to do this again" he chuckled and looked up to the pair of them. "T-Thanks… you both for everything" He said as he slowly finished off his drink and nuzzled into Arthur's hand as he lifted it up to his face. "Arthur, please do gather everyone again… I will be out shortly…" he stated as he wanted to get changed without Arthur being there, he wanted the clothes to be a surprise. He then stood and unclipped his cape and folded it up neatly before taking off his King crown for a moment and placing it on top of the cap as he would have to put those back on in a moment after he had gotten changed. Oh how he could not wait for all of this to be finally over so he could spend time with Arthur and catch up on the day that he had missed.
"That is true..." The would only have to do this once, and it was a relief for Arthur as well. Where he was better at his composure, he was completely jumbled as well. He smiled again and stood up, "Alright. I'll see you soon then." He gently let go of his new King's hand and slipped from the room back to the main grand hall, calling everyone's attention and that the wedding proceedings would commence in a short time. That earned a few cheers and Arthur went to locate the priest and to thank him for all his doing.
Yao handed Alfred his outfit calmly, "It seems he arranged a short wedding, while planning he stated that a coronation and wedding in one would be too tiring for the two of you and for the guests… and so, he asked for a simpler wedding than the grand one that Diamonds just held not too long ago." He was trying to further calm his lord, and then helped him with the large cape again. "Are you ready your highness?" He asked with a smirk as he pulled the door open.
Alfred only let go as Arthur slid his hand away from Alfred's as he walked away to announce the starting of the wedding shortly. He slow put on his clothes and started straighten them as his cape adorned his shoulders. He nodded quickly at the information as he thought that a simple wedding actually suited his style as he hated the grand lifestyle anyway. He smiled as his nerves had calmed quite a bit since Arthur had casted a calming spell on him or at least… he thought he did. "As ready as I will ever be" He stated before Yao opened the doors and he was greeted with cheers. He looked to Yao and took a hand that Yao had offered as the guests to the Kingdom walked down at the soon-to-be Jack and the King of Spades. He walked up to Arthur with Yao by his side before he let go of Yao to grasp hold of Arthur's hand with a loving smile. Although the shakes did not stop the spell he thought that Arthur had casted did reduce them greatly. "This is it Arthur…" He stated and licked his dry lips. "You know… it's not too late to refuse" he chuckled as the joke and rubbed his thumbs against Arthur's hand lovingly.
Successfully guiding Alfred to the altar, Yao bowed respectfully and backed down the stairs where he would wait for them. As soon to be Jack, his stating was simple. As long as the King and Queen were married and they recognized him to be their Jack, a blessing would be shed on him. A private agreement really.
Arthur smiled somewhat shyly and looked to their joined hand. "It's too late to refuse. You've captured me greatly." He murmured softly, he could still feel the male shaking so he gave a gentle squeeze to his hand. "So stay with me okay?" It wasn't that he doubted, he just wanted to say it. Arthur's eyes darted down to the ground then to the priest as he opened his arms to address their guests, thanking them for coming for this occasion. Now Arthur felt nervous, a lump forming in his throat as he squeezed Alfred's hand.
Once the couple had settled down the guests also started to become quiet as they watched the two become one under the Ace. The priest started with the now introduction. "Dearly to one and all. We are all gathered here in the sight of the Ace, and in the presence of this Kingdom, to unite King Alfred Jones of Spades and the Queen Arthur Kirkland of Spades in holy union. Marriage was ordained by the Ace in the times of ancient China (*1) and confirmed in the Wei clan (*2) by the presence of the Ace, and is declared by Ouyang Xiu (*3) to be honourable among all men. On this occasion we begin by asking Ace's blessing on this marriage service. Let us pray." He looked around and smiled as they were all silent and even the marrying couple were praying for a blessing on their marriage. Once the priest felt it was lone enough he then instructed Alfred to begin by saying his own vows that although he might not of thought during the night… he did like to change things for the better.
Alfred smiled and turned to Arthur as he licked his lips and gazing loving over him. He couldn't help it after all this was the first chance he would properly get to speak to Arthur but he needed to make sure he didn't stray off track as they needed to continue. "By thy power and will of the Ace, I, Alfred Franklin Jones, take thee Arthur Ignatius Kirkland to be my Queen. When in sickness or health I shall not leave thy's side. For when the Kingdom is rich, poor, in war or under siege I will still continue to love thee." His shakes returned but made sure that his voice stayed steady. "I promise to look after thy's Kingdom and to do what I can to make the flowers, people and you flourish with greatness. With this ring, I thee wed, with all my heart, soul and body, I do thee give" He smiled as was finally able to slip the gold band over perfectly. Although he knew Arthur might have some difficulty as his hands were larger and the ring was the same size as Arthur's.
After prayer, Arthur lifted his head to look at Alfred with a gently loving smile, hoping that it would be able to calm his partner's nerves some, but what it did was cause a light murmur of speech from the crowd. Arthur was known for his coldness and being expressionless most of the time, but here he was, undoubtedly in love with someone and smiling. Even the room was warm, where normally in the Queen's presence, it was chilly. Arthur felt his cheeks heat up some, however, when Alfred was stating his vows. He knew that the man was nervous but his voice completely filled the room and made Arthur's nerves suddenly kick up and his throat to tighten as he told himself not to cry. When the ring fit over his finger, Arthur let out a choked sigh with a smile and watery eyes, he was so fully happy, it was amazing to him. Satisfied, the Priest turned to Arthur, instructing him to his own vows, which Arthur was silent for a moment. His mind drew a blank while the silence settled, slowly his green eyes locked with Alfred's blue ones and he took a deep breath to collect himself.
"By thy power and will of the Ace, I, Arthur Ignatius Kirkland, take thee Alfred Franklin Jones to be my King and Husband. Be it sickness or health I shalt leave thy's side." Once again a silence fell, Arthur was speaking rather slow and rather softly and everyone further away had to strain to hear him. "For when the Kingdom is rich, poor, in war or under siege I will still continue to love thy. I promise to look after thy Kingdom and work as one to bring greatness and pride to thy land. As a complete Kingdom, the land and people will flourish, and I shall be loyal to thee, to insure our flowering. With this ring, I thee wed, with all my heart, soul and body, I do thee give.." Arthur shook now too as he took the ring in his hands and moved to slide the ring on, making it to the first knuckle then it stopped. Thick brows furrowed slightly with worry as he didn't want to hurt Alfred but the ring looked too small. He looked up to his almost husband with worry then twisted the ring some to fit with a little struggle. Nervously he looked to the priest and to Alfred again, hoping he did that correctly.
The King let a soft sigh leave his lips as he watch Arthur repeat his vows. He couldn't help but feel his chest tighten up as Arthur slipped his ring on, or at least, tried too. His face lightened up and gives a small chuckle along with a few others in the room. He licked his lips in though before he grinned. "As it won't fit on my finger why not have it on a necklace?" He suggested as he then grunted as he tried to loosen it to make sure his finger would not die from lack of blood getting into his finger. "Sorry about this everyone" He then rubbed the back of his head. "I must need to get out and train more… or get a bigger ring size…" He said as he tried to lighten up the mood and calm his nerves somewhat. He looked down to Arthur before shrugging a little. "Sorry about this Ignatius" He started to tease. "I guess my fingers aren't as beautifully thin as yours" He stated before he leaned down to kiss the ring finger which had the gold band adorned on it. He looked to Yao who he hopes would have a chain he could up to make the ring fit on. Or he could use the chain with his tags on it… "Would you rather I have a separate chain? Or use the same chain my Queen?" he questioned and took out the tag from his neck and held the chain out as he questioned Arthur.
Poor Arthur, his face was even redder now with the chuckles from around the room. He sighed softly with nervousness as he shook and slowly pulled back from Alfred's hand. Happy and amused chuckles filled the room along with murmurs. It was not normal to speak out during a royal wedding, but for some reason this fit their style. Feeling around to make their way in life. Arthur puffed his cheek out to his King, yes he did have girly hands, but they were hardly beautiful, he only liked them because with narrow hands he was able to shoot his bow more accurately. Even being called by his middle name brought his ears to turn red with embarrassment as Yao stepped up and unlatched Alfred's chain which held his tags. "If it is alright with you, then I would be honoured if it were to sit with your tags.." Since they already seemed important to him, then the ring would hold at his heart as well, right? He reached up and took the loose ends from Yao and slipped the ring on the chair gently, smiling softly as he reached back and with a lot of help from Yao, he fastened it again. With the ring on like that, he leaned forward and pressed a kiss to the gold band and pulled back. Speaking in Gaelic softly, to which he translated softly. "I love you.." Another soft murmur fell on the crowd, many people 'awwing' actually.
Alfred too started to blush as people started to take more notice of him. He allowed Yao to take off his tags for a few moments before they were replaced and he couldn't feel much of a weight difference as the ring was added and the items clacked together against one another on his chest. Once he heard the Gaelic words he blushed and answered back. "I love you too…" He muttered softly before the priest bellowed. "Now I pronounce you husbands, the King and Queen of Spades under Ace. Do kiss and let's get the party started !" He laughed before Alfred turned to Arthur and grinned brightly. "God to look beautiful Arthur… Never chance my wonderful husband" he stated before he securely wrapped his arms around Arthur and in a flash his lips were smashed against Arthur's in passion, love with a hint of lust too.
With flushed cheeks, Arthur laughed lightly as they priest spoke to them, he was really happy, probably happiest he's been in a long time. The Queen looked up at his husband with a soft smile, "My handsome—" But he was cut off as Alfred instantly kissed him, practically melting Arthur where he stood. He wrapped his arms around his neck and closed his eyes, kissing back lovingly. It was obvious that they were in love, in many ways it was showing, but it was a brilliant thing, since it would mean only Spades would have a reigning King and Queen who were/are in love. Arthur gasped softly between their lips and pulled back, breaking the kiss. "You are so strange… Don't change either." He said happily and rested his head on Alfred's shoulder happily, waving to the cheering crowd. Everyone was on their feet, clapping and yelling excitedly for the happy couple. "Thank you for joining us for this momentous occasion, and may our Kingdoms thrive in peace and tranquillity!" Chimed Arthur.
Alfred though sadly had to break for air and bring Arthur back up which at that point let Arthur to thank everyone that came. Alfred's nerves still left him shaking before he squeezed Arthur's hands lovingly. He waved to them all before he laughed brightly and started to run down the carpet in the centre as people from all the Kingdom three confetti all over. He continued to laugh before he broke out and into the sun in which the Spade's people then started to cheer before he started to pant slightly and look down to Arthur. "I love you Arthur… Now I do believe you own me two days worth of love" He licked his lips before guiding a hand to Arthur's cheek so his attention would come back to the Prince who then leaned down to kiss Arthur's lips but Arthur would also have to stretch slightly to meet him.
Alfred tugged Arthur, the Queen stumbling a bit but running with him down the aisle and out the doors to the sun light. He shaded his eyes from the light for a moment and stared around at all the cheering people. He panted a bit and looked back up at his King, letting a soft smile place on his lips. "I love you too— Oh? Did I say I would make up two whole days? I don't recall…" He teased softly, looking away, but Alfred guided him to look back up at him, to which, and Arthur tilted his head to his large hand. He really did love him. Tip toeing up some, the Queen met his kiss, earning the two of them a loud and rowdy cheer from the citizens. Embarrassed, Arthur pulled back, face flushed as he looked down nervously, waiting for the maids to come fetch them. Once they did, the castle doors opened again and Arthur tugged his husband's hand to follow him inside, for the reception at the grand dining room, since the other crowd inside had been herded to sit at the large tables.
Alfred just brushed off t he comments but he couldn't help but giggle at the Queen's blushing face. He allowed both himself and his newly wedded husband to be guided into the hall in which there were plates upon plates of food and a hugs clearing for dancing Alfred supposed but he was quickly seated with everyone else but he did have to stand once everyone was able to be seated. He looked around and sighed as he did sometimes hate delivering speeches but he knew he had too. He would get Arthur to himself soon enough. He then yelled for everyone's attention as he did not know of any other way to do so and so he started once all were silent. "H-hey everyone… I just want to thank you all for coming, and it's a pleasure to see so many faces in which both Arthur and I will surely come to know in the very near future. But, I want us all to say thank to Ace who have given us this chance and also to People such as Yao, our Jack and Arthur who had organised everything today." he smiled and started to clap as he looked to Yao he hoped that Yao felt that he was needed and the fact without him. Alfred would probably not be where he was at that moment without him. Once everyone stopped he looked around and licked his lips. "Again… thank you all for coming and I hope you all have a wonderful evening" he stated before he was able to sit down.
Arthur looked around at everyone and was seated next to Alfred, waving lightly to Yao and focused a head again. Thank Ace that Alfred had gotten up for the speech, Arthur would be dead floating if it was up to him, he didn't know what to say and normally he was a person of short words. He held a small smile and stared forward rather blankly, trying not to focus on anyone in particular in the room, but rather the floor. The smile grew a bit when Alfred gave him and Yao the credit, clapping for the Jack of Spades. Yao really was a driving force for them. When Alfred finished his statement and sat, the room exploded with everyone having their own conversations and the band beginning to play their songs. "Thanks for doing the speech.." Arthur said softly, wringing his hands under the table. "I am not quite good at addressing people…" He admitted and looked at his husband. Food and drink was brought around and shared for everyone. Arthur shook hands with people that gathered the courage to come and express their congratulations to the couple, he offered calm blessings of safe travels to the ones that arrived to their table, knowing that many of the royals present had come a long journey to be there that day. However, although people were moving about, no one danced. That was for them, Arthur stood up and held his hand out to Alfred, his cheeks a bit flushed again. "Care for the first dance, love?"
xxx
A little bit of history of Playing Cards here xDD I just thought it would make it more suitable you'know?
*1 This was when some of the first card games were played
*2 In the Tang Dynasty the Wei Clan were the first people who played a game called the 'Leaf Game'
*3 Ouyang Xiu (1007–1072) asserted that playing cards and card games existed at least since the mid Tang Dynasty
So there c: I hope that makes a little more sense and thank you to baconis1priority for reviewing and reminding me