Chapter 19

Hey all, new chapter.

/ / / /

Alana raised her eyebrow at the list she had been given by Leon.

"Damn you're thorough kid."

"The others voted ā yí. Does this help?" (Auntie)

"Yeah, thanks a lot kiddo. Go and keep Arthur company for a while okay? I'll take care of the rest." She ruffled his hair and walked determinedly out of the door.

"Okay." Leon retreated to where his adopted brothers and his mother were chatting enthusiastically in the main living room. He hoped that his Aunties endeavour would be successful- it was just a shame he couldn't join the race. Maybe one day... Nah probably not- not if this works and he really wanted it to.

/ / / /

"So this is all of them? I thought there were more..." Alistair frowned, slumping back into a green armchair and propping his feet up on a coffee table with a pensive expression on his face as he scanned the names on the small sheet of paper.

"These are the ones who are left in the running. The lads eliminated some names but they left in France, Russia, Japan, Canada- oh and South Italy is circled in red haha nice I agree with that one-"

"That's because he's your friend Alana."

"Mm true, but I think Arthur likes him too."

Al grimaced and Dylan pouted.

"Well, my moneys on the frog. Its unfortunate this happened so soon but Francis has the advantage." Al grinned.

"Ehhh I want it to be Canada! That boy is super cute and I can totally see him with Artie" beamed Dylan cheerfully, swinging his legs from his position on a green loveseat.

"I say Japan. He seems Arthurs type and he may be interested in learning about fae, his Yokai are really interesting." Piped Brandon from his corner.

"Alright, so you all know the rules; no direct interference but you can help whoever you so choose. Keep this clean boys, this is about Arthur, its not a competition for us but it is a competition for them. Are we all prepared?"

They all murmured in agreement with their sister. Let the games begin...

/ / / /

"So what you're saying Brandon-san, is that you chose to help me win Asa-San?"

"Aye."

"But...Why?" Kiku blinked at his friend, tilting his head to the left slightly.

"Well, I just think you'd match him best. You're polite and interesting but you seem way more down to Earth than the others. You're the most reliable option."

"Brandon-san, are you trying to make amends to your brother through helping me? I know you had a large argument..."

"No Kiku. That's not it at all- we already made up. I think that you'd be able to understand him, better than even his little Hellfire Club. Arthur needs intellectual stimulation constantly, alongside the romance."

Kiku considered things for a few moments. Then he decided, this may be his only chance to get closer to Arthur- even if he didn't win him over. Just a little bit closer would be wonderful, despite any heartache it could bring.

"Okay... Then do you have any suggestions for me Onii-san?"

"Well actually,..."

He whispered into Japans ear, causing him to blush and nod furiously.

"Hai, onii-san, I will not let you down!"

/ / / /

Alana sat on the breakfast bar, smirking at the tanned Italian staring at her incredulously from his place by a large oven with lots of dials. Lovino switched off the stove and turned to face his possible future sister in law.

"So there's a shitty competition?" Lovino sighed, deciding to face reality.

"Well, it's not really a competition. I think you'll win easily, hands down. Arthur decides who he wants to date after all- it could be anyone."

"What the fuck makes you think-" He started to splutter indignantly.

"Save it. You go moony eyed whenever he so much as glances in your direction." Alana snorted in amusement at his tsundere attitude.

"No I fucking don't!" He screeched.

"Don't lie to me Lovino." She said sternly with a severe frown. Lovino sighed, remembering his manners.

"...So you think I have the best chance?"

"Yeah, I ship it. You're pretty much perfect for each other."

"Seriously?" He frowned outwardly but Alana knew he was internally screaming.

"I wouldn't say it if I didn't mean it~"

"Fine. What's your plan?"

"Well..."

/ / / /

Dylan skipped happily towards his Canadian pseudo nephew who was stood in a public park with tall trees and a playground.

"Uhh Uncle Dylan?"

"Hey Mattie- I have some amazing news for you!"

Dylan recounted the story for him as he swung gleefully on a swing set.

"So why did you choose me?" Matthew asked, slightly wary.
"Isn't it obvious? Artie deserves a little joy in his life, my dear sweet innocent Matthieu, and something tells me that you're not so innocent in the matters of the heart as people are led to believe by your adorable smile. I think you can woo my brother and keep him happy, for good." Dylan spoke with a sharp smile and watched his every reaction like a hawk.

"...Alright, then what do you suggest that I do?"

/ / / / /

"Merde! There was a list?" (Shit)

"Yup"

"And the boys managed it?" Francis was honestly surprised his name was even in the running- he wasn't well liked by the kids because he used to harass his petite lapin (little rabbit) constantly. Harass is a strong word- Arthur enjoyed it really, getting him drunk proved it.
"Yeah"

"Ohohohon- it seems I haven't lost my touch."

"Well, you're going to need it. There's a hell of a lot o' competition for Artie, bring your A game."

"You forget mon ami, I was his first love. Even if its not now, I guarantee you I shall also be his last."
"So you're playing for keeps?"

"Alistair, I don't think I could survive losing him. If I ever manage to keep him, its for good."

"Good. S' why I chose you." Alistair spoke with a grim smile. Francis was on of the few people he trusted and he absolutely adored his wee brother. He was obviously the best option.

/ / /