Chapter VIII – T for Tea

Arthur sighed heavily as he walked out of the car and got guided to the huge mansion ahead. It had a typically Chinese design and architecture with beautiful golden dragons and lions crawling over the walls and the gardens. It was beautiful. Certainly. And big. Although probably not as big as his family house back in England. But still pretty impressive.

If he wasn't used to it.

"I wonder why Kiku sent me that invitation … especially to this place."

Kiku lives alone in his flat back in town. But from what the Japanese had told him, his family was at the service of the Wangs, a Chinese powerful family that holds grounds in China, Japan, Korea, and now recently America. But why on Earth would Kiku hand him an invitation for tea at the Wang household?

"I knew it would happen one way or another but I really didn't want to get those kind of invitations so quickly. Bloody hell, I should have stayed back in Europe if it were going to be like this! Maybe I should have gone to Australia and stay with Uncle …" The irritated English teen muttered in his breath as he approached the large red doors incrusted with heavy golden locks the size of a fist each.

"I'm supposed to ring or …?"

Before he could even finish his sentence or take a decision, the door creaked wide open and a line of servant bowed inside, all dressed and traditional Chinese servants' clothes. Well, at least it's original.

Arthur walked in and was immediately accosted by none other than his friend Kiku. Although Kiku wasn't wearing a servant's clothing, he was however dressed in a traditional Japanese Yukata. His expression was as serious and cold as ever, although Arthur could feel that he was uncomfortable. In fact, most servants were shivering and fidgeting nervously, none daring to cross eyes with him or even look at him.

"A-Arthur-san … could you please … not be so … Alfa?" Kiku whispered quickly and almost instantly averted his eyes upon reflex.

Arthur's eyes widen and he sighed once more. He had gotten so use to emanating Alfa vibs that it was now a second nature for him. It was his shield and his blood. He really wished he had been born an Alfa. Things would have been so much easier! And he wouldn't be invited to such places! Because Arthur knew exactly what this was about. He could perfectly guess. He just thought it sad that his friend had been forced to invite him like that, and Kiku looked like he hadn't wanted to give him the invitation.

"Sorry." The blonde muttered and tuned down his dominance. Kiku and all the servants seem to be able to breathe again and were shooting him scared and curious glances. Nothing new here.

Kiku smiled weakly at his friend, almost apologetically, before guiding him across the large mansion and into a reception room. He motioned Arthur to one of the many cushioned red seats and vanished out of the room. A few minutes passed until Arthur heard a loud complaining shout ring across the place. He could not understand a word of it and guessed it was Chinese since it sounded different from Japanese (Well, yeah, Arthur had picked up Japanese classes back in Europe and is still working on it now). He heard Kiku's voice speak back and then a cold silence fell.

Arthur frowned, wondering if he should leave now or wait a bit longer. A servant arrived with a set of tea and poured him a cup with a shy smile, averting her eyes each time she met his. She was cute. Her pink dress and flower in her hair really suited her. And from her scent, Arthur guessed she was an Omega like him. But she was so young, maybe even younger than himself? Not by much but still, he thought she should be at school instead of serving in this household. Thanking the girl with a warm smile, he watched her bow, a deep blush across her face, and she almost ran out of the room. Had he embarrassed her? How? Nevermind.

The door clicked open and Kiku finally walked back in followed by a young man who looked like a university student … maybe in his early twenties? He had a fit body with strong muscles but not like Alfred or Ludwig. He was much more agile and slender but Arthur could tell from his movements that this man knew how to fight and was probably practicing martial arts. Having learned some himself, he could recognise the limited movements the man used, how every one of his moves is careful and purposeful. And he had a composure similar to one before a fight. His skin of a beautiful pale, less sickly than Kiku and much more pearly (Kiku should get out more … bad for his health to spend his life indoors on his computer!) and had long raven hair tied in a loose ponytail. His facial features were very Chinese but soft and pleasant to watch. You could almost find a certain femininity to his feline grace and his facial features. His golden eyes were fascinating and transcendent, sharp and mysterious like one of a dragon. This person was truly a magnificent one.

But it hardly fazed the blonde.

Oh sure, the guy was gorgeous and his body looked sexy. His smell was slightly ambiguous but it was definitely one of an Alfa. And Arthur isn't fond of Alfas. At all. Nothing personal but let's just say that he had to deal with bloody Alfas his whole life such that now, you'd need one fucking amazing Alfa to whisk him away or even faze him. And even with that, the supposed Alfa would need to be able to defeat his brother and so far this has been mission impossible!

He watched the Asian, who was the same size as him despite Arthur being younger, as he took a seat opposite to him. The dark haired man sipped his own tea, completely ignoring his guest and pretending to find the wall tapestry so much more interesting. Kiku sighed in exasperation and cleared his throat before finally introducing the two men to each other.

"Arthur-san, this is my master Yao Wang and the heir of the Wang family. Yao-nii, this is my friend Arthur Kirkland."

Yao's eyes flickered distractedly towards the blonde for a second before flicking back to the tapestry of a dragon flying out into space and among the stars. Arthur nodded before shifting his own attention to the tapestry. It was actually worth looking at. And since his host is going to be this rude and unsociable, Arthur thought he might as well enjoy his tea and the rich decorum of the house.

The artwork was amazing and so detailed, it made him wonder how long it had taken for the person to make such a work. He himself is good at sewing and had done a few work points here and there but nothing of this size or level. It was also very traditional in its style, something you wouldn't find in our era but that dates back from before the Great War. The artist who made this must be well informed and he definitely has originality! The golden Chinese dragon curled himself around the frame of the tapestry, circular in its movement and slowly reaching for the centre. The dark starry space in the background showed a depth that you could almost feel like you'd get pulled into this tapestry and lost in space. With comets, nebulas, stars, planets, and galaxies, there also was a large moon and the dragon's front claws seemed to surround it like a ball. It was beautiful.

When Arthur finally detached his eyes from the tapestry and distractedly looked around the room, he crossed eyes with Yao who was watching him intently. The blonde couldn't help but think that Yao resembled the golden dragon of the tapestry. Maybe it was his eyes?

"I didn't want to meet you." The Chinese bluntly declared.

Arthur shrugged, while Kiku looked as impassive as ever.

"I didn't want to meet you either if it's of any consolation."

Yao's eyes narrowed sharply but he said nothing. Instead he drew out a cigarette that he lit before offering one to Arthur. The blonde nodded and took one.

"I heard you were an Omega. And your name is Kirkland?"

"Everyone seems to make such a big deal over this fact."

"Well, a Kirkland Omega is unheard of. Your family is reputed for only birthing Alfas, or am I wrong?"

"It happens. Occasionally." Arthur frowned, not wishing to discuss anything related to his family with anyone and especially not with a complete stranger. He hadn't even told anything to Feliciano or Francis so he was not about to tell this guy either! His brother would kill him if he did.

Yao seemed to ponder on something but then shook his head.

"You don't come off as an Omega. Your scent. Your posture. Your tone. And your words. They are all Alfa-like."

"I'm often told so." Arthur smirked to himself as he was served another cup of tea by the shy girl dressed in pink. He smiled at her, to thank her, and she ran off just like the first time. Yao watched.

"And your presence is both intimidating and alluring. Like an Alfa. You could probably live your life as an Alfa and nobody would notice."

"They would. Because I am not an Alfa."

"People often mistake me for a Beta and sometimes even for a girl." Yao spoke coldly and frowned at the hidden smile Arthur got.

"I can understand your irritation."
"I didn't want to meet you but my father suggested me to introduce our family to each other. Since you seem friendly with my cousin."

"Cousin?" Arthur's head snapped up and he glanced towards Kiku who made no movement that he had heard. Yao clicked his tongue at the Japanese's coldness.

"Yes. The Honda is a distant secondary branch of the Wang family. They are also bound to be at the service of the Wang. Kiku is my cousin and we were brought up together so we could almost be called brothers."

"… But he's your servant?"

"Yes." Yao growled. He didn't sound please to have his little brother as a servant. Arthur would be angry too in his place.

"And your reason for telling me this?"

"You need to know your place, Mr Kirkland." Yao declared with an icy tone, his eyes glaring at the blonde.

Oh.

So that's why he looks like he hates me.

Arthur couldn't stop himself from chuckling, causing Yao's frown to deepen and Kiku to watch him anxiously. After his laughter had passed, the English teen smirked at the Asian, sipping his tea slowly and purposefully, almost to make Yao's wait even more frustrating.

"You have your family rules. And I have mine. Frankly, as an Omega I hold more liberties to befriend other Omegas and Betas. Their social background means nothing to my family. You seem so informed in my family, I'm sure you already know: All Omegas and Betas that marry into our Clan are from commoner's background."

"… A policy so ridiculous …"

"If it angers you so much, then change those rules." Arthur stated plain and simple, making Yao's eyes widen.

"What?"

"You are the heir of the Wangs. Once you become Head Alfa, change this rule that forces your own cousins to serve you. Nobody else is stopping you."

"It's a long tradition and the purpose is to protect the Wang!"

"I don't see how enslaving your own blood will protect it in anyway." Arthur spoke darkly and suddenly stood up.

Yao watched him walk towards the tapestry and run his hand over it gently. Although the Chinese would never admit it, he found the blonde teen particularly attractive. Over the time they had spent in this room talking, the Alfa scent that you first find on Arthur had subsidised and now, Yao could clearly smell the sweet delicious Omega scent that it hid. And the blonde was behaving challengingly and Alfa like but it was not unpleasant. For once, Yao was actually being challenged. Someone had dared to challenge his family rules and even suggested to break them. Yao often wished Kiku would rebel himself but he never does. Yet this complete stranger is suggesting him to end this tradition once he becomes Head Alfa.

"I thought you looked like a dragon, Yao Wang. But I was wrong."

Yao watched the man as he tilted his head sideways and emerald eyes bore into the golden ones.

"You're just a scared little lizard. And you're wasting my time."

Standing up brutally, Yao opened his mouth to shout and yell but his voice fell mute. Arthur's disappointed look was not something he was used to. He's used to fear. He's used to submission. Even his parents don't wish to anger him and Yao is known to throw loud tantrums. But this Omega was looking down on him like he was dirt on his shoes.

"Thank you for the tea. It was delicious. And please pass on my greetings to your parents and family. In regards to your father's suggestion, let him know that if he desires a professional meeting with my Clan, he should refer to my Head Alfa, as I am only an Omega. But you should know that, right?" Arthur smirked, amused.

It was always the same. People thought they could get to his Clan through him because he's a weak Omega. So when Arthur said he was used to dealing with Alfas, it was not an understatement.

"You talk too much for an Omega." Yao muttered, clenching his fist. He had never been so insulted and he should probably have hit that arrogant blonde by now but he didn't. You don't hit a Kirkland without facing the consequences.

"Maybe so. But you don't talk enough for an Alfa. Accepting things … letting others plan your life … you probably don't have many trusting friends, Wang Yao. Although I may not have many, I do trust my friends." Arthur's eyes flicked to Kiku who was blushing slightly. The blonde smiled and reverted his attention back to Yao.

"This talk has been a complete waste of my time. So please, unless you have a real reason to see me, don't bother calling me over. And with that, I bid you goodbye, Mr Wang." Arthur walked away towards Kiku who expressively walked him to the front door and to his car outside.

Yao was left alone in the room.

He just got brushed off by some mere Omega. And not only that but this Omega told him what nobody else had. Nobody had ever bothered asking for Yao's opinion. They were either ordering him or obeying him. But nobody had bothered to listen to him. To his voice. To his wish. To his desire.

"When I have a real reason …" Yao walked to the window and stared out at the beautiful blonde outside. Something odd caught his eyes: Arthur was smiling warmly to his cousin and even Kiku was showing a small smile on his usually impassive face. But Yao didn't feel jealous. He was actually glad to see his little brother show a smile after so long. But what he didn't understand was why Arthur's smile made him look so … Omega.

"… I think I just found a reason worth speaking to you." The Chinese smirked, not realising that his heart was beating too fast and too loudly.

"Ve. Ve. Ve. Ve. Ve."

Feliciano walked in circles in front of Kiku's door. Why had nobody answered? Kiku usually never leaves his house unless to go shopping or to school. He wasn't at school and Feliciano had gone shopping with him two days ago with Arthur too. So where is he? And why can't he get hold of Arthur on his mobile?

"Veee … I hope nothing happened to them …"

As he checked his phone once more, Feliciano decided to text Arthur to let him know where he is and ask him to join him. Would Arthur want to? He's been very willing ever since they became friends but Feliciano always feels bad for dragging his new friend along without ever asking for his opinion. But Arthur is the kind to speak out his mind. So if something didn't please him, Feliciano is sure that he would tell him. He would, wouldn't he?

"Well well, lookie here! Are you lost little one?" an unfamiliar voice spoke up.

Feliciano looked around in sudden fear. Without Arthur around, he was defenceless. His eyes widen in fear and panic as he watched a group of three men, probably in their twenties, approach him with wide grins. The look in their eyes told it all. They thought he was an Omega and wanted to play around with him. But if he says he's an Alfa they'll laugh and beat him up. That was often what would happen before he started hanging out with Arthur. It's been half a year and most of his past beating injuries were now all gone. He stepped back, scared, and remembering the pain of past beatings, his body closed itself trying to shy away and disappear from existence.

"Hey now! Don't be shy! We won't hurt a cute little Omega like you!"

"Ve … I'm not …"

"Hm? What's that? Did you say something sweetie?" One of the men approached too close to Feliciano that the Italian felt the other's breath on his neck.

"… you smell weird, kid." The man spoke suddenly.

"I … I'm …"

Before Feliciano could speak, he felt his lips get assaulted and large hands grip his sides, pinning him against the wall to Kiku's building. This isn't good …

"You taste weird too …"

"I'M AN ALFA!" Feliciano almost cried … no, in fact, he did cry.

The three aggressors stared at him in disbelief. Then, the one that had kissed him frowned and anger covered his face as he threw Feliciano to the ground violently.

"You gotta be kidding me! I just kissed an Alfa? Ew! Gross!" He started kicking the whining and sobbing Italian who curled himself in a ball. Soon his friends joined in on the beating. All Feliciano could think off as he received hit after hit was how much he wished Arthur was here to save him.

Arthur.

Arthur.

Arthur.

"Arthur …" He whined in a plea.

"Oi. You're in my way. Scram." A deep strong voice that sounded similar to Arthur's spoke up.

Feliciano almost leaped onto the man but he realised, looking up, that this man was not his Arthur … uh? His Arthur?

The man was not as tall as Feliciano's aggressors but he was not short either. He had large shoulders and a strong body-built. Wearing torn jeans, boots, and a black tank top with the A of Anarchy on it, a leather jacket over all, he had scarlet red hair of the same colour as blood and a few piercings and rings on his ears and earlobes. But what really amazed Feliciano was that this man had the same emerald eyes and thick eyebrows as his Arthur. He really should stop saying his Arthur. It sounds strange. But not unpleasant.

The man walked up to him, threatening and imposing, his Alfa dominance was so overwhelming it felt even stronger than Arthur's. The three aggressors backed down a few steps, feeling their confidence fall. Although they had the advantage of number, this man made them feel like death coming to drag them to hell.

"Are you deaf? I said: Get the fuck out of my way before I need to bloody beat the crap out of you!" He growled and Feliciano heard a strong accent in his voice.

The three men jumped at the aggressive voice, and without needing more convincing, they ran away as far as possible. The man looked down at the beaten up Italian and kneeled down next to him.

"You okay, lad? They got you pretty bad. You know, Omegas should be careful of punks like them … uh … hold on." The red-haired leaned closer, his face almost touching Feliciano's neck and the Italian held his breath, overwhelmed by the dominance of the other. He was terrified. But the man pulled away soon enough, a confused frown on his face. He was handsome and Feliciano noticed that he resembled Arthur a lot.

"You don't smell Omega. You smell Alfa. What's with you? You can't fight or defend yourself?"

"V-ve, I'm sorry! Please don't hurt me!"

The man's green eyes widened before he chuckled of amusement.

"What a pathetic Alfa you are! You're a funny kid! You remind me of someone else who doesn't act like he should."

"FELICIANO!"

Feliciano looked up with a wide and relieved smile. This time he was sure: It's Arthur's voice! But the crimson haired man also looked up and seemed to recognise Arthur too as he watched the blonde walk out a black car and run towards then with a worry-stricken expression.

"Feliciano! Are you alright? What the bloody hell happened?! You're all beat up! Who did this? I'll kill them!"

Pushing past the red-haired man, Arthur kneeled next to his friend and checked him up and down, cursing in his breath about murdering whoever did this. He didn't notice the thoughtful look on the older man's face and jumped as he heard him speak.

"Mind explaining where you're coming from, brat?"

Arthur frowned and Feliciano recognised that dark expression on his face. It's the expression Arthur always has when he talks about his brother.

"There's a time and place for everything, Alistair. I'll tell you after taking care of my friend."

"Your friend? That wimpy Alfa?" Alistair frowned darkly and glared at the Italian. Feliciano felt he was going to die by the hands of the man. He could guess that this man did not want Arthur to hang out with such a weak person as himself.

"I told you not to befriend Alfas without my permission!"

"Look, you're my brother and I try to do as you say but right now, I need to take Feliciano to the hospital!" Arthur shouted back at his … brother?! That's Arthur's brother?!

The one called Alistair snorted in derision and with one movement, he pulled Feliciano over his shoulder and carried him away, followed by a frowning Arthur.

"You're taking him home? I thought you said not to bring anyone home?"

"I know what I said. And you didn't follow my first order so I don't see why now you feel like being an obedient little Omega, brat."

"Wanker."

"Love you too."

Feliciano could only blink in confusion as he was carried away and into the black car and driven towards a less high class area and more common neighbourhood, at the other end of town. Did Arthur live so far away from school? He had never bothered asking his friend and Arthur had never mentioned it before.

The drive was quiet and Feliciano felt the electrical tension between the two brothers. The driver, an Indian looking man was smiling pleasantly as if nothing was wrong in the world. If Feliciano wasn't so sure that Arthur is an Omega, he would have mistaken this for a prelude to a dominance fight between Alfas.

Ve! Arthur's brother is scary!