In Spades 1a/??
anonymous
August 15 2011, 03:26:09 UTC
Main pairings: UK->US (eventual UKUS), eventual Franada. And also the other Arte Stella king/queen pairings to a lesser extent.
I hope OP doesn't mind the additional pairings and whatnot. :) Or the lame title
While the USUK will be the main pairing, of course, and always will, later on in the story it'll likely become more of an ensemble thing with the other characters... So expect more of Mattie and a couple other major characters as this goes on. :)
From his spot on the filthy ground, Alfred smiled brightly up at the passing merchants and shoppers. Most of them ignored him, probably not even noticing him as they hurried by. Begging peasants were just an everyday part of the scenery in the busy market.
With no current potential payoffs walking by, Alfred let his grin falter as he glanced down at his bowl. Only a handful of copper coins, stamped with the leaf that was the kingdom of Spades' seal, looked back at him. Still not enough for the medicine he desperately needed to buy soon.
Alfred let out a slow breath. He was a terrible beggar, but an untrained illiterate peasant didn't have many other options. He was sixteen, and so did not have the additional piteousness of a poor child. He was relatively healthy, had all his limbs and eyes, and found it difficult to look sad and pathetic. A terrible beggar indeed.
A stall not far away was selling slabs of ham, cut right off the roasting pigs. Alfred's stomach rumbled again, and he tried scooting a bit further away as he was reminded of how long since he had had a decent meal. A kind soul had given the young beggar some bread that morning, and Alfred had nibbled on a piece, but was saving most of it for his twin brother. Matthew constantly fretted about that, but Alfred always assured him he wasn't starving.
There were other options for a healthy, reasonably attractive young man that didn't require much learning, really. But nothing Alfred relished doing, and definitely nothing Matthew would allow. He could be a soldier, anybody who could hold a weapon could become a soldier. And in their homeland, the peaceful kingdom Hearts, that might have been a possibility. But not Spades. Even if it weren't for their somewhat frightening neighbor Clubs - which everyone feared would attack any day now in their quest for more land and power - Spades was in a constant state of warfare with the hated Diamonds to their other side. There were constant rumors about what had started the animosity between the two kingdoms, but the real reason was long since forgotten. There were rumors, also, regarding the relatively recent animosity toward everyone of Clubs, and even speculation that it was the beautiful Queen rather than the terrifying King who had the real thirst for blood.
But whatever the reason they were at war with Diamonds, or a likely candidate for invasion by Clubs, Spades was not the best place to become a soldier simply for the pay. It would be suicide, and where would Matthew be then?
The other option for a healthy, attractive young man... well. That was only marginally more appealing than joining the soldiers, and Matthew would kill him instead of the other army.
If he ever grew desperate enough, Alfred could always sell one of the few valuables they had left. They both had spectacles to correct their blurred vision that could fetch a decent price. Alfred held on to their father's pocket watch, and Matthew had their mother's silk scarf.
But they would have to be really desperate to sell any of those.
A highborn young woman in blue paused near Alfred; he gave her his most charming smile, bringing a light blush to her cheeks. She reached into her coin purse and tossed one into his bowl without even looking at it, then hurried off, giggling. Alfred glanced down into the bowl, blinking in surprise at the silver coin that now rested on top of the small pile.
Rich and hormonal adolescents always had been his most charitable prospects.
In Spades 1b/??
anonymous
August 15 2011, 03:27:33 UTC
Alfred quickly counted the money again, grin widening when he realized he had enough. He sent a silent thank you to the giddy noble girl and stood up with his bowl, stretching out the cramps in his legs. Alfred all but ran from the market, toward the apothecary he went to nearly every day. It was a small, dark shop, air thick with smoke and shelves lined with colorful bottles and bags of herbs.
The shop's balding owner smiled pleasantly when he spotted Alfred. “Made enough today, hm?”
“Yeah.” Alfred piled the coins onto the counter.
The man's gaze flickered over the pile, mentally calculating, and he nodded. “Good!” He plucked a ready made bundle of herbs from under his counter, dropping it into Alfred's waiting hands. He also handed back one of the copper coins. “More than enough, in fact.”
Alfred sent another round of silent thanks and well wishes to the lady and her silver coin. He carefully tucked the medicine and extra money away, thanked the man, and hurried off. He paused only long enough to purchase an apple before rushing home to the small, single-room house he shared with his brother.
Flames were dancing in the house's fire pit, illuminating the room in cheery golden light. Matthew was curled up on his mat, wrapped in a blanket, reading - a skill he had picked up early on, but Alfred never had the time nor patience for. The people of Spades were not as keen on maintaining a library of books as in their homeland of Hearts, and Alfred had become a master of salvaging discarded literature for his brother.
Matthew rarely left the house, there wasn't much else for him to do.
“I'm back.” Alfred squatted down beside him.
Matthew set the book aside, lifting his violet eyes with a smile. Alfred's were blue; it was the one physical difference that separated them, aside from their tendency to style their hair differently. As children, they had grown used to others, including their parents, peering into their eyes before addressing them. “Sooner than usual,” he said in his quiet voice. “You didn't do anything unpleasant this time, did you?”
“Of course not! It's just the luck of who walks by, and today it just happened to be a lady who must have found me charming.”
“I can't imagine why.”
“Quiet, you.” Alfred fetched the pot of water and hung it over the fire. “How are you feeling today?”
“Same as usual.”
At least same as usual wasn't worse. “What're you reading about?”
“Romance. A handsome knight woos a queen who's trapped in a loveless marriage...”
“Oh, what's the queen?”
Matthew chuckled. “A woman. It's from outkingdom.”
“Oh, right...” Sometimes Alfred forgot that lands outside the Four Kingdoms kept their royalty gender-specific, and men were kings and women queens. It seemed like such an odd concept. In their kingdoms, the heir to the throne became king, regardless of gender, and their spouse became queen.
Spades was currently ruled by only the Queen. He was a distant cousin to the heir, betrothed to him at a young age. He was only around fourteen when they were married, ten years ago. That was right before the horrific, mysterious illness had swept through Spades. It disappeared as quickly as it started, but left many bodies in its wake. The King and Queen, as well as their son, were all victims of the plague, leaving the new Queen on his own, and to this day he still had not remarried nor had an heir of his own. Same-sex pairs used specially bred servants to have children, but it was frowned upon with the unmarried.
Alfred's parents had also died of that illness. The vast majority of those who caught the disease died, while the very few who had it and survived - like Matthew - were left permanently ill and weak without proper medical treatment. The medicine Alfred struggled to buy kept the worst symptoms at bay, and Alfred tried not to think about the fact that Matthew would be almost normal if they could afford proper care.
In Spades 1c/??
anonymous
August 15 2011, 03:28:57 UTC
While the water heated, Alfred tugged out the food he had acquired that day. He set the chunk of bread and apple down on his own blanket. “Looks good, huh?”
Matthew nodded. “Did you eat?”
“I had some bread!”
“Yeah right. Cut those in half.”
“But-”
“Exactly in half.”
Alfred huffed a sigh. “All right, all right...” He fetched a small knife and sliced the bread in half, and the apple into quarters. He handed half of everything to his brother. “You need it more...”
“Hardly.” Matthew nibbled on a piece of bread. “You need more energy than I do. I'll die a lot quicker if you starve to death...” His gaze went distant as he stared into the fire, and Alfred winced. Matthew hated reminders of his weak, dependent state.
Alfred carefully filled a mug with the boiling water, and dumped the pouch of herbs into it. He let the water absorb the oils for a few minutes, then removed the pouch and handed the mug to his brother.
“Thank you,” Matthew murmured before taking a sip. The apothecary added some mint to improve the flavor a bit, but Matthew still grimaced. Drinking the same thing almost daily for ten years would make anything taste bad though, even if it were tasty to begin with.
After finishing the medicine, Matthew set the mug aside and lay back on his mat, pulling the blanket tightly around him. Alfred ran a hand through his brother's wavy hair, then scooted over to settle down on his own bedding. He removed his glasses and set them aside, then settled down and let his eyes close. He was lulled to sleep by the crackle of the dying fire.
*****
The next day was considerably less lucky. Dark clouds had rolled in during the night, and a heavy rain pounded the kingdom. Alfred was huddled in his begging spot, soaked and freezing and muddy, his bowl almost empty. The weather kept everyone at home, denying those in the market customers or benefactors. The other beggars gave up and left, so at least Alfred was the only one for the customers that did show up.
And at the end of the day, the vendors were more generous with their leftover goods. Matthew did not get any medicine that day, but he could manage one day without, and they ate well that night.
The day after, Alfred almost cried when he saw that the situation had not much improved. There were more shoppers that day - people had to buy goods some time - but they did not pay much attention to beggars. Two days, and Alfred still did not have enough money for medicine. It would be a rough night, and Matthew would be lucky to be conscious in the morning.
That was why, as the cloudy sky started to darken as the hidden sun set, Alfred found himself staring at the coin purse of a nobleman. The man was standing at a jewelry vendor's booth. Maybe he had forgotten a ladyfriend's birthday, or some other disaster that had sent him out to purchase decorative trinkets in the less than stellar weather. But he looked like the type who wouldn't even miss a few coins.
He was taking his time in browsing the rings and bracelets. He himself had some expensive looking decorations adorning him.
No, he wouldn't miss a few coins. He would certainly never have to sit in the rain and mud all day in the hopes of keeping his brother alive.
Making up his mind, Alfred inched closer to the fop. He carefully reached toward the dangling pouch that practically called out to him. He very rarely stole, and hated having to do it, but...
Alfred gripped the pouch and gently pulled it free. Heart hammering so loudly he was afraid it would give him away, Alfred tucked the pouch into his pocket, grabbed his bowl, and got to his feet. The man was still examining a silver ring.
Alfred walked away, quickly but calmly. His heart refused to settle down, but it was accompanied by giddy relief.
He had only reached the marketplace's entrance when he was brought to an abrupt halt by a hand on his arm. Gulping, Alfred turned around, and found himself facing a group of blue-clad guards.
The one holding his arm smiled grimly. “Come along, thief.”
Re: In Spades 1c/??
anonymous
August 16 2011, 10:02:26 UTC
*gasp!* I don't even know what kinda crazy universe this is set in, but I love it. <3 I feel Alfred's love for his brother, and the mutual guilt they seem to share. I can't wait to meet Arthur - who seems quite ambitious (maybe)? Hahaha, I don't know, I'm just enjoying this fill. ;3
also he can't reeeeaaaadd awwww MY WOOBIE BUTTONS, YOU ARE PUSHING THEM
In Spades 2a/??
anonymous
August 19 2011, 04:14:42 UTC
“In the name of the four gods, shut up!” The guard flung Alfred into the dungeon, glaring at him with exasperation. The other guards followed after him, looking just as annoyed.
“No!” Alfred surged forward, only to be grabbed again. “You can't lock me up, dammit! You can't!” Panic was started to well up inside him as he looked around the dungeon with wide eyes. At the barred cells... “My brother-”
“I said shut up! You've been hollering since we grabbed you!”
“If you don't want to be locked up, lad,” one of the others said, sounding more jovial than the first, “you probably shouldn't pick pockets.”
“I didn't have a choice! My br-”
The first guard backhanded Alfred. “Listen, you-”
“What's going on down there?”
That voice came from above. Everyone, Alfred and guards alike, looked up at the spiral stairs.
“Damn,” one of the guards muttered. “It's the Jack.”
Alfred grimaced. The Jack was essentially the head servant - in charge of all servants, guards, and... well, everyone who wasn't a member of the royal family. He pretty much ran the palace.
Footsteps descended the stairs, until the voice's owner came into view. His features were exotic, not of the Four Kingdoms. His black hair was pulled back in a ponytail, and he wore a long blue coat over a flowing white... well, Alfred couldn't come up with any word but skirt, though he was sure there was an appropriately manly term for it.
“What's with all the noise?” the Jack said, eyeing the group. His accent was as exotic as his features. “I could hear you all the way from the guardhouse, are you torturing someone?”
“No, of course not, Yao,” one of the guards said quickly. “Just an uncooperative prisoner is all.”
“Oh. Well, if that's all-”
“You can't let them lock me up!” Alfred jerked his arm out of the guard's grip, stepping closer to the Jack. “My brother will die, I have to get back.”
Yao regarded him curiously. “Why do you say that?”
That was a better response than the guards, at least. “He's sick. He's a survivor of the illness ten years ago, he needs medicine. It's already been a couple days!”
“He's a thief,” the guard who seemed to have acquired a personal vendetta for Alfred said. “Took a coin purse from an innocent man.”
“An innocent rich man,” Alfred muttered. “I didn't have enough money to get Mattie's medicine. I won't steal again, but please let me go, he won't be doing well tonight!”
Yao crossed his arms, frowning, head tilted as he watched Alfred. “Can you prove it?”
That was definitely promising. Sagging in relief, Alfred nodded. “I can take you to him. He's at home.” The very thought of being locked up, of Matthew just being left home alone, confused and worried, until he died... Alfred's eyes stung.
“All right. I will accompany you to your house. You had better not try anything.”
Alfred could have kissed Yao. “I won't!” He resisted the urge to stick his tongue out at the guard who disliked him, settling for a smirk as he stepped away from them. He hurried out the door they had dragged him in through that led outside, eager to put as much distance between himself and the dungeon as possible.
“Don't move too fast!” Yao said, striding after him. “Stay close.”
“Sorry.” Alfred walked slower, and the Jack fell into step beside him. A lamp lighter was just finishing up his nightly task, and a juggler entertained passers-by. Alfred might have stopped to watch any other night, but he barely paid attention to anything but his destination. “Oh. Thanks, by the way,” he said after several silent moments. “Why did you listen to me when they wouldn't?”
He saw Yao smile slightly out of the corner of his eye. “Not everybody who works in the palace is a power-hungry hooligan who doesn't understand what it's like to be in a difficult situation.”
Alfred smiled as well. He liked Yao. Even if the fellow was rather... pretty, for somebody who was supposed to be in charge of all the kingdom's soldiers. And was that a tiny plush bear clipped to his jacket? “I almost never steal,” he said, wanting to defend himself further. “I usually earn enough for the medicine begging. I was getting desperate today.”
“I understand.” Yao nodded to a few people who greeted him. “So you have stolen before.”
In Spades 2b/??
anonymous
August 19 2011, 04:15:53 UTC
Alfred stared at the ground, at his own striding feet. “A long time ago.”
“How old are you?”
“Sixteen.”
Yao made a thoughtful 'hmm' sound. “Surely you have not been caring for your brother alone since you were six?”
“Oh. No. Our parents died of the illness, but our neighbor took us in. She'd lost her own family, and liked having us around. But she died five years ago. I've cared for him on my own since then.”
“I see.”
They fell silent. Alfred wondered if it would be rude to ask where Yao was from. But he was terrible with geography, so anywhere outside the Four Kingdoms would be meaningless anyway, so what was the point?
They walked the rest of the way in silence. As soon as they reached the door to Alfred's small house, he burst in in a mild panic he had worked himself into as they had neared. “Mattie?”
The fire had gone out, a small lamp the only source of light in the room. Matthew was laying in his usual spot, shivering. He was paler than usual, body covered in a light sheen of sweat despite his shivers.
“Mattie, I'm here.” Alfred knelt beside Matthew, swallowing around the lump that had risen in his throat. “I'm so sorry. Are you okay?”
Matthew slowly lifted his head to peer at Alfred. “You're back,” he mumbled. “I was worried.” His violet eyes widened as they focused on the man standing behind Alfred. “Who...?”
Alfred glanced over his shoulder in time to see Yao bow slightly. “I am Yao, the Jack of Spades.”
“Jack...?” Matthew's gaze returned to his brother. “Al, are you in trouble?”
“Um. Well, you see-”
“Forgive us.” Yao bowed again, deeper. “That was inconsiderate of us to stop here first. We are on our way to the apothecary.”
Alfred blinked. They were?
“Your brother is going to be working at the palace now,” Yao continued.
“He is?” Matthew's eyes never left Alfred's face. Alfred wondered if he was lucid enough to notice how shocked Alfred was.
“He is. In the stables, he's starting tomorrow. Come now, Alfred, let's get going.”
“Uh...” Alfred finally turned, gaping at Yao. “Uh, r-right. The apothecary!” Unable to really comprehend what had just happened, Alfred tucked the blanket tighter around Matthew. “Will you be okay here for a bit longer?” He wanted to rekindle the fire, but didn't want to take the time... He'd have to anyway to boil the water, but Yao was waiting.
Matthew nodded. “Go.”
“Okay.” He smoothed down Matthew's damp hair, then rejoined Yao and they left the house.
“What...” Alfred ran the Jack's statement through his head. “What just happened?”
Yao glanced over at him, smiling. “You are working at the palace now. In the stables. You don't mind, do you? One of our stable boys is eager to become a soldier instead, we could use a replacement.”
“But...” Alfred swallowed. A job? He was being offered a job? “I...”
“You don't need previous experience. Someone will show you what you need to do tomorrow.”
“But...”
“How much does the medicine cost?” Yao was pulling a pouch out of his coat.
“Oh.” Alfred told him.
“Hmm. I can see how that could be difficult for a beggar.” Yao pulled coins out of his bag. “I'll pay for it today, you can owe me.”
Alfred numbly held a hand out to accept the coins. “Oh, right. I'll pay you back.”
“Well, I was joking, but whatever you prefer. You'll be paid twice that amount daily, how does that sound?”
Alfred finally stopped, gaping at the smaller man in shock. “What?” Twice that amount... every day? He'd be able to buy medicine every single day, with plenty leftover?
It was hard to even wrap his brain around.
“We should hurry,” Yao said.
Alfred nodded dumbly, then grabbed Yao and pulled him into a hug.
“Ahh...” Yao chuckled, patting Alfred on the back. “You're welcome.” He pulled away.
Alfred sniffed and wiped his eyes. “Y-yeah. We should hurry.” He all but ran the rest of the way to the apothecary.
They purchased the medicine and wasted no time, heading immediately back. On the way, Yao gave Alfred instructions about where and when to show up, then bid him good night and they parted ways, the Jack returning to the palace.
In Spades 2c/??
anonymous
August 19 2011, 04:17:35 UTC
Matthew was still conscious when Alfred returned, at least, staring at the small flame of the lamp. “Al...?” He looked up, still wide-eyed and stunned.
“Yeah, it's me. Yao left.” Alfred set about getting another fire going.
“You're really... working?”
“Can you believe it?” Alfred still couldn't.
“How...?”
“We ran into each other today. We talked, and he told me that they need a new stable boy, and... yeah. I ended up with a job.” The tinder caught fire, and Alfred sat back to watch it spread. “It pays twice what the medicine costs daily.”
Matthew just stared at Alfred, as if such a concept was beyond him.
“I know,” Alfred murmured. “We'll always have enough. I'm not sure what to think about that, either.” Thank the gods for having a sob story, he supposed. For all he knew, Yao had lost someone to the plague as well, making him even more sympathetic. “Assuming I don't screw it up.”
Matthew watched his brother fetch the teapot, starting to weakly smile. “You won't.”
*****
He didn't actually get to go in the palace, but simply entered the field that housed the stables through a gate. Alfred wrinkled his nose at the smell as he walked into the building, hoping that was something he would get used to. Many stalls lined the interior, with plenty of them holding equine occupants.
Alfred wandered over to a small dapple horse and reached out to pet her nose. “Hi there. Um, I guess I'll be caring for you guys from now on.” He peered into the stall and groaned. “What did you do in your bed? Oh, I'm going to be spending all day cleaning up...” The horse just nuzzled him, snorting on his shirt.
A couple stable hands eventually showed up, and gave Alfred a brief explanation of his duties. As he had expected, cleaning played a big part of his job. But also providing food and water, grooming the horses, and exercising them.
Not that it would matter if shoveling manure was all he did, he would do it for the money they had promised him.
One of the boys stuck close to Alfred for the rest of the day, following him around to make sure he was doing everything correctly. At one point he handed Alfred a brush, pointing to the end of the stable they usually started at and worked their way back. Alfred headed over there, grinning at the sight of the brilliant white horse that graced the first stall.
The horse, however, was not particularly impressed by him. She gave Alfred a flat stare as he approached, her nostrils flaring.
“Don't take it personally,” the stable boy - Peter - said when Alfred dodged a kick. “She doesn't like anybody but her owner.” However, Alfred couldn't help but notice that she tolerated Peter. “Take her out for a run, she's probably feeling restless.”
As Alfred led the horse outside, he was surprised to discover just how much time had passed, the setting sun painting the sky gold. He would have to collect his pay soon - his pay! - and return home. But not before picking up medicine and something to eat.
They would have plenty of money for food. And clothes, and new books, and... It was still hard to imagine.
Lost in thought as he watched the white mare race around the fenced in field, Alfred didn't notice green eyes watching him.
Re: In Spades 2c/??
anonymous
August 22 2011, 03:52:31 UTC
Oh A!A I love you so. There hasn't been a Cardverse fill I've liked yet, but I've taken quite the shining towards yours. It's just so charming and wonderful! Please continue, I'm loving everything about it so far!
I hope OP doesn't mind the additional pairings and whatnot. :) Or the lame title
While the USUK will be the main pairing, of course, and always will, later on in the story it'll likely become more of an ensemble thing with the other characters... So expect more of Mattie and a couple other major characters as this goes on. :)
From his spot on the filthy ground, Alfred smiled brightly up at the passing merchants and shoppers. Most of them ignored him, probably not even noticing him as they hurried by. Begging peasants were just an everyday part of the scenery in the busy market.
With no current potential payoffs walking by, Alfred let his grin falter as he glanced down at his bowl. Only a handful of copper coins, stamped with the leaf that was the kingdom of Spades' seal, looked back at him. Still not enough for the medicine he desperately needed to buy soon.
Alfred let out a slow breath. He was a terrible beggar, but an untrained illiterate peasant didn't have many other options. He was sixteen, and so did not have the additional piteousness of a poor child. He was relatively healthy, had all his limbs and eyes, and found it difficult to look sad and pathetic. A terrible beggar indeed.
A stall not far away was selling slabs of ham, cut right off the roasting pigs. Alfred's stomach rumbled again, and he tried scooting a bit further away as he was reminded of how long since he had had a decent meal. A kind soul had given the young beggar some bread that morning, and Alfred had nibbled on a piece, but was saving most of it for his twin brother. Matthew constantly fretted about that, but Alfred always assured him he wasn't starving.
There were other options for a healthy, reasonably attractive young man that didn't require much learning, really. But nothing Alfred relished doing, and definitely nothing Matthew would allow. He could be a soldier, anybody who could hold a weapon could become a soldier. And in their homeland, the peaceful kingdom Hearts, that might have been a possibility. But not Spades. Even if it weren't for their somewhat frightening neighbor Clubs - which everyone feared would attack any day now in their quest for more land and power - Spades was in a constant state of warfare with the hated Diamonds to their other side. There were constant rumors about what had started the animosity between the two kingdoms, but the real reason was long since forgotten. There were rumors, also, regarding the relatively recent animosity toward everyone of Clubs, and even speculation that it was the beautiful Queen rather than the terrifying King who had the real thirst for blood.
But whatever the reason they were at war with Diamonds, or a likely candidate for invasion by Clubs, Spades was not the best place to become a soldier simply for the pay. It would be suicide, and where would Matthew be then?
The other option for a healthy, attractive young man... well. That was only marginally more appealing than joining the soldiers, and Matthew would kill him instead of the other army.
If he ever grew desperate enough, Alfred could always sell one of the few valuables they had left. They both had spectacles to correct their blurred vision that could fetch a decent price. Alfred held on to their father's pocket watch, and Matthew had their mother's silk scarf.
But they would have to be really desperate to sell any of those.
A highborn young woman in blue paused near Alfred; he gave her his most charming smile, bringing a light blush to her cheeks. She reached into her coin purse and tossed one into his bowl without even looking at it, then hurried off, giggling. Alfred glanced down into the bowl, blinking in surprise at the silver coin that now rested on top of the small pile.
Rich and hormonal adolescents always had been his most charitable prospects.
Reply
The shop's balding owner smiled pleasantly when he spotted Alfred. “Made enough today, hm?”
“Yeah.” Alfred piled the coins onto the counter.
The man's gaze flickered over the pile, mentally calculating, and he nodded. “Good!” He plucked a ready made bundle of herbs from under his counter, dropping it into Alfred's waiting hands. He also handed back one of the copper coins. “More than enough, in fact.”
Alfred sent another round of silent thanks and well wishes to the lady and her silver coin. He carefully tucked the medicine and extra money away, thanked the man, and hurried off. He paused only long enough to purchase an apple before rushing home to the small, single-room house he shared with his brother.
Flames were dancing in the house's fire pit, illuminating the room in cheery golden light. Matthew was curled up on his mat, wrapped in a blanket, reading - a skill he had picked up early on, but Alfred never had the time nor patience for. The people of Spades were not as keen on maintaining a library of books as in their homeland of Hearts, and Alfred had become a master of salvaging discarded literature for his brother.
Matthew rarely left the house, there wasn't much else for him to do.
“I'm back.” Alfred squatted down beside him.
Matthew set the book aside, lifting his violet eyes with a smile. Alfred's were blue; it was the one physical difference that separated them, aside from their tendency to style their hair differently. As children, they had grown used to others, including their parents, peering into their eyes before addressing them. “Sooner than usual,” he said in his quiet voice. “You didn't do anything unpleasant this time, did you?”
“Of course not! It's just the luck of who walks by, and today it just happened to be a lady who must have found me charming.”
“I can't imagine why.”
“Quiet, you.” Alfred fetched the pot of water and hung it over the fire. “How are you feeling today?”
“Same as usual.”
At least same as usual wasn't worse. “What're you reading about?”
“Romance. A handsome knight woos a queen who's trapped in a loveless marriage...”
“Oh, what's the queen?”
Matthew chuckled. “A woman. It's from outkingdom.”
“Oh, right...” Sometimes Alfred forgot that lands outside the Four Kingdoms kept their royalty gender-specific, and men were kings and women queens. It seemed like such an odd concept. In their kingdoms, the heir to the throne became king, regardless of gender, and their spouse became queen.
Spades was currently ruled by only the Queen. He was a distant cousin to the heir, betrothed to him at a young age. He was only around fourteen when they were married, ten years ago. That was right before the horrific, mysterious illness had swept through Spades. It disappeared as quickly as it started, but left many bodies in its wake. The King and Queen, as well as their son, were all victims of the plague, leaving the new Queen on his own, and to this day he still had not remarried nor had an heir of his own. Same-sex pairs used specially bred servants to have children, but it was frowned upon with the unmarried.
Alfred's parents had also died of that illness. The vast majority of those who caught the disease died, while the very few who had it and survived - like Matthew - were left permanently ill and weak without proper medical treatment. The medicine Alfred struggled to buy kept the worst symptoms at bay, and Alfred tried not to think about the fact that Matthew would be almost normal if they could afford proper care.
Reply
Matthew nodded. “Did you eat?”
“I had some bread!”
“Yeah right. Cut those in half.”
“But-”
“Exactly in half.”
Alfred huffed a sigh. “All right, all right...” He fetched a small knife and sliced the bread in half, and the apple into quarters. He handed half of everything to his brother. “You need it more...”
“Hardly.” Matthew nibbled on a piece of bread. “You need more energy than I do. I'll die a lot quicker if you starve to death...” His gaze went distant as he stared into the fire, and Alfred winced. Matthew hated reminders of his weak, dependent state.
Alfred carefully filled a mug with the boiling water, and dumped the pouch of herbs into it. He let the water absorb the oils for a few minutes, then removed the pouch and handed the mug to his brother.
“Thank you,” Matthew murmured before taking a sip. The apothecary added some mint to improve the flavor a bit, but Matthew still grimaced. Drinking the same thing almost daily for ten years would make anything taste bad though, even if it were tasty to begin with.
After finishing the medicine, Matthew set the mug aside and lay back on his mat, pulling the blanket tightly around him. Alfred ran a hand through his brother's wavy hair, then scooted over to settle down on his own bedding. He removed his glasses and set them aside, then settled down and let his eyes close. He was lulled to sleep by the crackle of the dying fire.
*****
The next day was considerably less lucky. Dark clouds had rolled in during the night, and a heavy rain pounded the kingdom. Alfred was huddled in his begging spot, soaked and freezing and muddy, his bowl almost empty. The weather kept everyone at home, denying those in the market customers or benefactors. The other beggars gave up and left, so at least Alfred was the only one for the customers that did show up.
And at the end of the day, the vendors were more generous with their leftover goods. Matthew did not get any medicine that day, but he could manage one day without, and they ate well that night.
The day after, Alfred almost cried when he saw that the situation had not much improved. There were more shoppers that day - people had to buy goods some time - but they did not pay much attention to beggars. Two days, and Alfred still did not have enough money for medicine. It would be a rough night, and Matthew would be lucky to be conscious in the morning.
That was why, as the cloudy sky started to darken as the hidden sun set, Alfred found himself staring at the coin purse of a nobleman. The man was standing at a jewelry vendor's booth. Maybe he had forgotten a ladyfriend's birthday, or some other disaster that had sent him out to purchase decorative trinkets in the less than stellar weather. But he looked like the type who wouldn't even miss a few coins.
He was taking his time in browsing the rings and bracelets. He himself had some expensive looking decorations adorning him.
No, he wouldn't miss a few coins. He would certainly never have to sit in the rain and mud all day in the hopes of keeping his brother alive.
Making up his mind, Alfred inched closer to the fop. He carefully reached toward the dangling pouch that practically called out to him. He very rarely stole, and hated having to do it, but...
Alfred gripped the pouch and gently pulled it free. Heart hammering so loudly he was afraid it would give him away, Alfred tucked the pouch into his pocket, grabbed his bowl, and got to his feet. The man was still examining a silver ring.
Alfred walked away, quickly but calmly. His heart refused to settle down, but it was accompanied by giddy relief.
He had only reached the marketplace's entrance when he was brought to an abrupt halt by a hand on his arm. Gulping, Alfred turned around, and found himself facing a group of blue-clad guards.
The one holding his arm smiled grimly. “Come along, thief.”
Reply
Reply
Reply
Reply
(hm... part of me want to bet the nobleman is Arthur. XD)
Reply
also he can't reeeeaaaadd awwww MY WOOBIE BUTTONS, YOU ARE PUSHING THEM
Reply
“No!” Alfred surged forward, only to be grabbed again. “You can't lock me up, dammit! You can't!” Panic was started to well up inside him as he looked around the dungeon with wide eyes. At the barred cells... “My brother-”
“I said shut up! You've been hollering since we grabbed you!”
“If you don't want to be locked up, lad,” one of the others said, sounding more jovial than the first, “you probably shouldn't pick pockets.”
“I didn't have a choice! My br-”
The first guard backhanded Alfred. “Listen, you-”
“What's going on down there?”
That voice came from above. Everyone, Alfred and guards alike, looked up at the spiral stairs.
“Damn,” one of the guards muttered. “It's the Jack.”
Alfred grimaced. The Jack was essentially the head servant - in charge of all servants, guards, and... well, everyone who wasn't a member of the royal family. He pretty much ran the palace.
Footsteps descended the stairs, until the voice's owner came into view. His features were exotic, not of the Four Kingdoms. His black hair was pulled back in a ponytail, and he wore a long blue coat over a flowing white... well, Alfred couldn't come up with any word but skirt, though he was sure there was an appropriately manly term for it.
“What's with all the noise?” the Jack said, eyeing the group. His accent was as exotic as his features. “I could hear you all the way from the guardhouse, are you torturing someone?”
“No, of course not, Yao,” one of the guards said quickly. “Just an uncooperative prisoner is all.”
“Oh. Well, if that's all-”
“You can't let them lock me up!” Alfred jerked his arm out of the guard's grip, stepping closer to the Jack. “My brother will die, I have to get back.”
Yao regarded him curiously. “Why do you say that?”
That was a better response than the guards, at least. “He's sick. He's a survivor of the illness ten years ago, he needs medicine. It's already been a couple days!”
“He's a thief,” the guard who seemed to have acquired a personal vendetta for Alfred said. “Took a coin purse from an innocent man.”
“An innocent rich man,” Alfred muttered. “I didn't have enough money to get Mattie's medicine. I won't steal again, but please let me go, he won't be doing well tonight!”
Yao crossed his arms, frowning, head tilted as he watched Alfred. “Can you prove it?”
That was definitely promising. Sagging in relief, Alfred nodded. “I can take you to him. He's at home.” The very thought of being locked up, of Matthew just being left home alone, confused and worried, until he died... Alfred's eyes stung.
“All right. I will accompany you to your house. You had better not try anything.”
Alfred could have kissed Yao. “I won't!” He resisted the urge to stick his tongue out at the guard who disliked him, settling for a smirk as he stepped away from them. He hurried out the door they had dragged him in through that led outside, eager to put as much distance between himself and the dungeon as possible.
“Don't move too fast!” Yao said, striding after him. “Stay close.”
“Sorry.” Alfred walked slower, and the Jack fell into step beside him. A lamp lighter was just finishing up his nightly task, and a juggler entertained passers-by. Alfred might have stopped to watch any other night, but he barely paid attention to anything but his destination. “Oh. Thanks, by the way,” he said after several silent moments. “Why did you listen to me when they wouldn't?”
He saw Yao smile slightly out of the corner of his eye. “Not everybody who works in the palace is a power-hungry hooligan who doesn't understand what it's like to be in a difficult situation.”
Alfred smiled as well. He liked Yao. Even if the fellow was rather... pretty, for somebody who was supposed to be in charge of all the kingdom's soldiers. And was that a tiny plush bear clipped to his jacket? “I almost never steal,” he said, wanting to defend himself further. “I usually earn enough for the medicine begging. I was getting desperate today.”
“I understand.” Yao nodded to a few people who greeted him. “So you have stolen before.”
Reply
“How old are you?”
“Sixteen.”
Yao made a thoughtful 'hmm' sound. “Surely you have not been caring for your brother alone since you were six?”
“Oh. No. Our parents died of the illness, but our neighbor took us in. She'd lost her own family, and liked having us around. But she died five years ago. I've cared for him on my own since then.”
“I see.”
They fell silent. Alfred wondered if it would be rude to ask where Yao was from. But he was terrible with geography, so anywhere outside the Four Kingdoms would be meaningless anyway, so what was the point?
They walked the rest of the way in silence. As soon as they reached the door to Alfred's small house, he burst in in a mild panic he had worked himself into as they had neared. “Mattie?”
The fire had gone out, a small lamp the only source of light in the room. Matthew was laying in his usual spot, shivering. He was paler than usual, body covered in a light sheen of sweat despite his shivers.
“Mattie, I'm here.” Alfred knelt beside Matthew, swallowing around the lump that had risen in his throat. “I'm so sorry. Are you okay?”
Matthew slowly lifted his head to peer at Alfred. “You're back,” he mumbled. “I was worried.” His violet eyes widened as they focused on the man standing behind Alfred. “Who...?”
Alfred glanced over his shoulder in time to see Yao bow slightly. “I am Yao, the Jack of Spades.”
“Jack...?” Matthew's gaze returned to his brother. “Al, are you in trouble?”
“Um. Well, you see-”
“Forgive us.” Yao bowed again, deeper. “That was inconsiderate of us to stop here first. We are on our way to the apothecary.”
Alfred blinked. They were?
“Your brother is going to be working at the palace now,” Yao continued.
“He is?” Matthew's eyes never left Alfred's face. Alfred wondered if he was lucid enough to notice how shocked Alfred was.
“He is. In the stables, he's starting tomorrow. Come now, Alfred, let's get going.”
“Uh...” Alfred finally turned, gaping at Yao. “Uh, r-right. The apothecary!” Unable to really comprehend what had just happened, Alfred tucked the blanket tighter around Matthew. “Will you be okay here for a bit longer?” He wanted to rekindle the fire, but didn't want to take the time... He'd have to anyway to boil the water, but Yao was waiting.
Matthew nodded. “Go.”
“Okay.” He smoothed down Matthew's damp hair, then rejoined Yao and they left the house.
“What...” Alfred ran the Jack's statement through his head. “What just happened?”
Yao glanced over at him, smiling. “You are working at the palace now. In the stables. You don't mind, do you? One of our stable boys is eager to become a soldier instead, we could use a replacement.”
“But...” Alfred swallowed. A job? He was being offered a job? “I...”
“You don't need previous experience. Someone will show you what you need to do tomorrow.”
“But...”
“How much does the medicine cost?” Yao was pulling a pouch out of his coat.
“Oh.” Alfred told him.
“Hmm. I can see how that could be difficult for a beggar.” Yao pulled coins out of his bag. “I'll pay for it today, you can owe me.”
Alfred numbly held a hand out to accept the coins. “Oh, right. I'll pay you back.”
“Well, I was joking, but whatever you prefer. You'll be paid twice that amount daily, how does that sound?”
Alfred finally stopped, gaping at the smaller man in shock. “What?” Twice that amount... every day? He'd be able to buy medicine every single day, with plenty leftover?
It was hard to even wrap his brain around.
“We should hurry,” Yao said.
Alfred nodded dumbly, then grabbed Yao and pulled him into a hug.
“Ahh...” Yao chuckled, patting Alfred on the back. “You're welcome.” He pulled away.
Alfred sniffed and wiped his eyes. “Y-yeah. We should hurry.” He all but ran the rest of the way to the apothecary.
They purchased the medicine and wasted no time, heading immediately back. On the way, Yao gave Alfred instructions about where and when to show up, then bid him good night and they parted ways, the Jack returning to the palace.
Reply
“Yeah, it's me. Yao left.” Alfred set about getting another fire going.
“You're really... working?”
“Can you believe it?” Alfred still couldn't.
“How...?”
“We ran into each other today. We talked, and he told me that they need a new stable boy, and... yeah. I ended up with a job.” The tinder caught fire, and Alfred sat back to watch it spread. “It pays twice what the medicine costs daily.”
Matthew just stared at Alfred, as if such a concept was beyond him.
“I know,” Alfred murmured. “We'll always have enough. I'm not sure what to think about that, either.” Thank the gods for having a sob story, he supposed. For all he knew, Yao had lost someone to the plague as well, making him even more sympathetic. “Assuming I don't screw it up.”
Matthew watched his brother fetch the teapot, starting to weakly smile. “You won't.”
*****
He didn't actually get to go in the palace, but simply entered the field that housed the stables through a gate. Alfred wrinkled his nose at the smell as he walked into the building, hoping that was something he would get used to. Many stalls lined the interior, with plenty of them holding equine occupants.
Alfred wandered over to a small dapple horse and reached out to pet her nose. “Hi there. Um, I guess I'll be caring for you guys from now on.” He peered into the stall and groaned. “What did you do in your bed? Oh, I'm going to be spending all day cleaning up...” The horse just nuzzled him, snorting on his shirt.
A couple stable hands eventually showed up, and gave Alfred a brief explanation of his duties. As he had expected, cleaning played a big part of his job. But also providing food and water, grooming the horses, and exercising them.
Not that it would matter if shoveling manure was all he did, he would do it for the money they had promised him.
One of the boys stuck close to Alfred for the rest of the day, following him around to make sure he was doing everything correctly. At one point he handed Alfred a brush, pointing to the end of the stable they usually started at and worked their way back. Alfred headed over there, grinning at the sight of the brilliant white horse that graced the first stall.
The horse, however, was not particularly impressed by him. She gave Alfred a flat stare as he approached, her nostrils flaring.
“Don't take it personally,” the stable boy - Peter - said when Alfred dodged a kick. “She doesn't like anybody but her owner.” However, Alfred couldn't help but notice that she tolerated Peter. “Take her out for a run, she's probably feeling restless.”
As Alfred led the horse outside, he was surprised to discover just how much time had passed, the setting sun painting the sky gold. He would have to collect his pay soon - his pay! - and return home. But not before picking up medicine and something to eat.
They would have plenty of money for food. And clothes, and new books, and... It was still hard to imagine.
Lost in thought as he watched the white mare race around the fenced in field, Alfred didn't notice green eyes watching him.
Reply
Reply
Oh, hi, Yao! :D
*at the end*
Annnd, there it goes. Alfred has the attention of the queen, at least somewhat.
Reply
Reply
Cheering up for you, authoranon, I shall now stalk this fill and look forward to every update.
Reply
Reply
Leave a comment