Arthur Kirkland

Arthur is England's counterpart in the alternate world. He is the Head Wizard, the highest position an Elgnandian can achieve. He apparently was married to Alfred's sister until she passed away. It was stated that Arthur has three other brothers, one of which is deceased.

Origins/Background
Arthur was born the youngest of 4 boys. One of his older brothers was named David, called Dave. When Arthur was a child he got lost and worried his dad would beat him. He looked for a way back and noticed some writing that he could meet the rose fairy if he passed three tests to find the flower garden. At the first test he had to defeat the fairy knight, a young girl named Jeanne, whom he lost to a lot. One day when they fought, despite him being defeated again, the Rose Fairy allowed Arthur to pass and invited him to play with her in the garden. He spent three days with her, saying it was like a dream. He wanted to become a Head Wizard to see her again.

It is said that Arthur was brutal and quite cruel, but softened when he met and fell for Elizabeth Williams, the elder sister of Matthew and Alfred.

After their father, the Head Wizard, died Arthur, David and two other brothers had to go through the tests and become the new Head Wizard, due to the Kirklands being of a bloodline with strong wizards. They would have to do whatever they could to impress and please the council, sweet talking the judges. Arthur was not good with sweet talking and therefor avoided that. His only hope was the kings vote, which held 12 votes in one. It can be recieved if they can pass a task, given by the king. Also the prince had been assigned to get to know the candidates.

The first time Arthur met Francis the boy prince stripped, much to Arthur's shock. Angered Arthur punched him, not knowing he was the prince. Arthur later found out when he saw Francis standing next to his father at the throne. They would constantly fight and argue.

During the Head Wizard trials, the king tasked them to obtain a blue rose. This worked in Arthurs favor since it's nearly impossible to find unless they know the flower garden, where only Arthur has been. He for the first time defeated Jeanne and was able to get in. He did learn that the Rose Fairy was dead, seeing a tomb stone with her name. His brother had followed him and they engaged in a violent duel, overwhelming Francis who hid to watch. Arthur was defeated and had to hand over the rose so his brother could win. However his brother his brother took out a dagger. As he was about to kill Arthur, the ground crumbled beneath his feet and he fell. Arthur sat there as his brother grabbed onto the border, pleading his brother for help. Arthur however let him fall to his death, the last words being: "I curse you. I shall never forgive you."

It remains unknown if what went through Arthurs head when his brother fell. If he had intentionally let his brother fall or if he had just been frozen in shock. Francis and the others determined the event a fatality.

Arthur married Elizabeth Williams, and her two brothers moved in with them. She died giving birth to Peter, Arthurs son. Arthur believed it was his brothers curse that killed her. At the time Arthur was performing the ritual to become the user of the Green Jewel. However the Jewel chose Peter instead. As Arthur was the Head Wizard, he became the laughing stock in the village. He could have redone it by erasing Peters name, but wasn't allowed to since the council wanted to keep humiliating him. Also they wanted to take Peter away to raise him in Cenarf, as the boy was now their property. He didn't want them to take his son away from him so he begged the previous king to let him keep his son until he died, which the king allowed. He would very often be busy with work. It is said by Peter that Arthur would not be present on his birthday and never look at him when he learned a new spell.

Arthur kept taking care of Elizabeth's brothers and would teach them spells, at some point giving Matthew a stuffed bear, which the boy loved a lot. He'd often spend more time with Alfred, causing his son to not take studies serious anymore, and insult his father over and over. Arthur grew more distant from Peter, believing his son hated him, leading him to only pay attention to Alfred, even when his son learned new spells. Alfred, wanting to be the center of his attention, didn't try to make him spend time with Peter.

Arthur used a spell to keep the brothers in his care until they would turn 18, worried that his elder brothers curse would also kill them. He spoiled Alfred and for some reason Alfred grew to think ill of Arthurs son, Peter, causing a rift between him and his father. This lead Alfred to seek independence with the help of the king. Alfred reveals despite Arthur being kind, he's going to far. And he would be insensitive and think ill of Peter, if he stayed in Arthurs care. Arthur was never told the true reason Alfred left, being told the boy did it to be cool.

Italy's P.O.V.
The first time he is mentioned is when his son, Peter, tells the group that he hates him, since Peters birth may have killed Elizabeth and that he had been chosen as the stones next user of the Green Jewel, making him the laughingstock in the kingdom, for not being the next user even though he's a Head Wizard. Japan however says he is sure, he still loves Peter, despite being scorned like that, since

Later Lovino states that while he was robbing the blue gem mines of Âge, he was caught by the Head Wizard, who nearly threw him in jail.

Natalya later reveals the Head Wizard, will be one of those, escorting the King.

America's P.O.V.
Later America and Matthew go to Polar bear village to find Arthur and is told that Arthur is within a big cave.

America and Matthew first encounter Arthur battling a lamia, using incredible teleportation and attacks. America however is very displeased to see another England, while Matthew insists they go help him. America silently agrees he understands Alfred hates him. When America and Matthew goes up to him accompanied by Alfred as a ghost, Arthur can see him and is shocked to see "three Alfreds", upon being corrected for forgetting Matthews name. Matthew apologizes for leaving Elgnand, but Arthur says it's fine. He then questions notices Alfred is gone and asks if there were just two Alfreds. America says there is not one, let alone two. Arthur is confused, but Matthew tells him "Alfred" has been acting odd. He shrugs it off and lets the two assist him.

As America moves to finish it off, Arthur pushes him away telling him to not stand so close. He is then attacked by some sort of barrier and the lamia disapears. Matthew asks if he feels ill, but Arthur says his magic has been blocked. America is scolded for this and panics since without magic what does Arthur have? Arthur frustratingly yells he has nothing left. America shrugs it off, saying he shouldn't have pushed him. Arthur denies it, saying it was not his intention to help him. Matthew says now Arthur may loose his title as Head Wizard, but Arthur merely says he'll break the spell when he has the time, though also unsure if the people of Cenarf will allow him to remain Head Wizard for now. He says the Head Wizard has to be the best so they'll must likely select a new one right away. America expresses lightly guilt for making a single dad loose his job, even if it is Arthur, stating that first is brother-in-law becomes independent from him and then his son runs away from home, meaning he's becoming more and more pathetic.

Arthur is surprised to learn that his son has run away, which is what they came to tell him. Arthur takes the news calmly though, much to Matthews dismay. Arthur merely states Peter hated him, so it wasn't surprising. Matthew says that there are monsters out there, but Arthur merely states the Green Jewel chose Peter as it's user, so monsters can't defeat him. When America asks if the Jewel is in Elgnand, Arthur says it's always in Cenarf but they brought it to Elgnand to keep it safe, wondering how America knew that. Arthur is then informed they ran into a monster that talked about "green". Arthur then decides that they should report to Cenarf first. As they are about to leave Arthur remembers he came to destroy the circle, since it makes the monsters and asks them to wait. America however believes he's shaken from his son running away,but Arthur denies it. They learn its a teleportation spell. Arthur says he doesn't know who did it, but they beat him to it. Arthur then says that this skill hasn't reached his home yet, so whoever has made it must be a strong wizard. Arthur then decides to transcribe it and use it for research. After doing that he destroys the circle and they leave the cave. When they come back out he assures the polar bears that the circle is destroyed, having Matthew translate. When America asks why he would take the job, Arthur says the old geezers from the Parliament made him, to get him out. Arthur states despite having some allies, he can't compete with veterans. Matthew is a bit down, thinking he has to go back to Elgnand, wanting to see Cenarf. Arthur allows him to come along, but America says Matthew shouldn't care about what Arthur says, much to the wizards annoyance. They then head to Cenarf together.

While they arrive to the Palace in Cenarf, Arthur is greeted and praised for completing his mission. He then proceeds that he has noticed Arthur is assigning younger members to the Parliament, but it will not give him an advantage, since not many will side with him. Matthew considers him mean, but Arthur says you can't work in Cenarf if such things bothers you. They then proceed to the throne room. They are however told the King is having an audience so they'll have to wait. Arthur proceeds to lead his friends to his room, while they wait. While waiting they run into a bunch of impolite people, who insults them for being from Elgnand. Matthew wonders why they still hate them from an event 60 years prior. Arthur says most councilors were either in the midst of it, or educated by those who were, so they've passed the hatred down. When asked if he can do something about it, since he's Head Wizard, he explains he got the position from tests, given by the king and councilors, so he doesn't really stand a chance, even though he does have voting rights and should be an equal member of the parliament. He then explains the younger members are more in favour of him and they also have neutral members. He then explains that its thanks to them that people in Cenarf have learned to use magic in their daily life, they have gotten closer to them. America is impressed that England is actually trying to fix the relations, and he says he sees him in a new light. Matthew asks how he was able to leave the forest. Arthur says the spell was broken when he turned 18 so he no longer needs to be in Arthurs care. Arthur also states he didn't forget to cast the spell, since Matthew is important to him. America tries to talk to Alfred but since Arthur can see ghosts, Alfred refuses to come out until they get away with him. Matthew asks if they should check for Peter when they're done reporting. Arthur says they should find out if he's back in Elgnand. He also says he may have left a clue to where he'd go in his room, if he's not back, not being able to find him without one since he took Uni with him. They then head back to the throne room, to check if the king is done.

When America loudly admires the throne rooms design, Arthur tells him to quiet down as they walk in. Arthur is especially annoyed when America shouts that the now useless Head Wizard is coming, reminding him whose fault that was. They are greeted by Ivan, prompting Arthur to tell America to get out of their way. When America questions him, Arthur panics and pulls him out of the way, apologizing for his rudeness. Arthur then proceeds to scold America, saying he's the Emperor of Vyek and America should be grateful his head is still on his body. They then returns to report to the king and goes to him at the end of the hall. They enter the throne room and are greeted by King Francis. He greets Arthur and Arthur responds that he has accomplished his mission. When questioned what the village was like, Arthur says he defeated them and destroyed the circle. Arthur then states because his magic is blocked, he cant keep his position, but Francis asks if he can break it, for Arthur to say he will try when there is time. The king says then he can go on being the Head Wizard. Relieved that the minister isn't here to fire him, he thanks the king. The king says as long as he has his knowledge it's fine. When asked about his two companions, America laughs, finding it amusing seeing a version of England show France's version such respect. Arthur is again asked who they are, by the king. They are introduced as Arthurs brothers in law, Matthew and Alfred, and they joined him during the mission. Arthur is then sent on a mission to the Blue mines. He bows and says his only wish is the serve the king. The king then ends the council and wishes them luck. When the king requests America in his room, Arthur wonders if America did something wrong. He then tells him to go since he can't keep a king waiting. He also reminds "Alfred" to thank the king for the gun he sent him. When he comes back Arthur merely says he assumes nothing bad happened and he then takes them to the institute.

Arthur later visits Francis in his chambers. Francis is first surprised but then invites Arthur for a drink. Arthur takes tea since he has to work. As they drink Arthur hears Francis express amazement of how they used to fight but now enjoys drinking tea together even. Arthur says it's his fault for being a hopeless pervert, who strips at random. The king tells he was shocked back then since Arthur was the first to hit him his entire life. Arthur says anyone would've hit him. Arthur is told he is lucky it wasn't seen since he could be arrested for hitting the Prince. Arthur didn't know he was the prince, even though he had seen him a few times while taking the test to be a Head Wizard, and was shocked, much to the delight of Francis.The king says he only invites Arthur because they're friends. Arthur smiles and simply says he has a point. Arthur then remarks Francis hasn't stripped in years. When questioned if he wanted Francis to strip, Arthur shouts he didnt and merely remarked it. Francis says its too bad England can't see him naked anymore, but Arthur says that's not bad. When the king says he heard Peter ran away, Arthur asks how he knew, being told it was Matthew. Arthur remarks Matthew was kind enough to even stay with him, but that's soon over, since most people leave him, prompting the king to tell him it's not fair he's so pessimistic. Arthur says its for the best as he gave up on that. Earlier he needed someone with him or he wouldn't be satisfied. He is then told that Francis will make sure he won't work for a while so he can find his son. Arthur thanks him for looking after his two brothers-in-law. He tells Francis he may be spoiling Alfred though, and is told that Francis can rarely see him so he spoils him when he can. Arthur heads back to his quarters when the king doesn't want him to lack sleep. Arthur is annoyed that Francis calls him Artie, as he only wanted Beth to call him that. Arthur thanks him for the tea and goes to sleep

The next day Arthur takes Matthew and America out on the mission he was suppose to go on. He takes them to the throne room and are told to exterminate some monsters and if he is to find treasure hunters he can arrest them. Arthur and Matthew waits while Francis talk to America, though they can't hear what they're saying. When they finally head out Arthur is again congratulated by a member of the Parliament. When they head out they are confronted by an angry Carlos, whom is mistakes America for Alfred. Arthur muses over he now understands why Antonio scolded him for not being able to teach his brothers some manners, but America denies it. When Carlos leaves, Arthur is asked by Matthew if he who Antonio is as well. He explains he's from Spina and Francis' best friend. He also explains about Antonio sends Lacky's to do his business and that they used to fight a bit. Arthur also decides to take Americas side rather than Antonios friends

When they arrive to the blue mine, Arthur explains that they often steal Ore stones, that are slightly weaker, but able to create, like the Blue Jewel. Alfred marks that would be bad, but Arthur explains that they cannot use them as no one knows how to process them. Matthew asks if its because the hero wanted it kept secret, which Arthur agrees to, saying they must have used advanced techniques to keep people from learning. Arthur also explains that is why most of the gems were destroyed.

The trio quickly encounters Lovino, a treasure hunter, attempting to steal gems. As America and Matthew holds him, Arthur asks if he has said his prayers yet, with a scary smile. Arthur asks what he has to say for himself. As Lovino tries to play it off as if they're the criminals, Arthur simply remarks that he asks the questions. Arthur then, having grown irritated by constant missions, demands Lovino tells him how he got in and what he was planning to steal, threatening to beat the living hell out of him. Lovino tells him quickly he wants to sell it and be rich, and he got in through a crack in the wall. Arthur says not to worry, even the jail food in Cenarf is delicious, scaring Lovino. He takes Lovino under arrest and threatens he will kill him if he tries to run.On their way out they battle a few more monsters. Arthur are convinced there might be ores around here, prompting Lovino to look for them. Arthur tells the others to keep an eye on Lovino. They find a rock that looks kind of unnatural. Arthur then goes to move it, revealing a passage. They find a room filled with the blue ores. Arthur makes sure Lovino does not attempt to steal anything. Arthur then plans to burn the chamber and destroy the gems. When Lovino tries to talk him out of it, Arthur explains he hates how they all create without thinking of the price. He is convinced its a taboo and feels something horrible will happen soon. Arthur burns the chamber and they head out. He is thanked by the guard and America comments he's surprised that the Head Wizard complained about his own country. Arthur merely commented that he is not allowed to say such in the castle and he needed to get it off his chest. He believes the king might know, but is hiding it. They quickly notice Lovino has gone missing. Arthur vows to issue a wanted poster, making the Spinan regret trying to run.

After fighting off a few more monsters, Arthur returns to report to the king, though very offended they held a war council without him. Despite Charles' attempt to apologize, his uncle the prime minister, coldly berates him, making it clear Arthur is inferior to the general. As the general tries to defend him, the prime minister still insults him, prompting the king to shut him up, telling them they can take that elsewhere. When Charles apologizes for his fathers rude behavior Arthur tells him not to apologize as he's not the rude one. When asked for his report, Arthur explains. He is praised for his work and then sent on a five days break, so he has time to find his son. He is told America wants to return the gun, and tells him not to be rude about it, and not to just walk past Charles.

While America was gone Arthur is talking with a soldier about the chimeras. He is told they may be artificial. He thanks the person for attending and he then gives a drawing of Lovino, wanting them to make a wanted poster. He is surprised to see America carry a gun, despite having talked to the king about it. He is told the price is minor and not very serious. He tries to ask how America knows but is cut off. They then head to Elgnand.

Arthur and Matthew head to Elgnand while America goes to Aricema. Alfred tells the story of how he became independent and why. America remarks they are both to blame: Arthur for being insensitive about his sons feelings and Alfred for being immature.

When America arrives to Arthur's house, Arthur and Matthew are looking for clues to where Peter could be. So far they haven't found anything relevant, so Arthur asks Alfred to give him a hand. When questioned why he's so calm despite his son being gone, Arthur coldly remarks Peter ran away to live on his own and he was surely calm while thinking of that. When questioned why he has so much confidence in his son, Arthur asks if Alfred has forgotten who he's parents are. He then goes back to look for clues. Under the bed they find a sealed box. Arthur remarks while Peter is good it's not perfect and gives it 30 points opening it. They find a book about traveling the world in Ära. Arthur then they have complicated history. He then says he can't go to Ära and he doesnt want to ask the king for favors. He then proceeds to send America and Matthew home. Arthur has to go and adjust the spell on the forest. He then requests the brothers clean up in the shed, since Alfred left some of his stuff there.

Arthur later walks in on Alfred and America talking about the Green Jewel. Arthur is frozen in shock as Alfred tells that Alfred is dead and he's not Alfred. Angered Arthur yells at him to get out. He then kicks them out. Outside America can hear Arthur break things in a blind rage.

Arthur is seen alone in the darkness crying and angry that everyone dies and leaves him behind. He starts talking to an imaginary person named Dave, apperently his brother. He remarks how this brother hadn't forgiven him and decides not to run from him anymore.

Next day they go to his house and find a letter adressed to Matthew and Peter. In it Arthur writes how he knows they hate him, and he will die bringing Alfred and Elizabeth back to life. Also he places Peter in the care of Cenarf officials. Signing that he loves them. He also bids apologizing to America. They run down and finds him in a circle, telling them to stay back as it can hurt them. He tells them he wants to bring Beth and Alfred back, believing they didn't read the letter. Matthew remarks this is not the Arthur he knows. He remarks he can bring them back by using up all of his magic. Arthur remarks his magic might be blocked but it's still in his body, so he can use it. Matthew shouts using up his magic will kill him, but Arthur remarks he wants to die making his magic useful for once. He reveals they planned to take Peter away from him, but he begged the king to let him keep his son until he died. He is saddened in having to return Peter sooner than expected. He tells America to stay out of it, for the first time using his real name. Arthur then tells America if he can defeat him, he will erase the circle, but if he can't they will go upstairs and let him perform his ritual.

The two engage in a battle. It ends with Arthur being defeated. He is slightly impressed with America's battle skills and collapses. He wakes up and considers it pathetic that he lost, as he held back his magic for the resurrection. He then tells the truth about his brothers demise. He tells he didn't believe his brothers curse but then his wife died, and after that Alfred a few days before his sons 10th birthday. Arthur proceeds to tell them it will continue until he dies. Alfred shouts that Arthur was his hero, intelligent, strong and he protected them. Matthew vows to protect Arthur. After a while Arthur regains his spirit, remarking he can't just give up. He then jokes it may be those years in Cenarf that turned him into a coward. He makes a vow to protect the ones he love and never run again. However when he plans on showing America the jewels he will need to go home, he finds the Green Jewel stolen. He is forced to report it.

Quotes

 * (First appearance fighting a lamia) "Damn it! What's up with this monster?"
 * (Upon seeing America, Matthew and Alfred) "Aaaargh! Three Alfreds?! What's the meaning of this?!"
 * (After loosing his magic and America questions what he has without it) "I've got nothing left at all, you bloody git! How are you going to make up for it, you bastard?!"
 * (When being informed he may lose his position as head wizzard) "I'll break the spell when I have time, but until then, it'll be an issue whether the people of Cenarf will allow me to be Head Wizard or not. The Head Wizard must always be the best wizard...It's likely they'll start selecting a new Head Wizard right away."
 * (When questioned over his lack of reaction that his son is gone) "He hated me. I'm not surprised he ran away."
 * (When being warned Peter might get attacked by monsters) "He's the wizard chosen by the Jewel. He wouldn't lose to the monsters."
 * (Explaining why the people in Cenarf hates Elgnandians) "Most of these councilors are from a generation that was either right in the midst of the uprising or educated by those who were. They still see Elgnand as an enemy."
 * (When asked if he can change it with his position) "The position of Head Wizard is determined by two strict tests given by the King and by the councilors' votes. Do you really think the Head Wizard could oppose the councilors and come out victorious? However, the Head Wizard has voting rights at the Council. That means I should be equal to the members of the Parliament. Now the councilors from a generation with a weak anti-Elgnand sentiment are taking over. The young members are favourable to us and aren't so discouraging. And then there are also the neutral members."
 * (To Francis) "I, Head Wizard Arthur Kirkland, have accomplished my mission."
 * (To Lovino) "Hey, treasure hunter. Done with your prayers yet?"
 * "If you don't give me straight answers, I'm going to beat the living hell out of you."
 * (To Lovino when arresting him)"Don't worry. Even the jail food in Cenarf is delicious."
 * (To Lovino)"You're coming with us. Don't try to escape. You do value your life, don't you?"
 * (When questioned on his confidence in Peter) "Have you forgotten whose son he is?"
 * (About Davids curse) "Words have power. Especially for us wizards."