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The next morning, the familiar shouts rang from below. Brushing away thick, dark hair from my eyes, I scanned the papers in front of me. However, I was also figuring out how to get to the front. I let my hands rest under my chin as my mind slipped deeper in thought.
"Hackathrift Pippa?" I glanced up sharply to see Baka, I let out a breath of relief.
"Yes, Baka?" I asked, folding the papers away.
"The two hundred soldiers are ready to be taken to the western front," he replied, his posture stiffened. I walked closer and put a hand on his shoulder.
"That'll do Baka thank you," Baka said no more and left me alone with my thoughts, however, I reminded myself it wasn't a time to think. I walked down to glance at the trucks that were delivering the hundreds of men. I frowned slightly, knowing what was ahead when I returned to Buckingham Palace.
Though London was supposed to be cold and rainy, it was surprisingly warm midday when I returned, I was greeted by a few of the staff who escorted me around the royal residence to speak with the Prince, I also noticed half of the staff bundling and cleaning up.
I'd forgotten that the royal family was moving to Spain until the war ended, another royal residence. It was getting too close and for their safety. Had to leave, however, they weren't taking all their staff with them for some had to stay at Buckingham Palace.
"Hackathrift Pippa, His Highness is expecting you." I cleared my throat and thanked him, slowly I walked into the many parlors. There was Charles, Prince of Wales, I also spotted Leonor, Princess of Asturias, and her father the King of Spain.
"Your Royal Highnesses." I bowed, making myself known. The Prince turned to me, a slight smile fitting across his face.
"Hackathrift Pippa, thank you for coming," he replied,
"Of course Your Royal Highness," I said and stood quietly. The Prince of Wales turned back to Spain's royal family and murmured a few words. He bowed to them as they walked out, however, I felt the Princess of Asturias watching me for a brief moment as she followed the King. When the doors closed The Prince of Wales turned to me and gestured towards the velvet seat, he also sat down across from me.
"Now, Hackathrift Pippa I was given a word that you sought to have an audience with me privately."
I dipped my head and spoke, "Yes, Your Highness." I cut myself off, waiting for him. Charles seemed deep in thought but gestured for me to continue.
"The Troops, as well as the officers, are depending on me for guidance, they still need me here. Your Highness I am asking you to let me stay in London."
it was almost too silent. I flickered my eyes to the patterned carpet until he spoke again.
"Pippa," he stated quietly as he seemed to choose his words carefully. "From the day you and William announced your engagement, your position as Head of the Court is no longer beside the coming arrangements have also been made at Kensington Palace, your new residence after your wedding."
"I understand, Your Highness." was my reply. Charles was silent again but spoke after taking a breath.
"I have arranged for you to meet with our other ally in two weeks time. I will not allow you to stay." Charles straightened, "You are dismissed, Hackathrift Pippa."
