The Heir (TV Series 'Reign') #2

Sins Of The Past

Francis' POV

"He's here, Francis." My mother announces.

I make my way to the entrance, where a few of my guards are outside waiting. Eliana and her ladies arrive shortly afterward, standing nearby.

"Your Majesty, King Antoine of Navarre." The announcer yelled.

"Cousin, I am delighted we both wish to renew the peace treaty between our two countries." I say to him, as he makes his way to me.

"It is my chief purpose in coming."

"Of course." I add.

"And my second purpose is to ask for funds. Navarre has been overrun by Protestant refugees. French Protestants. They're perfectly lovely people, but they are a tax on our resources. Now, we'd prefer that they return home, but apparently they fear persecution from the Crown." Antoine suggests.

"And you're suggesting that these refugees are our fault, and you want us to pay up?" I ask.

"I knew this would be awkward; that's the problem with being forthright."

"Well, we will consider your request. In the meantime, you are our honored guest." Mary says appearing next to me.

"France and Navarre remain the best of friends." Antoine says.

"Of course."

Exchanging looks, Mary leaves to show Antoine around the castle. While I walk over to Eliana, passing by a few of the guards and servants.

"I didn't know he was coming?" She asked.

"He wrote to me a few days before. How are you feeling?" I ask.

She smiles at the young men, looking at her from afar.

"Okay..I guess? How are you? with Mary?"

"Fine, she accompanies me to meetings but afterwards she leaves. It's only when I see you, that I feel better."

Seeing as her cheeks blush slightly, she smiles.

"I haven't seen you smile in a long time..I miss it." I whisper

~

Conde's POV 

"Lady Lola. What are all the decorations for?" I ask.

"Tomorrow night's Winter Ease. The first blooms have been sighted in the snow. We feast, dance, celebrate new beginnings." She says, handing the decorations to a few of the maids nearby.

"But it's still winter. The blooms will likely have a short life."

"But it's the promise that spring will come eventually." She says.

"Hmm, and do you have an escort to this feast?"

"The queen has commanded that we see one another. But should you be there with me? You're King Antoine's liaison to the French court. Won't he need you at his side for introductions?" She asks.

"Oh, my brother always finds a way to introduce himself." 

At the corner of my eye, I see Antoine enter the grand room, making connection to Lady Kenna. 

"Now, where can we hang these garlands? Ah, put them over there." I hear her say.

"I think you dropped one."

"Oh, well, thank you, Your Majesty."

"Well, it'd be a shame to lose track of something so vibrant and beautiful." He pursued.