Long May They Reign

The visitors & the escape

The two children ran through the two lines if dancers giddy with happiness. They'd hit it off well once they both got over their shyness with the other.

"We've sent tents, cots and food to the Germans at the shore. And there", he says pointing at the man in wrapped in velvet, "is Pierce. He's up to something I know it. And it's not just the usual 'Wanting to overthrow us for their own gain' angle either."

"Well aren't we such kind hosts? There are plenty of Germans to go around. We need to keep eyes on them." 

"Sarah. Why is he talking to Natalia?" He moved towards the pair. He didn't trust Germans at any rate. He made a promise to her parents that he was going to keep.

"Henry! Don't make a scene."

Nat's pov

She was speaking to the German envoy.
"How is your engagement going?"

"Its going great."
"So why haven't you set a date yet? I mean Thor and Jane are only seven but they'll be wed on her 14th birthday. Your alliance is hollow."

"I'm sorry?"

"I'm simply saying that if you were threatened, would they really come to your defense?"

"That is the exact definition of an alliance. But you knew that already."

"All I'm saying is that you and your friends should pack your things and leave."

"And exactly how long would Germany wait to attack in full force once we do? Or how about the Bolsheviks? I know they're still out there. And I know Germany has created alliances with them. My enemies. The people who murdered MY family and tried to usurp MY throne. I'm not going anywhere."

He simply laughed at her, "My, didn't the nuns raise a brave girl. You were sent there for your protection right? How was the porridge there? We thought it needed a little seasoning. You know, to make our intentions clear."

She shuddered and gasped once she realized what he was talking about. Luckily, Steve had noticed the exchange become heated and stepped in when he saw Nat getting flustered.

"Dear! Come and see the game. Samuel has had 7 cups of wine. Every time he hiccups or burps we must have one ourselves!"

Steve's Pov

Mother had managed to stop father from going over and ripping off Pierce's head. I was going over instead. Less intimidating she had said. 

I stood next to her after asking her to join in the game, making eye contact so she knew she had an out from the conversation if she needed.

"Pierce! Back at court?"

"And very pleased to be here." Sure you are. I pushed my glass into his hands and turned to Nat.

She smiled and nodded and took my extended hand and I led her away. Once we turned the corner I pushed her against the wall.

"Don't move. Don't push me away. You're shaking. You can't show them you're scared."

"He threatened me. Here at American court. He knows that I'm not ready to marry. "

"You'll have our protection no matter what Nat. You know that. My parents are different from the other rulers. And I'm different. I will wait as long as you'd need me to. As long as I get to be with you."

"There are dozens of Germans here. And hundreds more on the countryside. They have the advantage here. I don't. I can't keep relying on your family to help all the time Steve. I can't."

"Yes you can and you will. Mother and father love you like a daughter. That won't change just because you're not ready to marry." They were interrupted by a page boy leaning in with a message written.

"We have to go Nat. Its important."

Nat's POV

"What do you mean he escaped?!"

"He had help."

"Who?"

"We think the Germans. I know that you know they're always here and always watching Natalia dear."

"I know."

"Spies and treachery are constant in our world. But you will be protected here and by us."

"We were told by informants that pointed at the Germans. But they have since fled for fear of retribution." Sarah replied. She wasn't so sure how factual this information was- even what she had told them wasn't the whole truth but knew it had to be kept from their children to keep them safe.

"Have they?" Henry looked at his wife. They were both in on this plan to keep the whole truth from the younger members.

"Maybe this is a blessing. I can learn how deep this plot against my person runs. And you did say you regretted how quickly he was executed without knowing my wishes. We know he was a mere pawn." She walked over to a chair and sat down with her head in her hands.

"I'm sorry. I just don't want to bring more harm onto your family after you have been so gracious as to take me and my people into your home Sarah."

"I understand." She sat next to the girl and let her rest her head on her shoulders.

Later that day...

Sarah and Henry were walking down the halls talking about the escaped boy.

"I heard that Lady Dinsmore was the first one to know of the boys disappearance. She and Nostradamus were seen down in the dungeons."

"She's back! Henry why? She's nothing but trouble. Especially for Steven and Natalia! There's got to be an angle here somewhere."

"I think so too. I just don't know what it could be. She would never be eligible for Steven and especially not Peggy & Wanda or Thor. But her appearance back at court just as Natalia and her entourage arrive back? I think we may need more guards at Natalia's and her ladies doors. We know the Dinsmore's have more than enough power to turn people to their side and I want every one of these kids protected and watched over as best as we can."

"I can get more guards sent from the West coast and will message my cousin in Spain for reinforcements."

"Thank you. I'll have guards taken from the frontline to add onto that." Here they parted with a kiss and hug to attend their own meetings.

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Hope you guys enjoy it!!!!