Execution [Book 2 of The English Lion]

XI. Colette

I would be in London for official business. But... that's an "official" excuse to get me away from Paris for a while. Only the King knew the true goal behind this. I am to meet Alexander about a meeting in regards to the Inner War. I would be staying at Buckingham Palace for a couple of days.

Later in the afternoon of the 26th of August, I would be in Alexander's office at the headquarters of Regillus Eques. It has amazing architecture, as it calls on the architecture of the past, especially the Renaissance, as it combines with the Ancient Greek and Roman architect as well. I do believe that I know who is behind it.

I looked around Alexander's office, to find that there were several bookshelves (Alexander does have a great taste in books), a map of Europe, Britain, France, and Germany, as well as a number of antiques that Alexander somehow managed to put off on display. I wonder how he has time for that, knowing that he is a very busy person.

Alexander walked in, reading an unfamiliar book. After closing the door, he headed straight to the desk and sat.

"Seems like you're so invested in that book that you forgot that you have an old friend visiting you?" I asked and Alexander glanced up. Once he realised it's me, he smiled. Alexander set the book aside.

"Hey, Colette. How are you?" Alexander asked with a sheepish smile. I smiled.

"I'm well. But I believe that I'm not here because you wanted to ask me that question," I replied.

"Indeed," Alexander stated, "What I am about to tell you is strictly confidential. Only three other people know about it, and to a certain extent, Douglas and Emily. I do believe that I have talked to you briefly about it?"

"This is about the Inner War, or am I wrong?"

"Yes, it is. Do you swear on your life that you will keep whatever we will be talking about a confidential secret?"

I nodded.

"Good, because if Hitler caught wind of this... My life is on the line."

I looked at him.

'What?' I thought. Alexander must have noticed my face, or have somehow read my mind.

"Hitler sees me as a threat. A Royal prodigy, and the Director-General of Regillus Eques. Hitler is aware of the international influence of Regillus Eques. By... faking my death, Hitler would see the threat of both me and Regillus Eques neutralised."

I stared at him.

"Vous en êtes conscient des conséquences? [You are aware of the consequences of this?]" I asked him in French, extremely worried as I paled.

"I do," Alexander replied quietly, "Mais ... pour la Grande-Bretagne. Pour elle ... je dois faire ça. C'est mon devoir de servir. [But... for Britain. For her... I must do this. It is my duty to serve.]"

I sighed.

"I don't think there is any way to convince you otherwise, right?"

"No... The line of succession to the British throne is stabilised. My brother will be the heir apparent after my... apparent death."

"So, I assume Hugo, Winston and King Francois know of this... plan?"

Alexander nodded. I looked at him, worried.

"Take care of her, please. Give me updates on her daily?"

"I will, Alexander. Don't worry."

Alexander smiled, but his smile wasn't reaching his eyes. Alexander's eyes reflect sombre, and guilt but there were tinges of hope, duty, and honour.

"I do hope you know what you're doing once you get over there."

Alexander laughed quietly.

"Hugo is going with me, so don't worry. He'll keep me sane."

I laughed as well.

"Of course. I will take my leave then. I'm sure that you're extremely busy."

I stood and curtsied.

"Your Highness," I said before leaving the office. I hang out on the same floor of the headquarters, as my mind reels with the conversation that had just happened, and I wonder... How long before Alexander does something rash because of the stress and the level of pressure that had been placed on him?