Amalie Lancaster's Story

“Your stomach has swollen, my Queen, to be sure, you are with child!” Amalie looked to the doctor, who she had called upon to confirm her suspicion. Her husband had not retired just yet, and Amalie had seized the opportunity to confirm her beliefs without getting his hopes up. The doctor pulled her night dress back down over her form with a smile. “A strong heart-beat, too, my Queen,” Sir Neel added. The queen looked to her lady-in-waiting, Rebecca, and smiled, tears brimming in her eyes. “That’s wonderful, my Queen!” Rebecca grinned, holding her arms open for Amalie, who threw her arms around the servant in joy. “My thanks, Sir Neel. You have brought great joy to me this day.” Amalie looked as if she were glowing as she released her lady-in-waiting. Such wonderful news, she thought to herself as she nodded to Sir Neel, dismissing him.

The white cotton of the gown Amalie wore bubbled over her stomach, stretched due to the new size of her midsection. “I will need new clothes, Rebecca. I will entrust the alterations to you.” “Yes, my Queen.” Amalie walked over to the large double wooden doors that led to her balcony. Opening one was a bit of a struggle, due to their size, but she managed to crack one open enough to slip outside. The air was bitterly cold, unforgiving to the thin fabric of her nightgown. “My queen, you will catch your cold… you must think of the baby,” Rebecca cautioned, following the queen outside. “I am troubled, Rebecca,” Amalie whispered, placing her palms on the cool stone of the balcony.

“For your sister, my queen?” “Yes,” Amalie sighed, hanging her head. “I can only pray that we are able to stop the impending war, Rebecca… It will rip my family apart…” “And mine, my queen,” Rebecca said gently. “Yes, the entire nation will fall apart…” Amalie slowly pulled herself into a standing position. Why, dearest sister? Why did you have to marry such a hateful family? What will I do if I lose you? How will your new family take to the news of my heir? Will we, mere women, be able to hold back the flow of blood that our husbands yearn for? My sweet sister… will I lose you, too? Amalie slowly placed a hand to her stomach, rubbing the swell with her palm in slow circles.

Turning her eyes to the land, her blue hues scanned the dark expanse. “I still do not feel like I belong here, after all these years… If only I could produce a living heir… one that will not shrivel and die in my arms only hours after coming into the world…” Rebecca slowly placed a hand on Amalie’s shoulder. “God has blessed you with a child, right as we are on the brink of war… perhaps this baby will be our savior.” Amalie turned to face her lady-in-waiting, and friend. “Yes. Rebecca, you always know just what to say. I will be sure to find you a fine match one day.” Rebecca smiled and bowed her head humbly. “Thank you, my Queen.”

“I think it’s time we both retire… you make take your leave.” “A blessed night, my Queen.” “And you, Rebecca.” The two ladies walked back inside, and Rebecca assisted in the closing of the large wooden balcony doors before she excused herself. Amalie walked over to the roaring fire in the fireplace. Her hues seemed to glass over as she watched the flames dance back and forth, seemingly lost in thought. They were to ride to Beaumont Castle tomorrow. Dread formed her stomach into lead. Why could the South follow tradition? Why during her rule? Why her sister? Amalie slowly closed her eyes against the thoughts tormenting her. She was with child, it was a time to be overjoyed not sad. Still, she couldn’t help but feel as though her world were falling apart.

Slowly raising her hues from the fire, her eyes landed on the beautiful painting of her husband. So strong and headstrong. The South would surely lose, if they refused to obey. Her husband would stretch out his fist and impale the rebels with shards of ice. Her homeland would be soaked in the blood of her people, and families would be ripped apart. Men were so quick to rage war to solve their problems, oblivious of the lives they were destroying. Amalie walked over to and crawled into her large bed. She was not feeling as nauseous as she had been earlier, so perhaps she would finally be able to get some sleep. She knew better than to wait up for her husband. Too often he was kept by the council, discussing matters of little or grave importance.

Sleep took her before she could realize what was happening. The child growing inside her had robbed her of her energy. When she awoke, everyone was busy hurrying about the castle. Rebecca came in quietly and woke her. “Everything has been loaded up my Queen, we are only waiting on you.” “Why didn’t you wake me sooner?” Amalie gasped, quickly getting out of the bed. “We wanted to let you sleep, your highness! For the baby!” The baby… Amalie let out a sigh, remembering that she was with child now. “Very well.. my things are already packed?” “Yes, my Queen.” Trusting Rebecca to have done her job well, Amalie nodded in acceptance and allowed Rebecca to quickly dress her.

Her gown was a gold and soft tan in color, and it accented her swollen stomach. Around her shoulders Rebecca had sewn on a ring of soft and warm wolf fur, to fight the chill of outside. The tan fur accented the dress well, and added much appreciated warmth. Rebecca led Amalie down through the castle that they had stayed in for three days to let the King and Queen rest. Amalie was loaded into the royal carriage, and once the king had joined her they set off again for Beaumont Castle. The caravan was heavily guarded, as the council had advised. Rebecca road in a smaller carriage behind the second royal carriage. If they were to stop for any reason, she would rush to her mistress’ side.

Amalie was biting down a smile, watching her husband’s handsome jaw in the sunlight. Despite the chill in the air, the Northern Star was shining as brightly as ever. “Ori,” she started, unable to stop herself from grinning. “I asked to see Sir Neel last night… He has confirmed… I am with child.” She beamed at her husband, tears brimming in her eyes. “He says that the child has a strong heartbeat… I believe God has sent us an answer to our prayers.” She had nearly exploded with the information, unable to stand her own excitement. Her blue hues glittered with joy as they remained steady on his beautiful green gaze.

In truth Charles words just confirmed Harriets own suspicions, the Rayleigh family had prideful hearts, a blessing and a sin to most, they loved their country, the South anyway; they were passionate people, strong-willed, defiant...stubborn. Despite all her hope to avoid war, partly on the selfish reason she did not wish to be parted from Charles, it would seem that her father-in-law would not relent to the promises and hopes of the North. With a nod and a small smile Hallie hid her disappointment well; it wasn't that she opposed to the Rayleigh's cause, on the contrary she was a strong supporter, the South was a different country in itself, the complete polar opposite to the North and with every new tax and law brought out, the South became suppressed, their people suffered and it was simply heartbreaking. Each side had a way of life which was so different that neither could understand the needs of the other and so they were caught in a vicious cycle, they had been for years but with Francis Rayleigh as the spearhead they had decided that the South would succeed, but you could be damned that the Lancaster's wouldn't let it go without a fight.

"I know..." Harriet muttered breathlessly "...do not get me wrong darling, I believe strongly that this succession is the right thing to do. I just worry about what would happen to you if we were to go to war, I do not think my heart could take it if I lost you" she admitted a little sheepishly, before relenting with a sigh "do not pay me any real mind, I will support your choices full heartily...besides its my duty as your wife to worry about you, I don't know if I could find another husband who satisfy me as you do" Harriet smirked playfully, her eyes teasing as she tried to lighten the mood.

"Well, then you shall certainly show those Lancasters just how beautiful and breath-taking the Rayleigh women are." Harriet's smile, widened into beaming grin at his words "Which reminds me...we must watch out for Briar. She is a very beautiful girl but young, we must keep her away from the Prince, believe me when I say he would stop at nothing to try and woo her" she confessed her worries, unsure how they would be received, she wouldn't have said anything if it hadn't been for all the rumours she had heard and from past experience in dealing with the Prince of Seabel; at her sisters wedding, she had found herself subject to his advances and if it hadn't been for her brother she could have shamefully fallen for them. He was charming, mysterious and handsome, very dangerous traits in a man with no honour and the thought of the snake getting near her sister-in-law, a beautiful, virtuous if slightly naive girl, made her skin crawl.

Harriet held nothing but disdain for the man; shaking him from thought as Charles voiced resounded around the room, once more "I should probably head down to assist with packing the carriage again. Do you wish for me to ride with you today?" Harriet nodded in reply, her blue hues quickly glancing around the room in search of the book she had been reading earlier that evening, spotting in on the chair besides the dying fire "It would be lovely if you would" she smiled over her shoulder whilst retrieving the book "could you place this in the carriage, darling? So I shan't forget it" asked Harriet as she placed the small, leather bound book in her husbands large hands. "Whilst you help ready the carriage, I shall speak with the cook and get you some breakfast wrapped up." With one last quick kiss, Hallie swiftly glided towards the door, opening the latch with a loud clanking sound "I shall see you in a little while." With those final words, she she walked away from the room, her feet carrying her down the familiar corridors of her childhood home and towards the kitchen. It was a route herself, William and Amalie would do often as children in hopes of sneaking a slice of cake before dinner, the memory made her smile slightly. The three Stanford children had always been close as children, inseparable In fact; Hallie had cried for days when she found out that Amalie would be leaving them to marry the future King of Seabel, naturally her elder sister had comforted her, stating that things wouldn't change all to much and for a while things hadn't been so bad. Harriet for one would travel often to the capital with her family to visit her sister, as much as she disliked the Lancasters she was willing to put up with them for Amalie's sake. Although that had all changed when her own marriage was secured with the eldest son of the Rayleigh family; the last time she had seen her sister was two years ago at Yule tide, then in the autumn she had married Charles and all connections with the Queen ceased, save for a few letters, partly through fault of her own and not wanting to upset her new family giving their feud with the Lancaster's. It was an awkward situation, one made even more so with the threat of war; she loved her sister dearly, she truly did but the love she felt for Charles trumped all others and she would remain loyal to him and his family till the day she died.

Walking down the narrow servants steps, Harriet soon arrived in the bustling kitchens "good mornin' milady, is there 'owt I can 'elp you with?" A young girl whom Hallie figured as the Scullery maid asked her hastily, looking up from the doe she had been kneading.

Harriet smiled "yes, there is actually, could I trouble you to prepare a basket for Sir Rayleigh, for our journey? Perhaps a few rashers of bacon, some bread and jam and maybe some fruit? That is if you are not otherwise preoccupied"

The young girl quickly shook her head, wiping her flower covered hands off on her apron "not 'tall miss, I'll do it now for ye" she replied hastily, making Harriet smile slightly "thank you. Please bring it up to me when you have finished" she added quickly before turning to walk back up the stairs into the living quarters of the castle.

Upon reaching the banqueting room, where breakfast was traditionally served for large parties staying in Briar, Harriet immediately spotted Bee about to enter the hall "Good morning Briar" called out Harriet chirpily as she walked towards her sister-in-law, a wide smile etched across her lips "how do you fare this morning?"

[i"Heavenly Father, I come to you with a question, and like most I am not aware of the answers you may bestow upon me, but I will follow your will nonetheless. My kingdom is being pinned against itself; morphing into a battlefield instead of the thriving land that my father dreamed of. I am conflicted, my Lord...to go to war or achieve peace...it is logical to immediately cease the loathing that runs deep in my blood and bones towards the Rayleigh family, but I don't believe that I am righteous enough to forgive their horrid natures.

Does that make me a disgrace? A sinner? I will admit that the crimson that I've splattered against your earth has been unjust in certain aspects, but they were traitors, liars, people that slayed the innocent and spat at the weak. In other aspects, I trust that my violence has been scrupulous. All in all, I am turning to you for guidance. In due time, I shall be discussing the fate of this nation. To battle or to unite? To die or to settle our differences. I wholeheartedly want to choose the latter, but I don't know if it will be possible for such diverse backgrounds to clash together...perhaps that is my wicked flesh speaking, but it's something that I am currently battling. Father, all I ask is for you to guide me to the most exceptional choice for my people...my wife...and if you are merciful, dear God...my heir. Amen." With a bow of his head and a crack of his knuckles, King Orion Lancaster straightened his posture and pushed himself up from his knees to a standing position, his eyes still gazing at the holy son of god mounted upon the cross on the back wall of the chapel. As a child, Ori had been slightly scared of the life sized figure, now he admired it, it was a reminder that he had been put upon this world to serve Seabel and it's people, god had made him King and he would do anything to keep it that way.

Today was the day. It was a day of compromise and possible solutions. It was their final chance to stop what seemed to be inevitable: war. He clenched his teeth at the thought as his jade orbs stared unyielding at the large crucifies of the chapel. He was ready to finish what his ancestors had started, but that inkling of hideous doubt was still gnawing at his frontal lobe. He wanted peace; fore nothing would please him more than his nation basking in tranquility, but he just couldn't imagine the Rayleigh clan shaking hands with him and calling him brother. It was almost surreal to consider it. At first Orion had wanted nothing but unconditional surrender for from the Rayleigh family, yet their stubbornness was persistent, yet a part of him never thought Sir Francis would rebel, surely the man was now to old to embark on a campaign against him? He had laughed when Duke Burton had informed him that Francis had established his own government and his supporters had been ordered to deny Northern trade, he was even more surprised when he learned about the army the Rayleigh's had rallied, his supporters seemed endless and that was when Orion felt blind angers. He had declared them traitors and was on the verge of sending his armies down there to retrieve them all, he'd show them what a real army could do. Then his darling Amalie had intervened, a Southerner by blood, he had at first, in his anger, threatened to brand her a traitor also but after his temper had simmered, he listened. Amalie begged for peace, not necessarily for the South but for her sister, yes he had forgotten that his sister-in-law was married to Charles Rayleigh, which was a slight hinderance in honesty. The Stanford's were a influential family, Sir William had many men at his disposal and Orion could have done with them, but with one sister in the North and the other in the South, he did not know which way he would sway, maybe he could talk to him at the summit.

Orion turned his back to the cross of Christ, walking out of the chapel into the sun's light. The beams reassured him as if God was informing him that all would be well. He hoped that this was true. Turning his gaze away from the azure sky, Orion walked confidently across the court yard, where his men were readying the carriages for the trip to Beaumont, he had planned on riding on his mount, but opted for the carriage after his wife's cryptic message over breakfast that she must speak with him in private and the only privacy they seemed to get anymore was when they travelled. Looking around briefly, he saw most were ready to disembark from their over-night rest stop, a frown tugging at his thin lips as he discovered a number of important people still unaccounted for, his wife, brother and sister being the prominent absences. "Clarence!" He shouted, his voice echoing across the stone courtyard of Sir Anthony Beckett's home of Isenfell.

Within an instant, a young man hurried over, his black uniform, signalling that he was one of the Kings Courtiers "yes, my King?" He asked with a gallant bow.

"See too it that the Queen, Prince Cedric and Princess Elenna are down her within the next few minutes otherwise we shall depart without them" Orion commanded, his hand rubbing the stubble over his chin, stopping as he spotted Amalie emerging from the grand house, a plethora of ladies around her as she walked purposely towards him, as usual, she took his breath away "It seems my wife has finally decided to join me, just see to my siblings, bring them immediately to the carriage, we must leave now!" he ordered before the young man hurried of. Orion greeted his wife with a quick bow and kiss on her hand "my love" he greeted, although his voice was stoic and somewhat unemotional. Amalie greeted him with a similar tone as he helped her into the carriage before climbing in after her. They sat opposite each other, Orion's leg crossed over his other as he studied his wife carefully, something was amiss with her, her pale skin seemed even lighter, on her brow formed small beads of sweat "Amalie, love, are you sick?" Orion asked, concern showing in his voice.

Amalie forced a smile as she dapped her forehead lightly with a cotton handkerchief "on the contrary Ori, I am quite well, just in the mornings I find stomach does not quite agree with me" she spoke a well rehearsed line, trying to stop the smile from breaking across her face.

Orion nodded, turning his gaze out of the window for a brief moment as her words sank in, sickly, in the mornings, could it be that his prayers had been answered? He opened his mouth to speak but closed it promptly as words failed to come to him, instead a large smile stretched from ear to ear, Amalie quickly doing the same "are you with child?" He asked hopefully.

Amalie nodded enthusiastically, tears beginning to brim in her eyes "the physician confirmed my suspicions last night" she spoke with a breathy laugh. Ori sighed deeply, quickly saying a prayer of gratitude and another of hope, that this child would not be stolen from them so early. Swiftly he rose from his position and fell into the empty spot next to his wife, his hand gently coming to rest of her stomach, his thumb running soft circles over the material of her dress "how long?" he asked, his eyes fixated on her stomach.

"I am three months" came her soft reply, causing Ori's smile to widen, if that was possible, he decided that then that it would be announced tonight at the banquet, if report were correct, the Rayleigh's would have no news of the same magnitude, no news could compare with that of an heir.[/i]

“My Queen, the King is already in his carriage and is ready to depart. He seems to be becoming a little impatient,” the maid informed Amalie from the other side of the bathroom door, her tone polite and a little nervous.

Amalie drew a shaky breath as she stood back from the basin, to which she had just spent the last few minutes losing what little breakfast she’d eaten this morning. But she wasn’t upset, nor did she sit and dwell on her illness. For her nausea was simply further confirmation of the news she’d received just the night before. And she couldn’t be happier. This was proof that a baby was growing inside of her.

Amalie had suspected for at least a moon that she may be with child, but due to previous tragedies, was hesitant to consult the physician. But in the past week she’d found herself nauseated and her abdomen seemed slightly swollen, and at that point, she allowed herself to believe that God may have seen fit to bless her with the heir she so desperately wanted and needed to provide. The night before, Amalie had seen the physician, who had confirmed she was indeed carrying a child. He thought her to be around three months. The Queen had been overjoyed. She couldn’t wait to share the news with the King, knowing how delighted he would be. Amalie had already begun to plan the perfect way in which to tell him. It was also a happy coincidence that it was this year she would finally get to see her sister again, after two years apart. She was excited to share her happy news with her. But, the thought was dampened by the knowledge that her sister had not yet managed to conceive a child at all, to Amalie’s knowledge. Although, perhaps, God had been so merciful as to bless them both with children, and her sister too would have news to share, Amalie had told herself optimistically. Although, Amalie’s optimism was not enough to keep her mind off of the ever-present threat of losing her child. During her marriage to the King, Amalie had lost two babies. The first had been within their second year of marriage. She’d only carried the child for four months before she’d begun to bleed. After much crying and pain, it was revealed to the Queen that her child had not survived. She’d been devastated, as had Orion. But she was not without hope that this was a single, isolated tragedy that she would remember with sadness as she rocked her other children. But the second miscarriage, two years later, had been much more brutal. She had been within weeks of delivery when terrible pains had clenched her midsection and she'd screamed like she was being torn in two. She had assumed it was the start of childbirth, but then she’d begun to bleed once more. She delivered a perfect little boy, but his cheeks were not flushed with life like other babies, and his little body was still and silent. He had been taken away instantly, and Amalie had never seen him again.

After receiving the news that she’d been blessed with another chance, Amalie had retired to her chambers early, much ahead of the King. She was exhausted, as could only be expected, and despite her worries for the summit the following day, sleep had taken her almost immediately. She’d slept right through the night, awaking late, long after Orion had left, and finally roused by a maid who’d informed her she’d be late for breakfast. She’d been dressed quickly, going without her corset for the first time in nearly three years. Though she’d only been able to pick over her food, and even then it hadn’t stayed down, it had been a nice breakfast. She’d cryptically informed the King that she needed to speak with him in private, sowing the seeds for her announcement. She’d then returned to her room to make the final preparations before departure, where she’d found herself overcome with nausea.

“I will not be long,” Amalie reassured the maid, washing her hands and drawing in another refreshing breath in an attempt to stop herself shaking. “Take my things out to the carriage and I will be ready very soon.”

“Of course, Your Grace,” the servant responded obediently, and Amalie heard her hurrying away.

The Queen checked her appearance in the mirror. She still looked deathly pale, and beads of sweat dappled her forehead sporadically. But she knew the King was not a patient man and she couldn’t afford to spend any more time inside. She adjusted her hair before opening the door and making her way down the stairs, followed by more maids who fussed around her. She made her way hastily towards the carriage where her husband stood.

He greeted her with a bow and a kiss to her hand. ”My love,” his voice was a little cold and formal, and Amalie returned the greeting. He helped her into the carriage, a kindness she was gratefully for that morning, especially as she was still feeling a little unsteady. Amalie took her seat in the carriage, briefly considering the day that would lie ahead. She couldn’t wait to see her family, especially her siblings. It had been far too long, and she couldn’t be happier that they were to be reunited. But she was also nervous. She was nervous about how the peace summit would go. There was no one who wanted peace more than Amalie, and she had been the one to champion this meeting. She couldn’t bear it if something went wrong and it ended in a bitter battle in which she was guaranteed to lose someone she loved, and she would be forced to fight against her family. But Amalie was also nervous about seeing her siblings. In the North, she’d always felt out of place. She knew people saw her as a foreigner who shouldn’t be sitting on the throne, and she still had not come to feel as though she belonged. She was sure that if she was able to deliver a living heir that people would finally accept her. Though, spending so long in the North had changed Amalie. She may not be a Northern lady yet, but she was no longer going to be seen as a Southerner. She was afraid she would feel out of place among her family, and that they may be suspicious of her motivations. She feared she would finally have to acknowledge that she no longer belonged anywhere, so to speak.

But quickly, Amalie’s thoughts were pulled away from these matters as her announcement approached. She was excited to tell him, and she couldn’t wait to see his reaction to her news. This would surely improve his mood, even with the summit approaching. Amalie lifted her head to catch his eye, but found his eyes scrutinising her.

”Amalie, love, are you sick?” he asked after a few moments, concern in her voice.

The Queen forced a smile and pulled a cotton handkerchief from the pocket of her gown to dab at the beads of sweat on her forehead. In truth, she did not feel incredibly well, and though she was certain she would not be sick again, her body trembled slightly, she felt hot and nausea rolled over her in waves. But she would not let this ruin her happiness, nor her announcement. In fact, she was relying on her husband noticing her ill health to use her carefully rehearsed line to hint towards the wonderful news.

“On the contrary, Ori,” she told him, trying to keep the smile from showing on her pretty features. “I am quite well. Just, in the mornings, I find my stomach does not quite agree with me.”

She waited, almost holding her breath to see if he would pick up on the hint. He gazed out of the window, and she could almost see the cogs turning in his mind. He looked back at her, trying to speak, before stopping, unable to find the words. He smiled, mirroring the one that had broken out on Amalie’s features as she saw him understand.

“Are you with child?” he asked her, his voice full of hope.

Amalie nodded enthusiastically, happy to be no longer keeping the news to herself. “The physician confirmed by suspicions last night,” she explained, a breathy laugh tumbling from her lips. She watched as he quickly rose from his position opposite her, instead sitting beside her. His hand reached for her stomach, his thumb tracing gentle circles over where their baby lay. Amalie could hardly breathe she was so happy. She’d been waiting so long for this, and her husband’s affection made the moment all the better. All her worries of miscarriages and war had been washed away as she watched her husband’s eyes fix on her slightly swollen abdomen.

“How long?” he asked.

“I am three months,” she replied softly as Ori’s smile only widened. “The physician says I am in perfect health and he is hopeful that I will deliver a strong boy,” she added with a smile.

She took a soft breath, knowing she had just alluded to their previous tragedies. Though she also knew that would be where Orion’s mind would also be lingering, the way hers had when she’d first discovered she was with child.

“I feel God may be merciful this time…” she said gently, her own hand slipping over Ori’sl, winding her fingers through his so she could brush her stomach too.

This news was exactly what they had needed right now. Though she could’ve done with this pregnancy not occurring in such a stressful and dangerous time, they needed this news to ease the worry of the upcoming summit. It would give him something to be proud of, and someone to fight for peace for. Though the future of Seabel was still uncertain, if she could carry this child to term, things may not end in disaster, the way Amalie had spent many nights, awake, fearing.

[i“I feel God may be merciful this time…”

Orion winced at Amalie's words, his eyes closing to shield his pain, his pain had been equal of his wife's when she had miscarried his children, the news had been devastating, the first time, she had only been a little past the three months she was now and although the pain was rife it could not compare to the second time. Amalie's screams of anguish were what Orion remembered most about that fateful night, not so long ago, the worst part had been there was nothing he could do to help her, he could only pace outside her room, waiting patiently for news; that night he had been certain, god would have recalled his Queen back to the Kingdom of Heaven yet he only recalled his son, a rather bittersweet outcome.

Ori had named him Edward 1st of Seabel, as he held him in his arms, his face so perfect, he looked almost as if he had been sleeping and if it hadn't of been for the coolness of his skin and the stillness of his chest, Ori could have mistaken him for being so. That memory still haunted his sleep and even waking moments in his darkest days, the days where he felt god was punishing him for letting the Rayleigh's get so far in their quest for power, it was on these days that this memory was sent to show the King that he would never have an heir and that was the closest he would ever had come to one. Yet here, in the darkness of his world, Orion had one beacon of hope with this news, a sign from god above that he was doing the right thing and he couldn't be more thankful.

"Yes, yes it is" he agreed, placing a loving kiss to her head as their fingers entwined over her growing stomach "he will live, by god he will, I know it" his words came across powerful in tone, despite the emotional break in his voice as her buried his nose deep into his wife's hair, exhaling her scent deeply "god, I love you" Ori sighed, a sense of pure happiness overcoming him, an emotion he hadn't felt in such a long time, so much so he was beginning to wonder if he would ever feel it again, the only thing that could have topped this moment would be the birth of this child.

Suddenly, a tsunami of emotions washed over him, the most dominant, fear. After the miscarriages of his two children, Orion had spent many waking hours obsessing over what went wrong, what stress had been brought to the Queen to cause such a conflict within her, that her body had rejected her pregnancy? He would be the first to admit, he was not the greatest husband, at times it seamed as if he was married to his realm first and wife second, he had not been entirely faithful to his wife at first, try as he might, the allure appeal of a forward, pretty lady broke him down at times, but he kept that well hidden, then again Amalie was no fool, she probably knew, yet being the lady she was, never questioned him about it, afterall his heart was eternally and solely hers, even if his groin was not. In the end, it had been his physician to convince him that god had taken the children away early to save them the heartache of their early deaths, it nearly made him laugh how much faith a man of science had, but had ultimately taken this explanation. Still, with this news, his worries resurfaced.

Sitting right up, he glanced her over quickly "darling, the ride won't be too uncomfortable, will it? Nor the summit too stressful for you? I don't want anything too..." No, he couldn't bring himself to finish that sentence but his eyes finished it of for him, relaying his worries to Amalie.[/i]

Amalie watched as her King noticeably winced at her reference to their tragic past. He closed his eyes, and Amalie wondered if it had been a mistake to mention what had happened. Maybe it was still too soon for him... Amalie and her husband didn't often talk about what had happened, but she knew it had effected him deeply. Of course, she still cried over it in private. And she still occasionally woke up screaming, clutching at her flat stomach. Her screams soon dulled to bitter sobs, and she would feel Orion reach out a hand to her. But he wouldn't speak, he wouldn't look at her, he wouldn't hold her. He'd just reach out his hand to her.

The losses had had a great impact on Amalie, and she was able to cry over it. But the deaths seemed to have a much more subtle, yet equally devastating effect on her husband. He'd become almost obsessed by the idea of having an heir, and crazed by his lack of one. Amalie still awaited the day when he would turn on her. He was so angry over it, and the Queen was sure he must blame her. After all, it was her body that was failing her. It must be her fault. She'd spent so long scrutinising every single little thing she'd done whilst pregnant, trying to work out what it was that she'd done wrong; what mistake she'd made. Other women seemed to birth children with such ease. What was it that she was doing so wrong that she was causing her own body to reject the most natural process of all. Sometimes, she felt broken. Like a failure. And it was as if she was living every day waiting for Orion to realise and find a new Queen. All she could do was pray to whoever would listen to allow her just to give Orion this child, alive. But she would not allow her worry to show. She had to stay optimistic and confident about a positive outcome. If not even she had faith, this child stood no chance.

"Yes, yes it is," Orion agreed with her. He kissed her forehead, and for a moment Amalie was swept with hope, her previous fears dismissed temporarily. "He will live, by god he will, I know it."

Her husband pressed his face into her hair, inhaling. There was something so reassuring about his tone. Orion was such a powerful man. When he spoke, people listened. When he entered a room, he exuded the kind of confidence that forced people to look at him. He was authoritative and proud. He was persuasive and convincing, and his tone simply made Amalie want to believe him. And, perhaps, in that time, she did.

"God, I love you," he said into her hair. Amalie felt her body relax against his, his affirmation giving her confidence and the feeling of safety.

"I love you too," she murmured back truthfully. Amalie knew Orion had not always been faithful to her. She was sure he thought she knew nothing of his dalliances, but she was not stupid nor in denial. She may not chose to share her knowledge with her King, but that did not mean she was ignorant. She loved her King, but she understood he was King. This could only be expected, and there had been many much worse than him. Besides, if he was oblivious, it was much easier for her to control his affairs. Amalie kept tabs on everyone he'd slept with, to ensure they could not become a risk to her position, and to make sure no bastards were produced as a result of his unions. She was not cruel or paranoid, but she was manipulative. And with no children of her own, her position was still not completely safe. She had to be careful. And these were simply the precautions she was forced to take.

Her attention was drawn away from her thoughts once more as she felt movement. She sat up a little straighter, looking to Ori, who she found looking her up and down with concern.

"Darling, the ride won't be too uncomfortable, will it? Nor the summit too stressful for you? I don't want anything too..." he trailed off. But he did not have to finish the sentence for Amalie to know what he meant. Of course, he was concerned, as she was, about the safety of being at the summit in her fragile state.

For a moment, Amalie paused, unsure. She desperately wanted to be at the summit, to see her sister and ensure she was able to do everything within her power to bring peace. But, maybe that was selfish? Maybe she wasn't putting the best interests and safety of her baby above all? Maybe this was why fate hadn't yet allowed her to become a mother yet, because she didn't deserve it. Then again, millions of other woman had done it without spending their pregnancies wrapped wool. Life couldn't just stop because she was afraid. Besides, she'd be so careful last time and it had still happened. It seemed, if God did not intend for her baby to be born, then there was nothing she or anyone else could do about it.

"I will be perfectly fine, Ori. Do not worry," she told him reassuringly. "The physician said the heartbeat was strong. And I will be careful, I promise you," she swore, looking up at him, eyes full of turbulent emotions. "Focus on the summit, my love. You know how important peace is to me," she said, carefully broaching the dangerous topic. "I don't want my children to grow up in a world full of war," she added, gently squeezing his hand, that was still resting in hers at her stomach, using the leverage she knew their child already held.

[iAt Amalie's hesitation to his question, Orion's mind began to fret, could the bumpy journey disrupt his, no, their child's development, could it cause the Queen to miscarry, would the excitement and stress over seeing her family once again hinder her pregnancy? To be fair, Orion probably didn't give his wife's strength enough credit, she wasn't weak or feeble, she was strong and very rarely succumbed to illness, she was wary when disease was reported. She wasn't the nimble flower he imagined her to be, she couldn't wither with the cold, no Amalie was strong, Amalie was a fighter. There was no doubt in his mind that she would do anything within her power to deliver this child into the world, and surely god wouldn't be cruel enough to take another child from him, he had lived his life by The Lord above; Kings were chosen by divine intervention, it was the reason the Lancaster's had managed to merge the separate kingdoms into one, all those years ago, it was The lords will and he would be damned if the line was to end with him.

"I will be perfectly fine, Ori. Do not worry. The physician said the heartbeat was strong. And I will be careful, I promise you," Amalie finally reassured and the King found himself taking a sigh of relief at the thought of his son having a strong heartbeat. With a quick nod and a small smile Orion let his worries evaporate, for the time being, no doubt something else would resurface later to cause him anguish. Suddenly the thought of the summit didn't seem as daunting, naturally he was still a little worried, he had never met Sir Francis Rayleigh, he always rejected all invitations to court or for a audience; pressing his knuckles to his lips, Ori went into a deep thought about the Rayleigh's, it wasn't so much that he was afraid of a rebellion but rather sabotage, who they try and assassinate him at this summit? He liked to think they were more civilised then that but the truth was, you never really know the people you are closest with, so how can you presume to know strangers?

Amalie squeezed his free hand, bringing him sharply from though, "Focus on the summit, my love. You know how important peace is to me,I don't want my children to grow up in a world full of war." Orion frowned briefly, he was fully aware of his wife's objections to a war, he didn't particularly fancy one either, he had seen one war and that had been enough, but sometimes the only way to get through to people like the Rayleigh's was by brute force and he will do anything to keep the Seabel throne under Lancaster rule. "My dear, you know I will do what I can" he sighed "but, I must warn you not to set your heart on the success of this meeting, we both want very different things, the Rayleigh's want the South to become its own country and I will not, for the life of me let that happen, I will not be the one who goes to the halls of my fathers, a man who ruined what they fought to build, I can not be that King" he uttered, his voice strong and powerful, he did not wish to alarm Amalie, but, he did not want her to suffer a crushing blow if these meetings proved to be a waste of time, like he suspected them to be, though, he did take solace that he would get to know his enemy a little better.

"I need you to do something for me..." He began cautiously, what he was to ask her would probably be something she would strongly object against, but she was in a powerful position to help him "sweetheart, I need you to gather what information you can, from Harriet about the Rayleigh's. Please know, if I could ask anyone else, I would, unfortunately Rayleigh supporters are loyal and they do not trust strangers, the only way for me to know what they are thinking is through your sister, she will open up to you and you can listen." He asked, his blue eyes trailing up her body to meet her eyes.[/i]

Amalie saw Ori frown, and she knew it wasn’t a good sign. He was going to deny her this, she just knew it. Orion was so proud. The Rayleigh’s wanted the South seperate, but the King simply wasn’t willing to give in. Even if it was the correct decision, he still probably wouldn’t have compromised, she didn’t think, for he valued his reputation above it, and he was stubborn. He would never admit defeat. However, on this occasion, Amalie could see that the South becoming a separate kingdom was not, in fact, best for her family by marriage. She wasn’t even sure it was best for her family by blood either. Though they may dislike being under the rule of the North, the North would support them financially if they ever ran into trouble. And, as much as Amalie loved her sister, in her opinion, Charles Rayleigh was no King, not like her husband. Amalie knew Harriet was strong, but she wasn’t sure even her sister would be able to manipulate Charles enough to make him into the leader the South would need if they were to separate. No, her husband’s stance on the matter was right. But she simply couldn’t let war break out between her families. Not when there were so many lives, so precious to her, in danger.

Ori sighed. "My dear, you know I will do what I can. But, I must warn you not to set your heart on the success of this meeting. We both want very different things. The Rayleigh's want the South to become its own country and I will not, for the life of me let that happen. I will not be the one who goes to the halls of my fathers, a man who ruined what they fought to build. I cannot be that King."

As Amalie had suspected, Orion was not willing to compromise. And, in the end, it was pride and the desire to build a legacy that was at the heart of his stubbornness.

Amalie was about to try again, more manipulatively this time, to dissuade Ori from the war he seemed to think was inevitable. But before she could, she saw something change in his eyes. It was… Cautiousness. He was worried about whatever he was about to say to her.

"I need you to do something for me..." he began.

Amalie bit down lightly on her lip, knowing the request would not be one she was going to enjoy.

“Sweetheart, I need you to gather what information you can from Harriet about the Rayleigh's. Please know, if I could ask anyone else, I would. Unfortunately, Rayleigh supporters are loyal and they do not trust strangers. The only way for me to know what they are thinking is through your sister, she will open up to you and you can listen."

His eyes made their way up her body, reaching her eyes where her own orbs met his. Amalie’s first reaction was one of complete rejection. She may be the Queen now, and a member of the reigning Lancaster family, but Harriet was her sister! She loved her family desperately, and she would do everything within her power to ensure their safety. But this was betrayal in its purest form. She would be betraying those she was bonded permanently by blood too, and she simply couldn’t do it.

“Ori, I…” she looked up at him, her expression torn and lost. “I can’t. She’s my sister… I… I can’t betray her like this. Isn’t there any other way you can…?”

Amalie stopped and sighed, but she knew she’d lost. He was her husband, and she was his Queen. Harriet may be her sister, but this was duty, and loyalty, and love. She had married him. Her loyalties had to lie with him. Besides, his cause was right, there was no denying that. There was no way she could argue that it was a terrible decision. He was utilising what he had, and everything he’d said made sense strategically. It was clever, and displayed all the hallmarks of a good King. But, for Amalie, what he was asking her to do was so wrong.

“Please, don’t ask me to do this, darling,” she asked him, voice thick with emotion, looking up at him.

His Queen’s apprehension at the task he had asked of her came as no new surprise to Ori, if someone had asked him to spy his own siblings he would have opposed with great ferocity. Although, his darling wife was not one to let such an emotion cloud her judgment, she was a level headed, warm hearted individual, they were traits which had drew Orion to the beautiful Stanford girl in the first place. Amalie had an innocence and human kindness that was seldom found in the North, she was a Queen who truly cared for her subjects, she had their interest at heart, she was a rare gem and Orion knew he was lucky to have a wife such as her. Although his people loved her, a shadow had formed over her head, if it wasn’t bad enough that she was in fact a southern woman, when Harriet had married Charles Rayleigh, the Queen had been called every slanderous name under the sun after that marriage, ‘traitor’ being the dominant utterance, falling off people sly lips. Orion made a point of damning the accusations and imprisoning the influencers, he loved his wife enough as not let her become subject to slanderous gossip. Although it did pose the question of loyalty and although Orion never expressed the topic of this to his council, it was a subject which weighed heavily on his heart. The Queen was undoubtedly in a difficult situation and as much as he wanted to believe that she would remain solely loyal to him, a question posed, would she be able to relinquish all ties to her sister so easily?

Orion watched as his words sank in, the severity of what he was asking sinking into his wife’s beautiful features, he felt utterly shameful for asking to carry out such a task, but he needed everything he could get on the Rayleigh’s, by any means possible. “Ori, I…I can’t. She’s my sister… I… I can’t betray her like this. Isn’t there any other way you can…?” Orion winced at her expression, a slight sting of rejection welling in his chest “Please, don’t ask me to do this, darling”

A heavy sigh escaped the Kings lips as he ran a hand down his tired face, was their another way? He doubted it, he didn’t think his wife would forgive if he subjected her sister to an interrogation by his men, not with some of the methods they used and he doubted she would open up to a stranger, a spy placed in her household. He simply shook his head offering her a small smile of sympathy “I am sorry my love, but I see no other way without hurting you more.”

“Sweetheart, if you do this for me, I will swear to you Harriet’s protection when I defeat these rebels. She will have a good life, I will even set her up in a marriage with my own brother, I swear to you she will not become a victim to her husbands crimes.” Orion inwardly cringed as his retorting to blackmailing his own wife, he felt so small at that point, yet it was the only way he could make her see sense, promising her sisters safety was something he could rely on to change his wife’s mind.

As Amalie spoke, she watched her husband wince at her words. She felt guilty, for bringing about his pain. He then sighed heavily, pulling a hand down his face. He looked tired, exhausted, even. Sometimes, Amalie wished they had an easier, simpler life. Of course, she couldn't complain about the riches and privileges being the Queen brought her, and she loved that her children would want for nothing. But her husband always looked so tired and overwrought with the strains of being King. Sometimes, she wished they were a common family, and her husband could afford for his sole focus to lie with her and his family. But, instead, he was forced to make all the difficult decisions. He was expected to devote himself to his country and allow no emotional matters to hinder or sway his mind.

Her husband shook his head, smiling at her sympathetically. His expression caused Amalie's eyes to sting with tears, suddenly and completely unexpectedly, as thought out of her control. She blinked as he spoke. “I am sorry my love, but I see no other way without hurting you more.”

Amalie lay back a little, resting her cheek against his chest. She closed her eyes, suddenly exhausted and defeated. It seemed there was nothing she could do to protect her family. She was going to betray her sister, and then her husband would go to war with her family and kill them all. Their hands were still together, over her midriff. She stroked her stomach lightly with her thumb. If she couldn't even protect her own sister, how was she ever expected to protect her own tiny, defenceless baby? Everything felt so fruitless.

“Sweetheart, if you do this for me, I will swear to you Harriet’s protection when I defeat these rebels. She will have a good life, I will even set her up in a marriage with my own brother, I swear to you she will not become a victim to her husbands crimes,” Ori told Amalie.

Amalie froze, pulling back to face him. Her eyes found his, and she saw some remnants of guilt lying in their green-blue pools. He was trying to blackmail her. Amalie was an intelligent woman, of course she knew manipulation when she saw it. It was not the cruel sort of manipulation. He genuinely did see his Queen's struggle, and he did not want her to see her hurt if they did go to war and Harriet was killed. Amalie did not entirely trust the King's brother, but the marriage would allow her sister to remain safe and maybe achieve happiness again. The arrangement was favourable, and truly, it was the best way things could end. Amalie would have to betray her sister, a thought which instantly repulsed her. She knew she should say no. But the desire to know her sister would be safe was too much. The temptation to quell her fears got the best of her.

"I will speak with Harriet, my love. I will find out whatever I can for you. But you must promise me she will remain safe. She and any children she may bear between now and the time of your victory."

Different emotions sprawled across Amalie’s features, hurt, confusion, anger, all the things that made his insides curl, he hated be the cause of such heinous emotions and to be frank he hated seeing such emotions at all, on his wife’s beautiful face. Had it been another man, Ori would not have hesitated to drive his sword through the fellows gut. Such beauty should be reserved for happiness and joy, not sorrow and turmoil; Amalie had been so joyous only a few moment’s prior, she had been excited of the prospect of this babe, growing in her womb and what it would mean for their family, now, he sensed disappointment at his request, an emotion far worse than her wrath.

Orion was sure she would defy his request, he would not blame her, he was giving her a son and he had no right to ask more of her. His proposition of marrying Harriet to Cedric has been received with a slight hostility in her eyes, Ori had not meant to blackmail his own wife, truth be told he probably would have done all in his power to see his wife’s sister safe anyway, but Amalie needed that slight push to see that what he was asking was all in her own interests. "I will speak with Harriet, my love. I will find out whatever I can for you. But you must promise me she will remain safe. She and any children she may bear between now and the time of your victory." Amalie answered slowly, making sure each word that she spoke sank deep within him. He paused upon answering, now children that was a different matter, granted he would not like to be branded a child killer, it would be a decision which would haunt him till the end of his days, however if Harriet would have a son in the near future, would he in later years rise up in another rebellion, this time to avenge his father’s death?

Ori would have liked to of said no, however he knew Harriet would not let her son forget her father, he had heard they were a passionate match, both being of similar minds and temperament; he had no hesitation in saying that Harriet would encourage her son to avenge his father. Although if he could keep the children close and if he could encourage Cedric to take them as his own, they might be enough to sway any rebellious thoughts…Orion stopped mid thought, he was getting far too ahead of himself, turning to his wife, he gently captured her face between his hands, pressing a loving kiss to the tip of her nose “you have my word, love.”
---
The carriage rolled to a stop a few hours later, they had arrived at Beaumont and luckily seemed like they were the first, as far as the King could see, there were yet no Rayleigh banner men around the area. Smiling contently, Orion quickly stretched out the kinks in his back and neck, deeply looking forward to be able to stretch his legs once again, he for one hated travelling by carriage, he always felt cramped and quite often nauseated by the constant rocking.

Alas he need not worry about that anymore, “finally, we are here!” he exclaimed to Amalie, expressing his joy, reaching over he placed a quick but passionate kiss to her cupid bow lips “come now, let us show those pesky Rayleigh’s, just what we Lancaster’s are truly made of.”

The door to the carriage opened and the King stepped down onto the cobbled floor, turning he offered his hand to help down his Queen and together they would defend Seabel’s monarchy.