aristocraticvision

[aristocraticvision]

I know it's been quite some time, but I was wondering whether anyone was still interested in seeing the continuation of my Oceana stories? It's a lot of work, so if not, I'll move on -- but if so, I'll consider starting back up again as we get into the holidays. Thanks!

[aristocraticvision]

Hi, I wanted to ask you when will you be back with the Oceana stories?

See you soon ❤️👋

Thanks for asking! I apologize for my absence. We’re getting ready to move at the end of April, so I’m afraid I haven’t had time to work on my story for a while. But once we get settled in, I promise I’ll get back to work!

[aristocraticvision]

As some of you may have noticed, it's been a while since I posted regularly. Life has been extremely busy of late. Work is demanding just about all of my energy at the moment, so when I can actually take a break and "play," I'm having more fun just building than I am telling my story. As much as I love Prince Stephen and his extended family, right now I just don't have the energy to do them justice. So I'm taking a break for the time being -- probably until after the holidays. As we enter the new year, I think I'll be ready to finish up the story and give all of my characters the ending they deserve. Thanks for your patience!

[aristocraticvision]

Chapter 368: Ready for a Fight

“What?” Devon Grey exclaimed, irritated. “That’s absolutely ludicrous! This has to be some sort of scam! There’s no possible way that young man is the rightful earl!”

“He seems to have quite a bit of evidence in his favor, your grace,” the duke’s private attorney, Lucas Pembrook, said. “And he has the support of another member of your family.”

“Who?” Devon asked, standing to face him.

“Your brother, David,” Pembrook replied.

“David!” Grant cried. “Well, that proves it’s a scam, then. I’ve never known a bigger con artist that David Grey!”

“Obviously, he believes this young man represents a way of gaining control of the estate – or at least claiming a larger share than he has a right to,” Devon said. “Pembrook, you know the depth of David’s issues. You certainly can’t believe him.”

“Of course not, your grace,” the attorney said. “Unfortunately, your parents – and later, you – managed to keep your brother’s shortcomings private, so the public isn’t aware that he’s not to be trusted.”

Devon shook his head, then sighed.

“So what do you recommend?” he asked. “I can’t believe he could win in court, could he?”

“Again, your grace, he has amassed a great deal of evidence in Andrew’s favor,” Pembrook said. “Of course, you still have an advantage in that Prince Stephen remains firmly in your corner – and there’s no way they’ll get their hands on the title without his support. The estate itself, however, is another matter.”

“You mean he could potentially inherit everything except the title, then – including Buckton Hall,” Devon said, suddenly realizing how serious the situation had become. “Which would leave me with nothing.”

“Stephen won’t allow that to happen,” Grant said.

“Perhaps not,” Pembrook said. “However, just to be prudent, it might be wise to begin transferring some of your assets into offshore accounts. Not a great deal – nothing that will be missed or detected if they start looking at your books. But I assume you have some private investments that are not on the family ledgers?”

“A few, but certainly not enough,” Devon said, miserably. “But you’re right, of course. “I’ll start doing what I can to isolate what funds I can.”

“I’ll do the same,” Grant said. “I still have a good portion of my own inheritance, and they can’t touch that. It’s not much, but at least it’s a start.”

“And Matthew’s trust fund is safe, right?” Devon asked.

“It should be, yes,” Pembrook said. “So long as it is in your son’s name and not yours.”

“Good,” Devon said. “But we’re getting ahead of ourselves, right? They can’t possibly win, can they?”

“I plan to fight this claim with everything I have,” Pembrook said.

“Good,” Devon said. “David’s gone too far this time. Show no mercy, Pembrook. No mercy at all.”

CHAPTER 1 | BEGINNING OF PART 4 | PREV | NEXT

Continent of Oceana | History of Weston | History of Corwyn | History of Torenth | History of Allycia

[aristocraticvision]

[aristocraticvision]

Chapter 367: A Window of Opportunity

“No, I was outside the door the entire time,” St. James said into the phone, carefully looking around to ensure he wasn’t being overheard.

“Prince Stephen is beside himself,” he continued. “They had a terrible argument, and Princess Jessica had to intervene on her stepson’s behalf.”

“Typical of Stephen to be so hard on his son, “ Caroline said. “But is it truly that serious?”

“Absolutely,” St. James replied. “The press is having a field day vilifying Crown Prince Michael, and even those most staunchly supportive of the monarchy are saying that Michael isn’t fit to rule.”

“And how is the young man handling the pressure?”

“He’s near his breaking point, I think,” St. James said. “Lady Helena is the only person holding him together, and honestly I don’t know that even her considerable charms will be sufficient to do so for long.”

“Do your best to ingratiate yourself with Crown Prince Michael, and drive a wedge between Stephen and his son,” Caroline replied. “If we can drive Michael over the edge, there won’t be much hope for the dynasty.”

“My thoughts exactly,” St. James said. “In one swift stroke, we can destroy Stephen and see Weston rid itself of the Marchand dynasty forever!”

“All in good time, St. James,” Caroline said. “Have you learned anything more about the prince’s health issues?”

“No, Bixby is being especially tight-lipped on the subject,” St. James said. “All he’ll say is that the prince has been tired lately, or that he’s having medical tests done – nothing specific.”

“Very well,” Caroline replied. “Keep trying to learn more – if Stephen is truly ill, fate may do our job for us. I’ll be monitoring the situation from here, but I expect you to call me regularly with updates.”

“It will,” St. James said. “If it’s the last thing I do, I’ll destroy this wretched family once and for all.”

CHAPTER 1 | BEGINNING OF PART 4 | PREV | NEXT

Continent of Oceana | History of Weston | History of Corwyn | History of Torenth | History of Allycia

[aristocraticvision]

Chapter 366: Consequences

“What the hell were you thinking?” Stephen said sharply, pacing about angrily while Michael slumped in his chair. “How could you just walk out?”

“I’m … I’m sorry, father,” Michael said. “I thought I could manage it, but it just overwhelmed me.”

“Overwhelmed you?” Stephen asked, shaking his head. “Michael, this isn’t just some minor engagement – these were very important people. People the crown needs on its side!”

“I know, father,” Michael said, miserably.

“This can’t be explained away as a case of stage fright, Michael,” Stephen went on. “Have you seen the news broadcasts this morning? It’s being seen as a deliberate slight!”

Michael dropped his head into his hands.

“I … I …,” he stammered. “What can I do, father?”

Stephen shook his head.

“I really don’t know, Michael,” he said. “I truly thought you’d turned a corner – that you were really trying to live up to your responsibilities as my heir. And now … this!”

Michael looked up angrily, then stood to face his father.

“I told you I didn’t want to do this, father, but – as usual – you wouldn’t listen,” he said. “It’s normal to be nervous, you said. Well, this is more than just nerves, father. I was petrified! Physically ill, even! But that’s not important to you, is it? The only thing that matters is your image!”

“That’s not true,” Stephen replied. “This is about your image – not mine! You’re my heir, and will reign after me, but how can you possibly be successful if you can’t even make a damn speech!”

“Stop it, both of you,” Princess Jessica said from the open door, where she glared at them disapprovingly.

“But Jessica,” Stephen continued. “If he continues this way, he’ll do permanent damage to the monarchy!”

“I said stop it, Stephen,” Jessica repeated. “Michael, Helena arrived a few minutes ago. She’s waiting for you in the library.”

“Thank you, mother,” Michael said, rushing past her into the hall.

“You shouldn’t coddle him like that,” Stephen said, stiffly.

“And you should try to remember that he’s not you, Stephen,” his wife replied, calmly taking a seat. “Michael has never been good at these things, despite his best efforts. But you won’t accept that. You never would.”

“How can I?” Stephen asked. “He’s my heir, Jessica! There are certain responsibilities he’ll have to accept if he’s going to rule Weston in my place! I love the boy – I always have. But the only way he’ll learn to overcome his fears is by challenging himself.”

“And if he can’t meet those challenges?” Jessica asked. “What then?”

Stephen sat down behind his desk and took a deep breath.

“Then I may be the last Prince of Weston,” he said.

CHAPTER 1 | BEGINNING OF PART 4 | PREV | NEXT

Continent of Oceana | History of Weston | History of Corwyn | History of Torenth | History of Allycia

[aristocraticvision]

Chapter 365: The Prince’s Speech (Pt. 2)

“Good evening, I’m Scott Dearborn. It’s eleven o’clock and this is WBN News.”

“Tonight’s opening gala of the Royal Academy of Science and Technology’s 2023 Conference at the Weston Museum of Natural History was a veritable who’s who of Weston’s scientific community, kicking off an impressive, week-long series of presentations, live experiments and theoretical discussions that will share the latest ideas in a wide range of scientific fields.”

“The highlight of this year’s gala, however, made tickets nearly impossible to get, as Crown Prince Michael himself was scheduled as the evening’s keynote speaker. Unfortunately, the prince turned out to be a no-show – slipping out the stage door just as he was introduced by academy president Dr. Carl Salworth.”

“According to Brian Brahms, stage manager for the evening’s presentation, the crown prince seemed agitated from the moment he arrived.”

“I don’t know what was wrong with him, but he refused to speak to me. Maybe I just wasn’t important enough. But I’ll tell you what, there were a lot of important people in that audience, and they were not happy – not one bit.”

“Academy president Dr. Carl Salworth did his best to cover the prince’s sudden departure, claiming that the young royal was called away suddenly, but most in attendance believe the damage was already done.”

“I’m getting really tired of these entitled young royals thinking they can do what they want any time they feel like it. I took extra time away from my classes to fly in early for the gala – just to hear the prince’s address, mind you, and he just decides he doesn’t feel like speaking? Unacceptable.”

Grainger’s opinion seems to be common among Westonians, who have been less than impressed by the Crown Prince’s behavior.

“It’s like he’s not trying to get to know the people of Weston at all. In fact, it feels like he doesn’t even want to. I went to a mall opening a couple of years ago just to see him and his father, but you could tell he didn’t want to be there. All he wanted to do was get away. Typical rich kid, maybe, but I expected more from Stephen’s son and heir.”

“The kid’s a waste of space, in my opinion. Prince Theodore turned out to be a great guy, and Stephen sent him to Torenth. And Stephanie – well, I don’t know anyone who doesn’t adore her. But Michael … I don’t know, he’s just not someone I can see running the country – blood heir or not!”

“So far, the palace has declined to comment on tonight’s gala or Crown Prince Michael’s disappearance, but one can guess the young prince has some explaining to do to his father. We’ll follow up when we hear more.”

“In other news, the Oceanic Space Administration announced today that Lieutenant Commander Matthew Fellowes-Grey, son of Devon Fellowes-Grey, the Duke of Renley, and his husband, Grant Fellowes-Grey, the Viscount Perry, has been selected to lead Oceana’s first lunar mission, scheduled for next year. The mission is expected to land on the moon to survey the proposed site of a lunar base. We’ll have more on that story and more when we return.”

CHAPTER 1 | BEGINNING OF PART 4 | PREV | NEXT

Continent of Oceana | History of Weston | History of Corwyn | History of Torenth | History of Allycia

[aristocraticvision]

Chapter 365: The Prince’s Speech (Pt. 1)

Weston's Museum of Natural History was packed as the Royal Academy of Science and Technology kicked off its annual conference with a gala event. Most of those in attendance, however, were there to hear the keynote speaker more than enjoy a fancy catered meal.

“Ladies, gentlemen, colleagues,” Dr. Salworth said from behind the podium. “As Academy President, it is my pleasure to officially open this year’s conference. Welcome, and I look forward to spending time with each of you this week and hearing about the fascinating work you continue to do here in Weston.”

Standing backstage, Crown Prince Michael took a deep breath, trying to calm the fear growing within him. The ballroom was full of the nation’s most brilliant and talented scientists, and all of them were here to see him – to hear his words and judge whether he will be a worthy successor to his father.

He ran a hand through his hair, as if it might wipe away the panic he felt. He could save them the trouble. He wasn’t. Not only was he woefully inadequate – as both a prince and a public speaker – but he was growing terrified that he would humiliate himself by being sick before he could get a word out.

His speech wasn’t bad, of course. He’d planned to talk about the growing use of artificial intelligence, and the economic, political and moral issues that technology evoked. But now that he was here, and saw how many people and cameras were there to study and record his every word, he began to think it inadequate. And despite the many hours he’d spent committing the ten-minute speech to memory, at this moment he couldn’t recall a word of it.

“Tonight, I am thrilled to introduce our keynote speaker,” Salworth said, his voice echoing through the museum’s great ballroom. “This young man needs little introduction for those of us who have watched him mature with great interest. Last year, he graduated with honors from the University of Weston with dual degrees in economics and political science, and today works closely with our reigning monarch to solve our nation’s most pressing problems.”

Oh god, Michael thought, running toward the stage door. I’m going to be sick.

“Are you alright, your highness?” the stage manager asked as he passed. “Where are you going? He’s announcing you now.”

“It is my great honor to introduce Crown Prince Michael of Weston,” Salworth said, and a wave of applause filled the room. Cameras flashed as the scientist turned and gestured to where Michael would have entered.         

Yet no one was there, for Michael had already run through the stage door into the back hall and toward the elevator.

“Your highness?” the stage manager called out behind him. “Your highness?”

CHAPTER 1 | BEGINNING OF PART 4 | PREV | NEXT

Continent of Oceana | History of Weston | History of Corwyn | History of Torenth | History of Allycia

[aristocraticvision]

Chapter 364: The Biopsy

Stephen shivered as he waited for the nurse to return to continue preparing him for his procedure, wondering why medical facilities always seemed to be so damn cold.

He listened as two members of his security detail spoke in hushed tones beyond the curtain of his room. He’d had a difficult time slipping out of the palace without his usual army of assistants and security staff, but, having taken Bixby into his confidence, had arranged to keep his escort minimal.

Despite the smaller entourage, the presence of a security team in the pre-op area was creating quite a bit of attention and curiosity among patients and staff alike. Fortunately, few were brave enough to try to sneak a peek at the man behind the curtain.

“Your royal highness,” Dr. Philson said, entering Stephen’s room. “Are you comfortable, sir?”

“As much as can be expected,” Stephen replied. “Are we almost ready to begin?”

“Your anesthesiologist will be here in a moment,” Philson said. “Once you’re asleep, we’ll get started. The procedure is relatively simple and should last no more than thirty to forty-five minutes.”

“Good,” Stephen said. “I need to get back to the palace before Jessica asks where I've gone. It’s been difficult keeping this from her the past few weeks. I know she suspects something is wrong, but I didn't want to worry her needlessly."

“Again, your royal highness, I wish you would have confided in your wife about your condition,” Philson replied. "She might have been a comfort to you through this ordeal."

“My condition?” Stephen asked. “And what condition is that exactly, doctor? Until I know what I’m facing, I simply don’t think it’s fair to create any more stress than necessary for my family.”

“Of course, sir,” Philson said. He’d had this particular conversation with the prince too many times before to think he would gain any traction this time. “Hopefully, today's biopsy will offer some clarity.”

A nurse entered and smiled.

“Dr. Henstead, your anesthesiologist, will be here in just a moment,” she said.

“Good,” Stephen said. “I just want to get this over with.”

Only a few minutes later, Dr. Philson approached a sleeping Prince Stephen in the procedure room. Before touching a single instrument, he bowed his head and whispered a quick prayer to whatever deity might be listening. He wasn’t a particularly religious man, but in this case, he felt it worth a try.

He sighed.

“All right, ladies and gentlemen,” he said. “Let’s begin.”

CHAPTER 1 | BEGINNING OF PART 4 | PREV | NEXT

Continent of Oceana | History of Weston | History of Corwyn | History of Torenth | History of Allycia

[aristocraticvision]

Chapter 363: Retreatus Interruptus (Part 2)

As the four finished their tea, the conversation faltered. Price Flynn was obviously preoccupied, and finally excused himself to visit the facilities.

“I’m not surprised by your visit, mother,” Jack said, once Price had gone. “But I have to admit, I’m shocked to see father here. You must have threatened his life.”

“Oh Jack, your father does care – he’s just not very good at showing it,” Eliza replied. “In fact, you may be even more shocked to learn that our visit was his idea! Maybe he’s making progress?”

Jack shook his head and glanced over at Ted.

“Or, more likely, hell has indeed frozen over,” he said, grinning.

Ted laughed – and Eliza joined him, despite herself.

“I don’t know what it is about you two that makes your relationship so difficult,” she said, finally. “Of course, of all my children, you’re the most like me.”

“That explains a lot,” Jack said, teasing.

“Possibly,” she replied. “I’ve never exactly been fond of playing the dutiful wife.”

“Excuse me,” Jack said, rising. “I think I’ll put the kettle back on for another pot of tea.”

Jack stepped toward the kitchen as Ted made small talk. The meeting could have been a disaster, but, thanks to a combination of his quick thinking and Ted’s natural charm, they’d salvaged it.

As he passed the cellar door in the butler’s pantry, however, he noticed it was open.

Strange, he thought. I don’t remember being down there all weekend.

He gazed down the rickety wooden stairs curiously, and started when he heard his father’s voice.

Jack crept down the stairs quietly to find his father looking around, his phone against his head.

“No, not yet,” he said. “I don’t have much time, so I’ll call you as soon as I can,” he said.

“Father?” Jack asked, and his father spun round, surprised. “May I ask what you’re doing down here?”

“Oh,” the baron said, obviously shaken. “I … well … it occurred to me that we hadn’t had the cottage inspected before signing it over to you, and I was … curious as to … how the foundation was holding up. Seems to be in better shape than I remembered.”

“Thank you, father,” Jack said. “Your concern is appreciated. Why don’t we go back up – I was about to make another pot of tea.”

“Quite right,” Price replied, heading up the stairs.

Jack looked around, still curious, but saw nothing out of place.

He sighed, and followed his father back upstairs.

CHAPTER 1 | BEGINNING OF PART 4 | PREV | NEXT

Continent of Oceana | History of Weston | History of Corwyn | History of Torenth | History of Allycia

[aristocraticvision]

Chapter 363: Retreatus Interruptus (Part 1)

Jack leaned back, basking in the warm sun. Having had Ted at his side all weekend, he found himself content in a way he’d never previously thought possible. Before, the two could only enjoy stolen moments together. But now that Jack had moved into Dellingham Cottage, they quickly found themselves falling into a more domestic routine.

“I hate that it’s Sunday already,” Ted said. “This weekend has been wonderful, and I’m not looking forward to going back to the capital.”

Jack smiled.

“So why go back?” he asked. “Why not stay here … with me.”

Ted sat up and turned toward Jack.

“Are you serious?”

“Absolutely,” Jack said, facing him. “There’s plenty of room, and we’re less than an hour from your office at the embassy.”

“True enough,” Ted replied. “But are you sure we’re ready to live together? It’s a big step.”

Jack smiled.

“I’ve never been more certain of anything in my life,” he said. “This weekend has made me realize that … well, I love you, Ted.”

Ted dropped to his knees and took Jack’s face into his hands.

“I love you, too,” he said. He kissed Jack deeply, suddenly wondering why it had taken him so long to declare his love. He’d known from their first night together that – so long as Jack felt the same – this would be forever.

“So does that mean yes?” Jack asked, pulling away.

“Yes ... of course, yes!” Ted said, nodding. “I think we should ….”

“Jackson?” a woman’s voice called.

They quickly stood as Jack’s parents rounded the corner of the house.

“Oh, there you are, dear,” Eliza said, waving. “We’re sorry to stop by unannounced, but I wanted to make sure you were settling in.”

“Obviously you are, since you're already welcoming guests” Price said, coldly.

Jack stiffened, but was soon introducing his parents as the Baron and Baroness Woodridge.

“And this is His Highness Prince Theodore, Weston’s ambassador to Torenth,” Jack said. “The prince and I met at a literary event several months ago, and have since struck up a friendship.”

Price eyed his son, then Ted, carefully before speaking.

“Your highness,” he said with a nod. “I suppose I’m surprised to find someone of your background here at Dellingham Cottage.”

“Why?” Ted asked. “I was just telling Jack how much I liked it here after being in the city for so long. It’s lovely.”

“I’ve always thought so,” Eliza said with a smile.

“In fact, his highness and I were just discussing his moving in,” Jack said.

“Yes, I was looking for somewhere outside the city, but close enough to commute,” Ted said. “Dellingham seems perfectly suited, and Jack is splendid company.”

“Really?” Price asked. “My son continues to surprise me these days.”

“Well, I think it’s a wonderful idea,” Eliza said. “Jackson has always been a bit … reclusive. Having someone here will be good for him.”

There was a lull, which Jack filled deftly.

“Why don’t we go inside and I’ll make us some tea?” he asked.

CHAPTER 1 | BEGINNING OF PART 4 | PREV | NEXT

Continent of Oceana | History of Weston | History of Corwyn | History of Torenth | History of Allycia

[aristocraticvision]

Chapter 362: An Unconvincing Performance

As the lights came up after the first act of La traviata, Princess Jessica turned to her husband.

“You know, I’ve never been a huge fan of Verdi, but I’m really enjoying this particular performance,” she said. “The staging is absolutely exquisite.”

“Mmm,” Stephen replied, nodding. “Yes, it’s quite nice.”

Jessica frowned.

“Would you prefer to leave?” she asked. “Obviously, you’re not enjoying yourself, Stephen. Maybe it would be best if we just went home.”

“Why?” he asked, irritably, as they rose to enter the lounge for intermission. “Did I say I wasn’t enjoying myself?”

“No,” Jessica replied. “But it’s clear that you’d prefer not to be here.”

“I’m sorry,” he said as they emerged into the crowded lounge to greet their guests. “I didn’t mean to give you that impression. I’m just not feeling my best this evening.”

“Or any other evening lately, Stephen,” the princess replied. “What is wrong? What did Dr. Philson say?”

“The usual,” Stephen replied. “He wants to run more tests.”

Jessica studied him for a moment, then shrugged.

“Well, we need to figure out what the problem is,” she said. “You’ve been surly and irritable for days, and I’m running out of patience. I understand if you’re not feeling well, but it feels like there’s more that you’re not telling me.”

“I promise, my dear,” Stephen said. “As soon as I hear anything definitive, you’ll be the first to know.”

“I’d better be,” his wife replied. “Because if it’s something serious and I find out you didn’t tell me about it, an illness will be the least of your worries, my dear.”

Stephen grinned.

“I stand warned,” he said, taking her arm. “I can accept almost any diagnosis, I think. But your disapproval … well, that's a condition more serious than I care to deal with.”

Jessica smiled and nodded.

“I’m glad you realize that,” she said, standing on her tiptoes to wave across the room. “Now, there’s Lord and Lady Remington. We should say hello.”

“Of course,” Stephen replied, wearily.

CHAPTER 1 | BEGINNING OF PART 4 | PREV | NEXT

Continent of Oceana | History of Weston | History of Corwyn | History of Torenth | History of Allycia

[aristocraticvision]

Chapter 361: Legal Advice

“Mr. LaFontaine will see you now,” the receptionist said. David and Andrew rose, then followed her through the lobby into an elegant office.

“Good morning,” Victor LaFontaine said, extending a hand. “You must be David Grey?”

“Yes,” David replied. “And this is Andrew Ellsworth.”

“Good to meet you, Andrew,” LaFontaine said. “Please sit down.”

The two sat down as the attorney settled into a chair behind his desk.

“It’s good of you to see us on such short notice,” David said. “Have you had a chance to review the evidence I sent over? Do you agree that we have a case?”

“Yes,” the attorney replied. “Based upon what I’ve seen, I actually think you have a pretty solid case – although I suspect winning it will be an uphill climb.”

“Why is that?” Andrew asked.

“Well, I don’t know how much you know about Westonian society, but Devon Grey is not only the Earl of Buckland, but also the Duke of Renley, and a very important man,” LaFontaine said. “Prince Stephen relies on him, so he will certainly have the support of the crown.”

David looked shaken.

“I realized my brother had been elevated to duke, but I hadn’t realized he’d grown so close to the prince,” he said. “But would that really impact Andrew’s claim to the title if it is, indeed, legitimate?”

“It shouldn’t,” LaFontaine said. “But any hope of transferring the title itself would rely on Prince Stephen’s cooperation and support. Given your brother’s close relationship with the prince, I have my doubts that he would provide it.”

“But if Andrew’s claim is solid, he wouldn’t have much choice, would he?” David asked. “After all, Stephen’s position requires him to remain neutral in any such contest. He would suffer in public opinion if he was perceived as playing favorites.”

“Normally yes,” LaFontaine replied. “But you must also remember how popular your brother and his husband are with the public. It’s quite possible that young Andrew here would be seen as the villain in all this, rather than them.”

“So you won’t consent to take our case?” David asked.

“I didn’t say that,” LaFontaine said, shaking his head. “In fact, the challenge holds a great deal of appeal. But you need to understand the risks involved in making such a controversial claim.

Andrew looked at David, then back at the attorney.

“I understand,” he said. “But the title is rightfully mine, isn’t it?”

“Technically, yes,” LaFontaine said. “But you’re going to have to fight for it. Are you prepared to do that?”

“Yes,” Andrew said, nodding firmly. "I am prepared to do whatever is necessary to claim my birthright."

“Good,” the attorney replied. “Then let’s get started.”

CHAPTER 1 | BEGINNING OF PART 4 | PREV | NEXT

Continent of Oceana | History of Weston | History of Corwyn | History of Torenth | History of Allycia

[aristocraticvision]

Chapter 360: An Evening at the Palace

Lady Helena Reynolds entered the drawing room next to Princess Jessica, finally relaxing a bit after being so nervous at meeting the reigning monarch and his wife.

“Dinner was wonderful, your royal highness,” Lady Helena said as she walked next to Princess Jessica into the lounge adjacent to the family dining room. “Please extend my compliments to your chef. It was a true delight.”

“I’m sure Monsieur Tremont will appreciate your kind words,” Jessica replied as they sat down. “He so rarely has the opportunity to challenge himself anymore. Growing older, Stephen’s tastes – and I must admit, my own, as well – are fairly simple, so I know he was excited to have a visitor to impress.”

“Well, he certainly did so,” Helena replied. “It’s been such a lovely evening I almost wish it wouldn’t end.”

“Such flattery,” Stephen said, smiling. “Though, I must admit, I’ve truly enjoyed myself as well. Michael has brought young ladies home before – but none have been quite as lovely as you.”

Helena dropped her gaze, nearly blushing.

“So how are you finding life in the city?” Jessica asked. “It must be quite a change from Hemingford.”

“It is,” Helena replied, “though, having spent so many years in Paris after my parents passed, Hemingford was more of an adjustment than Weston. While I enjoyed the peace and beauty, there were times it seemed a bit more bucolic than I might have preferred. At least, until Michael arrived.”

“Of course,” Stephen replied. “Which leads me to my next question. Do you two plan on going public with your relationship?”

“Stephen!” Jessica snapped as Helena dropped her gaze nervously. “That’s none of our business!”

“It is very much our business, my dear,” Stephen said. “If they are serious about this relationship, going public will be a much better option than being found out by the press. Believe me, I learned that lesson with Michael’s mother.”

“That may be, father,” Michael said, crossly. “But I would appreciate you allowing us to determine the next phase of our relationship. When we’re ready to go public, we will – but no amount of pressure from you or the press will push us into it.”

“Suit yourself,” Stephen said. “But I won’t be around forever, Michael. It’s time for you to start thinking about your future. That means a wife and a family. The monarchy requires stability, and it’s your responsibility to provide it.”

“I think we’re all getting ahead of ourselves,” Jessica said, trying to de-escalate the conversation. “Michael and Helena have only recently begun seeing one another. I think there’s plenty of time for them to decide how they want to move forward.”

“Perhaps,” Stephen said, standing. “I apologize if I’ve overstepped. If you’ll excuse me, I should turn in before I say anything more.”

“Father, you don’t have to ….” Michael began.

“Goodnight baroness, Michael,” Stephen said. “I’ll see you upstairs, my dear.”

After Stephen’s departure, the room was silent for a moment.

“Mother, what the hell is going on?” Michael asked quietly. “This behavior is extreme – even for him.”

“I’m not sure, but I intend to find out,” Jessica said. “Now, as far as you two are concerned, I hope you’ll ignore my husband’s comments. Michael, why don’t you show Helena the gardens. They’re actually quite lovely at night.”

CHAPTER 1 | BEGINNING OF PART 4 | PREV | NEXT

Continent of Oceana | History of Weston | History of Corwyn | History of Torenth | History of Allycia

[aristocraticvision]

Chapter 359: The Royal Schedule

It was only a few minutes past dawn, but while the royal family was only now beginning to stir, the servants wing was already bustling with activity as the staff prepared for another busy day.

“I trust you familiarized yourself with his royal highness’ schedule for the day?” Bixby asked as he walked down the servant's corridor with St. James.

“Yes, sir,” St. James responded. “The prince will breakfast with her royal highness, then meet with the prime minister at nine, followed by a call with the minister of finance at ten.”

“And what about Prince Michael’s request for a few minutes with his father?” Bixby asked. "It's irregular, but his royal highness prioritizes his family over all else."

“My thought would be to schedule it over lunch,” St. James said. “But since Prince Michael said it was fairly urgent, we could squeeze him in after the prime minister’s visit. I’m sure Minister Abelard won’t mind waiting just a few minutes, and, based on the agenda he provided, there’s nothing critical about their ten o’clock call.”

Bixby stopped and turned to St. James, nodding.

“Very good,” Bixby said, nodding. “You have a better feel for this than one would expect after only a few days.”

“Thank you, sir,” St. James replied. “I’ve learned a great deal from simply watching you work, so it’s given me a good feel for how to determine when it’s necessary to improvise a bit. After his call with Minister Abelard, his royal highness must change. He’s due for the groundbreaking of the Darnley Center for International Relations at noon, then he’ll lunch with the Center’s board.”

“He’s looking forward to that,” Bixby said. “Lord Darnley was a great support to Prince Stephen during his early years on the throne, so I know his royal highness was quite glad to have an opportunity to recognize his service to Weston. Go on, St. James.”

“Prince Stephen is due back at the palace by two, and has a call scheduled with King Henry of Corwyn at three. However, I can’t seem to find an agenda for that conversation. Am I missing something?”

“No,” Bixby replied. “Prince Stephen and King Henry are old schoolmates and very close friends, so it’s likely the call is more social in nature.”

“Ah,” St. James said, nodding as they resumed their walk down the hallway. “The prince has nothing scheduled after that call, although I’ve had several government officials ask for a few minutes of his time. Do you think I should try to set up meetings for the rest of the day?”

“No,” Bixby replied. “His royal highness has been very tired of late, and the family will be having a guest for dinner – the Baroness Wexton, Lady Helena Reynolds. I’m sure he’ll wish to rest before she arrives.”

“Very well, then,” St. James said, casually.

“You seem to have everything well in hand, then, St. James,” Bixby said, stopping at his office door. “I’ll leave you on your own today. If Prince Stephen requires my attendance, just call. I’ll be right here.”

CHAPTER 1 | BEGINNING OF PART 4 | PREV | NEXT

Continent of Oceana | History of Weston | History of Corwyn | History of Torenth | History of Allycia

[aristocraticvision]

Chapter 358: An Alternate Proposal

Provided he was properly disguised, Michael enjoyed strolling with Helena through the neighborhoods near her aunt’s townhouse. Yet today, even the pleasant weather wasn’t enough to dull his disappointment.

“Are you sure?” Michael asked, stopping.

“Yes, Michael,” Helena replied. “I’m just not ready to go public with our relationship, and if I accompany you to the gala, everyone will know.

“I suppose you’re right,” Michael said. “But I’d still feel better if you were there. Just knowing you were next to me would make all the difference.”

“I know, Michael, but once we let that particular cat out of the bag, there will be no putting it back,” Helena replied. “Besides, would it even be wise for me to go? I mean, I haven’t even met your parents yet.”

Michael grinned.

“Well, I’ve been meaning to ask ...” he said with smirk.

Helena laughed.

“Well, I suppose I walked right into that one,” she said. “Very well, I’m certainly willing to meet your parents if they are.”

“I’m sure they’d be thrilled,” Michael said. “They know I’ve been seeing someone, but I’m not sure even father knows who.”

“I’d be shocked if he didn’t,” Helena said. “Your father always seems quite well informed.”

“True,” Michael said, starting to walk. “But either way, it’s time you were formally presented to them.”

“I guess I don’t have much choice now, do I?” Helena said, taking his arm. “When?”

“How about dinner this weekend?” Michael suggested. “I know they’re going to the opera on Saturday, so Friday seems like a good option. Let me clear it with mother and I’ll let you know tonight.”

“Okay, just promise me you won’t leave my side,” Helena said.

Helena stopped and turned to Michael.

“Perhaps, but they’re also the reigning Prince and Princess of Weston, Michael,” Helena replied. “So forgive me for being just a little nervous.”

“Helena, I’m going to tell you something someone very wise has told me – time without number,” Michael said, smiling and walking forward. “All you have to do is believe in yourself and you’ll be just fine.”

Helena rolled her eyes.

CHAPTER 1 | BEGINNING OF PART 4 | PREV | NEXT

Continent of Oceana | History of Weston | History of Corwyn | History of Torenth | History of Allycia