Mary jumped out of bed and called the servants, her mind racing as she was dressed. Was it possible Portugal was planning to join the English in the attack? Or was she creating a scenario that would allow her to escape her engagement to Tomas and return to... She had to speak with Tomas at once. She did not need to run far, as she met him on his way to her chambers. He looked displeased that she had left before he fetched her.
"Mary, I told you-"
"I need to speak with you." she interrupted. "It's important."
He paused, taking in her grave expression, then nodded. "Come, let's take a walk in the courtyard." He took her arm. Mary had to quicken her steps to keep from being dragged by him. Once outside, she pulled her arm away and faced him.
"Tomas, first, let me say that I am so very grateful for your support in my country's time of need." He smiled, but she rushed on before he could reply. "Tomas, I must ask you. Why were you traveling with an army on a simple trip to procure timber?"
Surprise flashed on his face for a split second before he quickly recovered. "I am the future king of Portugal, Mary. I need protection. These are dark and dangerous times."
"So I've heard." she said, undeterred. "But I never saw any of your soldiers, not even a royal guard with you. No one knew about your eight companies of men until you told me about them. Why?"
Tomas considered her for a moment then sighed. "Mary, my love, I cannot lie to you." Dread filled her as he took her hand. "My army was kept secret because they were part of a plan to stop the French from reaching Scotland." Mary gasped and tried to pull her hand away, but he only held it tighter.
"You're allied with the English?" she asked. A terrifying thought came to her. "Did they send you to kill me?"
Tomas laughed. "Of course not. Though it's true they would have liked me to get rid of you for them." Mary stood shaking as he leaned closer. "But I had heard of the beauty and spirit of Mary, Queen of Scots. I had to see you, to have you." He wrapped a strong arm around her. She couldn't move. "So we all agreed. I would eliminate you as a threat to England. Not with your life, but with your hand. They would never come after you again, once I take you as my wife, and take Scotland for England."
~~~~~~~~~~To Be Continued~~~~~~~~~~
A/N: This, like the show, is a piece of historical fiction/fantasy. I tried to avoid being anachronistic, but the historical characters and political plotlines are not based on any research. I do not own Reign. Please review if you like or dislike. Thanks!
