Disclaimer: No- E! owns the Royals. I don't own them.

To Brookeworm3: Thank you! I'm afraid this chapter will be a bit more mellow, but the drama hasn't ended!

To Superdani4Ever: Yeah, they do need a reality clash before the monarch ends up beheaded (like one English king and one French one- or shot). Yes, there will be more flashbacks. The drama is crazy but they managed to keep a tight lid on the worst of things. As for Willow- she is such an underrated character, but she's waaayy smarter, more interesting and compelling than Liam's girls, like Ophelia, Gemma (who was a gold-digger and social climber) and Kathryn. Max Brown- who plays Robert- actually played a spy in MI5 or Spooks called Dimitri Levendis! Len's going to be godmother, and Liam's going to be godfather, but they'll be sharing (royal babies have so many godparents!), Jasper is outstanding. So is Robert. Hopefully we've seen the last of Pryce and no- Aglaia's brothers and mother didn't bug the bedroom- only the surrounding area but I can't promise nothing happened there! And for once, Helena was right.

Doubt thou the Stars are Fire... Doubt Truth to be a Liar. But Never Doubt I Love

The babies cooed or slept peacefully. The joy and love in Robert's eyes had no limits as he looked at the three of them and his wife. He gently stroked the tiniest one- his little girl's hair. She cooed and her tiny, tiny hand reached out towards him. Her skin, softer than rose petals gently grazed his, and an overwhelming wealth of love and tenderness could not be described. Gently, he picked her up.

"Support her head," Aglaia said softly, with the same tenderness and love in her eyes. Robert did just that and the baby cooed at him again. He gave the little girl- his own daughter- a kiss.

She squeaked and her father laughed softly in adoration and awe.

Aglaia exhaled and leaned back. Robert's eyes were shining and so were Aglaia's. "They're so beautiful- they're perfect." He whispered. The baby's skin was so soft. And even though she was so tiny- the tiniest of the three- she fit so well and seemed so comfortable in his arms, holding onto his finger like that, that Robert couldn't help but think he would kill or die in the worst ways possible, repeatedly, or massacre anyone who tried to harm her. That brought a dark look back to his face.

"Metaxas is dead." He said quietly.

Aglaia straightened and looked back at him. "That was Metaxas?" She breathed. Argus Metaxas?!

He looked grimly. "Your brothers killed him, I dealt with Ted Pryce."

"Ted Pryce- he was the one in my hospital room?" Aglaia stated in shock.

The fury in Robert's eyes was unmistakable. He sighed, and it all cleared. "Aglaia, you shouldn't worry about this right now," he said quietly. He kissed her forehead. "We have three unbelievably priceless, beautiful children. And they're safe."

For now. But that went unspoken between the two of them.

"Where are the rest of the family?" Aglaia asked.

She was rather enjoying their very private time, but she knew they had a right to see the children soon.

Robert gave a small smile. He kissed the baby one more time, cradling her gently. He would try not to have favourites, but this little one had him wrapped around her tiny finger.

The baby looked at him with emerald-hued eyes, so like her mother; another ocean-eyed beauty.

"They're waiting to come in." He said quietly.

Aglaia sighed, enjoying their peace and solitude, but also needing to see their family. "What are we going to call them?"

Robert frowned. "Good question."

It had been some time since they began discussing names.

Aglaia laughed softly. "Well…. Let's start with the eldest. I'd suggest Edward but he doesn't suit that. I don't think Henry will do-"

"No Henry IX, please." Robert remarked, rolling his eyes. Number eight was bad enough. The rest were also big trouble- first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh. Very different but turbulent reigns had happened during kings named Henry.

"Simon would be my first choice, but apparently, that was taken by your cousin- your Uncle Cyrus' baby with Prudence- that's what your mother told me." Her tone darkened as she remembered that conversation. "What about William Simon?" She asked. "Will for short. Another king named William? William Simon Alexander Constantine- my father's anglicised name and my brother's along with your father's and brother's?" She smiled. "Liam is short for William, isn't it?"

Robert froze temporarily, but then placed a very warm smile. "Of course," he stated. "Why not?"

"And our second boy." She gazed adoringly at him and his brother sleeping in their hospital bassinets. "Andrew Dimitri Edward … What's the fourth name?"

Most royalty typically had four names- though that varied. Robert paused, thinking.

"Give him a Greek name- your grandfather was…" "Philippos- Philip," she said slowly. Robert smiled and nodded. "But put Philip before Edward," he suggested. "It just sounds right."

"And our girl?" Her smile made the whole room shine.

Robert grinned at the tiny miracle squeaking in his arms. "That's going to be a difficult one."

"Well, the third and fourth names can be Anastasia and Helene- you know Eleanor and Helena are variants of the same name- Helénē, borne by Helen of Troy."

"Who apparently was you in another life," Robert remarked. She rolled her eyes. "So I think Helene could be a middle name to honour both. Anastasia is the third name and Helene can be the last. The second…" She paused.

"Sophia," Robert said quietly. "As for the first… Does Katherine sound good to you?"

"But so many people are named Katherine." Even though she liked the name, she wanted something unique for her daughter.

"Good point," he muttered. "Go for a name with Greek origins," he suggested.

"Not Agatha," she interrupted. "No, definitely not Agatha." He laughed.

She straightened all of a sudden. "Selena." He looked at her. "Selene was a moon goddess' name. I think I like the name Selena." Like the light in a very dark night which she was.

Robert grinned. "Selena Sophia Anastasia Helene. That sounds great." And they were definitely Henstridges. God save them all.

The other royals stood waiting outside.

Anastasia and Konstantinos had been very emotionally- though privately- reunited with their sons.

The doctor finally admitted them through.

Helena stood in the doorway as everyone else came in. Selena and Andrew were in their mother's arms but as per tradition, William Simon was in his father's.

"Your majesties," he said formally. Robert presented the first. "This is William Simon Alexander Constantine." He stated. He showed the boy, who seemed to tolerate everything with distaste, to his in-laws and mother.

Anastasia cooed, and Len smiled with tears shimmering in her eyes. Jasper was with her. "William… Because it's a good name and because his uncle's name is Liam." Liam stared at him, his jaw dropping. Robert smirked. "Simon is his late grandfather's, Alexander is his other uncle's name just anglicised and Constantine is his maternal grandfather's."

The baby would have been named Simon first if Cyrus hadn't spoiled it for them.

Robert looked at his mother. She was gaping, staring at the baby with undisguised astonishment.

"Mum," he said quietly.

Helena gave a small, hesitant smile, wet with tears and moved forwards.

Robert looked back at Aglaia and the younger babies.

"Here," he said softly and gently. He guided them to where Aglaia was lying.

Very carefully handing her Will to hold, Robert gently picked up Andrew.

"This is Andrew Dimitri Philip Edward," he said quietly with enormous pride. "Our precious son." He kissed him on the baby's head. The infant cooed and stirred but did not wake up. Dimitri's eyes widened and he gave a cheerful grin. Giving the baby back to his mother, Robert picked up Selena.

"And this is Selena Sophia Anastasia Helene." He said quietly.

"Selena… Because her mother and I like that name, Sophia…" He looked at her. "It means wisdom and goodness knows we're going to need a lot of that. Anastasia for her grandmother and Helene for her other grandmother-" he smiled at Helena. "And her Aunt Eleanor. They're variants of the same name." He smiled happily at Eleanor who looked like she was battling tears.

"May I?" She gestured. He very carefully distributed the babies among the relatives- praying that they weren't careless enough to drop them or anything.

Robert heaved out a sigh.

The babies' birth was announced the following morning- along with the deaths of Argus Metaxas- whom people had been horrified and alarmed had managed to enter the hospital and Ted Pryce- again the shock and horror that ensued that the late king's killer had escaped the clutches of the mob that tried to tear him to pieces.

And the survival of the Greek Crown Prince/Prince of Sparta Alexandros 'Alexios' and Prince of Thebes, Dimitri.

The body of 'Aristotle Anastos' was matched with various DNA that had been sent over with the permission of the Greek government, which belonged to Argus Metaxas. Now the civilian, non-royal organisation in Greece, had taken it among themselves to up the stakes in hunting down old Military Junta members and supporters after what had nearly happened to their princess and her babies. The DNA were- of course- perfect matches and Metaxas was given Greek Orthodox funeral rites aboard a ship where he was promptly buried at sea like Bin Laden. The country of the Hellenes did not want his cursed remains anywhere near them. And neither did Britain.

Ted Pryce's body was handed over to his remaining relatives who cremated and scattered his ashes. His daughter Ophelia did not return to Britain.

The Greek government and Ministerial Council recognised the existence and survival of the Greek Princes Alexios and Dimitri and the children were thus, as of that moment, fourth, fifth and sixth in line for the Greek throne.

Crown Prince Alexios got engaged to his girlfriend who was beyond overjoyed and in tears that he survived. Dimitri might- emphasis on 'might'- be looking to settle down as well after seeing his sister so happy with her husband and children.

Cyrus drank brandy straight from the decanter. He did not bother opening the damned thing and pouring himself a glass.

"So they pulled a Robert and survived after all," he said sourly. "What is it with these people? Back in the day, when you died, you had the decency to stay dead, not come back to ruin everything once you've gotten over it all."

He gulped the brandy down.

"Hello Uncle." A voice interrupted his musings.

Cyrus swallowed the alcohol. "Oh, your majesty. To what do I owe the pleasure?" He slurred.

Robert stepped out of the shadows. "Uncle Cyrus." He stated. "If it's a pleasure, then why are you drinking so much?"

"Perhaps I'm toasting the health of the new-born princes and princess- of England. Cause that's where they'll be staying, isn't it? England?" He gulped more brandy.

"It's a pity. I thought I would see more of that Malmsey Wine that the Greeks brought over for us if I have grand-nephews and a grand-niece in Greece, but, hey, I suppose, you can't have everything?" He snickered. "Or nothing." He remarked.

"I'm sure that you'll be able to get all the Malmsey you need," Robert said quietly. "George Duke of Clarence switched sides and fought for the Lancasters. Eventually he turned back but plotted against his own brother- and Richard III- or their brother Edward IV- had him drowned in a butt of Malmsey Wine- because he loved it so much. I wonder, Uncle, if you would have fanned the flames for another War of the Roses- or rather, Cousins' War as it was known then?" Robert moved over to where Cyrus could see him better.

Cyrus stared at him blankly.

"I'm sorry about Violet," Robert said, his voice still deadly-quiet. "And Prudence and her baby. But Prudence really didn't want to conceive that baby, did she?"

Cyrus took another swig. "High treason equals the murder of the then-king's brother." He stated.

"So you blackmailed her into having sex," Robert said. "And before that you threatened to fire her- and she couldn't survive on benefits alone."

"Maybe she could have if you'd had met that Greek goddess sooner." Cyrus remarked, taking another swill.

"And she tried to poison you." Robert said in a low voice. "After which you caught her during one of your drunken orgies-" "To stop the monarchy from being disbanded, you know your mother had one too."

"I know what my mother's done," Robert said in that same, threatening, yet unpredictable tone. "I know what my mother, my brother, my sister, father and uncle have all done now. Good things and bad. I know about my grandmother's doings too. I've placed her under House Arrest."

Cyrus barely managed to swallow the liquor. "You?" He asked incredulously. "You placed your own grandmother, whom you called Duchie, under House Arrest?"

"Tell me uncle, have you ever loved anybody?" Robert interrupted. "Apart from yourself? Your remarried wife, your two daughters whom you sired, yet always called the half-wits? Your girlfriend, your son's mother, or even your son, or were they ever extensions of yourself in order to prove useful? Or even soothing to that hollow place inside of you?" Cyrus paused, wondering where Robert was getting to. "At any point in your life, did you even love your own brother, Simon? Or did you name your son after him to appease the masses once they were supposed to hear about it?"

A muscle in Cyrus' jaw twitched.

"Jeffrey Stewart," Robert said calmly. "Ted Pryce knew about him. And he also knew what happened to him. I suppose I should thank you for eliminating the maniac, uncle. But with the support and backing of the Greek, Danish and other royal families, whom, might I add, Aglaia is a favourite relative of, I daresay that people would be foolish to try. Especially as she has the favour of the people. And so will our children."

Cyrus was silent and then smirked.

"Have a good day, Uncle." Robert said quietly, turning round and heading for the door. "And by the way- there's a bottle of Malvasia, or Malmsey just waiting for you right there." Robert gestured to Cyrus' desk littered with carafes.

"It's not poisoned." Robert called, without looking back as he walked out.

Cyrus went over to the bottle. Stuck to it was the royal monogram of Robert and Aglaia- R and A entwined in elegant cursive surrounded by an H. Aglaia was a Henstridge now, a fact that must have driven her mother to break down in tears, along with more than half the mothers in Greece.

On the other side, however, printed upon the card was the Sun-star of Vergina- the royal crest of Greece. The paper itself smelled expensive. Like… Caviar? Cyrus sniffed. That must have come from somewhere. The Malvasia or Malmsey Wine itself was outstanding but he could have sworn the paper was Danish.

And there was a message:

We know about Jeffrey Stewart. We all do. And you know them all too- including Ted Pryce and Argus Metaxas.

And there was a royal monogram barely seen in the corner as well. One that he was not obviously familiar with, but as it wasn't a Henstridge monogram or a Greek royal one (they used the Greek alphabet) he could easily tell it came from another foreign royal house. Possibly Danish or Swedish. Possibly Belgian or Dutch. He didn't know.

So Robert's royal monogram entwined with Aglaia's surrounded by an H for Henstridge meant that he made it quite clear: Aglaia was staying. She was now his. Undisputedly. And Queen of the U.K.

And the Greek royal crest- obviously the king and queen's doing. Telling him they were behind the British royal couple if not just their daughter and grandchildren. The Danish paper and the unknown, foreign royal monogram clearly meant that others were standing behind them. They knew about Jeffrey Stewart's death. And now they wanted him to know too.

Cyrus uncorked the bottle and gulped its contents, desperately wishing it was poison.

A much quicker and less painful way to go.

Liam found Robert in one of the nurseries. The babies had settled in though they had yet to be presented to the public. After their birth's crazy events it was best to give them some private time.

"Hey," Liam said quietly.

Robert looked up from the three infants. "Hey," he said quietly. His eyes were soft and shining, very tender and more joyful than Liam had ever recalled his brother ever being.

Liam smiled. "You're a dad now."

Robert's eyes glowed as he looked at the infants. "Yeah," he said softly but laughed as well. "I can hardly believe it. I didn't think this would happen." He looked at Liam. "Were you alright?" He asked.

"Me?" Liam was befuddled. "I'm fine." Robert didn't believe him. "I mean, I did get framed for murder by dad's killer and I just found out that a genocidal maniac was trying to get at us but you know, all in a day's work." Robert chuckled.

"Thank you," Liam said. "For naming your firstborn after me- and Dad." Robert smiled and chortled. "Well, I wouldn't have named him any other way. One day there'll be a king named William at least on the throne." That was Liam's full name. "You're a great man, Liam." Robert said quietly. "Unlike me." Liam looked incredulous.

"What are you talking about?" Unlike Liam, Robert had always been classified as a great man- undisputedly.

"But unlike me, you don't need a crown to do just that," Robert said quietly. "Aglaia was right. You're not just the spare heir. You are far, far more than that, more than anyone could have ever imagined. Not even me, or Dad. And if you want proof, look at all that you've accomplished and you've only just begun. Somehow, I know you'll do even greater things than the royal history books said: greater than conquering empires on horseback on naval warfare. Because unlike so many people, Liam, you're making your own way. You're choosing your own path, you and Len. And you've already decided to choose your own country. Britain is blessed- even more than I could have imagined- with you here. Your life is not a pointless existence of parties, drinking and girls. It means something. And that is why we both wanted you to be godfather to our son. If you could teach him even just a little, he would be the greatest king Britain has ever had, because he has the greatest man directly by his side."

Liam was silent as he gazed up at Robert.

"And the same goes for the three of them." Robert said, breaking the silence. "One day these three are going to grow up. They're going to get out there and make their own world. And goodness knows," Robert laughed nervously. "They're going to be teenagers first. They're going to study for tests, they're going to make friends and break up with them, and girlfriends and boyfriends just the same. And the littlest one-" Robert shook his head. "She actually looks like her mother. She's going to attract far more attention than I would like. And the boys are going to try to get to her." He laughed again, shaking his head more. "She's going to be hurt. They're all going to be hurt. They're all going to be broken. And they're all going to fall down. And I admit Liam, king or no king, I'm terrified. Far more terrified than I ever thought I'd be when it comes to parenting."

Liam smiled and touched his brother's arm. "But that's what everybody does. They fall, and they get back up."

"None more spectacularly than you," Robert said quietly, looking at Liam. "So that's why I'm glad, more than anything that you'll show them how it's done. We're truly lucky to have you, brother."

Liam smiled and the brothers pulled each other into an embrace.

Aglaia looked about the second nursery. It was decided that the babies would sleep in separate rooms. If one of them started crying, the likely chances were that the other two would start screaming as well and at night time they would all need a rest. She also designed them all and the collective playroom or 'day nursery' as well.

The nursery for Andrew was mint green with ebony furniture, including a rich and elegant crib with curved detailing, a diaper changing table with drawers and a side table piled with linen diapers, safety pins (the nannies preferred those) baby oil and powder, baby rash ointment, bottles, dummies (or pacifiers) baby shampoo, soap, lotion and numerous other things. A baby bath stood at the ready and an elegantly carved rocking chair with rich details. There were tree motifs that she had worked on with Eleanor and Robert, carved and gilded with leaves a deeper green than the walls and edged with gold, painstakingly hand-painted along with numerous fantastic and richly decorated animals dancing under their roots both painted and embossed with pieces of recycled wood and paper. The room looked like a master craftsman had done it himself. There were prams and strollers, numerous soft toys piled on a shelf, a teething ring which stood safely in a box, soft blankets, baby formula once he had been weaned at the top shelf, baby blankets at the bottom shelf, baby books and a mobile; a tasteful shower of golden-green leaves and birds fluttering amongst them, hanging above the bassinet.

Aglaia sighed. She kissed Andrew adoringly and shifted him so he could see the nursery better. "Welcome home." She smiled lovingly at her second boy.

And it was going to be a home. Whether it was a palace or a hut, it was a home if it had family. And that was what they were. They had made this nursery and the others, themselves, much to Helena's and the staff's bewilderment. And even Anastasia was surprised, but Konstantinos understood and she had a feeling that the children's other grandfather would have loved it as well.

They were making a home.

She handed touched the stuffed bear lovingly and noted that she did get the carpets she wanted for the babies- in different shades. But they were all so gloriously deep and soft, fluffy enough to prevent serious accidents. Pale green in this room, beige in Will's and pinkish-white in Selena's.

"Time to get you settled," Aglaia whispered to her baby, gently placing him in the bassinet. He squirmed but began to fuss.

Aglaia sighed. There was hand sanitizer and baby wipes at the shelf or changing table. As new-born babies' immune system were not that developed yet, Aglaia had to be extra careful. Careful to make sure that no one would disturb her, she carefully fed him, while gently supporting his head and neck and stroking him. Babies, especially premature babies, responded very well to infant massages, and stroking them in gentle circles and various patterns would also stimulate bonding with them, as well as holding them against her skin. It soothed them and Andrew at this moment, chose to clutch his mother's finger closely. She smiled with great love in her eyes. Parents, she realised. You never know how much they love you until you're holding a baby of your own.

Metaxas disturbed her. The idea that a member of the former Military Junta could have such ideas of revenge and be living in close proximity towards them… She knew she shouldn't think about it, but as she tilted Andrew upwards to spew off excess milk over her shoulder, she remembered how he had knocked down the hospital bassinets with the fake babies inside of them. A cold chill ran to her. Of course he would. He tried to kill her as a baby. Many of the ones that died were children. Starvation, poor hygiene and disease, imprisonment, execution and torture… Children were no exception.

Aglaia shook her head and patted Andrew on the back repeatedly. Once that was done, she made sure that his mouth and nose were unblocked and cleaned. He didn't need a change just yet. She wiped his face with a baby wipe.

The baby monitor was also there, which was personalised (thank God for those geniuses she called security guards) and would alert her, the nannies, or even Robert who insisted on getting one.

"Get some sleep, Little One," she murmured, kissing him gently. "I have to check on your brother and sister." She rocked him gently singing a song before carefully placing him in the bassinet and tucking him in.

Will was in his own nursery. He looked bored, there was no other description. He had been sulky the whole time.

To Aglaia's surprise, guess who else was there? That's right, her mother.

Unfortunately, Helena was there as well. The two queens- one now a queen mother- was having a stand-off.

"I don't know what game you're playing not allowing me to be alone with my own grandchildren," Helena hissed. "Do you think I would smother them in their cribs?"

Her mother scoffed. "I don't know what to think about you," she drawled. "No one does outside of this country. Scandal is the very least of it. Dead bodies keep dropping like flies around this palace and I see your useless brother-in-law, the former king, is still living here with his remarried wife and their two idiot daughters."

Aglaia closed her eyes in despair.

"I have the backing of more than half the monarchies in the world and their respective governments," Anastasia hissed. "Perhaps if things weren't quite so alarming and your family didn't fight each other for a fancy chair and a jewelled hat- and no, we're not fooled by your public appearances and media interviews- things would be less alarming and we would have less cause for concern over my daughter and children's security." She and Helena glared at each other.

"Diplomatic Immunity or not," Anastasia began dangerously. "We could take legal action if we have to. No one needs to step down from the throne, now that your son's on it and my daughter is beside him. If I have to get the backing of the United Nations- and oh, boy, would it be easy to get their help- make no mistake they'll be there. And you'll be out."

Helena's eyes widened in incredulous rage.

"You-" She began furiously. "Are a bunch of people with no support," Anastasia scoffed. "Do you really think they'll support you? I know about Dominique Stewart, Violet, Prudence and Baby Simon, Jeffrey Stewart and all the rest of them. Imagine if anyone were to hear about them. Some… Politicians, perhaps, Hmm? How did you manage to cover so much from the media, I'll never know. Cyrus may get the biggest trouble, but it would be a serious shame and disgrace upon Britain's royal family- including my three grandchildren- if such scandal were to publicly reveal itself to the world. We're not the only ones who know. The reason everyone keeps quiet now is because out of respect for your late husband, your firstborn, my daughter and now the three babies, including this one who will one day inherit and continue a dynasty." She kissed baby Will who squirmed in his blanket, sensing the hostility between his two grandmothers. "And the other two, who will not be neglected and left to run wild, but will have a purpose, a point in their lives."

Aglaia had had enough. She stepped forwards. "I was checking up on the babies." She stated. The two of them spun around towards her.

Aglaia looked disappointed. "Please." She held out her arms.

"The nannies are currently busy at the moment," she said. "They'll be in here soon. There are some refreshments should you require any." She checked Will over. It had been some time since he was fed. He needed to eat.

"Now, if you will excuse me," she stated, heading for the rocking chair. "I think he's about to get hungry." Sure enough, the future king of the UK let out a cry (clever boy, it sounded like it was more of a distraction to get his grandmothers to leave than hunger) and Aglaia began to feed him.

Both grandmothers left. She promptly closed her eyes, stroking Will gently and holding him close. "Why, Will?" She sighed. "Why can't we just get along? Why do things have to be so complicated?"

Aglaia looked around the nursery. If there was one thing the two agreed on, it was that this baby would be a future king. The nursery for the firstborn was a sweet blue shade with exquisite lion and lamb paintings designed to give him an idea of what he was supposed to be like one day. Soft clouds were painted above and creatures; angels and airy sylphs along with others, soft birds and so forth decorated the place. They were frescoes, or murals, not wallpaper. Robert had insisted on painting them himself. He said he had wanted to do something for his children, like a regular father. He wanted to take part in this.

Oh, Robert. She thought. How much do you have to give any of us, including me? When I first arrived to England, this was a foreign country and this palace, a gilded box. You did everything to make it my home.

And she felt bad now. For getting upset with him for giving in so they had to stay in the palace and not Clarence House.

"This world… Is not perfect," she admitted, looking down at Will silently. His eyes were a deep, rich blue. "This family… Is insane. Everything's crazy." She looked down at Will. "And you'll be expected to put things right. Well, no one can solve everything. But we can help each other out. The most important thing is, even when we're gone, Will, you're not alone." She said to him lovingly. "We all love you so much, future king or not. And I know one way or another, you'll do great."

Helena and her mother had one thing in common: exquisite taste, Aglaia thought. The furniture was richly carved and gilded. The changing table, set of drawers, wardrobe and bassinet was covered in gilt, safely coated on top. They appeared gold at a close view, and silver at a distance, so she really wasn't sure where her mother picked those out. The crib was carved with ornate motifs and animals standing guard. The lion and the lamb. There were stuffed lions and lambs, including one that could be ridden as well. The drapes were beige with blue short tassels.

Aglaia's eyes narrowed. Goodness knows how they managed to agree with this, she thought. They still loathed each other. Her mother had blamed Helena and the Hesnstridges- apart from Robert- for her sons' 'deaths'. And she still had not apologised, nor was she about to.

After burping and cleaning the baby's face, nose and mouth, she laid him back in his bassinet, twitching the mobile of terns, doves and clouds at him. He gurgled and she smiled.

"Go to sleep, my love." She rocked it and hummed a lullaby, before deciding to check on Selena- Baby No. 3.

Robert was with Selena, much to her surprise. And Eleanor.

And he was bottle-feeding her. She was quiet, content, comfortable and happy in her father's arms. Eleanor was watching and fluffing the cushions on the window seat, arranging the soft toys. Aglaia smiled.

Well there's something to cheer up about, she thought.

"How is she?" She asked walking forwards.

Robert smiled. "She's happy." He said quietly. The baby's fingers were wrapped tightly around one of his. Her emerald eyes peered deep into his own.

"I hope she isn't your favourite," Aglaia said dryly.

Robert scoffed. "Good parents don't have favourites."

"That's right." Aglaia stated. She looked around the nursery. The walls were in a very pale shade of pink, almost ivory bordered with gold. Pink and ivory sheers and heavy drapes with golden tassels designed to go high out of the reach of babies. The carpet, gloriously soft, deep and luxurious was white tinged with pink. There was a hobby horse, white-painted gold-bordered toy box, shelves full of soft toys and fluffy stars, a Bordeaux-panel, upholstered crib, gilded like her brother's, beribboned and canopied. There were essentially the same things: a changing table, set of drawers and wardrobe full of the same stuff that babies need, a bassinet with a mobile of stars and a smiling moon and fairies as well as a small table with large stuffed animals and a tea set.

Is this because she's a girl? Aglaia thought dryly. She herself had been spoiled compared to her brothers who weren't allowed to get away with the things she did, and she guessed so was Eleanor. And clearly she had Robert wrapped around her little finger

And now look at them: Robert the eldest of two boys and a girl, Aglaia the youngest of two boys and a girl, they had their own brood: two boys and a girl in one go.

She laughed. "So she's being fed. Has she been changed before she came here?"

"Yup." Len brightened. "Robbie did it himself."

Aglaia blinked. "You changed her?" She asked in surprise.

"Of course," Robert sounded almost hurt and taken aback. "I'm her father. I did it the way you showed me."

"Front to back?" Aglaia asked dryly.

"Front to back, to avoid infection," he stated. "And for the boys, not to wipe them while they're in the air. I got this." He assured her.

Aglaia smiled, looking amused.

"How'd you learn so much about babies- like to care for them?" Len asked.

"I had experience overseas. Sometimes, I acted as an assistant midwife. I definitely helped care for them in orphanages." She said quietly. "Particularly during their first days and weeks. I miss them. Of course I was always surrounded by security- which I hated- but they always managed to blend in and never disrupted me. Sometimes they even helped." She said dryly.

Robert chuckled. Baby Selena finished feeding. "Right." Aglaia said softly. She held out her arms but Robert pulled back. "I got this," he admonished.

She laughed. "The king of Britain. I thought you'd be busy."

"Dad was never too busy for any of us," Robert said softly. He looked at Len. "I remember him with Liam and Leni. He was always there, when they started to crawl and walk, when they cried. He fed and changed them." Eleanor smiled. "I never knew that," she whispered. It was a bittersweet thing for her. She and her dad had not parted on good terms. And she never got the chance to make him proud.

"I wish he was here," Eleanor said quietly. "He would have really loved you," she said, looking at Aglaia. "And he would have loved nothing more than to see the babies- and the two of you so happy."

Robert was silent. Aglaia looked down. "I wish he was here as well." She sighed. "We'll just have to keep his memory alive, won't we?" She asked.

Robert looked at his daughter. She managed to get out the excess milk. "Here." Aglaia insisted, and this time, he gave the baby to her and she gently cleaned the baby's face, nose and mouth.

"Can you… Can you teach me?" Eleanor asked hesitantly. Aglaia looked at her in surprise. "Teach you what?"

"How to care for children," Eleanor put in hopefully. Aglaia looked surprised.

Robert laughed. "Little sis! Don't tell me you're planning on having one so soon."

Eleanor immediately denied this. "N- no- I- I just wanted to learn. How to be a good godmother." She looked at Aglaia. "Well, if that's what you'd like," Aglaia said quietly. She smiled. "Of course. I'd love nothing more." Eleanor beamed happily. "Thank you." She hugged Aglaia.

"The Christening is… Well, it's coming soon. I was planning to carry one baby or twins to the Christening but I think with three we may need a pram." Aglaia said hesitantly. "A large, old-fashioned style pram. And three Christening gowns." She frowned. "I'd better get started. Len would you-" she hesitated. Len beamed and eagerly nodded. Aglaia headed for the rocking chair and began singing the baby to sleep.

The playroom or day nursery was a sizeable room where the children were meant to play and spend the day there- eating and learning with each other and their nannies unless they went outside once they were big enough. It wasn't as complete as the night nurseries as they had not yet agreed on what theme and had been occupied with all the crazy drama.

Aglaia's mother was there, scowling as she unpacked all the boxes full of baby clothes and numerous gifts sent by their relatives, including other royals.

"That- that," she began fuming. Aglaia's father sighed. "Anastasia, don't you think you're taking this to another level entirely?" He asked, finally impatient. Thankfully they were speaking Greek with parts in Danish.

She twisted around to look at him. "I don't trust any of them- except the father."

"But putting yourself on the same level as they are?" Konstantinos demanded. "And besides, you're sharing grandchildren with her now. Get used to it."

"The uncle is still in the palace," Anastasia was almost hysterical. "Cyrus!" She choked.

"Did you really expect Robert to evict his own uncle?" Konstantinos asked, incredulously. "I'd be worried if he did. Leave it be, Anastasia. He knows we're watching him. And not just us. He's in trouble if we so much as suspect he's onto something."

"Nevertheless," Anastasia snarled. But Konstantinos shook his head. "Cyrus is not getting anywhere near the family's living quarters that includes the nurseries."

Anastasia tried to breathe evenly. "I'll never stop worrying about her," she said, frankly. "And now four of them, and Robert. What if anything were to happen to them? And when the triplets are still young? Would there be a regency?"

"Aglaia would be regent," Konstantinos said softly. "That was what Robert agreed on."

"And if they tried to remove her?" Anastasia was almost hysterical with fear. "Kosta- they got inside her hospital room!" She was hysterical. "Metaxas- and Ted Pryce! A regicide- two regicides! And you heard what Robert said- if anything were to happen to him before the babies come of age, Liam would be made Lord Protector of the Realm and joint regent along with Aglaia!"

"And he's proven not to be the murderer!" Konstantinos insisted.

Anastasia took a deep breath. "I still don't trust him- or his mother, the children's other grandmother." She said finally. "How do we know that those deaths- they had nothing to do with them? And how did people get away with these things? How was this not reported to the media?" She stood. "Kosta-" she began. But Konstantinos' eyes flew to the doorway where Aglaia was.

Aglaia put on a smile, as if she was just coming in. "I was wondering if you had any ideas for the day nursery." She started. Her mother put on a smile. "Of course. How are the babies?"

"Well, they've all been fed, burped and changed. And they've been put to bed." Aglaia responded. "We're planning their Christenings, but first we have to present them to the outside world."

"Missed that at the hospital, did we?" Her father sighed.

"Yes, well, we had to," Aglaia stuttered. "The security was… Concerned. Especially after the events last night."

Her father's eyes darkened. "Speaking of which," he began. "Where was the security?"

Silence.

"Well…" Aglaia trailed off. What could she say? That her husband…

No, she thought. They mistrusted and detested the family enough. She would give them no more reason to do so, not with her husband of all people. That was the agreement on which she was even married in the first place.

"Well, I sent them away," she lied.

Her parents stared at her. "You did what?" They both asked, aghast.

"There were too many of them," Aglaia lied. "Besides, I had Jasper Frost and James Hill. They were the ones who tackled and stopped Ted Pryce from killing me and Metaxas, before Dimitri and Alexios came into the room." She finished.

Anastasia shook her head. "Aglaia- why?" She choked. "You knew there were killers. I thought at least you would be more responsible for that!"

"I-" She took a deep breath. "It was my own idea to use myself as bait," she spoke. "So I pretended that the babies were already born, stuffed some swaddling blankets and asked for three hospital bassinets and that was what they thought were the babies."

"But you still could have been killed!" Her mother blurted.

"No- they were ready," she insisted. "And Robert was the one who killed Ted Pryce himself."

"Robert?" Her father was surprised. "Robert killed him?"

"With a gunshot wound," Aglaia said quietly. "Liam didn't pull the trigger. He couldn't. But Robert did it, only to protect us."

Konstantinos and Anastasia exchanged looks.

"As I knew he would." Aglaia said quietly. "And I was ready. I was ready because I knew what I was getting myself into when I married into this family." She said before she left.

Willow was smiling nervously.

Aglaia smiled gently as she gave Willow something. "My husband's on his way," she said quietly. "Just so you know, the medal is from the king and queen. But the thank you is from the babies' mother and father." She took Willow's hands within her own and looked her gently in the eye as she did so.

Willow blushed enormously. "And I hope it's not too much to ask," Aglaia said quietly. "Especially as you've already done so much, it's irreplaceable. But would you be godmother?" Willow stared at her. "I admit, it wasn't just Liam we named William after. Your full name is Wilhelmina, isn't it?" She smiled at her. "They'll be the most fortunate babies to have you as their godmother, and we'd be the luckiest to have you around with us." Aglaia said.

Willow found herself smiling and blushing all the same. She was near to being emotional as she could be and she found herself embarrassed. Not even when she started the hashtag King Liam social media campaign did she receive this much sincerity and thanks. Helena acted as if it was all the most expected and she was pleased that Willow carried out her plan and glad. But Aglaia…

Was someone else entirely.

And Willow felt she was truly honoured and said so.

Aglaia glowed with joy. "Thank you," she said sincerely. "Thank you, so very much."

Willow's face was burning crimson

Robert went past to his sitting room.

Alexios was there, sitting in front of a chessboard. "Please," he gestured. "Would you like to play?"

Robert's lips twitched. "By all means," he stated. Robert sat down.

"So…" Alexios began. "How are the babies?"

"Well, they're thriving," the new father admitted.

"Aglaia's glowing so much… I don't think new mothers generally look as radiant as she does when they come out of the hospital." Alexios remarked.

"No," Robert said softly. "Aglaia… Is a person from another world." He said softly. "I didn't think there was anyone remotely like her in this world. And I was mostly right, but for one. She's worth more than the crown and throne." He said finally.

Alexios nodded. "So confession, isn't it? You knew we bugged your rooms?"

"I hope for your sister's sake, that you didn't bug our bedroom," Robert remarked.

"I'm not that crazy," Alexios said sharply.

"The bug was on the table," Robert pointed out. "In this very room. Do you have any idea what that table has witnessed around the time Aglaia became pregnant?"

Alexios froze. "I wasn't the one overseeing anything."

"No, your mother was," Robert said. "And I think I know how it was possible to conceive triplets so naturally. No In-Vitro Fertilisation, no surrogate pregnancy- nothing. Of course, you know as well as I do, that we royals aren't allowed that sort of thing."

"And naturally, of course, you knew about the Chinese pill," Alexios stated leaning closer, during their game. "And the bowls of medicine." He moved a pawn.

"Aglaia told me," Robert said, looking at him.

"So I've deduced. She trusts you," Alexios said, almost accusatorily. Robert moved a piece, another pawn.

"And I love her," Robert looked him in the eye. "And the children. More than anything. More than life itself."

Alexios smirked coldly and looked back at the game. He made another move. "I know," he stated. "And that's the only reason I haven't taken her and her children back to Greece with me and not allowed you or anyone of your family within ten leagues of her."

Robert's eyes were suddenly cold. He smirked. "I thought it'd be treason for a citizen and an act of war, for a royal, to do such a thing."

Alexios dark eyes were chilling, but Robert was unintimidated. The former smiled.

"I'm not afraid of a fight," Alexios stated. He moved forwards three squares.

"I've been in the Special Operations for a number of years. Dimitri was in NIS. It wasn't in any of our files- so yes, you can guess how good we've been but a number of agents and soldiers can attest to that."

Robert smiled. He laughed briefly. "Of course that I can respect."

"Safe to say, you knew about it all, didn't you? You mentioned to me you were onto Ted Pryce for months. You must have known he wasn't dead."

"I didn't see the body," Robert remarked. "And we now all know that without bodies, you might as well not be dead."

Alexios moved another piece. A knight this time.

"Of course," he stated. "And you did not seem surprised that Dimitri and I were alive as well."

"I had my suspicions," Robert stated.

"Did you know the whole time?" Alexios asked abruptly.

"No- in the beginning I truly believed you two were dead," he admitted. "But as things progressed… I realised we couldn't be so sure." He took a sip of water.

"That would have spelt disaster for you," Alexios stated. "After all, you knew my mother had given her those medicines to conceive. There were chances of a multiple pregnancy. And I was there that day when you were due to take your first balcony appearance since your 'death'. And I saw your younger brother." Robert did not move his eyes off Alexios' face.

"At first, I suspected him, just as I suspected your mother, uncle and sister," The Greek Crown Prince remarked. "Along with the rest of your security. But it wasn't them, was it, that was the greatest danger?" He looked at Robert.

"Liam was a wild card- you knew that. He was unpredictable. That's why you allowed her to take those medicines, as much as you loved your brother. You wouldn't have cared either way, but you also knew that her life was in danger from your family and enemies." He chuckled, shaking his head.

"You know in all the time I've been in a soldier, starting from when I was a cadet, training in the Taygete Mountains, and barren rocky islands, all the way 'til now, I had never lost a battle, always stayed one step ahead or two in front of even the most unexpected opponents. Dimitri was the same. He saved Greece from numerous terrorist attacks without anybody knowing it. He ever got official recognition, but he never failed at his task. We analysed, observed, strategized and made our move with precision and effectiveness." He took out a piece of Robert's.

"I thought that you would be the least threatening of the Henstridges," Alexios remarked. "But I was wrong. You were the most dangerous one of all. Why? Because nobody, not even your uncle and mother, and certainly not your brother, emotional, rash and hot-headed as he is, ruled by his own heart, could plan, anticipate, execute and strategize as masterfully as you do. No one, can fool anyone the way you did, lure them into being drawn into you. You have a charisma that most people- royal or elected, subject or otherwise- can only ever dream of. Including your brother. Liam never stood a chance. You won, from the very beginning." Alexios leaned forwards dangerously. "And you certainly managed to do what no one has ever done before- not once- outwit and outsmart me and Dimitri, all in one stroke, staying at least two steps ahead of us both." He leaned back.

"And no one has ever managed to win our sister's heart." Alexios' eyes narrowed dangerously as Robert observed him. "Safe as it is to say, you've actually won." He laughed. "You won and everybody else- from all angles- lost. You had opponents everywhere from all angles- your own family who sought the throne; your uncle, your emotional and unpredictable brother. The Greek politicians and our family who saw your family as a danger towards Aglaia and our line of succession. Ted Pryce who held a grudge against your family and Metaxas who assisted in the massacres of our civil war and genocide. Your love rivals. And in one stroke, you actually won." Alexios raised his glass. "I salute your victory, king of Britain."

Robert raised his glass as well.

"Thank you," he remarked. "I didn't know you'd take it so well."

"Safe to say, I have no reason and no stupidity to see battles between us," Alexios stated. "My mother hates yours enough because she's afraid and mistrusts her. My sister is upset about that. You love her and your children, no matter what, that can't be denied, and like me and the rest of us, you'll fight to the worst and most bitter of ends to keep her and the children safe. I'll be foolish to get rid of the one Henstridge who is capable and eager to keep my sister, nephews and niece safe. I may not like this, but not only do I have to salute your victory, I may continue on depending on you in regards to their safety and welfare, as well as owing you a great favour."

"Your sister is my wife, your nephews and niece are my children," Robert remarked. "The favour is not necessary."

"It is to a Spartan." Alexios said. "A debt."

"But this alliance is much appreciated." Robert continued, looking up at him. "Agreed," Alexios said.

Robert took a sip and then moved a piece. "Checkmate." He said softly. Alexios laughed.

"If you love her," he said, standing. "Remember what my father asked you at your wedding?"

"Not to look after Aglaia because she has always been capable of doing that herself," Robert recalled. "But to look after each other."

"Exactly," Alexios agreed. "As long as you continue to do that, and care for your children and the relationship between you doesn't change, you will have not only a strong ally but at least two powerful ones in Greece- and we'll do anything to make sure the Danes- our relatives- and the other royal houses and politicians are backing you and our sister. You won't be dethroned by anyone."

Robert inclined his head. "It's an honour."

Alexios exhaled. As he was leaving, Robert remarked: "That navy captain- Dimtriou," he stated. Alexios turned. "What about him?"

"Find a way to remove him," Robert said. "Take him back to Greece, or I can't promise that a man who didn't merely challenge me in my own kingdom, within my own palace, to seduce my wife and take advantage of her grief, won't pay for what he's done. I may not be a casual killer, Alexios, but I can't promise that he won't pay or suffer for what he's done." Robert's voice was a deadly calm but it promised rage.

Alexios nodded. "Very well then. I never liked him myself." He chuckled and left.

Robert smiled.

"Are these… Dior?" Aglaia asked, in disbelief. She took out the sketches.

Len sighed. "Mum brought them over."

"What's wrong with Dior?" Helena questioned. Aglaia looked at her. "What did the Robert and the twins wear during their Christenings?"

"Well," Helena thought about it. "Robert wore this…. Heirloom thing. It was Simon's and his father's and his father's before him."

"And what happened to it?" Aglaia questioned.

Helena opened her mouth and looked at Spencer.

"I'm afraid that the adornments such as the lace which the robe is comprised entirely of, is much too fragile to be of extensive use anymore." Spencer put in.

"Yes, that." Helena remarked. She sipped her tea. "As for Liam and Eleanor's… They're out of fashion. Out of date."

"You didn't have any heirlooms for their gowns?" Aglaia asked.

"Well…" Helena trailed off. "No, not really. There weren't that many royal twins before now."

"And clearly not that many royal triplets," Eleanor remarked, shuffling the papers. Aglaia sighed. "May I… See Robert's Christening gown?" She asked.

"Well of course," Helena stated. "But what are you going to do with it? William can't possibly wear it, it'll fall apart and leave the future king of England naked. So not desirable." She shuddered delicately.

"I would like to take something old… A symbol of a continuation of a dynasty and a time-honoured monarchy," Aglaia began. "And combine it with something new. To symbolise new beginnings." She held up the sketches.

Helena looked impressed. "Oh, I see. Well played." She drank her tea.

As long as her cow of a mother didn't intrude, to Helena that was the perfect moment.

Of course, that didn't last long. Anastasia would never dream of leaving her beloved, precious only daughter alone with Helena. And Eleanor.