The six months after the deadly ending of the trial passed quickly. Three months after the trial, a formal memorial service was held in honor of Bret.
Royals, Nobles and commoners came from everywhere. It was a fitting tribute to the fallen King. It also marked Adam's final farewell to his dead husband. That part of his life was over, forever. He would keep Bret in his heart and in Drake's, but he was ready to make a life and hopefully, a family with Chris.
It wasn't going to be a grand wedding, like his first, neither Adam nor Chris wanted that. It was going to be small and held in the Chapel of the Rose Palace of Calgary.
By now, marriage laws were beginning to change. It had been decided that it was indeed a Holy Union and could and should be celebrated in the Church itself. Fathers Robert, William and Peter had been a big part of that discussion at the Priest's council, not long after the memorial service.
Adam was currently in Copeland, he'd come to visit for a few days to make some plans for the wedding. He and Heath were in Shawn's garden, watching Drake and Elizabeth play with Drago and Molly. Molly was the collie pup that Christian had given to his children after seeing how much they loved Drago.
Heath was just about ready to give birth to his third child. He wanted as much time outside as possible before his lying in began in two days. Anne was happily crawling on the blanket. She was also walking by now, though still rather wobbly.
"You will be churched in time for the wedding. We would like Bess to walk with Drake. I want them to drop flower petals. Queen Patricia said they do that for luck in Toronto, it is supposed to help with luck for conception. I so want more babies," Adam expressed as he gently rubbed his brother-in-law's distended belly.
Heath sighed softly. Adam's caressing felt good and it calmed the kicking babe. Normally, Christian would have been there to do it, but he had gone on a three-day trip to Orangeville. Orangeville, Copeland was a small city on the southwestern coast. It was known for two things, its grand crop of oranges and fine horses. It was time for the Annual Orangeville Horse and Orange Festival.
Christian had his eye on a draft horse that was going to be up for sale. The horse had one of the best blood-lines he'd ever read. He wanted the stallion for breeding both work stock and war horses. If he was lucky, he might also find a couple of new mares to breed him with. Heath had assured his husband he had time to make the trip, so Christian went.
"That sounds like a cute idea. I love the thought that you want to include Bessie in your ceremony. Annie is too little. I am tad worried about her, she seems behind in her development. What do you think?" Heath's tone was slightly worried as he watched Anne play with a doll on the blanket.
"She look alright to me. Maybe her being so sick after being born slowed her down a little. When you come to Calgary, I'll have Andrew examine her. He is very good with Drake and he is very smart. I trust old Physician Ross, but Andrew is just... better," Adam said honestly. He too was watching Anne play.
"I would appreciate that. Physician von Ross is looking for a younger assistant. There is one that poppa Shawn is considering. His name is Christopher Nowinski, he comes from the University in Paris," Heath said as he held out his hands. Anne had pulled herself up and took a few wobbly steps towards her poppa.
"Oh, I knew him, or of him at least. He was in the same chess club when I was in Paris. He was a very nice boy. I'll tell poppa. We'd better get these ruffians in, dinner will be ready in a couple of hours, retainers dine with us tonight," Adam said with a sigh, he much preferred a family dinner.
Heath agreed. He gave a great grunt as he stood. He was thankful his brother-in-law was strong enough to help him up off the ground. Children and dogs all headed into the Castle of Copeland.
John and Justin helped bathe and change the children while Adam and Heath helped each other wash and change for the formal dinner. Heath looked so tired and equally as miserable.
"You go to bed, I'll take the children in with us. Please, Heath you look... miserable," Adam said with great concern. If he didn't know better, he'd swear Heath was in labor.
"I would appreciate that, I do feel tired. Thank you," Heath said in a weary tone. He climbed into his bed after Adam changed him into a night-gown. The red-head was asleep in seconds.
By nine o'clock the next morning, Heath was sitting up in bed, holding a beautiful strawberry blond baby, a Prince. The birth was sudden and fast, but both Heath and the babe were fit and healthy.
"He is perfect, just perfect. What are you going to name him?" Adam asked as Heath let him hold the newborn babe.
Heath smiled weakly, "Yes, he is. Finally our Prince. I'll wait for Christian, he has a few names in mind. All I chose were girl names," he said with a bit of a laugh.
Adam chuckled as he handed the baby over to a very impatient Shawn. "I am sure he will have a fine name. Christian will be upset that he wasn't here," Shawn said as he lovingly stared at the tiny babe.
"I told him go, maybe it was the reason we had a boy," Heath said with another laugh. He was glad Christian would be back later in the day.
After visiting a few more minutes, Adam left to let Heath rest. He also had an appointment with Jerry, the Tailor. He was making new tunics for the wedding.
"Is Heath alright?" Christopher asked as Adam entered their bedchamber. Chris was there with Drake and the tailor. The man was fitting the young Prince. Drake was being good and stood still for Jerry.
"He and the babe are fine. I am happy Christian will be back later. Oh Jerry, that is wonderful! I wasn't sure how you were going to add the lion," Adam exclaimed as he looked closer at Drake's tunic.
Jerry had used the original design he'd drawn that had combined the Copeland unicorn and Calgary dragon. He'd added the Jericho lion to the center of the design. The lion held a shield, the hoof of the unicorn rested on the right side of the shield while the raised foot of the dragon rested on the left side. It was unique and combined the Three Kingdom's perfectly.
"Thank you, Your Majesty. The midnight blue is a better choice. I will use gold on the lion, silver on the rest. Then the design stitches will be in both silver and gold threads, with diamonds and seed pearls," the tailor explained as he showed Adam samples of fabrics, threads, gems and pearls.
"Uncie Cwis, potty!" Drake nearly wailed, he was holding his crotch and wiggling on the footstool he stood on. Chris laughed and scooped Drake up in his arms. He took the boy to the privy chamber. Drake was fully potty trained now, but he still needed help with his hose and ties.
"The young Prince is a fine little man, Your Majesty. May I take a moment to congratulate you on your upcoming marriage. We all wish you luck and happiness. Also, if I may, we are most sorry about King von Hart," Jerry spoke quietly and respectfully with a low bow.
Adam smiled softly, "Thank you Jerry. We appreciate your words," his answer was short, but heartfelt. The fitting went on and Jerry assured the King the tunics would be done in plenty of time for the wedding.
After lunch, Christian and Hunter returned. Hunter had been in Judith to check on the progress of a new ship. It was going to be an anniversary gift for Shawn.
Christian was overwhelmed when he'd heard what had happened. He was thrilled to have a son. Copeland's newest Prince was named Michael Paul von Helmsley de Copeland. Michael was Shawn's middle name and Paul was Hunter's middle name, it was a nice way for Christian to honor his parents.
Adam, Christopher and Drake went back to Calgary. They had a lot of plans to make. King Theodore had put his Council in charge of Jericho and was helping Adam by keeping an eye on things in Calgary. They were still looking for the two guards who had let Barrett escape in order to kidnap Adam.
A month before the wedding, the two guards were found. They had taken refuge in an old abandoned cabin in the woods. Mason Ryan and The Raven had found them. They were a part of Adam's forest protection. The Protectors of the Great Forest kept an eye out for wounded animals, forest fires and illegal poachers. The Raven was in charge and the Great Forest of Calgary was in the best shape it had ever been.
The two rogue guards were hung the next day. To the Royal Army they was no greater crime than dereliction of duty, it simply wasn't tolerated.
A week before the wedding, the Royal Family of Copeland arrived. Heath had been churched and as long as they traveled in a closed carriage, the Physician said the baby could travel safely.
Drake and Elizabeth were nearing two years of age and their sturdy legs enabled them to have the run of the palace. They kept John and Justin on their toes. The weather was so pleasant, the front doors of the Rose Palace were propped open to let the fresh air sweep through the building. Before John could stop them, Drake, Bess, Drago and Molly ran out the huge doors. Although he knew they were safe with the two dogs, he still didn't want them out his sight. Justin was busy with Heath and the baby.
"Your Highness!" John said as he ran out of the Palace. He stopped short, holding Prince Drake was the Duke of Jericho; Philip de Brooks.
"I think I caught a little runaway and his partner in crime," Philip said with a smile to the handsome servant. He had Elizabeth by the hand.
"Yes.. you.. it's good to see you, Your Grace. Thank you for catching the Royal ruffians. Welcome to Calgary, your room is ready for you," John called for a couple of household servants to help the Duke's men with his trunks.
Philip put the wayward Prince down and took his little hand. He walked with the two children into the Palace. Drake remembered the Duke from his time at Jericho. Bess knew if Drake trusted the man, she was safe.
Chris was coming down the steps, he smiled when he saw his friend. They embraced tightly. Chris and Philip went up the stairs to the chamber that had been assigned to the Duke.
John was smiling brightly as he took the two children out to the garden to play. He hoped he and Philip would have a chance to talk privately, he'd really missed the Duke.
"Tis good to see you my friend. You are looking better than I have seen in a long time," Philip said as he hugged his old friend again.
"Good to see you too, Philip. I don't know what I would have done without you and Randal. Be sure to find him. He is with Sir Matthew Hardy a lot. Seems like there some break up in relationships and our dear Randal fell for Sir Matthew," Chris said with a laugh and another hug to Philip.
"I will. We shall have a stag night for you, but nothing more than very well watered wine. Christopher, I want to ask you something, rather serious," Philip said in a tone that matched his words. He and Chris sat in the comfortable chairs in front of the unlit fireplace.
"Godsteeth Philip, what is it? You can ask me anything. Are you alright? Do you need gold? What? Are you ill? Anything you want is yours," Lionheart's tone was anxious and worried. Philip had helped him in his darkest hour, he owed his friend more than he could ever hope to repay.
Philip laughed, he leaned over and patted his friends knee, "Calm yourself, Lionheart. It is nothing as serious as all that. I just want your permission to do something. I want to court and woo John Cena," there, he'd said it. He'd been wanting to make his intentions clear, but he wanted no harm to come to John.
At first Chris was so relieved nothing was wrong with his friend, that it took a moment for the Duke's request to sink in. Before he could respond, Philip de Brooks explained all about his relationship with the handsome servant.
"...so, I want to be able to court him properly without harm to his position or reputation," de Brooks finished his explanation.
"I am happy for you my friend. John is a faithful servant. Let us go speak to Adam, I am sure he will not object. John is more friend than servant to us," Chris said with a smile. They got up and went to find the King.
They found Adam buried under a mound of papers at this desk in his Royal chambers. The first trade agreements with King Richard were being finalized. Adam was happy to see Philip and was glad for the respite from the paper work. He wanted to finish as much Kingly work as possible. He knew Chris was taking him away for a month-long wedding trip, and he didn't want to leave things undone.
Both Philip and Chris explained about John. Philip declared his intentions and feelings to the King. The more they spoke, the more Adam smiled.
"You certainly have my blessings. Shall I speak to John on your behalf, so he knows he has our permission?" Adam called with a bright, toothy white grin. He was so pleased this was happening.
"I would appreciate that, Sire. John will take it better, knowing you support us. Thank you," de Brooks said with the same smile.
The two friends then left Adam to do his work. Chris worried about his betrothed, but he knew soon Adam would be away from all this. He'd even managed to talk Adam into leaving Drake with Shawn and Hunter for a month. His own father was also going to Copeland for the time they were gone. Chris was worried his father would get lonely, he still felt guilty about leaving Theodore during the time he was "finding" himself.
The week passed quickly. All the while Adam did his Kingly business and prepared for the wedding. He was now packing for himself and Drake.
The night before the wedding, Chris was out in the village pub with Philip, Randal de Orton, Matthew Hardy, Jeffery Hardy, Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins and Dean de Ambrose.
Hunter, Theodore and Lance von Toronto were involved in a rousing game of cards called "Trucks", it was a popular game in Britain and Richard had taught them how to play. They had decided to leave the night out to the younger men.
Adam, Heath, Shawn, John Cena and the children were up in Adam's bed chamber. Queen Patricia was doing better, but sadly, had been advised not to travel. She sent a trunk full of new clothes for Elizabeth, Anne and Drake and some baby things for Michael Paul.
The grown ups were sitting on the floor as Drake and Bess played with some wooden blocks that Dave Batista had made for them. He'd made different shapes such as squares, rectangles, circles and arches to make bridges. Dave had sanded them so they were as smooth as glass. He'd even rounded the edges so the children were safe from sharp ridges and splinters. They loved them.
"So, how are things with de Brooks?" Adam asked with a grin as he poked John in the ribs playfully.
John blushed, "Fine, Sire. He is such a gentleman. Thank you for supporting us. It is all so new. He treats me like... me," John was flustered. He was still a servant but the Royals pulled him in more as a friend. Adam and the others were happy for John. They all hoped it worked out, John would make a good Noble.
The day of the wedding dawned, it was going to be another perfect day. The ceremony was going to be at eleven, then in the early afternoon they were leaving for their month-long wedding trip.
John was already seeing to the loading of the large traveling coach. It took a four-in-hand to pull it. Lionheart and Stardust were the lead horses. That way, Chris and Adam could have their own riding horses if the need arose.
Adam forced down his breakfast, then he rushed off to quickly meet with his Council. Lord Richard assured the King that Calgary would still be standing when the couple returned.
Cody and Theodore were going to Britain to deliver the trade agreement papers. It turned out that Theodore DiBiase was a natural trade negotiator. It was agreed that he and Cody would make the trip on behalf of Calgary.
The young King slowed down long enough to bathe Drake and wash his long, light brown, curly locks. Adam had to bite back his tears, but at least this time the reason he was leaving his son behind was happy and not because of war.
"Poppa is going to miss you. I'll bring you lots of presents, I promise. You will get to play with Bessie and Annie and help Uncle Heath with baby Michael," Adam said as he gently combed the long, wet curls on his son's head.
"Wove you poppa, miss you. Oney go to Cwopeland? Poppa come home?" Drake asked in his toddler's voice.
Adam had to bite even harder, his son's last question just about ripped his heart out from his chest. "I love you too, son. Yes, baby, poppa will come back, I promise. Oney is going to Copeland so you and Bessie can ride every day, if you are good for grandpa and grandfa. Drake, you love Uncle Chris. Do you understand what poppa and Uncle Chris are doing today?" Adam asked as he pulled Drakes white silk hose up over his chubby legs.
"Yay Oney! Wuv Unkie Cwis. Poppa wuv Cwis, be one fambly," Drake tried to explain what Adam and Chris had told him about getting married and making a new family, together.
"That's my smart little Dragon. Would you like to have a little brother or sister someday?" Adam asked as he slipped Drake's beautiful new tunic over his head.
"Sister! Wike Bessie," Drake said with a laugh as Adam buckled the tiny jeweled collar in place. It was a miniature version of the King's collar Bret had worn.
"Good. Because poppa and Uncle Chris want children. You will always be my special little Dragon. I love you so much," Adam said as he hugged his boy tightly. Adam finished dressing Drake just as Shawn came to help his son get dressed. John took Drake to wait with Elizabeth, and hopefully keep them both clean, for a while at least.
"He looks absolutely precious. You don't worry about him while you're gone. It's about time you relax and enjoy your time with Chris. Forget you are Royal, just... play like when you, your brother and Jeffery were little," Shawn said in a loving tone as he braided Adam's long, blond pony tail.
"I'll try poppa. You should understand, you cry every time we part company," Adam teased his parent with a naughty smirk. Shawn just laughed, he couldn't deny it, he constantly worried about both his boys, Heath and Chris as well, not to even mention his four beautiful grandchildren.
Parent and child continued to chat while Adam continued to dress. His new tunic was beautiful. The new combined crest looked perfect on the dark, midnight blue velvet. Silver and gold threads sparkled along with tiny diamonds and seed pearls. He wore white silk hose and leather slippers dyed to match the deep, dark blue.
The King wore his full regalia. "Gewitter", the sword Bret had given him was in its formal scabbard. It had been one of the last things Bret had given him, aside from his bow for Drake's first birthday.
"Perfect, my little boy is perfect. You know, I have a feeling Bret is smiling down on you today. He.. always felt bad about you and Chris.. he really did," Shawn said softly, he missed his old friend.
"You think so, poppa? I know he did, but if, well, there would be no Drake. I love you poppa, you always be the best man in my life," Adam said with a hug to his parent. At that moment Adam felt like he was no older than Drake.
"Prince Christopher and King Theodore of Jericho were standing at the altar of the Palace Chapel. Father's William, Peter and Robert were all taking part in performing the marriage. They were waiting with the Royals of Jericho.
Chris was dressed to match Adam and Drake. He too, would now wear the Crest of the Three Kingdoms.
The Royal Council, Philip de Brooks with John Cena, the heads of the Royal Guard, members of The Pride and a handful of Nobles, like the McMahon's from Winnipeg were at the service. They were about fifty in all attending the ceremony.
King Lance sat with Heath and Christian in the front row next to Shawn. After they dropped their flower petals, Drake and Bess would sit with them.
The Royal trumpets blew the King's tattoo as the door to the Chapel opened. Drake and Bess came down the aisle, dropping rose petals on the floor. Adam and Hunter appeared in the doorway. They walked down the aisle, arm in arm. It symbolized the ride to the church on a white horse.
Chris smiled as Drake and Elizabeth walked slowly and dropped their petals. They each carried a little basket. When they got to the first row, Shawn waved them over to sit.
Chris beamed as Hunter and Adam walked towards him. Theodore smiled just as brightly, his dream was finally coming true.
Father Peter offered the first prayer. When he finished, Hunter kissed his son's cheek, then placed Adam's hand in Christopher's. He then went to sit with his family, his duty was done.
Father Robert conducted the actual marriage ceremony. Adam and Chris promised to love each other no matter what life threw at them. Chris also made a special promise to love Drake as if he were his own. The words brought tears to Adam's eyes. Beautiful rings were blessed and exchanged, Adam wore his on his left ring finger, while Chris wore his on his left pinkie finger. Father Robert pronounced them married.
Father William offered a final blessing and prayer. He gave the newly married couple their first Holy Communion. After the rest of the congregation had their communion, Father William preached a short sermon, about living a God-fearing life filled with love and happiness.
When the ceremony ended, Chris and Adam walked out of the Chapel and went up to the Grand Throne Room. They were going to do a quick balcony appearance before the wedding feast. The other Royals followed, they would all go out on the balcony to greet the people.
"I can't believe it, I am finally Adam of Jericho! I love you so much my Lion," the newly married King said softly. They had a moment alone in the Grand Throne Room.
"Neither can I, but yes you are all mine now. I love you, my Kitten," Chris' words were just as soft as he pulled Adam in for a passion filled kiss.
They had both waited so long. Adam's sexual shyness was non-existent, he flashed Chris such a lustful look, it made the Prince blush. They couldn't wait for their wedding night. The couple was forced apart when the rest of the Royal's came into the Grand Throne Room. Drake ran to his poppa, Adam scooped his son up in his arms.
"Poppa is so proud of you and Bess. You dropped the flowers perfectly. I love you," Adam said with a kiss to his son's cheek.
"Uncle Chris is proud of you both too. I love you Drake," the Prince of Jericho also kissed the chubby cheek as Adam held his son. Hugs and kisses were all exchanged as the Royals gathered in front of the closed door/window to the balcony.
The seven members of the Royal Council, led by Lord Richard joined the family. They would go out on to the balcony as well. Adam wanted his Calgarians to know they would be in good hands while he was away on his marriage trip.
Hundreds of citizens had gathered. The last time they had gathered under the balcony was after the trial of the betrayers. The atmosphere was much happier this time. The people of Calgary didn't mind that Adam wanted and had now remarried. After all their King was only twenty and he deserved to have happiness in his life, and chance to have more children.
The citizens loved Prince Lionheart and through rumors, knew the story of the star-crossed lovers. They also knew Adam had loved Bret. The young man had made their sad King laugh and smile again, for a while, they had their old King Bret back. Calgary would always love Adam for that if nothing else.
The Harald trumpets blew. Anthony, the Royal Harald opened the balcony doors. He announced the Royal Council, then visiting Royals. Then came the moment the people were waiting for.
"Beloved Citizens and visitors of Calgary, Their Royal Majesties King Adam von Hart-Jericho of Calgary, Prince Christopher of Jericho and the Crown Prince of Calgary, Drake Arthur von Hart!" Anthony spoke his in his best voice.
The people erupted as the trio stepped out to the center of the balcony. Chris held Drake as the boy straddled his right hip, his left arm around Adam's waist. The present and future King's of Calgary waved to their good and loyal citizens. Lionheart looked from Drake to Adam, the love for them both radiated from his face.
Like they had for Bret and Adam over two years ago, they called for, "KISS! KISS! GIVE US A KISS! KISS! KISS! GIVE US A KISS!" the people chanted like the steady beat of a drum. They were so happy.
Chris and Adam smiled, well who were they to deny the wishes of their people. After all, they were Royals, it was their duty to please their citizens.
The Lion leaned over and captured his new husbands lips with his. Adam's left hand want up to his son's hip, pulling his new family into a warm embrace.
"Kissy, icky!" Drake said loud enough for the first few rows of the people standing below the balcony to hear. They laughed and as the words were passed back, the entire crowd laughed happily.
The newlyweds broke the kiss with their own laughter. They both kissed the little Prince. Shawn wiped the happy tears from his eyes as he watched his baby boy, Adam was so happy.
After another kiss and more cheers, Adam took Drake from Chris. He had to speak to his people. He raised his hand to quite the crowd. Drake copied his poppa, a serious expression on his little face.
"My dearest friends and citizens of Calgary, thank you again for your love and support. My Prince Consort and I will be leaving for a month-long marriage trip, as you know..." he was interrupted by another round of loud cheers.
He continued, "I want you to know you will be safe in the hands of Lord Richard Morgan Fliehr, and the Royal Council. My father, King Hunter de Copeland and my new father-in-law, King Theodore of Jericho was well as my poppa, "Queen" Shawn de Copeland will be ready if you need them. We shall return in time for the Early Harvest Festival. There will be a round table, so those of you who wrestle, start training. For now, fare thee well my dear Calgarians. The Crown Prince, The Prince Consort and I love you all. Thank you!" Adam spoke in a Kingly tone and warm smile.
Prince Drake blew kisses and waved as the Royals left the balcony. The newlyweds left last, leaving the crowd cheering.
The Royals had a small banquet with the Council and Nobles. It was a happy respite. The Royal Bakers had made a fruit cake for the wedding and decorated it beautifully with unicorns, dragons and lions. Chris and Adam cut the cake with Chris' sword, it carried the name of "Corazon De Leon" or heart of the lion. The man who had made it had learned his craft in Spain. The Spanish made the best swords in the world. Jericho had good trade agreements with them.
After the meal, everyone prepared for their travels. The carriages and wagons were made ready. John, Glenn and Justin over saw the last loading.
One thing that Adam was very happy about was the fact that Philip de Brooks and John were also going along on the month-long journey. Also going were Sir Jeffery and Sir Roman as heads of the eight man Royal Guard.
Sir Randal was going to Copeland to work with Sir Matthew. Sir Rollins and Sir De Ambrose were staying in Calgary where they belonged.
Christian was making sure Oney was tied safely to the carriage, it would be easier for him to keep up as the vehicle was slower. Drago the collie would ride in the baggage carriage with Molly. It would be a huge procession going to Copeland, but they would be there just at sunset. Shawn was excited, all his grandchildren together for a whole month!
Soon everyone was on their way. Some to the west towards Copeland, the newlyweds to the south. All Adam knew was that Chris had promised him a wonderful trip. The Lion and Kitten were ready to begin their life together... finally.