Millard stood at the door and cleared his throat. Kate and Leopold looked up. The last person he wanted to speak to was his uncle and when Leopold finally spoke his voice sounded irate, "What is it, Uncle?"

"Mightn't I have that word with you now, Leopold?" Millard said cautiously, knowing full well that Leopold was upset with him.

"One word, Uncle? I suppose I could tolerate one word.", Leopold said sarcastically.

Kate rolled her eyes, she could feel it coming, another run in. She sensed Millard wanted to speak to him privately, so she pulled away from Leopold, and he immediately grabbed her hand and held on to it firmly, "Anything my uncle wishes to say to me, he can say in front of you, Kate."

"I just thought.."

Leopold cut her off, "You can cease thinking for me for starters," he said annoyingly. "It is getting rather disconcerting that my wife and other members of my family continue to find it necessary."

Millard spoke up, "Really, Leopold. That is truly not the case. It is obvious you are very upset about what has transpired here this evening. And of course you have every reason to be.."

Leopold sarcastically cut in, "Oh, Uncle, how astute of you to come to that conclusion and allow me to have such feelings."

"Leopold, please", Millard could tell this was going nowhere.

"Please what? Please listen to anything you have to say to me. After all the lies and deception you have told me for over 20 years. I don't see how you can have the gall to even suggest such a thing."

At this time the Commander appeared at the door and realized he was stepping right into the middle of a family argument. Kate was pleased. Anything to distract Leopold from a major argument was very welcome.

Kate acknowledged him, "Commander, do come on. Don't mind these two. Did you need to speak to us about something?"

Leopold and Millard looked towards the door, "I beg your pardon, your grace, my lord, ma'am, but I thought you would like to be informed that your groomsman has so kindly gone to town to fetch the doctor for Lady Spencer and we will be moving the body to the mortuary momentarily."

"And what of Edgar's mother?" Leopold asked.

"I will be speaking to the doctor and get his advice. She is quite delusional and in no way fit to remain here under the circumstances."

Otis appeared behind the commander at the door and Leopold waved him in, "Otis is everything alright?"

"Yes, your grace, the wet nurse has been found and the child is being fed. Miss Charlotte is asking for her mother, sir. Janet is with her now, but I thought it might be best if you were to speak to her. I assumed that is what you would want."

"You assumed correctly, Otis. Thank you." He turned to Millard, "We will have to continue this conversation some other time, Uncle. Maybe when I have found it in my heart to forgive you. Which could possibly be never."

"Leopold, you do not mean that."

"I most certainly do mean it, Uncle." He headed towards the door and turned to the Commander, "I would like Charlotte to see her mother."

"Of course, your grace, we have moved her into the library."

Leopold walked out with Otis and Millard turned to Kate, "You must speak to him, Kate. It is imperative he hears what I have to say. Only you can convince him to do so. You must know what he means to me and how everything I have ever done was to protect him."

Kate was concerned at Leopold's final words to his uncle, "I have never seen him so distraught, Millard. I don't think I will have much influence on him. Maybe you just need to give him some time. He has a lot to sort through right now. Edgar, Millicent, the children, the death of his parents."

"I knew nothing about that, you must believe me Kate. I am as shocked as Leopold to hear of Lord Spencer's arranging for my brother and his wife's murder."

"It doesn't matter what I believe, it's Leopold you have to convince."



The staff was now assembled in the kitchen being questioned by a constable. In the corner the lady from the village was nursing the infant. Janet had not liked the whispering and found it was upsetting Charlotte, so she took her outside and they sat on the back step looking up at the stars. Otis and Leopold found them there.

He wanted to be alone with her, "Otis, speak to my uncle and tell him we will be heading back to Balinor shortly. Janet, Kate, the baby and the wet nurse can take the carriage back with you."

"And Miss Charlotte?"

Leopold smiled tenderly at his niece, "I thought Charlotte would like to ride Guinevere back with me."

Charlotte gasped, "Oh, no, Uncle Leopold, I could not. Guinevere is a real horse, not a pony like Clover."

"I don't see why a young lady such as your yourself should have any problem with a fine horse like Guinevere. She is very gentle. Would you like to ride back with me?"

"Oh, yes, Uncle Leopold, I'd like that very much. If you really think I am able."

"More than able..well, that settles that then." He smiled at Otis.

"I will make the arrangements, your grace."

"Thank-you, Otis."

Janet smiled at him, "Why are you looking at me that way, Janet?"

"I do believe you are going to make a wonderful father, Leopold."

He felt a bit embarrassed, "Run a long, inform Kate I will be riding with Charlotte."

As Otis and Janet walked away Charlotte looked up at him confused. He had sat down next to her and taken hold of her hand, "But why won't I be staying here with my governess and my mother?"

Leopold's expression turned to concern, "Charlotte, I need to speak to you about what happened tonight."

"Is it bad?"

Leopold nodded, "Yes, I am afraid it is."

"Is it Mama? I know she is sick, I know she could die."

"No, no, it's not that. You see, your mother was not very happy with your father. I am sure you were aware of this fact."

She nodded.

"And you are right, she hasn't been well. The birth of your brother was very difficult for her." Leopold wasn't sure where to go from here. He knew he had to tell her the truth. He wasn't going to lie like his uncle had to him all those years ago.

But Charlotte sensed something and she had heard some of the servants whispering, "I heard a shot, Uncle Leopold. Is my father dead?"

Leopold swallowed hard, feeling choked up. "I'm afraid he is, Charlotte and your mother fired the pistol that killed him. You have to understand that she is not well and probably not in her right mind at the time."

"My mama wanted him dead, just like I did."

Leopold was surprised by this comment.

"Is it bad, I don't care? That I can't cry? When you lose someone you love you should cry. Is it bad I never loved him? Will God be mad at Mama and me?"

Leopold held her in his arms, "How could anyone be mad at you?"

"Is Mama going to be alright?"

"I don't know. She will have to go to hospital for awhile."

"And my brother and I are going to live with you?"

He pulled back and smiled down at her, "If that's all right with you?"

She managed a smile and nodded, but then looked concerned, "Nasty old Governess Finch isn't coming to live with you too, is she? She's horrible. She slaps me when I get answers wrong. I would not be happy at your house with her there."

He smiled, "No nasty Governess Finch will be living with us, I assure you. I will arrange for a proper Governess but until that time you will have your lessons with Janet. Anything else on your mind, young lady?"

"Can I eat with the grown-ups in the dining room? I don't like eating in the nursery. I have been told it's improper until I am 14, but I can behave, Uncle Leopold, really I can?"

"I am sure you can and I don't see why you can't sit in the dining room."

She smiled, "Will you be strict? Will you punish me?"

"If you are naughty, yes, I will." He managed a stern expression.

"I guess that is okay. I don't want to grow up unruly and disrespectful. Otherwise Gareth will never love me."

"Well, then we will make sure you will be properly disciplined and conduct yourself like a proper young lady, so Master Gareth will have no desire to ever look at another."

"You are teasing me, Uncle Leopold."

"On the contrary, I would find Master Gareth quite the fool if he had affection for anyone besides yourself."

She smiled at him, "I think I am going to like having an Uncle."

As she said this Leopold thought of his own Uncle. He wished he had the same sentiments. He quickly snapped out of it, "I thought you might like to see your mother before we left for Balinor."

"I would like that very much. Will she know I am there?"

"I think she will." He stood up and she took his hand and they went into the library where Millicent had been laid on a sofa, a blanket covering her. Nancy sat with her. She quickly stood up and curtseyed to Leopold, "Your grace,"

"Nancy, the Commander said it would be alright if Charlotte talked to her mother. Has she gained consciousness?"

"She comes and goes, your grace. Mumbles."

Charlotte pulled Leopold with her as they drew closer to Millicent. She took hold of her mother's hand, "Mama, it's Charlotte. I want you to know I am going to be okay and you needn't worry about me, while you are getting better."

She looked up at Leopold for reassurance and he nodded for her to go ahead. "Uncle Leopold is going to look after my brother and myself. And you are going to get better and come live with us at Balinor, where I am going to sit in the dining room and be a proper young lady. I will behave for Uncle Leopold and make you proud. Please get better, Mama." She began to cry and Leopold got down on his knees to comfort her, as he did there was some movement.

"Charlotte." Millicent was very weak, but she said her name with conviction.

"Mama."

Millicent opened her eyes barely and saw her daughter and Leopold. She smiled faintly. What would it have been like if only she had been married to Leopold and Charlotte had been theirs? It was only a dream. But seeing them together made her happy.

"Leopold." She managed to say.

"Millicent, you mustn't speak. Save your strength."

"The baby. Edgar mustn't have the baby."

"No, he will not have the baby. Charlotte and the baby will go to Balinor with myself. I will look after them. You must concentrate on getting well." Leopold realized she didn't remember shooting him.

"The baby needs to have a name."

"You needn't concern yourself with that at this time, Millicent."

"Philip.I would like him to be called Philip, after your father. His grandfather. Edgar won't like it." She managed a little laugh.

"That is a fine choice, Millicent. Philip it will be."

"I am very tired."

"You close your eyes now and rest, the doctor should be here shortly."

She looked back at Charlotte, gently squeezing her hand, "Leopold is a wonderful man, he will be good to you and your brother. I want you to always remember how much I love you." Charlotte began to cry.

"I love you to Mama" She then watched as her mother drifted off again. She looked at Leopold, "She is going to die, isn't she."

"Come, come, Charlotte, we don't know that. Let's leave your mother to rest and we will get everything ready to go to Balinor."

As Leopold escorted Charlotte out of the room he looked back at Millicent lying there. He couldn't answer her question, because he was uncertain. If Millicent died, Charlotte and the baby, Philip would be orphans, like himself..to be raised by their uncle, just as he was. He would do everything he could for them. As Millard had done for him. Is that what he had done? Had Millard really had his best interests in mind when he lied and kept so many things from him? Leopold had a lot of questions he needed to answer. But right now, there were other matters that needed his intention.



After packing up a few things for Charlotte and the baby, Millard, Kate, Janet, the wet nurse, Philip and Otis took the carriage back to Balinor. Leopold and Charlotte managed a steady pace on Mordred and Guinevere, Margaret's mare tied to Mordred. The weather had remained fairly pleasant throughout the day, so the ride back wasn't too cold. It was getting rather late, and Charlotte was a bit tired, but she didn't complain. Leopold took Charlotte's mind off her mother by telling her stories about the adventures he had as a child at Balinor with Jack and Janet. Of course he embellished them slightly to make them more interesting. Charlotte found Leopold's story telling enthralling and she hung on every word. Leopold was not used to this kind of admiration and found it rather enjoyable. He was definitely looking forward to a child of his own.

The carriage arrived back sooner and Margaret and the servants were anxious for their return. Margaret came rushing down the front steps and when she saw her husband and then Kate felt a sigh of relief, but only briefly. Seeing the strange woman holding the infant threw her. And everyone looked drained and tired. Millard gave her a hug, and she questioned him, "Where's Leopold? Is he alright?"

"He's riding Mordred, Charlotte's with him."

"What has happened, Millard? Why are the children coming here?"

"Edgar is dead, Millicent shot him, but she is very ill and is being taken to hospital. I don't expect her to live. Leopold has taken it upon himself to be responsible for the children. Which I find absolutely ludicrous under the circumstances. The man tried to kill him."

Margaret looked confused, "But I don't understand."

Kate was passing them and heading up the stairs and stopped, "She doesn't know either?" She questioned Millard and then looked at Margaret, who had pulled away from Millard and was facing Kate.

"What don't I know?"

Kate could see Millard feeling uncomfortable and she looked back at Margaret, "Leopold and Edgar are brothers." She noticed Margaret's shocked expression and then looked at Millard, "you have a lot of explaining to do." Then continued into the house.

"Millard, I don't understand any of this."

"I have tried my hardest to make this family happy. I have done everything I possibly could for you and for Leopold, and I have made incredibly bad choices. I cannot undo all the wrongs I have caused and now He will never speak to me again." Millard stormed up the stairs leaving Margaret standing there. Otis was carrying in the children's bags and saw Margaret's distress.

"I am sure everything will be fine, Lady Mountbatten, Leopold just needs some time to deal with the news he has received. I believe he is in quite a lot of pain, your husband has ceased to mention that Leopold has found out his parents were murdered. Losing them was hard enough at the age of 7, the fact they were murdered and that he could've been on that ship as well.I am sure has been very disturbing for him."

She gasped and covered her mouth, "Oh, my word, Otis, I cannot imagine what Leopold is going through. Please tell me my husband knew nothing about this murder."

"He did not. It must be disturbing for him as well."

"And you? You were scheduled to be on that ship as well, as I recall, but Philip asked you to stay with Leopold."

"Yes, my lady, that is true. His grace felt that I would be of much more assistance to his son than himself."

"Leopold would have been lost without you, Otis. You have been much more of a father than my husband could ever be. He tried, but never quite succeeded. Whereas you and Leopold have always had a close relationship."

There was the sound of horses' hooves and they both noticed the shadows of two horses approaching the house, it was obvious Leopold and Charlotte. Otis set the bags down inside the door and went down the steps to meet them, Margaret followed.

Leopold dismounted Mordred and before he even had a chance to help Charlotte off Guinevere his aunt had him caught in an embrace, and he was a bit taken by surprise, "Oh, Leopold, you cannot believe my joy to have you home in one piece."

Leopold wasn't sure what she knew of the lies and deceptions his uncle had fed him all his lives and didn't respond as she would have liked, "Leopold, was is it?"

He pulled away from her, "Aunt Margaret, I am fully aware of my uncles deception over the years and I have an extremely hard time imagining you going along with it. I am hurt that you could be so heartless and not be honest with me. I always believed our relationship was one of trust, I am finding that not to be the case."

He headed over to Guinevere, where Otis was helping Charlotte off. Margaret followed him, "You are mistaken, Leopold. I knew nothing about Edgar being your brother. In fact, I am still trying to understand how that could possibly be."

"I am in no mood to discuss this matter with you or anyone at this time, I need to get Charlotte and the baby settled. Otis, do you mind talking the horses down to the stables? I am sure Tom will be more than happy to see to them, since Jack might be awhile." "Yes, your grace, I will do that right away. The children's bags are sitting by the door, I haven't had time to take them inside."

"I can do that myself. When you are finished I would like to see you in my quarters." "Yes, your grace." Otis took the horses and Leopold took Charlotte's hand and they walked passed Margaret in silence.

Kate had the situation inside under control. While Lily and Mrs. Collins had gone upstairs to get the nursery ready, Kate and Janet had made Sally, the wet nurse comfortable in the sitting room. Janet sitting in the corner rocking the baby and singing to him. Kate trying to make some kind of conversation to make her feel comfortable. Molly had take Charlotte upstairs for a bath and then Leopold walked into the sitting room, the atmosphere changed. Immediately Sally spoke up, "I expect payment for my services, your grace. I have a family at home. And Lord Spencer was offering me quite a large sum of money for nursing his son. With his mother dying, he surely will not survive without me."

"You don't have to inform me of that, Miss Smith. I will pay you whatever my brother was offering. But if you are to remain in my house, you will also obey my rules. You will not speak of my brother or the fact that this child's mother could be dying. I do not take kindly to gossip, and you will not partake in it, is that clear. The most important thing to me at this moment is the welfare of these two children." Kate was shocked by his demanding tone. It wasn't like him to ever to speak to a servant like that. She found it disturbing.

Sally backed off, "Of course, your grace, I didn't mean to offend. I just want what's coming to me, what I deserve." She sat back down. Leopold went to Janet and took the baby from her hands. Janet looked over at Kate.

"Sally, you will follow me and I will show you where you will be sleeping." He walked out the door without even speaking to Janet and Kate and they both found it odd. He picked up the bag on the way upstairs and both Kate and Janet watched him from the door. Janet questioned his behavior, "What is with him?"

"Just when we get over one hump, we get to another." Janet didn't have a clue what she meant. Kate just sighed and proceeded upstairs to their room.

After Leopold had everyone settled in. He insisted on reading to Charlotte, and a good hour passed before he joined Kate in their rooms. Kate was in her nightgown and reading. She put the book down when he entered and went to him,

"Where's Otis? I specifically asked to see Otis."

"I sent Otis to bed."

"Kate." he looked angry.

She put her hand up over his mouth, "I don't want to hear it. Not a word. I am your wife, if you need to talk, you can talk to me. I can help you undress, in fact, there has been times on other occasions that you quite enjoyed it."

"Not now, I am not in the mood."

"I can see that."

"Where's my brandy?"

"Don't you take this out on me, Leopold. I know you are hurting, but I don't deserve this." "All I asked for was my Brandy, how can that possibly be misconstrued as taking it out on you. I am doing no such thing."

"It's your tone of voice."

"And how is my tone of voice, Kate."

"It's condescending."

"I will get my own brandy." He stormed off to the dressers where a decanter of brandy sat And a glass. He poured it, removed his jacket and tie and unbuttoned his shirt. He sat in the chair near the window which faced her and she stood over him, glaring. "What?"

"Are you going to talk about this?"

"This, and what is this?"

"Leopold, stop this game."

"I am trying to relax after an incredibly stressful evening, will you allow me that. I don't feel much like talking at this time about anything. Kate, if I have taken anything out on you, I am incredibly sorry. You are correct in saying you don't deserve it, because you do not. But I have found out in one day that my archenemy is my brother and in that same day he is shot by a woman I was to be engaged to. There is a strong possibility their children will be left orphans, which is a fate I would not wish on my worst enemy. To top that off, my parents were murdered, and by some shear luck I was saved from that fate by being ill with pneumonia and not being able to board that ship. And my uncle, let's not forget that the man who raised me has fed me lies all my life. I do believe I have every right to feel agitated and hurt."

"Yes, you do."

"Thank you for allowing me that, Kate."

"What am I supposed to do? I feel helpless. We get through one thing and something else rears it's ugly head. I can't stand seeing you so miserable. It's like we aren't even meant to be happy."

These words struck Leopold. He was silent. He set the glass down and stood up and took her in his arms, "There you are wrong. I have never been as happy as the day you risked everything to be with me. And things have not always been idealic, but without you I would never have gotten through many of the obstacles thrown in my way the past few months. I have a reason now. A family I care for. But I need some time, Kate. I need some time to deal with what has happened today. Please, understand. I am not shutting you out." He looked in her eyes and smiled sweetly, "There will be plenty of happiness in our lives, and you must believe this. And I realize the announcement of the baby seems to have been pushed aside due to the events of this evening, but believe me I haven't forgotten for one minute that are you are carrying my child."

She corrected him, "Our child, Leopold, I believe I was an integral part of his or her conception, correct me if I am wrong. I am sure you will." She smiled.

He smiled. "Correction is noted. Our child.I do recall you had some part in it, if ever so slightly", he teased.

She was glad to see he had lightened up and stroked the side of his face looking into his eyes, "Come to bed with me, please."

Leopold saw the pleading in her eyes, "I would like to.." he began to respond and Kate knew a but was coming.

"If you would like to what is stopping you?"

"I have a lot on my mind, I told you I need some time. Please, Kate, give me that right now."

"And what do you plan on doing? Sit here in the dark? Come to bed, I'll leave you alone. You can lie awake in the dark in our bed, next to me."

He took her face in his hands, "I want to be alone right now. Maybe I will go down the lab for a while. I don't know. I won't be long, I promise." He gently kissed her.

"I want to go through this with you. I want to be there for you." She was a bit frustrated.

"And you are there for me, more than you know." This time he kissed her, it was more passionate and Kate did not want to let him go. He let go of her and picked up his jacket. "You need to get some sleep. I guarantee you will fall asleep the minute your head hits the pillow and you won't even know that I am gone."

She headed for the bedroom door, and turned around, "Believe me I will know. But you go, and do whatever you think you have to do. Just be there when I wake up, I don't want any more surprises Leopold."

"No surprises, I promise." He then headed out the door and downstairs. Kate stood still for a few seconds. She knew she had to let him deal with this in his own way. She was just hoping this was the end. That they could move forward now, once he sorted things out. But the past was now standing in their way. Kate was extremely tired and let out a sigh. At least now she didn't have to worry that something was going to happen to him every time he left her side. With Edgar gone, he was at least safe from physical harm; it was the mental harm that concerned her.



Leopold was restless and as he walked down the stairs he contemplated what he was going to do. He had told Kate he wanted to be alone but he wasn't sure that was what he wanted. He had so many questions. He had hoped to talk to Otis. But as he looked at his pocket watch he realized it was much to late to disturb him. Then he thought of Jack. He was probably back from Westlake by now. So Leopold left the house and walked down to the stables.

Janet had been relieved when Jack had returned. The image of Edgar's body falling to the floor after the shot played over and over in her head. And she was afraid to go to sleep because of the nightmares she might have. Jack had comforted her and they had made love and she had fallen asleep in his arms, with a smile upon her face. He was glad that Edgar could no longer hurt her, and they could move on with their lives with the new baby and the new house. He was just about to drift off to sleep when he heard movement in the stables and then was startled to hear a quiet tap on the door. He didn't want Janet to be disturbed and he quickly pulled on his trousers and a shirt and went to the door to find Leopold standing there, "Leopold."

Leopold looked around him to see Janet sleeping, "You were asleep, I am terribly sorry to disturb you. This matter can wait until morning." He was beginning to walk away and Jack closed the door behind him and stepped outside.

"Leopold, wait."

When he turned he saw the desperation in Leopold's face. In need of a friend.

"I doubt I would've been able to sleep anyhow, we can talk in the tack room." Leopold followed him and they sat at the small table, in the corner where Jack kept records of all the horses' visits with vets, shoeing, etc. He moved the paper work aside and pulled out a couple of bottles of ale from behind some books and handed a bottle to Leopold.

They were quiet for a while, Jack expected Leopold to start and he said nothing. "Leopold, are you alright? You obviously have something on your mind."

"Something would be a blessing, I could deal with that. But I am afraid my mind is bogged down with numerous matters, and there is where I am finding the difficulty."

"It's been one hell of day."

"You can say that again. A day I could've made do without."

"But it's over, Leopold. You can move on now."

He stood up and paced the floor, "That is easy for you to say, Jack. You wanted Edgar dead because of the all the suffering he put Janet through. Now he is gone, you needn't worry about a thing. Your life will go own, Janet will no longer be afraid every time she steps out the door. It is a relief to you."

"And look at all the grief he has put you through, Leopold. Your debts will now be cleared. You won't lose your family home. You will no longer have to be concerned about losing your life at his hand."

"He was my brother for god's sake, Jack. I am supposed to be pleased that my brother has been murdered?" Leopold was clearly upset about this, and Jack had a hard time understanding why.

"You never knew him as a brother. How can you call him that?"

"Because that is what he was. And if I would've known all those years ago, maybe things wouldn't have turned out this way."

"Do you really believe that the two of you would have had some wonderful idealic childhood together? Leopold, you are a dreamer. Edgar had a sick warped mind even as a child. He was evil to start out with. Your uncle did the right thing."

Leopold was now furious. "How can you say that? My uncle told me lies my whole life. He deceived me. The man who raised me, who I trusted and relied on."

"You would not be the man you are today, if you would have been raised alongside Edgar Spencer. Everything you are is because of what your family has done for you. Your uncle and aunt, Otis, the rest of the staff."

"And what of my parents murder? How can that be justified at all. Obviously I am who I am because of that dreadful occurrence as well."

Jack didn't know what to say.

"It was bad enough to know about the accident and to have nightmares for years concerning ships and fire. But I got through that, believing it was an accident. Now I have to deal with the fact that it was not an accident that Lord Spencer wanted Edgar to have everything and make my family suffer. I should have been on that ship with them. I should be dead."

"And thank god you are not. Leopold, it is a horrible tragedy. But it happened many years ago. You can't bring them back. It isn't your fault you survived. You need to move on. You have wonderful memories of your parents. At least you have those. My mother died giving birth to me, I could blame myself for that, the pain I caused my father those first few years because I was a reminder of what he once had with her. Surely he would have rather had her alive than to have had a son. But these things happen. You are not to blame for what happened to them. You could not have stopped them from going. It's time for you to move on. You have a beautiful wife and a child on the way. Balinor is going to be the grand house that it once was, with a master who is the finest, most honorable man I have ever known. And whether he likes it or not, he is one hell of a Duke. Much grander than his father or grandfather. You have never cared much for the monarchy and being born into it, but you must see you are a new breed of monarchy and are allowing changes to occur. It's a start. There is hope for this country yet."

Leopold stood back and looked at Jack, "I don't deserve such compliments."

"Some people believe you do."

Leopold was silent and sat back down in the chair, "I am not acting much like this Duke you described at this moment am I? Much more like a spoilt child."

"Well, we all have our moments. And you have every right to feel upset after what transpired this evening."

"When you left Westlake, everything was under control, I take it."

"I wouldn't use that wording precisely. Edgar's body was taken to the mortuary, Millicent to the doctor's until she can be moved to a hospital in London tomorrow and Lady Spencer was medicated and is spending the evening incarcerated until Dr. Townsend can write up papers for her to be committed to a proper institution."

"That was kind of you to offer your services."

"It was the least I could do. You know, Leopold, I was going to kill him."

"Yes, I am aware of that. As well, was Janet. I must say, it is lucky for you Millicent did the deed for you. She will have a much easier time at trial than either one of you, that is if she survives."

"You are feeling responsible for her as well, aren't you?"

"Jack if circumstances were different I would have been married to her, she would never have sunk so low. I threw her to Edgar, when I told her I was not ready to commit."

"But circumstances aren't different. Stop playing the what if game, because it will get you nowhere. Millicent made her own life, and she chose to shoot Edgar. It has nothing to do with you."

"And what about the children?"

"It was very honorable of you to take them in, but I am not so sure it was the right decision."

"And what did you propose I do, leave them, so that they would be placed in some kind of a foster home. They are my flesh and blood, my family."

"And related to the bastard who has caused your family such pain. Every time you look at them don't you see him?"

"No, I do not. I see two innocent children who have lost one parent, if you could even call him that and are very likely to lose their mother. All they want is someone to care for them, someone who will love them. And that is myself. I am not doing this out of obligation because it is the honorable thing to be done, even though I do believe it is. I happen to care for both of them and I will not have them grow up as orphans with no family whatsoever. They will be living in my house and I expect you and everyone else who abides here treat them with the respect they both deserve."

"Why did you come here, Leopold? My opinion clearly has no bearing on any of your decisions."

"I understand where you are coming from Jack. Edgar has caused Janet more pain then anyone deserves, and any man in your position would feel the kind of hatred you have of this man, but to take it out on his children is absurd. And I do respect your opinions. I came here tonight because you are a friend. You have always been honest and open; I know where I stand with you. I value you that more than you will ever know."

"Then you must respect how I feel about Edgar's family at this time."

"I am also Edgar's family."

Jack looked up at him, he had a point. Leopold knew he had stumped him. "I will never see you in that light I am afraid. I know you will always wonder what it would have been like to have a brother, but Leopold, Edgar would never have been that brother you longed for."

"I know that." He took a swig of his ale.

"Ah, I forgot to tell you the Commander will be paying you a visit in the morning, to go over funeral arrangements."

Leopold nearly choked on his ale, "Funeral arrangements?"

"Hey, remember you are Edgar's closest sane relative at the moment."

"That should be an enjoyable experience." He said sarcastically.

Jack noticed Leopold had relaxed considerably, he felt in his pocket and pulled out Kate's wallet, "I have something that belongs to Kate."

He handed it over to Leopold and Leopold was a little alarmed, "Where did you find this?"

"At Westlake, in fact very close to Edgar's dead body. I know how Kate doesn't let it out of her sight. It is the reason she went back there this afternoon."

This was news to Leopold, "I suppose you have had a look inside."

"Actually, I have not."

Leopold held the wallet in his hand, turning it over, "You are not curious, what the big secret is?"

"It is hardly of any importance to me, Leopold. I care for you and Kate, nothing can change that. If there are things you must keep from others I have to respect that. There are somethings that are not my business."

Leopold handed it back, "Go ahead, look inside."

"I really have no desire to."

"I insist you do. It is better that you know but I cannot guarantee you will understand."

Leopold set the wallet down in front of Jack and Jack eyed it and then Leopold. He picked it up and then slowly opened it and looked at the contents thoroughly, a questioning look on his face. He then looked at Leopold. "You are right, I don't understand. The contents are definitely like nothing I have ever seen before."

"Would you believe me if I told you I had met Kate in the 21st century."

Jack nervously laughed, "Really, Leopold, you are pulling my leg."

"On the contrary, I am not. And I am also not crazy and Kate is not involved in the supernatural."

Jack stood up and now he was pacing the floor, still looking at the contents of the wallet. While Leopold continued to talk, "The photo is of Kate and her brother Charlie. He is an actor in New York City. And the New York Drivers license. Although Kate did not own a car In New York."

"A car? What is a car?"

"The things I could tell you, Jack. You would never believe me. I spent 5 days in the future and it was truly amazing."

"I don't understand. How could you possibly have spent any time in the future? It is impossible."

"I said that as well. But it happened. That wallet is proof, Kate is proof."

"Does anyone else know about this?"

"Do you really think I could have told anyone about this?"

"Then why are you telling me? I think I was better off not knowing."

"Because you would have always wondered what we were keeping from you. And I trust you. After today's events I have concluded that laying all the cards out on the table, as they say, is what is important. No deceptions."

Jack was still baffled by the contents. And even more baffled by what Leopold was telling him. But this was Leopold. Honest, open, straightforward. Jack had no reason to doubt him, but believing such an idea seemed insane.

"Like I said, grasping this whole concept and then understanding it, well, unless you have experienced it, it is unfathomable. And tonight probably isn't the best night for me to go into detail of how it happened. But I will, I have notes on it in my lab, and have been researching it more intently. I would like to share my findings with you if you are interested."

"Interested? How could I not be." Jack put his hand to his head, "Edgar had her wallet didn't he? Oh, god, Leopold, talk about getting into the wrong hands."

"He didn't know what to make of it whatsoever, but I have no doubt he would have turned it over to the authorities."

There was a sound from outside the tack room and the door opened, Janet stood there in a dressing gown rubbing her eyes, "What is going on? All this shouting and carrying on? Haven't both of you had enough for one evening?"

Jack went over to her and put his arm around her, "I am sorry, love, Leopold and I were just talking."

"Talking? It sounded more like arguing. Which Leopold is good at."

"Janet!" Jack scolded her.

Leopold just smiled, "I suppose I am quite proficient at it, living with my uncle has given me a sparing partner for life." As he said this he thought of Millard. He was angry with him but at the same time loved him dearly.

"So Uncle Leopold you now will have the opportunity to practice all of you own uncles tactics in raising your nephew and niece."

"It is highly unlikely I will use him as an example of raising children."

Jack smiled, "He hasn't done all that bad, Leopold. Surely you can see that. And now you are finding yourself in the same position he was in upon your parents' death. How overwhelming it must have been for him to take you under his wing so to speak and groom you to become a Duke. He had no prior experience with children."

"You are on his side, Jack."

"Hey, he has been a bastard and made some wrong choices but he's only human and he did do everything he could for you, just like you will do for Charlotte and the baby. Do you think that the baby will grow up one day and have the same bitter feelings for you as you have for your uncle?"

"I will not make those bad choices."

"Aha, you say that, but you might. You do not know what the future holds." As Jack said that he smiled and thought of Kate, "Well, at least you don't know what the immediate future holds."

Janet looked puzzled, "What did you mean by that?"

"No concern of yours, my darling." He kissed her forehead.

"But I can see the looks between you and Leopold, something is going on."

"Isn't always something going on here, Janet? This is Balinor remember. I can't think of a time that there wasn't something going on."

He was laughing at her, "I am going back to bed, and if you know what is good for you Jack Blackmore, you will do the same. Leopold can come back at a reasonable hour in the future if he wants to discuss things with you" She then turned to Leopold, " and I would suggest that you might want to spend some time with your wife, who is obviously concerned about you. And Jack is right about your uncle. He made some bad choices but he is your uncle and cares for you deeply, you should be able to forgive him. One day you might be in the same situation with Charlotte or Philip and I would think you would want forgiveness, but it is your decision, Leopold."

Leopold looked at her seriously, "He treated you badly as well."

"He sent me away when he thought I knew too much, he was protecting you. I would have done anything to protect you as well. I do not hold anything against him for sending me away. Everything that has happened has lead me to where I am right now.being with Jack. Don't forget Leopold, your uncle lead you to Kate. If you would not have gone to New York, you would never have met Kate."

Janet was right. Even though Millard had disapproved of her, he would never have been at the gala that night, never have followed Stuart and fallen off the bridge if it wasn't for Millard. There was a stillness in the room. Jack handed the wallet back to Leopold, and Leopold put it in his pocket. They nodded at each other, an understanding between them. Janet found it curious, Leopold spoke up, "I won't detain you any longer. We are all exhausted from the evening's events and are in much need of sleep."

Janet smiled, "Sleep, who is thinking of sleep.?"

"On that note, I will depart and see you both in the morning." He smiled and Jack and Janet walked him out, as he turned to head up towards the house, "Well, I believe I have a lot of issues I need to deal with. But as always, Jack, you have opened my eyes to things I might otherwise not have seen."

"But Leopold, you would have seen them in due time, I am just a good sounding board. But I am glad to have been of some assistance." Janet was snuggling up to him. "Are you two through yet? You are worse than 2 women gossiping, you never shut up." Jack raised his eyebrows at Leopold, "Women!"

"Ah, my sentiments exactly. Speaking of which, I have one I should get back to." Janet started pulling on Jack's arm, "Then go, Leopold, please.Goodnight." Leopold smiled as he headed back up to the house.



The house was quiet and still as Leopold entered it. The events of the evening had worn everyone out. He was surprised to find his uncle in his study, asleep on the couch. Leopold looked down at him. Recalling all the lies he had been told and then placing them against the joyful times in his life that his uncle had been responsible for. He found a blanket and gently placed it over him and his uncle stirred. His eyes slowly opened and he was surprised to find Leopold there, "Leopold" he began to sit up.

"You fell asleep, I was only trying to make you more comfortable, I realize you frown upon my presence in your study.but I was just passing by and.."

"You are in no need of an explanation. Your presence is well received at this time and any time in the future."

"I am surprised. You have changed your tune considerably." Millard still sensed his bitterness and knew he had to tread lightly.

"Will you hear me out, Leopold? Will you allow me to explain my reasoning behind the wrongful decisions I have made?"

"I am extremely tired, uncle." Leopold was not prepared for a confrontation at this time. "I for one will not be able to sleep comfortably until this matter is resolved between us." "Uncle, it is not that simple. It is 20 years of lies and deceit, it will not be resolved in one evening."

"I am fully aware of that fact, but it will put my mind at ease knowing that I have made some sort of effort in regaining your trust."

"Trust?" he laughed. He paced the room and went to the book shelf, fingering the spines, trying not to burst out in anger, which he was more than capable of.

"You have every reason never to trust me again. I have acted foolishly in the matters that have been bestowed upon this family. When Lady Spencer came to me with the information of Edgar's paternity, my brother and his wife, your parents had only been dead for 6 months. You were a very distraught child, having nightmares and hiding behind Otis or Nanny over the slightest disturbance. Your aunt and I were overly concerned upon your welfare. We had never been parents and all of a sudden we had a troubled 7 years old, and we both knew that the situation would have to be dealt with delicately in order for you to get through this difficult time. I chose not to tell your aunt of Lady Spencer's blackmail. I felt the less she knew the better. I could deal with the situation. I was very wrong indeed. It only got worse, I dug myself into a hole I could not get out of."

Leopold turned around abruptly, "I can understand why I wasn't told as a child. But why did you continue to deceive me once I became an adult? Didn't you ever think that I could possibly help get our family through this?"

"I toyed with the idea, but always found some reason to keep you and your aunt from knowing the truth. And of course it became worse once Edgar found out. He was always dying to tell you. And Lady Spencer had her hands full keeping his mouth shut."

Leopold took a deep breath, trying to control his anger, "He was laughing at me all along. How dare you keep this from me, Uncle. You had no right."

"I realize that now. But I cannot change the past, Leopold. I made mistakes." "Many mistakes." He said sarcastically.

"Yes, Many mistakes. But one thing is certain, you have become a fine man, who I am incredibly proud of."

"Really, you could have fooled me. You find my choice of a bride unsatisfactory, my inventions a waste of time and my choice of friends below me."

"I have grown to care for Kate, she isn't what I would have chosen for you, but she is a part of this family now and I know it has taken me sometime to accept your fascination with inventions but I believe I am finally realizing what they mean to you. And as far as your choice of friends, I find Jack a remarkable young man who this family could not do without." "But not appropriate for a close friendship with the Duke."

"I am trying, Leopold. I am an old man and change is not an easy thing for me. You have not been the easiest, most cooperative young man.always fighting your birthright, your title..argumentative, stubborn."

"Enough, I do get the picture, Uncle."

"And now you are finding yourself in my shoes."

"I don't know what you mean."

"You have taken upon the responsibility of Edgar's children."

"Which no doubt you do not approve of."

"I must admit I originally found it a hasty decision on your part, but as I have thought about it this evening, I realize it was an incredible gracious gesture. To take on the children of a man who wanted you dead, not many men would want anything to do with them under those circumstances."

Leopold looked at him differently. He actually approved a decision he had made. Which was surprising for Millard.

"Don't look at me so shocked. I am not such a tyrant that you make me out to be. You are lead by your heart Leopold. And I am not sure where that comes from; I suppose your mother or possibly the servants had something to do with it. I envy you in those respects. And this matter concerning the children was from your heart. I have no doubt they will both look up to you and you will become the father they never had, unlike the relationship I have had with you. I was not the loving father figure you could have benefited from growing up, you relied on Otis for that close bond. I have made many mistakes, Leopold, and the biggest one was not being there for you."

Leopold stood in silence, he thought he noticed a tear in his Uncle's eye, "but I did what I thought best for you. Every decision I ever made I weighed heavily on its effect on you and your aunt. They may not have been the right choices, but I never meant to harm either one of you. I ask your forgiveness, but I understand if you cannot give it. that is all I have to say." Millard stood up, "I am exhausted and I will retire to my room now." Leopold knew Millard turning away meant he was in actuality crying. Leopold had never seen his uncle cry, and he knew that he had to make a move. Millard was apologizing and Leopold had to follow his heart once again.

"Uncle Millard, please wait." Millard was just about to head out the door and he turned. Leopold approached him and put his arms around him, he saw the tears in his eyes and Leopold in turn felt tears in his own, "You have been there for me, Uncle, in your on way. I never questioned your love for me; I knew it was there all along. And maybe you were not the father figure I had longed for, but I am the man I am today because you were in my life." They both hugged and began to cry.



The next morning Kate was concerned that Leopold was not in bed. Where had he been all night? She headed out to the hallway and was surprised to find Margaret looking concerned as well. "I take it by your expression, Katherine, Leopold did not come to bed last evening." Kate couldn't understand how she knew this.

"Either has Millard. I just hope they haven't killed each other." They both headed down the stairs and were surprised to find the staff members hovering around the dining room door, "What in god's name is going on here?" Margaret barked.

Mrs. Collins stood back, and looked from one member of staff to another, who each in turn bowed their head.

Kate could see there was to be no answer, "Well, I am going to find out." She started towards the door and Mrs. Collins stopped her, "I wouldn't go in there ma'am. His grace and lordship are not themselves and have tossed us all out. It is none of my business, but they both seem to have had a considerable amount to drink."

"What could they possibly be doing in the dining room?" Kate questioned, "I am going in." Kate walked in and it was silent. There was not a sign of either one of them in the dining room. She turned around to look at Margaret who had followed her, and then back at Mrs. Collins.

"They'll be in the kitchen, ma'am and cook is beside herself with the disruption they are causing in her schedule."

Kate and Margaret headed into the kitchen and found a sight for sore eyes. Millard was on the floor leaning against a cabinet, a bottle in hand and flour covering him from head to foot, Leopold was at least standing, and as always immaculately presented, knife in hand, "Ladies, is there something I can do for you?"

"Leopold, what is going on?"

"I would think that was obvious, we are making breakfast. We haven't eaten since lunch yesterday."

"Cook could do that."

"We didn't want to bother her. We are doing just fine." Millard added.

Kate laughed, "I can see that." Margaret too sniggered behind her hand.

"You are not laughing at me are you darling?" Millard asked.

"Of course not." She went over to him to help him up and he pulled her down on top of him. Managing to cover her with flour, he held her close and kissed her, something Margaret was not used to. It was long and passionate. Millard was always so reserved. She was a bit taken a back, "Millard."

"I don't believe I have kissed you like that since we were courting, Maggie.oh, what a time that was."

Leopold smiled at them both and Kate looked at him, "What have you done to Millard?" "I find him rather pleasant, don't you? And look at them, Kate." Leopold put his arm around her and held her close, "Look at the way he looks at her.."

"Much like the way you look at me."

He looked down at her and smiled, "Precisely, not a bad thing."

"And you have talked things through?"

"I think we have come to an understanding, yes.I think you will see a change in this household starting today.."

"The staff thinks you have gone crazy."

"Well, I must admit, there is definitely an air of insanity about.but I think I am thinking pretty rationally at the moment. I have had a lot of clearing of the mind in the last 8 hours." She looked at him a bit concerned.

"Nothing to worry about, I assure you." He held her tight, "I am happy, Kate.happy with the life I have and I have come to realize that I may not have had parents or siblings growing up, but I had the equivalent, possibly more suitable equivalents in actuality.Jack and Janet were like my brother and sister, and I am as close to them today as when we were children.I have always been able to talk to Jack, and he has always been of great assistance when I have needed him. That is what having a brother is about; correct me if I am wrong. Wasn't it like that with Charles for you?"

Kate sighed and thought of Charlie with fondness, "He got on my nerves a lot of the time and he could be such a baby. I often felt I had to hold his hand, but we talked and he listened..he was always there for me during the good and the bad.just like Jack for you." "And Otis, a friend, a confidant.a teacher.I could not have gotten through my life without him..but I could also not have gotten through it without my Uncle. He kept me safe and gave me the kind of life he and my father had.he loved me and still does, I cannot turn my back on my family.the only family I have ever really known."

Kate looked up at him, "And Edgar?"

"A brother by blood, does not make a brother. I will make sure he is given a proper burial, I will try and tell his children about him as they grow older, something positive.there must be something positive..but I will not dwell on the fact that I never knew him. I knew him, I knew him as the cruel, vindictive man he was.he was not my brother. I cannot turn back the clocks; I cannot bring my parents back. I must hold on to the memories I have of them and move forward, with the family I have now, you, the baby".he gently caressed her stomach and smiled, "my uncle and aunt," he looked over at them, still sitting on the floor, Margaret trying to clean the flour off him, both laughing, "Janet, Jack and Otis, Charlotte and Philip and Millicent and the staff. Here is where my loyalties lie."

Kate smiled up at him, "I don't think anyone ever doubted that, Leopold."

"Except for possibly myself."

"You are your own worse enemy.take some credit where credit is due, you have done one hell of a job pulling this household together during times of crisis, and this time will be no different."

"Only because I have the love of a wonderful woman and the support from fine friends and family. You also need to take some of the credit, my dear." He squeezed her tightly and kissed her, Millard cleared his throat. Leopold turned to look at him, "What is it, Uncle Millard, can you not see that I am busy."

"Breakfast, my boy, I desperately need breakfast."

Kate went to the cupboard and pulled out an apron, "Breakfast.I think I am going to take over."

Leopold turned to her, "You find me not capable of scrapping up a bit of breakfast, as you recall I was more than competent in New York on my own at Stuarts."

Millard overheard some of this conversation, "What are you on about, Leopold?"

"Nothing, uncle." He turned back to Kate; she smiled and passed him a bowl and spoon.

"Okay, master chef, let's see you whip up some eggs. I'll take care of the toast and bacon."

"Without a toaster, that wonderful 20th century invention?" He said sarcastically, "How will you manage, my dear?" She took a dishtowel and gave him a swat on the behind. He smiled and got to work.. Margaret finally managed to get Millard up, and sat him at the table.. She proceeded to go and help Kate and Leopold. By this time the staff were hovering and peeking at the door, all in utter amazement of the goings on. Janet, who had been helping Sally, the wet nurse with the baby appeared and laughed at the sight of the 3 of them. Charlotte giggled, "I want to help"

Before Janet could stop her, Charlotte had run into the kitchen and Leopold gave her an eggbeater, he showed her how to use it, while he continued to break eggs into the bowl. Jack had heard of the commotion and showed up putting his arms around his wife, "What the hell is going on?"

"I have never seen anything like it. What did you say to him last night?"

Jack just smiled, "I only wish I could take credit, this is explicitly Leopold's doing.I think Balinor is going to experience many changes in the next few months and years."

"Like what"

"Only time will tell, my dear."

Leopold turned to smile at them both, "Come on you two, how about setting the table. We could use a hand. Let me see, there are at least 16 of us.Jack help me out."

"Right-O, Leopold, I am on it." He went to the cupboard and began to set the kitchen table where the servants normally ate, Janet opened the cutlery drawer and got out enough silverware and began to help him. The kitchen was now bustling, everyone doing their part.soon the staff's expressions had changed from utter amazement to one's of enjoyment.they all pitched in. Leopold stood back for a minute, and looked over his household. He smiled, he was content, this is how it would be from now on.it was time for change..the events of last night were still with him but they seemed less significant, all that was important was the people in this room, the joy they were all experiencing.and that in itself gave him such gratification.he snapped out of his daydream when Charlotte tugged on his shirt, "Uncle Leopold, the eggs, they are burning."

Leopold quickly began turning them, and Kate was eyeing him." so this is your idea of the meal being a result of reflection and study?" she then smiled.

And he gave her a look back and continued with his cooking.she stopped what she was doing and slipped her hands around him from behind, "I love you, Leopold Mount batten."

"And I you, Kate Mountbatten." He turned slightly smiling, she then returned to her toast and bacon on the stove.she realized at that moment they could get through anything.it didn't matter if it was 1876 or the year 2001.their love could withstand the good and the bad in any century.and Kate knew there would be many more hurdles and tests, but they had each other..which was all that really mattered.