Abigail's mind was racing, unsure of how she had gotten herself into the mess she was in. Just a few hours before, her dear Walter had gently placed the crown of gold atop her head, naming her queen. She had been genuinely happy, relieved that the people of Albio were so willing to accept her usurpation of Logan's seat on the throne. Her most valuable allies and more importantly, friends, stood beside her on the dais, their presence encouraging.

None smiled broader than Ben.

Now, she was walking toward the throne room, her demeanor outwardly calm, poised and confident, but inside, she was at war. First on the agenda was the matter of her brother's fate.

The young page's voice rang clear, announcing her arrival. Even through the crowded room, she easily spotted Ben, Walter and Page standing on either side of the gilded throne. It wasn't until she sat, facing the mass of onlookers that she was able to find her brother, hands shackled, guards with swords drawn flanking him.

"Today we are assembled before Her Majesty, Queen Abigail, to bear witness to her first official act on behalf of the crown. The decision to be made regards the matter of her brother, Logan, for the crimes he has committed against the people of Albion." Bowing, the page stepped aside.

Hands neatly folded in her lap, Abigail watched as Walter stepped forward without hesitation, his lips moving behind the coarse grey hair that covered his face. His words never made it to her ears, her mind wracking itself in indecision.

It was Page who snapped her out of her reverie, and back to the matter at hand. She was surprised to see the rebel leaders face uncharacteristically serene, a far cry from the hardened look she typically wore. "Your Highness, you have succeeded where many thought you would not. You have also proven yourself to be honorable and compassionate in your journey to the throne. The Resistance will stand behind the judgment you make today, regardless, though we ask your favor in pardoning Logan." Voices raged over Page's own, causing her to huff. Turning to the crowd, she asked for quiet. "No more blood needs to be shed. Let the reign of Good Queen Abigail begin and remain as one of tolerance and peace."

Turning to Ben, the young queen looked at him expectantly. "Have you any words for us to consider, Captain Finn?"

Bowing his head respectfully, he took a step forward. "I do not, My Queen. It would be unfair for me to request any outcome, as my judgment is highly biased. Those loyal to you, including your guard and armies, give you full support, no matter your choice today."

Abigail's façade of indifference cracked, confused by his words. Quickly recovering, she nodded and replaced the mask. "Very well, Captain Finn. Logan, have you anything to say in your own defense?"

"I do not, Sister. Anything I could say should not be a matter for peasant's and petty soldier's ears. I only wish you to know that I have taken the liberty of preparing several documents for you, regarding possible threats and diplomatic relations. I expect no mercy from my usurper."

Swallowing hard, Abigail's eyes narrowed. "My dear brother, I had hoped you would share with us all your grand plan for Albion, what with child labor, murder and treachery on your daily agenda. However I can see your reasons are your own, and your own cowardice will keep them that way. Logan, I shall not grant your pardon, for it is clear you harbor no remorse for your actions. Guards, if you would remove him?"

The page's voice again rang out, clearing the room of its spectators. Page followed with several members of the Resistance. Soon, only Walter, Ben and the queen remained in relative silence, none knowing where to begin, though it was Walter who took the plunge.

"What was that, Finn?" he began, lips pulling into a frown. "All you've said since Swift's death was how Logan had to pay-"

"He is!"

"-and today, you finally learned how to keep your trap shut?"

"I couldn't ask her to do that, Wally. I'm surprised you did so easily," the captain defended, arms crossed over his chest.

"Gentlemen, please," Abigail sighed. "You both got what you wanted, whether it was voiced publicly or not. I do not believe that it needs to be rehashed yet again."

Walter's large, worn hand clasped her shoulder. "Sorry, Abigail. Just know that Elliot is finally resting to peace. And Swifty and Jammy and every other sod that died because of Logan."

Nodding mutely, she looked her mentor in the eyes. "Go and see to it that it is being carried out in a way that Mother would approve of?" Giving half a smile, Walter agreed and stalked out of the ornate room. "Did I do the right thing, Benjamin?" she questioned, getting up from the throne to stand before him. "Did I do what was necessary?

"I think you did, Abi," Ben admitted ruefully, wrapping his arms around her. "I didn't want you to have to, it's not a fair thing to ask of you, but I can't deny that it's what I wanted."

Resting her head on his shoulder, her breath, unsteady and warm, fell against his collar bone. "I did it for you. I could not deny you the justice you sought."

Chapped lips brushed against her temple. "Why would you do such a thing?"

"Because I love you too much to let the reason for your pain continue to haunt you."