A/N Thanks for all the nice replies. I appreciate it.

Chapter 2

Emily plopped next to her mother. At seventeen, her life consisted of schooling and etiquette classes. "Mother, please tell me what is bothering you." For several days, her mother hasn't attended dinner so she's starting to worry.

Monica sighed as the words sitting on her tongue left a bitter taste in her mouth. "Your father has made a decision that will be hard to accept."

Emily frowned. "If it makes you so unhappy, why is he persisting?" Usually, her father ends up giving her mother whatever she wants. For him not to, gives her a sense of foreboding.

"It's not that simple. He's trying to save us all."

"Can you tell me?"

Monica gripped Emily's hand. "I suppose Jason knows already."

Emily's eyes widened. "Is he sending him away?"

"Sort of. You see, Jason is going to marry Queen Elizabeth. You can't let on that you know."

Shock settles on Emily, and she can't fathom it. Her brother had never shown any interest in being betrothed. She swears he has a one-track mind. Johnny said that he had a sword up his bottom when it came to girls which made her giggle for an hour.

"I know you will miss him, but I promise that once everything is settled, you can visit him often."

A tear ran down Emily's cheek. "I just love him so much and he's always away." She worries so much about his safety because he's so fearless. The stories she heard of his actions in battles had given her nightmares for weeks. Monica had told her that it served her right for eavesdropping.

"It will be hard on us all, but the alliance will go a long way to ensuring peace."

Emily wiped her face. "Then we'll be strong for him." Jason doesn't like to be controlled, so she wonders how he's feeling.

Monica forced a smile. "I'm very proud of you, Emily."

They hugged as Monica cherished the moment.

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Elizabeth mounted a horse, flanked by Francis and Georgie. The convoy is ready, so they move forward. Thankfully, the sun is peaking through the clouds to warm their skin.

Her mind is running a million miles a minute. Not knowing what King Alan was expecting from her had her stomach tied in knots.

"Breathe, Elizabeth."

Her head jerks in Francis's direction.

He smirked as Liz rolled her eyes.

Georgie chuckled. Her life thus far has been very interesting. Her mother was a handmaiden for Elizabeth's mother, so since she brought Georgie to work with her, she and Elizabeth had become close friends. When it was time to choose someone to be at her side, Georgie was Elizabeth's first choice since they had always been thick as thieves. This is a new journey, but she has faith in her Queen and friend.

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While Johnny and several members of their welcome party approached the caravan from Guildenhall, Jason had headed in the other direction to greet King Anthony of Vasily because he drew the shorter stick. He can't stand how Princess Claudia stares at him like he's a meal. Two other families are attending: King Robert of Belwyn, and King Spencer of Rochester. Because of the surprise engagement, they are having a party to celebrate.

"Greetings," Johnny said as Elizabeth moved forward.

"Greetings."

He smiled. At least she's beautiful. He might have to lie to Jason to mess with his head. "Queen Elizabeth, welcome to Mayvn."

"Thank you."

The large convoy moved ahead. The castle was now in sight, so Elizabeth took the time to gaze upon the picturesque mountains. Guildenhall has hills and beautiful flower-filled fields, but they somehow didn't compare to the glorious mountainside that Mayvn seemed to be carved into. "It's beautiful."

"Aye," Johnny said.

"Have you been to Guildenhall?"

"I went a long time ago. There was a lass I had met."

Liz smiled. "I see. Thank you for treating me normally."

Johnny chuckled. "I did my research." It was an interesting study since she was unlike any Queen he's ever known.

While she understands her position, people tend to keep her at arms-length and aren't as casual with her. Besides, she likes the wicked gleam in his eyes.

He must admit, he's surprised she's not in a carriage. While he heard that she was not typical and snobby, it was still unexpected.

As they rode closer, Elizabeth could feel the nervousness grow in her belly. The meeting will occur shortly after they arrive, and her instincts tell her that King Alan might ask more than she can give. There is one thing she will not do, and that would be to step aside. Her people need her and are willing to fight because they believe in her.

Once they reached the castle, Johnny slid off his horse and then moved to Elizabeth's side, offering his hand. While she didn't need assistance, she allowed him anyway. He slightly bowed before helping Georgie.

"Thank you," Georgie said, mesmerized by his eyes.

Johnny smirked as he took her in. She's cute and looks feisty—just his type.

Elizabeth bit her lip so she wouldn't smile, not used to seeing her handmaiden so enthralled. George usually thinks men are idiots.

Meanwhile, about an hour away, Jason stares straight ahead as he listens to King Anthony prattle on. He swears the man is crazy, and Claudia was dropped on her head as a child.

"You know, we could join our kingdoms very easily," she said distracting Jason from his thoughts.

"What?"

"You heard me. I would make you a good wife."

Jason's head jerked away from her as he tried to keep down his bile.

"I don't mind the strong, silent type. We don't need to talk in—"

His head whipped around, cutting her off. "Must you be so crass?"

She grinned. "I'm sure that you're no prude."

"It's not the point."

"I will have you one day—mark my words."

He muttered under his breath, wondering if he could survive the next hour, hoping that Elizabeth was nothing like the so-called woman riding next to him.

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Elizabeth and Georgie are led to a room so she can freshen up. Guests are still arriving, so the meeting won't start until everyone is accounted for.

"What do you think?" Georgie asks as Liz's things are moved into the room.

"It's nice." There is a huge four-poster bed that she would love to nap on right now.

"I will be next door." She'll share the room with several other handmaidens, which is fine. Hopefully, she'll get some good gossip. "Are you going to change?"

"I don't want to, but perhaps it will be more suitable."

Georgie studied her. Despite Elizabeth's need for comfort, decorum must be followed in these circumstances.

"I think you should wear the burgundy frock."

Elizabeth nodded.

Georgie got to work, leading Elizabeth to a basin where she washed up and then assisted her in getting into the fitted gown. It would surprise some that Liz designed a lot of her wardrobe. She fought against the typical styles and while it was nothing scandalous, it still brought whispers from visitors and she's sure that will be the case here. She likes less material, so the dress doesn't billow like most women wear, but the jacket is adorned, and the length is shorter which accentuates her waist as opposed to the longer ones that are so common in royal settings.

Georgie and another handmaiden worked to do her hair which is now piled atop her head as they tried to control her curly ringlets. Red rouge was applied to her plump lips, and kohl liner was minimally applied to her eyes since Elizabeth didn't like garish makeup.

She looks fresh and gorgeous as her natural beauty shined through. A few jewels were placed in her hair, and Georgie helped her into her slippers.

"Perfection."

Liz nodded. She doesn't mind dressing up but has a different style than most. She'll be the only woman at the meeting and doesn't want her attire to be a distraction.

There is a knock on the door. "King Alan requests your presence, Your Majesty."

Georgie opened the door to find Johnny looking more formal in a longer coat.

"Hello, milady."

She smiled. "Hello."

Johnny's attention went to Elizabeth. He bowed and then smiled before holding out his hand. She complied, lightly gripping his hand for a moment while she traveled through the doorway, and they were off to the battle room.

"I hope your accommodations are suitable," King Alan said.

King Robert smiled. "They are most generous. Anna is getting a tour from your wife."

"And you?" Alan said to King Anthony.

"They will do."

His mood swings are legendary, but Alan hopes he'll be on his best behavior. His son Johnny and advisor Trevor stood off to the side next to Robert's brother Mac.

Alan's eyes fixed on King Lucas who answered before he could ask.

"It's fine. The bottle of scotch was a nice touch."

"I know it is your favorite." Alan can't stand the man, but since his sister is married to him, he tolerates the drunkard. His sons Lucky and Ethan are off to the side.

Everyone is surprised that Jason isn't in the room, but AJ is there looking disinterested.

The door opens and Elizabeth enters the room. Her beauty is striking, and they had never seen such a dress before, although it suits her just fine.

Johnny noticed the slight tension in her posture and leaned in. "You're doing great. Just be yourself. They'll come around."

Elizabeth nodded, appreciating the support from an unexpected ally. As they approached the high table, King Alan and the other monarch's expressions were veiled by their political facade.

John swallows hard as she moves forward, and AJ can't help but be enthralled. Her head lifts and her gaze lands on Alan as the men stand.

"Queen Elizabeth, I hope you have recovered from your travels."

When she returned his smile, Mac almost laughed because half the room sighed. "I have. Thank you for being so gracious."

He nodded and held his hand out as a man pulled out of her seat. She sat; the large chair making her look even more petite.

Introductions are made and then Alan clears his throat.

"I will remind everyone to stay civil. We have a lot to discuss, but first—" He motioned for Johnny who leaned down to hear Alan's whisper and then left the room. A moment later, Jason appeared.

Elizabeth held her breath as he approached. He's wearing a longer jacket, with breeches and boots. Their gaze momentarily locked, but both schooled their features. One cannot help but notice the way he carries himself and his strength. He walks like a warrior

Jason, maintaining a stoic demeanor, locked eyes with Elizabeth. She couldn't help but notice the weariness etched into his features, the battle-hardened exterior that concealed a storm of conflicting emotions in his incredibly blue eyes.

He took a seat at the table, which surprised everyone.

"What is going on?" Anthony asked since his son is not allowed to do the same.

"Queen Elizabeth has agreed to a permanent alliance."

There are whispers around the room, prompting Alan to yell, "Silence."

The din immediately stopped.

"I'm afraid I have not told her the conditions because I feared she'd not agree."

Liz's brow rose. "I'm listening." She hopes he will not ask her to give up land or position.

"You suffered a great blow when the Salinians last attacked. We won't be able to hold them off unless we secure your shared border." The land had not always been occupied by the barbarians. Unfortunately, they had slain the royal family there and taken ownership.

"Yes."

"You need a strong and intimidating presence there. Therefore, I request a more permanent alliance."

Robert frowned. "What are you getting at?"

Liz swallowed hard as Jason observed her. She's beautiful. Her pale skin almost glows and the blue of her eyes is pleasing. The little he knows of her contrasts with the proper woman sitting across from him, which makes him wonder about her true essence.

"Elizabeth?"

She fixed her attention on the King.

"I want you to marry my son."

Gasps are heard as AJ perks up and smiles, thinking it's him.

"No!" Anthony said. "It will give you an unfair advantage to run both kingdoms."

Alan held up his hand. "That's not what I'm proposing."

Liz released the breath she was holding.

"You will marry my son Jason and he will be King of Guildenhall."

Liz slightly flinched before her eyes locked on Jason. The room erupts but the two barely hear it as they, bound by circumstance, observe each other from a distance, both grappling with the expectations and uncertainties that lie ahead. Their connection is broken when Robert uses his fist to hit the table.

"Enough!" He waits a minute before people quiet. "There is no conspiracy here. It's a damn good idea."

"How so?" Lucas asked. "Why Jason? I think Lucky would be a better fit." Lucky cockily stood straighter.

"No, my John is better," Anthony added.

Robert rolled his eyes. "You all know that Jason is what is needed in this situation. He'll get their men into shape and is our best bet in defeating those barbarians. That border is crucial to the survival of us all. There will always be an enemy waiting there. Lucas and John don't have the same reputation and experience."

There is movement in the back. "Well, isn't this interesting that you didn't invite me," Queen Helena said moving forward. "Otherwise, I would have thrown Stavros into the ring."

Elizabeth almost shuddered due to her awful suggestion.

Lucas rolled his eyes. "Who let you in?"

"Oh, shut it, Luke. You all need us, and you know it. We have the troops and weaponry. If they get through you, we'll probably be next."

Jason got up and gave her his chair.

"Thank you," she grinned as she ogled him.

Helena's gaze fixed on Elizabeth. "Pretty little thing. She would make a fitting Queen for Prince Stavros or Nikolas."

Alan sighed. "That is not a choice. Elizabeth, will you uphold this alliance?"

Her thoughts are racing. While Jason is nice to look at, she has no idea if they'll be compatible while ruling and isn't comfortable being put on the spot.

"Father, may I speak to Queen Elizabeth alone?" Jason asked.

Alan eyed Elizabeth whose jaw was clenched. "I will allow it." He recognizes that look which his wife had often mirrored and perfected.

Liz stood and then gathered her dress and followed Jason outside the room and across the way.

"I know this is a lot to process," he said before leaning against the wall and looking out the window.

"Yes, it is. He is asking me to hand over my country."

Jason's gaze returned to her. "From what I understand, that wouldn't be true. You will still be the ruler, but I will command your army and assist in other matters as needed."

"And you're fine with all of this?"

"No, I'm not, but war is not fair either. There is too much at stake." He likes his life, so having to move and then deal with training and strife is not high on his list.

Her eyes pressed shut and when she opened them, she was shocked that he had moved right in front of her since she hadn't heard him.

"This will be a difficult adjustment, but this is bigger than our pride."

"I have held my people together after immense tragedy. They trust me, not you. And frankly, why should I give you mine?"

"Do you think I like this?" His voice rose in frustration. "I must leave my family and friends. I like my life. If you don't do this, they will massacre everyone in Guildenhall and their blood will be on your hands."

She scowled deciding he's an arrogant and insolate ass who is not thinking of her people. This is to protect his family and interests because if her kingdom falls, theirs will eventually be attacked too.

He sighed heavily. "I'm sorry. I meant no disrespect."

"You meant it," she said throwing up her hands. "Don't lie on my account. You are doing this for your kingdom. When the battle is over and won, then what? Are you going to be insufferable?"

The air sizzled between them, and they both felt it. It was something unexplainable that took them both by surprise.

When he said nothing, because he had no answer to that, her frustration almost got the best of her. "I'm going back in." She spun on her heel, fighting the bile in her stomach. He's right. This is probably the most important decision of her life, and she hadn't even considered this option beforehand. It had totally blindsided her, but she is determined to save her people, and if that means she must be miserable in the romantic part of her life, then it's a sacrifice she'll willingly give for peace.

Alan stood as she approached and everyone else followed his lead.

"I accept the alliance," she said surprising everyone including Jason who trailed behind her.

"Good. We shall celebrate tomorrow. The wedding and coronation will take place in Guildenhall in a fortnight. Jason will take you home and start working with your army until then. We'll meet again tomorrow to discuss strategy. For now, let's go feast."

Elizabeth turned around and faced Jason.

"Follow me." His voice is steady, but inside his uncertainty lingers.

Everyone headed to the banquet room.