Chapter Text
Prince William Maximoff, Heir to the Throne of Magnus, Lord of the Summer Palace, Scion of the House of M, liked to go by Billy.
When he had first been teleported into the Floating City of Baxter, he was overwhelmed by the sight of it. The Four Towers stood across from where they arrived, rising hundreds of feet into the air and gleaming in the sun. They appeared to be made of metal of some sort--star metal, if the stories were to be believed.
The middle tower was higher than the three surrounding it. At its apex there was supposedly a telescope that could see distant stars, and even mine the metal from them.
This city was one of the centers for science in the world, surpassing both Wakanda and the Land of Iron in both learning and riches. Baxter was also a neutral city, and so it was used many times to resolve disputes between various kingdoms.
Billy had never been to Baxter before. In fact, he’d only been outside of his house’s holdings once. He was here with his grandfather, the Magnus, and his mother to settle a dispute with Mar-Vell, the King of the Marvel Lands.
Billy and his family stepped onto the small boat that would carry them across the aptly named Lake of Arrivals so they could get settled into their accommodations before the politicking began.
As he looked up at the Four Tower, Billy wondered if anything interesting would happen on this trip.
The Embassy of X stood on the south side of the Four Towers. The three main houses of the Kingdom of X were the House of Force, the House of Men and the House of M. Atlantis was technically part of the kingdom as well, but they didn’t really do too much--except sink the occasional ship that came to close. They were a loose affiliation of houses that banded together for defense when needed, but didn’t have many political ties otherwise. And that was the way everyone liked it.
The Kingdom of A, on the other hand, was very tight knit. They had a ruling council made up of representatives from all the subject kingdoms, and these representatives made laws and decisions that affected all of them. This made the kingdom more of an empire.
The last Great War had been 100 years before, and only ended when Doom, taking advantage of the chaos, had attacked from the north. This invasion galvanized the warring kingdoms together to fight their mutual threat. After Doom was stopped, the kingdoms came together and formed the Shield, which to this day defended the north from the constant onslaught of Doom and his Bots.
“Are you ready for this, William?” his grandfather asked.
“I believe so, Grandfather. But I still don’t know why Tommy didn’t have to be here.”
“Thomas is not Crown Prince. And I dread to put him anywhere near diplomacy. The way that he runs his mouth would surely not go over well with King Mar-Vell.”
Billy laughed. “I suppose you’re right, Grandfather. But it’s still not fair.”
A servant handed the Magnus a drink and was waved off, dismissively. “Little in life is, William. But you will one day be Magnus, and you will have heady responsibilities.”
“I know, Grandfather.”
“These negotiations are important. The Land of Marvel is just across the Wallkill River from our holdings. They are constantly raiding our lands and trying to steal our resources. We must be ever vigilant or they will destroy us.”
“Yes, Grandfather.”
The Magnus smiled and said, “Go rest, there is a reception tonight. The Four pretend we are all friends before the real games start.”
Billy could tell what his grandfather thought of that. And honestly, Billy hated the political parties as well. Even though he was almost 16, he was always relegated to what Tommy called ‘the kid’s table.’ Granted, the kid’s table was probably more fun than the adults table, it still made him feel stupid to have to sit down there.
He was pleased with the room he had been given in the embassy. It overlooked a large pond, and he could see The Four Towers as well. He sat in his window for a while, staring out at the beautiful scenery.
After a while there was a knock on his door, and his mother walked in. Wanda had decided, soon after Tommy and he were born, that she didn’t want to be Magnus, and so Billy was next in line for the throne, with the death of his uncle Pietro many years before his birth. “Billy, this is very important to your grandfather, and to the kingdom.”
“I know, Mother. I will be on my best behavior.”
She smiled at her son and reached out to touch his cheek. “I know you will, dear. Your grandfather has much on his mind. Ruling has taken a toll on him.”
“So you’ve said. I just don’t know if I’m cut out to me Magnus.”
“Oh, Billy. That’s not true. You’ll make a fine Magnus. But don’t worry, father will be around for quite a while yet and you’re still ever so young.”
“I’m almost 16!”
“I suppose you are. But come, you need to get ready for the banquet. The servants are preparing the carriage.”
“It feels silly to ride the carriage a few hundred feet to the tower, mother.”
She smiled. “Be that as it may, there are certain expectations on us as royalty. King Mar-Vell is sure to arrive in a similar manner.”
“But can’t he just fly?”
“I suppose he could, but I don’t imagine he will. Tradition and all that.”
Billy sighed. “I will get ready, mother.”
As Wanda walked out, three servants walked in and began to lay out formal military uniform--as crown prince of the House of M, he was also in military service. Somehow. It’s not as if the Magnus sent the crown prince to fight on the front lines, but it was tradition.
His mother said the uniform made him look dashing, but Billy thought it was very stiff and uncomfortable. Especially the collar. But he'd long learned the art of not squirming.
As the servants dressed him, he resigned himself to a boring and uneventful night.
They arrived at the Towers and were greeted by well dressed and smiling servants who directed them towards a nearby ballroom.
As they entered a loud voice announced, “Lord Magnus of the House of M, and his daughter the Princess Wanda.”
Billy was surprised when his name wasn’t called, but his mother gave him a signal to wait a moment. The voice spoke again. “Crown Prince William, heir to the House of M.”
Billy had never been announced separately before. Usually he was just added on to the end of his Grandfather’s name. He stood up straight and walked into the room, feeling more grown up then he had before. Maybe he wouldn’t be relegated to the ‘kid’s table’ this time, after all.
His feelings of grownup-ness quickly evaporated, as he was ignored by almost everyone for the first hour. All he could do was stand and do his best to look princely. He suspected it didn’t work very well.
Eventually, dinner started and Billy went to sit at the designated table. But before he could move, his grandfather grabbed his shoulder and said, quietly, “The Four will seat you with the heir to the Marvel Lands. Be wary of him. You know what they say of his family.”
“Yes, grandfather,” Billy said. He moved over towards the table he was directed towards. It was small, and there were three people sitting at it already. He was wary as the rumors of the Marvel Land’s royal family were fresh in his head. How they were part insect. Or from a different world, invading this one with their very presence. Or how they could convert normal people to their kind. And many more. Maybe they were true, and maybe they weren’t, but he knew he wasn’t supposed to trust the other royal.
He took the remaining seat and nodded to the others. He knew who the other three were immediately. Two were the children of Lord and Lady Richards, Franklin and Valeria. They were slightly younger than Billy, but he couldn’t tell which child was older--they would inherit the Four Towers someday.
The third person at the table was very striking--he was blond, and seemed to have a chiseled physique. Billy guessed he was the Prince of the Marvel Lands. He tried not to stare too much, because the other boy was very attractive. It was no secret in his family that he preferred men to women, but not many outside this circle knew.
“Prince William, meet Prince Theodore,” said the only girl at the table. “And I’m Valeria, and this one is Franklin.”
“Your Grace, Your Grace, Your Royal Highness.”
They all smiled back at him. Franklin said, “I hope you’re enjoying Baxter so far.”
“It’s a lovely city,” Prince Theodore said.
“It is amazing. It doesn’t seem to use magic to fly, so it was a little disconcerting when we first arrived.”
“It is a mixture of magic and technology,” Valeria said. “Our grandfather developed it and our father improved it.”
“It’s quite the marvel,” the other prince said. Then he blushed as he realized the pun.
Franklin and Valeria giggled, and Billy smiled at him. Then he realized what he was doing and his grandfather’s words quickly sobered him.
There was a moment of silence, and then Valeria, obviously trained by her parents to try to encourage conversation, said, “What is Genosha City like? I’ve heard it is a beautiful place. I’d like to visit someday.”
“We’d be honored to have you, Your Grace. Genosha is much warmer than it is here. The city is always busy. It’s built of white rocks on a cliff overlooking the sea. There’s a natural harbor and all sorts of mutants work to get cargo and people from the cliff to the docks. And the castle is right on a cliff top, overlooking the sea. You can just see the unicorn preserve from the upper towers.”
“It sounds beautiful,” Prince Theodore said.
Billy smiled shyly and looked down.
Franklin said, “What’s Hala like?”
“It’s very nice there, too. It’s also on the ocean, and it is a city of towers high spires. Every year there’s new buildings trying to build taller and taller. The Palace is always the tallest. Legend has it that it was built many years ago and was much shorter, but it keeps growing. So it is always the tallest building in the city.”
“How tall is it?” Billy asked.
“When last I saw it, it was probably half a mile, but I don’t know the last time it was measured.”
“That's amazing. And other buildings near it as almost as tall?” Billy asked.
“Not many, but some.”
Their conversation was interrupted by a bard starting to sing.
He began to sing the story of how Doom was first defeated. It was a rousing tale of how the immortal Wolverine led the combined forces of both kingdoms to fight the threat.
“I love this tale,” Prince Theodore whispered to the table.
Billy smiled at him--this was one of his favorite tales as well.
The song ended with the defeat of Doom, everyone applauded, and dinner was served.
“That was lovely,” Billy said.
“It was. But the songs don't give the Wolverine justice. He's quite intense,” Franklin said.
Billy's eyes widened. “You've met the Wolverine?”
“He came on a recruitment drive once. He was very impressive.”
“They say he has metal claws that appear when he needs to cut his enemies down, did you see them?” Billy asked.
Franklin smiled. “No, but I asked him about them.”
Valeria laughed. “And you had nightmares for weeks at the look he gave you.”
“Did not!”
“Is he that intimidating?” Prince Theodore asked.
“If I were Doom, I wouldn’t attack just because I knew he was there.”
“That’s amazing. I’d like to meet him one day,” Billy said.
“Me too,” Prince Theodore said.
Billy looked at the other prince, who looked back. Maybe he wasn’t so bad. His grandfather had probably never met him, anyways, so how would he know?
He glanced over at the other two occupants of the table, and they looked pleased with themselves. Billy assumed their parents had asked them to make sure that he and the prince of the Marvel Lands got along.
Dinner was finishing up, and Valeria said, “We’d enjoy sharing a small luncheon with you tomorrow afternoon, after the morning talks. Please say you’ll attend.”
Billy wasn’t sure what to say. He was sure his grandfather would not want him to spend more than was necessary with the other Prince, but turning down an invitation from their hosts would be bad form.
Billy glanced across the table and saw a similarly pensive look on Prince Theodore’s face. He knew what he needed to do, and at least the prince was attractive. It wouldn’t be a trial to spend more time with him. He looked back to Valeria and said, “I would be honored to attend.”
Prince Theodore hesitated, but said, “I shall attend as well. Thank you for the invitation.”
A few minutes later Billy was speaking about his favorite stories, somewhat animatedly, when he heard a throat clear behind him. He stilled and knew it was his grandfather.
He turned and bowed his head to his grandfather slightly. Before the Magnus could say anything, Lord Richards appeared from nowhere behind his children and said, “It appears everyone is getting along swimmingly! I’d say this bodes well for the conference.”
Billy heard his grandfather mumble under his breath, “Don’t count on it.” He wasn’t sure if anyone else had heard.
He glanced over to Prince Theodore again and saw that King Mar-Vell was standing behind him.
“Father,” Franklin said, “We invited the princes to share lunch with us tomorrow, we hope you don’t mind.”
Lord Richards smiled at his son. “Of course not, son. If there are no objections?” The lord looked back between King Marvel and his grandfather.
Billy could tell the smile on his grandfather’s face was forced, but he nodded and put his hand on Billy’s shoulder.
“Wonderful! It’s lovely to see the next generation getting on so well.”
Billy smiled nervously and swallowed hard when he looked at his grandfather.
When they arrived back at the embassy, Magnus was not in the best mood. “Of course, the Four made us sit with the delegation from the Marvel Lands. They do their best to make things awkward. Did you learn anything from the blond prince?”
“No, grandfather. Conversation was mostly light. I know he thinks the Wolverine is as interesting as I do.”
His grandfather let out a derisive breath. “Childish pursuits. We are not here to make friends, William, we are here to protect what is ours.”
“See if you can learn anything useful tomorrow, since you are forced to spend more time with him.”
“Yes, Grandfather.”
The next morning dawned and the negotiations began.
The main dispute between the two kingdoms came down to the Wallkill River. This had long been the border between the two countries. However, over the last several decades, the river had shifted several miles to the east. Since the treaty ending the last Great War, the river was the boundary. However, the treaty didn’t mention anything about the river shifting.
The House of M’s position was that the river was the border, period. This was important, because the river also provided protection for the House. The river itself was incredibly wide in most places--fording could only be attempted in a few spots, and there was only one bridge. If any lands on the west of the river belonged to the Marvel Lands, they could fortify it and have a base to attack anywhere in the House of M.
On the other hand, the Marvel Lands were smaller than they were 20 years ago because of the movement of the river. They claimed to only want the land for farming; however Magnus was concerned at possible expansion by their neighbors.
The first session of negotiations went about how Billy figured they would. All posturing and nothing got done.
When they broke for lunch, a servant led him a garden outside of the castle. He saw a small table set, and Franklin and Valeria waiting there.
“Your Grace, Your Grace,” he said, inclining his head slightly.
“Please, Prince William, call us Franklin and Valeria,” Valeria said. “Titles aren’t for friends.”
Billy smiled. “You can call me Billy if you’d like.” He looked around. “As long as my grandfather isn’t nearby.”
He hadn't seen Prince Theodore approach, and was startled when the other prince said, with a small smile, “Does that offer extend to me as well?”
“It depends, I suppose, Price Theodore.”
“On?”
“If Franklin and Valeria think you are worthy to call them by their given names,” Billy said haughtily.
Prince Theodore smiled and Franklin and Valeria giggled. Billy froze--he had forgotten himself. He wasn’t messing about with Tommy and some local nobles, this was Prince Theodore of Marvel...he began to apologize when the other prince interrupted him.
“You’re welcome to call me Teddy. As long as no adults are around. All the titles get in the way, don’t they?”
Billy let out a relieved breath. “They do. And I was only jesting earlier, you are welcome to call me Billy, as long as we are in private.”
Teddy smiled at him. Franklin and Valeria motioned for them to sit, as servants brought the first course.
Conversation was light and friendly. Occasionally Billy would look around to make sure his grandfather was nowhere to be seen. But for the most part, he enjoyed the lunch very much. At the end, he found himself saying, “This was lovely. Thank you for sharing another meal. My grandfather will be disappointed that I did not get any secrets from you, though.”
Teddy laughed. Billy thought it was a wonderful sound. “My father will feel likewise, Billy. Shall we trade secrets?”
“Only if Franklin and Valeria promise not to tell.”
They both nodded and Billy said, “My grandfather will not give up any land west of the river.”
“And my father will not stop until the land is ours.”
“I think our families already knew that.” Billy said.
Teddy grinned. “Probably. How do you think things will work out?”
“I imagine the river’s course will be adjusted somehow, so everyone wins and no one wins. Marvel gets the land they want, and my house is protected.”
Teddy nodded. “That was my guess as well. How long do you think it will take them to get to that point?”
“Two weeks?” Billy said. When Billy looked at Teddy, he couldn’t help but hope that it might be longer. “Maybe three?”
“Probably. But at least the company won’t be bad.”
“Yes. I didn’t think I would enjoy this trip at all. I’ve enjoyed getting to know you very much.”
Teddy smiled. “Likewise.”
Franklin chimed in with, “We’ve enjoyed it too. Our parents were also very pleased to see our generation, at least, getting along well.”
“Pardon the interruption, but the negotiations are about to begin again,” a servant said, and then bowed and left.
“We should go. It was a pleasure,” Valeria said, and quickly left with Franklin.
“Well, I guess we need to go now,” Teddy said.
“Yes. When can I see you again?” Billy asked impulsively--then immediately regretted being so forward.
But Teddy smiled at him. “Soon I hope. Can you sneak out of your quarters tonight? There’s a grove of old trees I found when walking last night which is very thick. It is near your embassy, but far enough away to be concealed.”
“I...” Billy wanted to say yes. Immediately and without hesitation, but he didn’t know if he would be able to get out of the embassy. His mother would sense any magic he did. “I’m not sure. My mother will sense it if I use magic. I am not sure I could get out another way.”
“I’ll be waiting when the moon reaches its zenith. I’ll understand if you can’t make it.”
“I’ll be there if I have to jump from my window,” Billy promised. He was rewarded with a bright smile from the other prince.
When he returned to the negotiations that day, he was rather bored. He took to starting at Teddy as often as he could without the other boy noticing. It was not easy. It seemed that every time he looked, Teddy was looking back.
And he was mortified to have been caught by his mother once, and she kicked him under the table in an attempt to stop him.
By the end of the day, Billy felt like Teddy had caught him staring upwards of a hundred times. But thankfully the negotiations finally ended for the day. Nothing had really happened--both sides had basically explained their positions and why their position was the right one. This would probably be the way things went for the next several days.
Billy was not looking forward to it.
He was, however, looking forward to nightfall.
Dinner was quiet. The Magnus was grumbling at how slowly everything was going and that they would be here for weeks. After a while his grandfather said, “Did you learn anything from the Marvel Prince?”
“Not much, Grandfather. He did say to Franklin Richards that his father would not accept anything other than the land he feels is his.”
“Then he will be in for a disappointment. The Marvel Lands will never extend beyond the river.”
“Yes, Grandfather.”
After a good deal of time passed, Billy excused himself to go to his room. He looked out his window and up towards the moon. There were still several hours left before he had to meet Teddy.
There was a knock at his door. His mother walked in.
“You seemed distracted today, Billy. Is everything alright?”
“Yes, mother. Things are just rather dull at the negotiations, aren’t they?”
“They aren’t really the stuff of legends, no. But they are important to the future of the kingdom.”
“I know, mother. But we all know there is going to be some kind of a compromise. Why don’t grandfather and King Mar-Vell just agree on that, at least?”
“Both of them are holding out hope that the other will give in. It’s a test of their resolve.”
“Well, it’s boring.”
“You seemed to find something interesting today.”
“I don’t know what you mean, mother.”
“No? There wasn’t a certain blond prince I saw you eyeing like a piece of meat at the market?”
Billy blushed and mumbled something unintelligible.
“He is rather fetching, isn’t he?”
“Mother!”
“I still have eyes, William. But you must know it can never be any more than longing looks. He’s not a friend of our House. Nothing will change that.”
“He doesn’t seem so bad.”
“Regardless, Billy, He’s a Marvel, and blood will out. Do not trust his words or his deeds.”
Billy was conflicted. He didn’t usually keep things like this from his mother, but Teddy was not the enemy that his mother said he was. He couldn’t argue the case, though, so he said, “I understand, Mother. Do you mind if I keep looking, though? The negotiations are rather mind numbing.”
“Looking is fine, my son. I’m sure there’s someone for you out there, I just highly doubt he’s the prince of a neighboring kingdom. One which we are not particularly friendly with.”
Billy forced a smile, which he hoped looked sincere, “You’re probably right mother. I think I will rest, it is another the long day tomorrow.”
“Of course. Sleep well, Billy.”
“You as well, Mother.”
An hour and a half later, Billy had successfully sneaked out of the building. His room was only on the second floor, so he just jumped out his window and no one was the wiser. He was looking forward to meeting with Teddy again.
Billy felt extra excited, because it was also breaking the rules. If they were caught, there would be hell to pay.
He wandered through the woods to where Teddy had told him to meet. He arrived at the clearing, but there was no one there. He looked up at the moon and saw it was at directly overhead. Had Teddy stood him up?
“I didn’t know if you would come,” a voice--Teddy--said. He was sitting in a tree, and he jumped down, landing slowly.
“I forgot you could fly. I didn’t know if you would come either.”
“I did invite you, Billy,” Teddy said, smiling.
“That’s true. But I...”
“What?”
“Part of me expected this to be a trap of some sort. Perhaps for leverage from my grandfather.” Teddy looked shocked, like he never would have even thought of that. And Billy felt stupid for saying it. “Only part of me thought that, Teddy. Most of me was hoping it would just be you and I here, so we could talk.”
Teddy looked up and smiled. “I’m glad. There’s a lot of suspicion between our lands, isn’t there?”
“Too much. You seem very nice. Not at all like the rumors would have me believe.”
“What kind of rumors? No one would ever dare tell me the specifics.”
“Many fanciful things...that you come from another world, invading us with your foul sorcery, that you are all part insect and that you eat the common people of your kingdom. The worst is that you kill all the mutants born there, because you don’t trust them. That’s not true is it?”
“Of course not. None of them are true. My family is from another world, but we don’t come to conquer, just to live in peace.”
“You’re from another world? That’s amazing. What’s it like there?”
Teddy laughed. “I’ve never been. My father talks about it, the legends passed down from our family. They make it sound nice, but I think here is better.”
Teddy sat down leaning against a tree, and padded the ground next to him. Billy joined him there, leaning against the tree and trying not to be overwhelmed by being so close to Teddy.
“Baxter really is lovely, isn’t it? It’s hard to imagine we’re floating a thousand feet in the air. It feels like solid ground,” Teddy said.
Billy made what he hoped was a sound of agreement, but he was not really all there.
In the same conversational tone, Teddy asked Billy, “Would it be too forward of me to ask you for a kiss?”
At this point, Billy was sure he was dreaming. There was no way that Prince Theodore would ever be interested in kissing him. He decided it must be a dream and smiled. “I thought you’d never ask.”
Teddy’s eyes widened, but then he smiled back. He leaned in and their lips met. Billy felt lighter than air. It was a good kiss.
“This is when I usually wake up. “
“Wake up?” Teddy asked, sounding confused.
“It’s a lovely dream isn’t it? I only regret that I fell asleep so I couldn’t meet with the real Teddy. I do hope he forgives me.”
“I imagine he would. But this isn’t a dream, Billy. I’m real.”
Billy smiled. He was trying not to laugh. “There’s no way it could be real. It must be a dream.” He stood up. “Why am I not waking up? Usually when I dream about kissing a handsome boy, I wake up right after. Unless it’s about to get even more interesting.”
Teddy blushed and stood up. “I told you, it’s not a dream, Billy. I’m real.”
“Then pinch me, and prove it.”
Teddy paused, but then shrugged. “If you don’t wake up, will you kiss me again?”
“I promise.”
Teddy pinched him. He didn’t wake up. “Huh,” Billy said.
“I believe I am owed some payment for that pinch?”
Billy swallowed, still rather surprised this was really happening. He leaned in towards Teddy and their lips met again.
But Billy was pulled back suddenly and landed on his backside.
“Are you alright, my prince? It seems I arrived just in time.” A white haired man stood in between Billy and Teddy. He had a warrior’s physique and a bow and arrow string over his shoulders.
“Yeah, great timing as ever, Noh-Varr.”
“Did the he-witch cast any foul spells upon your august personage?”
Billy snorted at being called a he-witch. That was a new one.
“Noh-Varr, stop talking like that,” Teddy said, rolling his eyes. “I know you take your bodyguard duties very seriously, but sometimes when a boy likes a boy, they do what’s called kissing.”
“I know what kissing is, your highness.” Noh-Varr said dryly.
“Perhaps you should try to do it more often? And you should also know that it is rather rude to interrupt those in the process of it, yes?”
“He could have could have cast a spell on you, Your Highness.”
“He didn’t.”
“How do you know?”
“Because I found him desirable before we even arrived and officially met.”
“How did you know what I looked like before that?” Billy interjected.
“Uh,” Teddy said.
“Well done, my prince.” Noh-Varr said sarcastically. “Lady Carol noticed you were gone and asked me to look for you. You’re lucky she didn’t come herself. Though, her reaction would have been entertaining.”
“You mean as she flayed me alive and then dragged Billy by his hair back to his grandfather?”
“Perhaps not entertaining to experience, but certainly entertaining to watch,” Noh-Varr said with a large smile.
“Um, I think I better go. It was nice talking with your Tedd--Prince Theodore.”
“You don’t have to go,” Teddy said.
“Yes, you do,” Noh-Varr said. “You both know this could never happen, don’t you? Your families would never allow it.”
Billy looked down and swallowed. He nodded. “It was a dream. A nice dream, but a dream nonetheless.”
“Billy...”
“Goodbye, Teddy,” Billy said and walked away from the clearing with his head held high. It was for the best. He walked off, hoping Teddy understood.
The next few days were not very fun for Billy. The negotiations were unending and he couldn’t look at Teddy. At one point he ran into Noh-Varr, who assured him that Teddy thought they were doing the right thing.
Billy hoped that was true.
Several days after the incident in the grove, he was sitting in the embassy’s library with his grandfather and mother when a messenger was announced. He entered the room wearing the blue of the Four.
“Lord Franklin and Lady Valeria hereby invite Prince William of the House of M to sup when them tomorrow evening. Also in attendance shall be Prince Theodore of the Marvel Lands. I would be honored to take your response to my lords.”
Billy was torn. He enjoyed his meals with them before, but being in such circumstances with Teddy would not be easy.
“Must I, grandfather?”
The Magnus chuckled. “I’m afraid so, William. I know it is trying, but the forms must be obeyed.” He turned to the messenger and said, “Prince William will be in attendance.”
Billy sighed. His grandfather seemed pleased at his reaction, which was good. But now he had to get through a meal in close quarters with Teddy who he wanted desperately to see but knew he couldn’t.
Negotiations the next day seemed to run faster than ever, and before Billy knew it, it was time to have dinner with Franklin, Valeria and Teddy.
A servant led him to an intimate dining room, and when he entered he saw he was the last to arrive. The three of them smiled at him as he walked towards them. He smiled back, thankful for his training so he could hide the trepidation he was feeling behind a mask.
“Hello, Billy. It’s good to see you again,” Valeria said.
“You all as well.” His eyes lingered on Teddy for a moment longer than was proper but he quickly looked away.
He took his seat and there was an awkward silence over the room.
“The negotiations seem to drag on, don’t they?” Franklin said.
Billy smiled. “That’s diplomacy, or so my grandfather says.”
“My father says similar things,” Teddy said, smiling at Billy. “It’s nice to have a break from it all and to be with friends.”
Billy was proud of his measured reaction, and only smiled back. “Yes, it is lovely to have friends our own age to meet with. The adults can go on and on, can’t they?” Billy said that with a wink, and Franklin, who Billy had learned was the youngest, giggled.
“All this diplomacy does make one wonder...” Teddy said.
“Wonder what, Teddy?” Valeria said.
“If when we grow up, we’ll be allowed to be friends.”
Billy swallowed. “For all we know, your father and my mother might have been right here a long time ago. And look at them now...”
“I don’t think that was the case, Billy. I’m pretty sure your mother and Teddy’s father never met before now. So there’s always hope. Wouldn’t it be lovely if your kingdoms could have peace for the next several generations? It could all start here.”
“I wish that were so, Valeria. But we don’t even know the results of these negotiations. It could be the start of a whole new war.”
“You must have hope, Billy.”
“Yes, once you’re Magnus and I am king, they wouldn’t be able to tell us no.”
Billy paused. It was true. Once they were in charge, he and Teddy could--no. He couldn’t think like that. It wasn’t meant to be. “Perhaps. But that could be a long time and much could happen.”
“I think it’s worth a try.”
“What would your father think? Because I know what my grandfather would say.”
“I don’t think I care what my father would say. It’s my life. Why should he decide?”
“Because he’s not only your father, he’s your king...”
“He should not be able to pick my lo-- friends. Does the Magnus chose yours?”
“I....” Billy didn’t know what to say. He could tell that Teddy was someone he wanted to know. He could see them being so much more than friends. “I really would like it, Teddy. But even you know we can’t.”
“What? I know no such thing!”
“Your white haired bodyguard, Norman was it, even told me that the other day.”
“I never. Noh-Varr does not speak for me in matters of the heart--or friendship. Listen to me now when I say we should continue our dalliance.”
Billy gulped. His resolved crumbled. “Very well then. You’ve convinced me. You are by far the most interesting person I’ve met here, Teddy.” Billy looked to Franklin and Valeria and said, “Present company excepted, of course.”
The two in question giggled and Teddy was smiling very brightly.
Needless to say, Billy enjoyed the rest of dinner.
Several nights later, somewhat against his better judgment, Billy met Teddy. They were in a different part of the woods this time, and were hopeful that no one from their delegations would find them. It was risky, though, as they were much closer to the four towers.
They had been sitting and talking for over an hour, occasionally kissing.
“--and then Tommy said, ‘It was like that when we got here.’”
Teddy laughed uproariously at the story. Billy loved Teddy’s laugh. He was beginning to wonder if he loved more of Teddy then that.
Billy heard a voice in the distance saying, “I think I heard something over here.”
Billy grabbed hold of his magic. He didn’t cast anything, though, because his mother would know immediately. He looked over at Teddy who was equally nervous. Should they run?
Before they could make a decision, Lord and Lady Richards appeared. Billy was prepared for the worst.
The two seemed a little shocked to see Billy and Teddy together, but recovered quickly. “It’s a beautiful night, isn’t it?” Lord Richards said.
Billy’s heart was in his throat, and he didn’t think he could speak even if he knew what to say. This was almost as bad as if their parents found them.
Thankfully, Teddy seemed to be able to go with it. “Indeed it is, my lord. Prince William and I were just discussing some of the finer points of our family's diplomacy.”
“An ambitious topic to be sure. You lads seem to be enjoying yourselves, so we’ll leave you to it.”
“Thank you my lord, my lady.” They turned to walk away when Teddy said, “We’d appreciate it if you didn’t mention our meeting to our families. They are not so fond of casual interactions between their heirs, you see.”
Lady Richards smiled. “We understand completely. It warms our hearts to see the two of you conversing so amicably. It gives up hope that the negotiations may succeed.”
Billy let out a sigh of relief. “Thank you so much! We appreciate it.”
As they walked away, Billy swore he heard Lord Richards say, “Ah, to be young.”
“That was too close, Teddy.”
“It was. I don’t know what I would do if they didn’t let me see you anymore.”
“I know. We’ve only known each other for a little while, but it seems like it’s been forever. It’s late. We should go.”
“We should.” Teddy leaned in and kissed Billy one more time. “I will think of nothing but you until I see you next.”
“And I, you.”
The negotiations were drawing to a close. Billy could tell. Everyone was posturing less and agreeing more.
Part of Billy was glad, because these negotiations were incredibly boring. But another part of him knew that if the negotiations ended, then he wouldn’t see Teddy anymore.
They had plans to meet that night, and Billy hoped that Teddy would be able to stay late. One of these nights would be their last, and Billy didn’t want to think of that.
Negotiations ended for the day, and everyone headed off towards their lodgings. Billy was pleased when his grandfather let him leave dinner quicker than he expected. He raced to his room and waited until things calmed down a bit. He pulled his red cloak out of the wardrobe and put it on. Teddy liked his red cloak.
When it seemed dark enough, he opened his window and crept out.
He dropped to the ground safely and quietly. He was getting better at that part. The first time he'd tried it, he fell on his face.
He was meeting Teddy in the same spot they met the night before. What were the chances of being caught twice in the same spot? Lightning didn’t strike the same place twice, did it?
He arrived and saw Teddy waiting. He smiled and walked over to him. “I missed you, Teddy.”
“And I you, Billy.” Teddy paused. He looked as if he wanted to say more. “Billy, I’ve been thinking and there’s something I want to say.”
“Me too. I hope it’s what I want to say to you.”
“I think it is.”
Billy smiled and kissed Teddy. “I’m glad to have met you Teddy. I lo--”
Billy was interrupted by a voice he really didn’t want to hear. “William, I’m disappointed.”
Billy turned around, shielding Teddy with his body. He saw the Magnus and his mother to his right. “Grandfather, I can expl--”
“I’m sure you could. But I’ve seen enough so that I do not need explanations.” He looked to his right and said, “Daughter.”
His mother nodded, looking sad. Billy felt the touch of his mother’s magic and they all appeared in front of the Embassy of A. The guards there were startled, but one headed inside, presumably to gather their lord.
A moment later King Mar-Vell and Lady Carol stalked out of the building. “What is the meaning of this? How dare you use your daughter’s foul magicks on my son?”
“Your son was cavorting with my grandson. Did you know they were in some sort of a relationship?”
Mar-Vell looked shocked and glanced at his son. “I do not believe it. Your grandson surely ensorcelled him.”
“I did not!” Billy said at the same time as Teddy said, “He did not!”
“You are too like your mother, William. Falling in love with those you shouldn’t. Now. Keep. Silent.”
Billy swallowed. He could tell his grandfather was very, very angry with him.
“Father, please. We could arrange a marriage. It could mean lasting peace.”
“Be silent and think, boy. You are both crown princes. How would you rule your kingdoms?”
“But...”
“I’ll abdicate,” Billy said.
That caused everyone to go quiet and stare at him. Everyone except his grandfather who slowly turned his head and glared at him. “You will do no such thing. You will be silent.”
“But grandfather, I lo--” He couldn’t finish his sentence because he’d fallen over from the force of a slap from his grandfather.
Billy saw Teddy take a step forward, but was held back when Lady Carol put a hand on his shoulder.
“You will heed me in this Willam, or so help me...”
“Father...” Wanda said.
“Yes, the matter at hand. King Mar-Vell, we shall finish our negotiations over the next few days, I trust you will not object to the absence of my heir?”
“No, that will not be a problem for me.”
“It’s nice to see you agree on something for a change,” Teddy said. He looked defiantly when his father glared at him. He was looking longingly at Billy.
“My grandson will be sent home immediately. Daughter.”
Billy could feel the magic around him, preparing to send him the thousands of miles to Genosha. The last thing he heard from Baxter was Teddy saying, “Billy, I lov--”
--- End of Part One--