Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Three years after Cassandra had left Corona she found herself back in the very kingdom she once tried to destroy, and she wasn't sure why. The offiicial letter she received two months before was not specific outside of a meeting between her Rapunzel and Eugene being of the upmost importance. But when she saw her two best friends again they didn't seem excited about anything other than her presence. Her father was also happy to see her, but he had know knowledge of the reason for her visit. After hugs and a brief conversation with her father, Cassandra turned her attention to Rapunzel and Eugene.

"Raps, Eugene, what's going on? The letter you sent said a meeting with you two was urgent."

"It is," Rapunzel said calmly, which only served to confuse Cassandra further. "But we want you to clean up and eat first."

Cassandra's chest tightened up as her blood ran cold. "Did you bring me back here to die for what I did to Corona?" 'No stupid,' Cassandra chastised herself. 'Rapunzel wouldn't do that to you. Relax.'

Rapunzel took Cassandra by her hands and Cassandra calmed down almost immediately. Rapunzel always had that effect on Cassandra. "No, Cass. You aren't back here for that. Now come, get cleaned up and have a meal then everything will be explained to you."

When Cassandra got iniside the castle she saw Frederic and Arianna. Their faces showed anxiousness and nervousness, a sharp contrast to the relaxed faces of Rapunzel and Eugene. She hugged them and Arianna's hug was tighter than Frederics. "Your majesties." Cassandra focused on Arianna's eyes and they had a dark sad story behind them. It was as if Arianna was begging Cassandra to say yes to whatever was going to be asked of her. "I mean no disrespect, but I can't help but notice a difference between the two of you and Rapunzel and Eugene. I find it odd, to say the least."

"I will discuss it with you privately after you have cleaned up and had supper," Arianna said. Cassandra quickly realized that it would do no good to argue, so she went to her room with Rapunzel and Eugene in tow. "Guys, what in the Hell is going on?" Cassandra asked her friends behind her closed and locked door. Though it was not her intent, she was starting to grow frustrated with all the secrecy. "Why wait so long to disclose whatever the problem is?" Cassandra asked as she went to get a change of clothes then turned back to Rapunzel and Eugene. "Am I a handmaiden again? Not that I have any issue with that. I just don't understand the drama for such a request..." Rapunzel's body flinched ever so slightly. "Oh my God! You're pregnant!" Cassandra exclaimed. Rapunzel should have known Cassandra would come to that conclusion, however, her deduction was incorrect.

"No," Rapunzel said. "It isn't that."

"Arianna is pregnant?"

Rapunzel again shook her head 'no.'

"She wants a baby and wants me to carry it?" Cassandra's question was off-color, she didn't expect what would happen next.

"Yes," Rapunzel said. Cassandra's mouth went dry. Words that she wanted to say went no further than her brain. "She is afraid she is too old to concieve, and she handpicked you to carry her child, but please, don't let on like you know."

"Ok.....Rapunzel. I won't." Cassandra finally said after a minute.

The thought of being pregnant, forget by the King of Corona, was a prospect that had never crossed Cassandra's mind. "May I ask why?"

"Guilt mostly, for what happened to me. She wants another chance to raise a child."

Cassandra walked over to Rapunzel and sat between her and Eugene, who had little to say about the situation. "Raps, I feel bad for her. To hold onto guilt for so many years, though I can't talk much. I still have sleepless nights.....Ok, I better shower and look my best. Oh god this is going to be awkward."

"Cass, you can say 'no,' My parents will understand."

"The same parents that could have legally done god knows what to me after what I did to their kingdom? Kinda hard to tell them 'no' to anything."

"Are you sure, Cassandra?"

"Yes Raps. I'm sure. I'm healthy and confident I can carry a child to term."

For dinner Cassandra picked out a sleeveless shirt and slacks, though she kept her clevaage down to a minimum. On top of everything else she started to feel self-concious about her body, specifically a scar just above her left breast.

The atmosphere at the dinner table was mixed. Rapunzel and Eugene were happy and conversing with Cassandra while Arianna and Frederic slowly ate their dinner.

After dinner Cassandra went with Arianna and Frederic to their room. Frederic offered Cassandra a chair and a drink. Cassandra graciously took the chair and a glass of Brandy. "Your majesties. You both have been visibly nervous about why you beckoned me to return to Corona. I assure you you need not be so."

"This is a big deal," Arianna began. "See, here lately I've been dealing with guilt about what happened to Rapunzel and how it costed me raising a daughter."

"Soooooo.......that has what to do with me, exactly?" Cassandra was doing her best to play off that she had no idea why she was in this meeting, so far it was working.

"Cassandra, I am too old to have a child. So I was hoping you would carry a child for me."

"You're asking me to engage in intercourse with your husband? Sir, what are your feelings on this?"

"My Queen wants a child. I do as well. Please Cassandra, you would be doing this Kingdom another great service."

Cassandra took a deep breath, her blood running warm as thoughts about carrying the baby of a king in her belly started to frequent the forefront of her mind. "May I have a minute alone with The Queen please?"

Frederic left the room and quietly closed the door behind him. "Your majesty, if I may be so bold, why me? And why wait so long?"

"To answer your first question, I did not want to have another child while Rapunzel was missing, but since her return and subsequent adventure I realized how much I missed. I tried to discard the thoughts, put them out of mind for good, and for a while it worked, but a few months ago the craving to raise a child came back stronger than ever. Frederic and I have tried more than a few times, but I fear now that I am barren. As for why I chose you, Cassandra, you have all the qualities I'm looking for in a surrogate mother. And make no mistake, this child will be just as much yours as it will be mine and Frederics. You will not be shut out. Are there anymore questions?"

"Yeah....when do you want Frederic and I to start? And what do I do? Does he like foreplay? Does he like to be teased? Or is he short and to the point, if you'll pardon the expression." Cassandra gave a sheepish smile as Arianna and her both blushed. "He's not 'short' on anything. He still goes strong. Which is why I'm certain I'm barren. As for the rest of it Frederic and myself want you to be as calm as possible. So, do what you will. Dress however you choose. I wish you luck, Cassandra. One more thing, when did you know?"

"Dinner. I just knew. Thank you, your majesty." Cassandra stood up and her heart was beating so fast she was feeling light headed. "Stood up too fast," she quickly said in hopes of covering up how nervous she was, but she was going to have to find a way to relax, and soon, she was about to have sex with a king and most likely numerous times, but Rapunzel and Eugene seemed fine with it. This helped Cassandra calm down slightly, but she was still excited. Now she knew why she was chosen. No other woman in Corona wanted the responsibility of carrying a kings baby.

When Cassandra got back to her room she could hear Eugene and Rapunzel talking. "Do you think Cass will go through with this," Eugene asked. "It is your father she'll be sleeping with."

"Sleeping with," Cassandra felt the use of such a phrase cheapened what she was undertaking, and made her sound like a prostitute. Rapunzel shared her sentiment.

"Eugene, she is not a courtesan. This is strickly so my mother can raise a child from scratch. Do not let me hear you dispurge Cassandra or what she is doing again. Am I clear?"

Cassandra couldn't physically see the look Eugene got, but she could picture it. Apparently Eugene was still putting his foot in his mouth.

After a few seconds of quiet Cassandra slowly opened her door and again acted like she had no idea what was going on so she could also chastise Eugene. "Hey guys. How's it going?" Rapunzel still looked aggravated and Eugene looked like a whipped puppy. "Uh-oh. Not good I assume. Do you two need some more time to talk about stuff? Have I done something wrong?"

"No, Cass, it isn't you."

"Oh, well that's good." Cassandra closed her door and leaned back against it. "Speaking of 'good,' I've decided to be a surrogate mother for Queen Arianna. I just hope no one thinks I'm 'sleeping' with Frederic, or that I'm some kind of courtesan. I assure you this is not for any perks or favors. And as soon as I'm pregnant the sex stops. I know that goes without saying for you two. I just don't know about the rest of the staff. Oh well, if they have any issues they can take it up with Arianna. Now, is there anything else?"

Eugene stood up beside Rapunzel and motioned for Cassandra to take a seat. Cassandra complied and along with Rapunzel, looked up at Eugene. "Ladies, old life came with language that can be insensitive and pejorative. I used such language tonight. Cassandra, you are not anything like the language I used. To make it worse it was behind your back, even though you heard every word I said from outside your door."

Cassandra couldn't believe Eugene knew. "How did---"

"Strawberry perfume. You always wore it when you were nervous or excited. Haven't smelt it since the day you left Corona. Well, better get out of your hair and let you get some rest. Good night Cassandra."

The next morning Cassandra woke up more nervous than the day before. Despite this breakfast was smooth and jovial. Even King Frederic and Queen Arianna seemed relaxed. After breakfast Cassandra retired to her room and curled up to a book. She wasn't even two minutes into "The Pickwick Papers" when there was a knock on her door. "It's open," she said, not taking her eyes off of her book. "Cassandra," it was Arianna, Cassandra quickly closed her book and got out of bed. "Your majesty, how may I be of service to you?" Arianna closed the door and placed her hands behind her back. "There's been some chatter among the staff about your sudden and unannounced return. King Frederic's story is that you had already died for your crimes so technically you had nothing else to pay for and that you came back because Rapunzel wanted you back and that was all they needed to know."

"Mostly true," Cassandra said. "Speaking of, and I mean this respectfully, when I asked you last night when you wanted your husband and myself to start, and what he liked, I didn't get an answer. If I'm going to do this I want to him to enjoy it as much as possible. Now if he doesn't want any foreplay that is fine, but I would really like to know."

"Outside of the usual we just have sex. I've never "went down" on him and he's never kissed me anywhere but my lips and breasts. So don't worry. I'm sure you'll do fine. As for when you start, tonight is fine with me."

Later that night King Frederic and Cassandra were alone in The Royal Bed Chamber, Arianna was in Rapunzel's room playing a card game with Rapunzel and Eugene.

"Cassandra, do you need anything before we go any further?"

"Just your word that the staff will keep their mouths shut."

"I assure you they will. Unless they want to slop hogs the rest of their lives. And that came from Rapunzel, not me or Arianna."

Cassandra and Frederic spent a few seconds staring at each other, both of them were more than nervous. It would be the first time Frederic had ever had sex with another woman. It would be the first time Cassandra had sex with anyone. "So what do you want me to do," Cassandra asked nervously breaking the awkward silence. "Do you want me naked? Do you want me to play with you?"

"I'm not really sure," Frederic said. His tone and steady speech hid how nervous he really was. "I had a feeling you would say that," Cassandra said, she trembled slightly as she worded in her head the suggestion she was about to make. "Do you want me to suck your cock?" Cassandra blushed and covered her mouth. The crudeness in the way she worded her suggestion was not how she said it in her head. Now she was sure she had messed up bad. "Forgive me your majesty. It was not my intent to use that manner of speech."

To Cassandra's suprise, Frederic cracked a smile. "It's quite alright Cassandra. Your frank language is one of the things I like about you. There's actually quite a few things I like about you: You're honest, brave, you are fiercely loyal---"

"Stop," Cassandra put her hand out. "I am not loyal. If I was I would never have---" Frederic took his left thumb and wiped tears away from Cassandra's eyes as she dropped her hand. "Not all your fault, Cassandra. You were in a weak state mentally and you were deceived. When you found out the truth you repented, even to the point of giving your life. That is loyalty, Cassandra. Never allow anyone to tell you different."

Cassandra swallowed a lump in her throat as she took a second taking in more words that she never expected to hear. "Thank you, your majesty. Your words mean a lot to me. So....I guess we get started." Cassandra hands were trembling lightly as she turmed her back to Frederic and took off her tunic and bra. He looked at the scars that were scattered across her naked back and questioned their ages and origins. Was her destiny to get into fights? Fights that looked deadly? If that were the case was it somekind of self-punishment? Frederic hoped he would get the chance to ask these questions, he just wasn't sure when that chance would be.

When Cassandra turned around Frederic saw the scar above her left breast, his eyes were immediately drawn to it. Cassandra briefly glanced down at her breast and back up at Frederic. "Scar from The Moonstone. It doesn't look near as bad as it once did. Even though Rapuznel brought me back to life, she couldn't heal me completely. I believe it to be a permanent reminder from the Gods of my transgressions. I still feel pain from time to time, but it isn't bad and it only lasts a minute or two. It's akin to heartburn, though I'm afraid soda water will do me no good," Cassandra cleared her throat and continued. "That was a poor attempt at humor. A very poor attempt. Guess you can tell by now I'm terrible at breaking ice. Rapunzel was the one who at first started our conversations."

"Arianna was the same with me. I would trip over my words. It was embarrassing."

"I'm finding it more difficult to make small talk," Cassandra said.

"As am I. I guess the only thing left to do is begin."

Frederic slowly approached Cassandra and gently gripped her breasts, espically the left one, and he was very careful of the scar. "Do you like them," Cassandra asked. "They are very nice," Frederic answered. Firm, yet with a touch of softness. Is it ok if I kiss them?"

Cassandra found the question odd, but said nothing aside from giving Frederic the permission he requested. Cassandra shuddered slightly and her heart beat increased at the feel of soft warm lips touching her breasts for the first time. Cassandra let out a yelp when she felt a slight pull on her right nipple and Frederic backed away. "I'm sorry. Did I hurt you?," he said. "I guess I got a little excited."

"Not your fault," Cassandra replied. "It was a new feeling for me and my small yelp was meant to be a sign of approval. Please continue."

Frederic picked up where he left off, and if he was honest with himself he enjoyed the feel and texture of Cassandra's breasts. His penis was rock hard by this point, but Cassandra seemed relaxed and he didn't want to feel pushy despite knowing Cassandra would go along with it. That being said, he had never went any further with Arianna, besides kissing her breasts, so he decided to give Cassandra a turn. He stepped back from her and she watched as he quickly removed his shirt and undershirt and Cassandra was in awe of his defined abs arms and pecs. "Oh....your majesty. You have....quite the physique." Frederic took Cassandra over to his soft feather bed where they spent minutes on end kissing and feeling up their upper bodies. As the moment drew closer Cassandra stopped kissing Frederic and asked him to stand up. While remaining seated Cassandra undid Frederic's pants and pushed them down slightly. "Oh my god! This muscle is also firm and well defined." Cassandra pulled down Frederic's underwear and swallowed a lump in her throat as Frederic took his underwear and pants the rest of the way off. "Amazing! My first time seeing a penis! How long, if you don't mind me asking."

A grin formed around the lips of Frederic. "You'll soon find out it's long enough," Cassandra took Frederic's cock in her mouth and almost choked on it. It took a few times but she was able to take it in with ease. Frederic took his hands and cradled the sides of Cassandra's haed. She made gulping sounds as she picked up her pace and played with her nipples. After a couple of minutes she took Frederic's cock out of her mouth and looked up at him and spoke while she stroked it. "Would you mind going down on me?"

"I guess," Frederic replied. Cassandra could tell he was apprehensive. "Just don't bite or pull on my skin and you should be fine."

Cassandra stood up and switched places with Frederic. She closed her eyes as she felt her pants get pulled down to where they were just below her wet vagina. Frederic put his lips up against Cassandra's sensitive skin and kissed it softly, the feeling sent a shockwave through Cassandra's body. She whimpered and yelped slightly, but Frederic knew Cassandra was enjoying what he was doing so he kept going. After a minute he pushed Cassandra's pants and panties the rest of the way off. Taking his fingers he gently spread Cassandra's entrance and slid his tounge in. Cassandra felt like lightning had went through her as she convulsed slightly. "Oh god," she said.

Minutes later Cassandra let out a "Goddamnit," and tried not to scream as she had her first orgasm. She bent over and breathed in through her teeth as a concerned Frederic looked up at her. Arianna had orgasms, but she was always quiet and subdued. "Sorry Frederic," Cassandra said, her breathing elevated slighty after her body experienced a new exhilaration. "That was the first orgasm I've ever had and I got a little excited. You can keep going if you want, or we can do sex. I'm honestly quite content with whichever decision you make."

Frederic gently stood Cassandra up and she got in bed and laid on her back. She spread her legs and bent her knees slightly, ready to give her virginity to her king and hope that their efforts would someday result in a baby for Arianna. Frederic positioned himself over Cassandra and placed the tip of his cock up against her warm pussy lips. 'Ohhhhhh god,' Cassandra watched Frederic move the shaft of his cock over folds and her clit for a few seconds before placing the head up against her tight entrance. Frederic and Cassandra kept their eyes on each other, both gasping and moaning as Frederic slowly slid his cock inside Cassandra's pussy. Cassandra moved her legs up to her waist as her walls were spread taking in Frederic's girth. She looked down briefly at her vagina and could still see about an inch of Frederic's cock. He was right, it was long enough.

"Are you ok," Frederic asked. "Are you in any pain?" Cassandra shook her head 'no,' and Frederic began to move his hips at a steady pace while kissing and sucking on Cassandra's breasts who had wrapped her arms around Frederic's back. For minutes they stayed in the same position and Cassandra-with hickies on her breasts and neck-had no issue with staying put. She was being fucked by her king, and she was liking it. 'god this feels so good. i know i said i the sex would stop once i got pregnant, but if he's this good everytime, arianna and myself may have to have another conversation. however, i don't want to overstep any boundries and cause her to feel jealous. she feels bad enough now as it is. better to just do---fuuuuuuuuuuck i'm gonna....' Cassandra brought Frederic into a deep kiss as another orgasm rushed through her body, curling her toes. "Goddamn," she swore, smiling at Frederic. "I just came again. Arianna was right, you do go strong." Frederic smiled back at Cassandra and pulled out of her then turned her over on her belly. He quickly reentered her and fucked her fast and hard. Cassandra let out grunts groans and swear words as she felt and heard her pussy getiing pounded without mercy. Soon it was beet red but Frederic showed no signs of slowing down. For the next ten minutes Cassandra was on all fours with a blanket between her teeth to keep her orgasmic screams as muffled as possible, then Frederic pulled out again. "Oh god," Cassandra moaned, her pussy and body throbbing. "Did you come?"

"No," Frederic said as he laid down beside Cassandra. Before he could even get a word out Cassandra mounted him and quickly bucked her hips. "Oh fuck. Ohhh my God. Here I go again....FUCK!" Cassandra came again and this time Frederic didn't hold back. He grabbed Cassandra by her breasts and squeezed as he shot his huge load deep into her womb. Cassandra held herself in place as long as she could before she collapsed onto Frederic. Their hot sweaty chests raising up and down in unison as Frederic gently held Cassandra in his arms. "Holy shit," Cassandra whimpered after a minute. "That was goddamn amazing. I said I would get dressed right after sex, but I think I want to stay here a while....shit I have to piss."

When Cassandra returned from the bathroom she went back to bed and laid on the right side of Frederic's chest. He held her gently as they enjoyed the piece and quiet. A few minutes passed before Cassandra finally spoke. "Did I do good?" She asked, looking up at her king. "You did fantastic," Frederic said then kissed Cassandra softly on the lips.

"Something is in your eyes," Cassandra observed. "What is on your mind?"

"Those scars on your back? I noticed them when you took off your tunic and bra."

"Oh those. Being a bounty hunter does carry some risk. But as of five minutes ago I'm retired. As for my next line of work it looks like I'm donning an apron for a while. Until my belly is so big I have to stop working. Well, as much as I would like to stay here I need to tell your wife how things went. Good night, my King." Cassandra gave Frederic another kiss on the lips and got dressed, Frederic watching her as she did so.

When Cassandra got back to her room she had an ear-to-ear smile. After telling Arianna Rapunzel and Eugene the good news she retired to her room to shower and get ready for bed as an unknown person sat in a tree across the way, and they were not happy that Cassandra was back in Corona. As the person went to get out of the tree they lost their balance and fell on their back, knocking them out. An hour later a guard found them still unconcious. They were taken to the infirmary and the King and Queen were notified. "Sir, Lady Caine is in the infirmary. She fell and broke her back."

"Fetch Dr. Hugo from Equis," Frederic said. "He is a specialist in spinal injuries."

While this was going on Cassandra was sitting up in her bed, wondering what her father was going to think when he found out she was going to be a surrogate mother for Queen Arianna, and why he wasn't told about it before hand.

Chapter Text

"He's probably not going to like this, but in the defence of Frederic and Arianna they didn't know if I would say 'yes' to their proposal," Cassandra again had the urge to pee when she heard footsteps coming down the hall. They stopped and there was a knock on her door. Cassandra got dressed and opened her door. The footsteps belonged to a worried and stressed looking Eugene. "Cass, have you seen or heard anything strange since returning to your room?"

"No, everything has been quiet, why?" Now Cassandra was worried. "Did someone try to break in?"

"No," Eugene said. "But Lady Caine was in a tree across from your window. She fell and she's hurt bad. We're searching the grounds and the surrounding area for any of her old gang members. If you would follow me, I'm taking you to Frederic and Arianna's room. You'll be safer in there. Rapunzel is in there as well."

Despite their history, Casssandra had genuine concern for Lady Caine. "How bad? Is anything broken?"

"Her back. She can't move her legs."

"Oh dear God....who's taking care of her?"

"A Dr. Hugo from Equis. He's young but extremely gifted."

"Yeah I've heard of him. Graduated from medical school at seventeen." Eugene could understand Cassandra, but he could tell by the way she was talking that something else was on her mind. He stepped in front of her and stopped her. "Did Frederic overstep his bounds last night? If he did there's a bed for him right beside Lady Caine."

"Eugene," Cassadra gently put her hands on Eugene's chest. "Everything was consensual. He even asked if he could kiss me...in certain places. It's my father. I don't know how he's going to react when I tell him I'm having sex with the King of Corona, and why I'm having sex. I'm not sure how he's going to take it. But I'll cross that bridge when I come to it."

Eugene took Cassandra to Arianna and Frederic's room then continued his search of the castle grounds and the surrounding area. "Raps, your majesties, are all three of you ok?"

"We're fine," Arianna said. "Are you ok?"

"Yeah. I'm fine. Didn't even know anything was wrong until Eugene knocked on my door. Poor Lady Caine, I feel bad for her. But I heard one of the best doctors is on his way to work on her. Hopefully he can get her fixed up and she can get her life in order."

"Me too," Rapunzel said.

After a thorough search turned up nothing, Cassandra was allowed to return to her room where she got absolutley no sleep whatsoever. Soon it was morning and after a shower Cassandra had some fruit for breakfast then went to visit her father. They sat down on his couch in his living room.

"Cassandra, did you find out the reason for you being back in Corona?" Her father asked. Cassandra shivered then took a sip of her water. The Guard Captain became concerned. "Did Frederic do something to you?" The former Guard Captain started to get upset.

"No dad," Cassandra stood up in front of her father. "I'm not hurt. It's.....it's different."

"Sit back down and tell me what is going on," Cassandra's father was subdued, but still upset. Cassandra complied with her father's request and calmly explained the situation

"I'm going to be a surrogate mother for Arianna. I received an official letter and everything. Father, I was hand-picked and Frederic and I have already had sex, but once I'm pregnant the sex stops."

"And what if they want more children?!" Cassandra's father was disappointed that his daughter had seemed to lose her foresight. "Cassandra this could go on for years."

"If it does then so be it," Cassandra said as she stood up. "I owe them my life anyway. Good bye daddy. I love you and I'll see you later." Cassandra got a tight warm caring hug from her father and she went back to the castle, putting on a happy face she went to work as a maid. Easy work for her.

A couple of days later Cassandra was in her room when there was a knock on her door. It was Frederic. "You don't look up to anything," Frederic said. "Get you some rest and we will do this another time."

"My father knows," Cassandra said. "He isn't very happy, but he understands. Good night your majesty."

"There is no one else, Cassandra." Frederic said. Cassandra could see the compassion on Frederic's face and hear it in his voice. "It's ok your majesty, and thank you for being so understanding. Good night."

The next morning Cassandra woke up and went to the bathroom to discover she was starting her period. 'Great,' she groaned. After breakfast Cassandra gave Frederic and Arianna the news and they were more than understanding. Lunch time came around and Cassandra decided to use part of her break to go to check on Lady Caine. Cassandra talked to Dr. Hugo and he had just finished with Lady Caine's surgery and was tired and hungry.

Cassandra suggested he sit tight and she would get him some food. After Hugo was finished with his meal Cassandra took him to the showers so he could get a hot shower before going to bed.

Unbeknownest to Cassandra, Varian had heard she was back in Corona and was coming by for a visit. When they saw each other they hugged and Varian cried softly into her chest. "I missed you," Varian said. "Well I'm back to stay," Cassandra said, looking at Varian. "As for why, I'm going to go ahead and tell you that Queen Arianna is wanting a baby, but she can't have one so I am going to have one for her."

"You're having sex with Frederic?" Varian asked with a look of disgust. "The things we do to please our kingdom."

"Yeah, well I soon as I get pregnant the sex stops. Unless they want another child. I don't think they will though."

"So you back working in the castle?"

"Yeah, it's what I know and it's a pretty safe job," Cassandra glanced at her belly then back up at Varian. "Can't afford to get hurt. So how is Quirin?"

"He's doing good..."

"Cassandra..." It was Hugo. Varian got butterflies in his stomach as he looked at the handsome young man and was more than eager to help. "Name is Varian. Cassandra has something she needs to take care of, so I'll be assisting you."

Cassandra took the hint. "Right, I have a dress that needs an alteration. It was a pleasure Dr. Hugo. Varian take good care of him. He's going to be here until he's sure Lady Caine won't have any complications from her surgery." Varian got a serious look om his face as his mood quickly went from excited to concerned.

"What happened?"

"Broken back," Hugo said. "But I'm confident she'll make a full recovery."

"That's good," Varian said relieved then took Hugo to his room. "Here you are. I hope you enjoy and are able to get some rest." Hugo could easily tell that Varian was intrested in him, and he was intrested in Varian. "Say would you like to come in for a minute?" Hugo asked. "Sure," Varian answered. Hugo and Varian went inside and sat on the side of the bed.

"So what caused you to decide to become a surgeon?" Varian asked.

"From a young age I've wanted to help people. I feel that is why I'm on this earth. So I studied hard and went to medical school in Equis for six years, graduated with honors and here I am."

"Lady Caine is very lucky to have you for a surgeon," Varian said. His stomach was in knots. "So uh.......how long do you think you'll be staying?"

"Long enough to make sure Lady Caine isn't going to have any complications from her surgery, then I'm going back home to Equis, but until then, we can spend some time together if you want."

"Sure....I'd like that."

Later that night Lady Caine was awake and talking to her nurse. "Don't be ashamed lass," Sarah said. "I've seen naked bodies before and I'm not going to make fun. Now let's get you a bath so you can get you some rest."

"Can't you just wash my face and arms and be done with it?" Lady Caine argued.

"Can't you stay out of trees and not do stupid stuff?" Lady Caine glared at her nurse and her nurse was less than bothered. "Now we're doing this my way unless you be wantin' a yeast infection?"

Lady Caine was skeptical. "The fuck is that? Is that something you're making up?"

"It's when bacteria grows around your vagina. One of the main factors is not washing, and with you just gettin out of surgery you are at a high risk for infections. Now let me help you sit up and while I'm at it I'll check your incesion."

It was painful, but with Sarah's help Lady Caine was able to sit up and walk to the bathroom. Once Lady Caine was naked Sarah gave her a sponge bath got her a clean gown and helped her back to bed. "See, that wasn't so bad was it?"

"I've never felt so, vulnerable. Never showed anyone my breasts or pussy before in my life."

"Well it's over now lass. Get you some rest and I'll be back in a little bit to check on you."

As Sarah left the room a smile formed around Lady Caine's lips. "You're alright, Sarah. You're alright."

A week later Cassandra met Frederic in her room and they were just as nervous as they were the first time they had sex. "Let's make this quick," Cassandra said. Frederic went to undo his and pants and his button was stuck. Cassandra helped him get his pants and underwear off then she took off her pants and panties, leaving her tunic on. Frederic leaned Cassandra over her bed and entered her from behind. Cassandra bit her lip as she quickly found herself ready to come, and when Frederic reached under her tunic and played wirh her right breast she came hard around Frederic. Frederic buried himself deep inside Cassandra and she wondered if any of his seed was going to leak out, though by the amount of pulses she felt enter her, a few drops wasn't going to hurt any. She was right.

Two Weeks Later Cassandra was throwing up. A doctor confirmed what she hoped to be true, she was pregnant with Frederic and Arianna's baby. She told them the news in their room and she received tight hugs from both and a tearful thank you from Arianna. Varian also found out and he was happy for Cassandra. As for Cassandra's father he only hoped she wouldn't let herself get taken advantage of. She assured him she wouldn't.

Cassandra didn't know that she wouldn't be the only one pregnant.

Chapter Text

"Now to tell Rapunzel and Eugene," Cassandra said as she walked away from her father's home. "They should be back from their outing by now."

On the way back to the castle Cassandra was walking by her doctor's office just as Rapunzel and Eugene walked out. "RAPS! WHAT'S WRONG?" Cassandra's exclamation of worry drew the attention of everyone on the street and embarrassed Rapunzel. "Sorry," Cassandra groaned. "But you said you guys were going on an outing."

"Let's go to my room Cassandra and we'll talk."

'Are you...' Cassandra mouthed with a grin that went ear to ear. Rapunzel shook her head yes and she was quickly envolped in a hug that she really didn't want to reciprocate. "Raps, why aren't you happy?" Cassandra thought for a moment and realized why Rapunzel wasn't very happy. "Your mother is going to feel really left out. But look at it this way, we are going to give birth at pratically the same time! She'll have a daughter and a granddaughter!"

"I know," Rapunzel dropped her shoulders. "But that is nine months from now....oh well, better tell her and get it over with."

When Rapunzel Cassandra and Eugene got back to the castle, Arianna and Frederic were more than suprised to see them. Arianna knew something was wrong and gave Eugene a brief glare. "Rapunzel, what happened? Did you get too hot? I knew it was too hot for you to go for a ride."

"And if you glare at me like that again you'll really be in a bad mood," Eugene snapped sharply at Arianna. "You know how stubborn and head strong she is!" Frederic took a step and Eugene took one as well. "Say something you pompous selfrighteous bastard! I'm tired of getting flack for the decisions Rapunzel makes!" Eugene took another step and his eyes rolled into the back of his head as he hit the ground. Eugene was quickly taken to the infirmary. He had a fever of a hundred and three degrees and his pulse was weak and rapid. Hugo quickly diagnosed Eugene with heat exhaustion. Lady Caine watched as Eugene was stripped naked while Sarah surrounded him with ice. Hopefully the treatment would work. Any anger Frederic and Arianna had towards Eugene quickly evaporated. All that mattered to them was his health. "He didn't even show any signs of being sick," Rapunzel said. "Please tell me you aren't mad at him."

"No," Arianna said. "Just want him to get better."

"Dad," Frederic looked at his wife and daughter. "Of course not."

"Cass?"

"No Rapunzel. No one is mad at Eugene."

Later that evening Eugene sat up screaming in terror. Lady Caine woke up and the look on Eugene's face sent chills up and down her spine. In only a few seconds Eugene was being tended to by Sarah and Hugo while Rapunzel and Cassandra stood off to the side. Rapunzel wanted to get close but she knew she would only get in the way. "Rapunzel!! I have to warn her about Cassandra! She is going to betray us!"

"Eugene, you had a..." A stark naked Eugene forced himself out of bed and searched for Rapunzel. When he found her stamding by Cassandra he went to attack Cassandra only to hit the floor. Behind him was Sarah with a needle. "Syringe, works wonders when you need somebody out cold. You girls alright?"

"I'm going to inform your parents," Cassandra went to leave the room but Rapunzel stopped her. "Cass, don't tell them about this," Rapunzel then looked at Sarah and Hugo. "As far as everyone is concerned Eugene woke up for a minute and went back to sleep. Is that clear?" Everyone was in agreement and Cassandra left the room.

"Godsdamn me!" Cassandra cursed as she made her way outside. Varian was in his room and he saw her walk by his slightly open door. "Uh-oh. This isn't good." Varian stepped out into the hall and called for Cassandra, she turned to face him. "Cass, has Eugene gotten worse?"

Cassandra wiped her eyes. "Yeah, he woke up and said that I was going to betray Rapunzel! Varian that was five years ago!" Cassandra realized her mistake and covered her mouth. "But you do not know that. Understand?"

"Cassandra, this is unfortunately a side effect of heat exhaustion, and it may be a while before he gets his memory back. Rapunzel doesn't want anyone knowing?"

"No. I'm going to tell Frederick and Arianna that Eugene woke up for a minute and went back to sleep. I'll see you around, Varian."

Cassandra stood outside the King and Queens door. Inside, Frederick and Arianna were nervously sitting on the side of their bed when there was a knock on their door. "Your majesties...." before Cassandra could continue the door flew open. "Cassandra is everything alright?" Arianna asked. Her lowcut gown showed off her cleveage, and though she didn't mean to, Cassandra looked briefly at Arianna's breasts. ".....Eugene woke up for a minute and went back to sleep. He seems to be getting better."

Arianna put her right hand over her heart as a shirtless Frederick walked up beside her. Frederick had shaved, which only made his chest and abs more pronounced. Cassandra looked at the couple and started to get flustered, it didn't help that she knew she was blushing."Well, you two have a good night. If fhere are anymore changes Rapunzel or myself will let you know."

"Cassandra, your face is red. Are you sure you are ok?"

"Yes...your majesty...it's just, your gown."

Arianna looked down at her gown and now her face was red. "Cassandra I am so sorry. I didn't even think about it. Frederick and I weren't even getting ready to do anything."

"It's....it's fine. Good night."

When Cassandra got back to the infirmary, Eugene was still asleep. "I told your parents what you wanted them to know."

"Thank you, Cass. Are you alright?"

"Not really. When I knocked on your mom and dad's door she opened it and her half exposed breasts are right in my face. To make it worse your dad had no shirt on. God this is so weird. Your father's baby is my belly, and though we haven't had sex since I got pregnant, seeing him without a shirt and his body hair shaved off....sorry, this must make you really uncomfortable. Let's talk about something else."

"I don't really have anything to talk about. My main focus and concern right now is Eugene, and if he wakes up in the same state as before, it is imperative that he doesn't see you until he comes back around."

"So where do you want me to go?"

"Anywhere. Go outside. Go swimming. Try and have a good time, and tell my parents that until Eugene comes to that I will be staying in here."

Cassandra again left the room. When she got to Fredericks door it was slightly ajar. "Your majesties." This time Arianna had on a night shirt that completely covered her chest. She opened the door and could tell Cassandra was still bothered. "Cassandra?"

"Rapunzel is staying in the infirmary until Eugene comes around. Not so bad, but she wants me to stay out." Cassandra let it slip again and Arianna knew something was up, she opened her door the rest of the way and invited Cassandra in. "Come have a seat in my chair. You are in no trouble, but I want to know what you are helping to cover up."

Cassandra sat in a chair while Frederick and Arianna sat on their bed. "Eugene was awake," Cassandra began. "But when he woke up," Cassandra's voice started to crack and she swallowed a lump in her throat. "He said he had to warn Rapunzel that I was going to betray her." Cassandra tried to fight back the tears she felt were selfish. She knew in her heart she had no right to cry. "So until he stops thinking that way, Rapunzel does not want me in the infirmary."

Frederick and Arianna both had compassioniate looks on their faces. Arianna went to reach for Cassandra but Cassandra declined. "No, his memories are MY fault. I deserve no comfort or compassion. If your majesties do not need anything I request to eat a bite of supper and go to bed."

Having nothing needed of her, Cassandra's request was granted, and she literally only ate a few bites of roasted chicken and drank half a glass of tea before going to bed.

Later that night Cassandra woke up in a cold sweat, but not from a nightmare. 'What the fuck? Frederick is one thing. But Arianna and myself...." Cassandra looked at her window and walked over to it. Looking up at the moon she wondered at its mysterious beauty, and how, like the moon, she would have had no light, no path to redemption if it wasn't for Rapunzel. But now with Eugene being terribly sick, how long would his memory be five years in the past? How long would he want her dead and gone. Cassandra's mind started to race as she held her belly and thought about the tiny life growing inside her womb. 'My gods. What if Eugene never comes back around? Where am I going to go? How will Eugene be convinced that I'm no longer a threat? Wait, Rapunzel can just tell him that she used her Sundrop powers to heal me. Wow, I got all excited for nothing. I'll get this message to her and everything will be fine.'

Rapunzel felt her chest tighten as Eugene gasped for air. Hugo did what he could, but Eugene had died of a heart attack. Rapunzel brushed Eugene's hair out of his face and did her best to keep her composure. "I have to tell my parents,"

"I'll go with you," Sarah said.

A few minutes later Frederick and Arianna were awoken by a knock on their door. Arianna answered it and when she saw her daughter her heart sank. "Mom...." Rapunzel's chin trembled and quivered. "He's gone!" Rapunzel fell onto her mother's chest and cried uncontrollably. Cassandra heard Rapunzel's wailing and opened her door. "Raps," Rapunzel faced her friend and Cassandra shook her head 'no' as a harsh reality started to set in. Eugene was dead, and Cassandra would hold herself directly responsible.

Chapter Text

"Raps! I am so sorry!" Cassandra cried. Tears of guilt shame and regret were streaming down her cheeks. "What's wrong?" Varian asked as he quickly walked up to his friends. Cassandra and Rapunzel both turned to him. "Varian....Eugene just died." Rapunzel answered, and every word hurt. "What?! How?!" Varian asked in shock.

"He...had a heart attack." Rapunzel said as Cassandra wrapped her arms around her upset stomach. "Please excuse me," Cassandra ran quickly to her bathroom making it just in time. After she was finished she washed out her mouth and brushed her teeth. She then looked herself in her mirror and saw the cackling face of Zhan Tiri. Cassandra closed her eyes tight for a few seconds and when she opened them back up Zhan Tiri was gone. 'Not a word about this to anyone.' Cassandra then washed her face and rejoined her friends. "Sorry guys."

"It's ok Cassandra," Arianna said. "We're all a little sick right now."

Later that morning the fathers of Cassandra and Varian were notified that Eugene had died, but that it would be another day before Eugene was Lying in State. They gave hugs and condolences and said they were on their way to the castle. On the way back to the castle Varian could feel the tension radiating off of Cassandra. "Cassandra...."

"Don't, Varian. I don't want to talk. I just want to go....somewhere.....SHIT! WE HAVEN'T TOLD STALYAN YET!! OR LANCE! I DON'T EVEN KNOW WHERE STALYAN LIVES!"

"Down by the docks" Varian said calmly. "But I think you need to go to the castle and get some rest while I deliever the news to them."

"Fine."

Cassandra kicked up dust as she quickly rode back to the castle. A few minutes later Stalyan was woken up by a knock on her door. She had just finished a twelve hour shift waiting tables and had only been asleep for a few minutes. "Unless someone I care about, which is no one, is dead or dying, fuck off!" After a few seconds of quiet Stalyan closed her eyes, only for a voice to accompany the next round of knocks. "Stalyan....it's Varian."

"Just a minute." Stalyan felt she was about regret her reaction to being woken up. She put a robe on over her slip and answered her door. "I'm sorry to wake you Stalyan, but there is something I think you should know....Eugene died, early this morning."

Stalyan swallowed a lump in her throat. "What happened?"

"Heat exhaustion caused his heart attack."

"Little more information Varian," Stalyan was going through a storm of emotions at once and was trying not to go off on Varian. "I'm sorry," Stalyan opened her door the rest of the way and invited Varian in. "Here, come inside and have a seat on my couch."

While Varian had a seat Stalyan poured him and her both a glass of ice water. Handing Varian his water, Stalyan sat down beside him and continued. "Now, go into some more detail. Where was he? What was he doing?"

"He had just taken Rapunzel to the doctor. She hadn't been feeling well, espically in the mornings..."

"Rapunzel is pregnant? What is she going to do? Sorry, didn't mean to interrupt."

"Quite alriight Stalyan. Yes, Rapunzel is pregnant. On the way home from taking Rapunzel to see her doctor Eugene quickly became ill, but there wasn't much that could be done. If you want to see him there will be a public viewing tomorrow. A formal announcement will be made soon, most likely this evening."

"What about Cassandra? Are you going to write her or something?"

"That won't be necessary. She's been back for almost a month, and that is a story I do not feel like telling right now. Before I go, is there anything I can do for you?"

"No," Stalyan said. "Except now I have to find a dress. I hate dresses."

"No need," Varian said. "You can wear your casual clothes. Rapunzel will want everyone to be comfortable. I have one more stop to make. I'll see you later Stalyan." After Varian left Stalyan she went back to her bedroom and sobbed quietly.

On his way to see Lance, Varian ran into him and Kiera and Catalina coming out of a general store. "Varian, long time..." the smile that had formed around Lance's lips quickly disappeared. "Lance, could I talk with you privately for a second?"

"Why?" Kiera protested. "After all we've been through together you don't think we can handle it. We're going to find out anyway."

Varian relented. "Very well. Eugene died this morning."

"So why can't Rapunzel just bring him back like she did before?" Catalina asked. Her little heart was breaking, Kiera's heart was as well, but she was much more stoic than her sister.

Varian squatted down to where he was eye to eye with Catalina and Kiera. "Girls, do you remember what happened to Zhan Tiri?" Catalina and Kiera both shook their heads 'yes.' "Well, when that happened Rapunzel wasn't able to bring anyone back anymore...."

"Yes she did! She brought Miss Cassandra back with that stone! Why can't she use it again?!"

"Because, she had to send the stone back where it came from."

"I want to go home. I don't want to be here."

"I'm sorry Lance," Varian said quietly.

"Not your fault, Varian. How soon can I see him?"

"Tomorrow. He'll be Lying in State in The Throne Room."

"Thank you Varian." Lance took his girls home and Varian slowly made his way back to the castle.

When lunchtime came around everyone met in the dining room and they each ordered whatever they wanted for lunch. Cassandra suddenly got hungry and had a craving for fish. She ordered a plate of fish and quickly consumed it, along with three glasses of lemonade. She then excused herself and went to her room. She undressed and put on a nightshirt before crawling in bed and falling asleep on her back, only to wake up a couple of hours later regretting her decision on lunch. Once again she found herself bent over her toilet. "Morning sickness is one thing, but I can't do this. I could just imagine Eugene cracking wise, only to actually care. That man cared about me more than either one of us would let on...I need to make my rounds. Find ways to stay busy."

Cassandra's first stop was Rapunzel's room. "Princess," Rapunzel put down the book she was reading and sat on the side of her bed. "Come in Cassandra."

"Rapunzel, do you need anything: Something to drink...."

"No Cassandra. I am fine as far as that goes. What about you?" Rapunzel patted the bed, inviting Cassandra to sit down beside her. Cassandra accepted Rapunzel's invitation then continued. "Fish was not a good choice for me."

"I don't think it was the fish so much as the speed in which you consumed it."

Cassandra blushed. "I'm sorry. I just got hungry all of a sudden and fish sounded good. I bet Eugene would be having a field day right now. I'm still waiting for him to pop in with a smug snide remark.....what the Hell are we going to do?"

"I have no idea. On top of all of this we have to choose a new guard captain."

"Raps, I think you mean you have to choose a new captain. I have no right to help you choose anyone for anything."

Rapunzel got out of bed and Cassandra got a very uncomfortable feeling in her belly. "Rapunzel I didn't...." Cassandra paused when Rapunzel went over to her closet. Rapunzel opened her closet door and faced Cassandra who's jaw dropped. "That's my Lady-In-Waiting dress!" Cassandra shot up and walked over to Rapunzel. Rapunzel took the dress and handed it to Cassandra. "I had it made good as new. I was going to tell you, Eugene and I talked with Faith the day before I went to the doctor. Honey this job is really grinding her nerves, espically now. She needs help. Are you up to being an assisstant?"

Cassandra fondly looked at the dress and hung it back up. "No, Rapunzel. This would cast a negative image and we do not need that right...."

"Princess," A stressed out Faith bardged in. "Claire is threatening to quit because I put her on dishes again. I'd train her on how to set the table but I don't have time and Bonnie said she doesn't get paid to train despite the fact she can set the table with her eyes closed. Sorry Cassandra. How are you holding up?"

"Not too well, but I'm getting better. Tell Claire to go to the dining room. She has a trainer," Cassandra took her dress back out of the closet. "I'll be along in a minute."

The stressed melted off of Faith's face and she gave Cassandra a quick hug then returned to her duties. "I can only help for so long," Cassandra said.

"Just do what you can Cassandra. And thank you."

"So when did Old Lady Crowley retire?"

"About six months before you came back. She's still around, spry as ever, but she said she's hung her apron up for good. Don't blame her though. Sixty years is a long time to work in hospitality."

"Well I better get dressed. I have work to do. I have a feeling this Bonnie character is going to be a fire cracker."

"Remind you of anyone," a small smirk formed around Rapunzel's lips. It was the closest she had come to a smile since Eugene passed. "I don't know what you're talking about," Cassandra quipped. "I'm going to change in your bathroom then get to work. I'll be back around as soon as possible. 'This is not a favor or a benefit or a perk,' Cassandra said to herself as she quickly changed clothes.

A few minutes later Cassandra met Claire in the Dining Room. Claire was slightly taller than Cassandra was and a little bigger around her middle. "So you want to learn to set this table do you?"

"Yes," Claire answered humbly. "I apologize for my behavior, but I didn't know what else to try."

"Well don't burn any bridges you can't rebuild," Cassandra advised. "Unless you've been living under a rock you know who I am."

"I know who you are, and I'd be lying if I said I wasn't curious as to why you're back. I know what Rapunzel said, but I also know there's more to it. If all she wanted was you back, why did she wait so long?" Cassandra cleared her throat and flinched. "If you want to go any further than washing dishes, not another word about me being back." Claire agreed, but knew in her mind that something was up, and she was determined to find out.

Later that evening after the formal announcement of Eugene's death, Cassandra and Rapunzel were sitting in Fredericks study with Frederick and Arianna. "Mom," Rapunzel began. "With everything that's been going on I haven't had a chance to tell you.....I'm pregnant." Rapunzel and her family shared hugs then sat back down.

"This is a lot to process," Frederick said. "Two pregnancies. I'm sorry, Arianna..."

"Don't be," Arianna said with a smile. "I couldn't be happier."

"There is a small problem," Cassandra said. "Claire knows there's more to me being back."

"Don't worry about it Cassandra," Arianna said. "It isn't really any of her business."

"So when it becomes obvious I'm pregnant, which won't be long, who do I say the father is?"

"Cassandra, we will cross that bridge when we get to it." Arianna said sternly. It was obvious Arianna wanted to move on from what at the time was a trivial matter. There were much more important things facing Corona.

"Yes ma'am. Will there be anything else before I turn in for the night?" Again, nothing was needed of Cassandra. She showered and went to bed and tried to sleep, but she could not. Her mind would not slow down. 'What am i going to do? i can't smoke or drink......damn.....' Cassandra's thoughts were interrupted by a knock on her door a voice she didn't expect. "Cassandra, Cass it's Lady Caine."

Cassandra slowly opened the door and was horrified to see Zhan Tiri holding the Moonstone in her open boney hand. Cassandra froze in fear, only for Zhan Tiri to disapper at the sound of Rapunzel's voice. "Cass, hey are you ok?"

"Yeah," Cassandra rubbed her face and quickly continued. "Just had a moment is all." Cassandra not dare tell the truth, at least not to Rapumzel. 'i'll talk to varian tomorrow. see what he says.'

'We are all going to have a lot of those over the next few weeks. Yet you looked terrified, frightened. Something besides Eugene's death is on your mind. Do you wish to discuss it?"

Cassandra changed her mind and took Rapunzel into her room. "Can I tell you something and you not think I'm crazy." Rapunzel nodded. 'I've zeen Zhan Tiri twice since Eugene passed away. The first time was right after Varian found out about Eugene, and the second was a couple of minutes ago. Rapunzel she had The Moonstone!" Cassandra was starting to get anxious. "And she looked as real as you do! Please tell me The Moonstone is gone! Raps I can't handle being around that thing again!"

Rapunzel placed her hand on Cassandra's knee in an attempt to calm her anxious friend. "Cass, I told you what happened to it before you left. It's billions of miles away by now and it can never come back here."

"You must think I'm selfish, telling you about this," Cassandra said, her face was a slight shade of red from embarrassment. "My main focus should be taking care of you and taking care of the life growing inside me. Not spouting off worries and fears that are my own doing. You think Varian can help?"

"I'm sure he can," Rapunzel said. "Why don't you talk to him first thing in the morning?"

"I will Rapunzel, thank you." Cassandra's face feigned an expression of relief, but she was still very much anxious and nervous, and Rapunzel knew it. "Cassandra, do you need some company? There's no shame in saying that you do. I'm not able to sleep anyway."

Cassandra went to answer when Rapunzel and her heard a knock on the window. They gave each other a cautious look before Cassandra went to the window. She opened it and it was Andrew, of all the people she did not want to see, he was at the top of the list. "You!"

"Cassandra wait," Andrew pleaded. "Maisie fell and broke her leg. She needs a surgeon, but Saporia doesn't have anyone qualified to do it."

"You're telling the truth," Cassandra said. "Come in and sit down while I have a guard fetch our surgeon."

"So what happened?" Rapunzel asked after Andrew had come in and sat down.

"Horse back riding. Maisie and I were out riding the Saporian country side when her horse got scared by a snake. He reared up and Maisie lost her grip and landed awkwardly on her right leg. I heard the snap and knew it was bad."

"When was this?" Cassandra asked, genuinely concerned.

"This morning," Andrew answered. "I only hope she gets help in time."

A few minutes later Hugo entered the room along with Varian. Andrew explained the situation and Hugo agreed to do the surgery. Hugo took Varian and left with Andrew to go to Saporia in an effort to save Maisie's leg, but, could they get there in time?

Chapter Text

Despite Varian's agreement to go with Hugo and Andrew, Hugo immediately picked up on the tension between the two men. "Thank you both----" Andrew began but was cut off by Varian. "Shut up! I'm not doing this for you!"

"Varian----" Hugo caught a glare from Varian and discarded what he was going to say. Varian continued, "I'm coming to assist Hugo."

"Where exactly is her leg broken," Hugo asked.

"The shin," Andrew answered then looked at Varian who had turned his back and was looking up at the sky. "Andrew...you need to see this."

Andrew slowly walked over to Varian and looked up at the sky. "Storms are building to our Northwest. They will move East to East Southeast. We will need an alternate route to get around them, otherwise we will have to land until they pass. The lightning and wind will pose serious threats to our journey."

"Will they hit Saporia?" Andrew asked concerned.

"From here it looks like they will be South of Saporia. Your town may get some rain but that will be about it."

Andrew made the necessary adjustments and turned his balloon left westward, for the next couple of hours the trip was smooth until a huge gust of wind off of one of the storms caught Andrew Hugo and Varian off guard. The three men spent minutes frantically pulling ropes and fighting against the wind and they managed to get out of the turbulence unscathed. "That was a close call," Varian said.

"What was that?" Andrew asked. "I thought we had the storms missed. Are you trying to get us killed? Is this some sort of revenge?"

"Andrew you are not thinking clearly," Hugo said. "You are nervous and agitated about Maisie, which is understandable, but I assure you that dispite whatever happened between you and Varian that he would not purposely steer you wrong."

Suddenly the burner went out and the balloon began to fall towards the earth. Andrew did his best to aim for some trees in hopes that they would help soften the impact and make the crash survivable. A ground impact would mean certain death.

As the balloon quickly approached some trees, Varian Hugo and Andrew braced for impact. The balloon crashed through the tops of the trees but was slowed down enough that while it hit the ground hard, Varian Hugo and Andrew were sore but otherwise uninjured. "Goddamn it!" Andrew cursed. "If I had known about the storms I would have taken a different mode of transportation!"

"Don't chastise yourself," Varian said. Andrew found Varian's words of comfort suprising. "No one expected those storms."

"Let's get moving," Hugo said. "Time is of the essance. We get to a main road hopefully we can get a ride on a wagon."

"We have three miles of walking before we get to a road," Andrew said, "And it's starting to rain."

As Varian Hugo and Andrew began their soaking wet journey on foot, Cassandra was still talking to Rapunzel in her room. "Cass, how did Andrew know you would be here?" Rapunzel asked.

"He didn't," Cassandra answered. "I haven't seen him since he was sent back to Saporia. He must have thought I never left Corona. Guess he didn't know what happened."

"He knew," Rapunzel answered. "He tried to invade Corona again after you turned and he and used Varian to help."

"HE DID WHAT!?" Cassandra yelled. "AND VARIAN IS WITH HIM! WHAT THE HELL?!"

"Cassandra, you are going to wake the whole castle," Rapunzel growled. "Now calm down. Varian is older and he is a professional. Helping Hugo fix Maisie's leg is all that matters to him." Rapunzel went to continue when there was a knock on her door. It was her father. "Rapunzel, Cassandra, is everything alright?"

"Varian had to leave with Hugo...and Andrew," Rapunzel was apprehensive with her answer, and for good reason.

"What was he doing here?!" Frederick was less than pleased and Cassandra stepped in. "Maisie fell off of her horse and broke her leg," Cassandra said. "Saporia does not have a qualified surgeon, so Andrew came here. I can tell when he's lying and he was telling the truth."

"If ANYTHING goes wrong, Cassandra....." Frederick left the room and left Cassandra with an uneasy feeling in her stomach.

"Frederick, what's wrong?" Arianna was sitting up in the bed. "What was the yelling over?" Frederick shut the door and rubbed his face. "Varian and Hugo left, with Andrew."

"Andrew?!...." Arianna got out of bed and went over to her husband. "He said Maisie fell and broke her leg. That's what Cassandra said anyway."

Arianna took her tense husband by his hands. "Do you really think he was lying?"

"I don't know," Frederick said. "I'm going to have to trust Cassandra's judgement. But if ANYTHING goes wrong."

Things had already went wrong. A crashed balloon and now Andrew Hugo and Varian were trying to navigate through woods in a pouring rain, and with no moon or stars to guide them they had no choice but to stop and wait for the storms to pass. The three men found an abri and went inside. "We should have brought clothes to change into," Hugo said. "If we stay in these wet ones we could find ourselves ill."

"I'll live," Andrew said. "It's Maisie I'm concerned about."

"Let's at least see if we can start a fire," Varian said and started to grab some sticks. "How are we going to start a fire?" Andrew asked. He was more than incredulous.

"Alcohol and matches" Hugo took a small bottle and box out of his bag and poured the entire bottle onto the sticks then lit a match. "Back away guys," Hugo warned then threw the match, backing away quickly as the sticks caught fire. "There, now we can dry our clothes and stay warm."

Soon the storms passed and the three men continued on their journey, and the rain left behind cooler air which was more than welcome. "Feels better out here," Hugo said.

"It does feel good," Varian added. Andrew stayed silent. It was three more hours before the men found a road, and another hour before they were able to get a ride to Saporia. When they arrived at Andrew's home Maisie was still screaming in pain. "Thank God you came," Mary the haidmaiden said, addressing Hugo and Varian. "Bless you both."

The break was a compound fracture, Hugo and Varian knew they had a long night of surgery in front of them if they were going to be able to save Maisie's leg.

Hugo retreived his instruments and instructed Varian to give Maisie a tonic that would put her to sleep, but she was scared and frightened. "You can trust us," Varian said softly. Despite Varian's words of comfort, Maisie's eyes still conveyed fear. "I promise you we are here to help. No one is going to hurt you. Please drink your medicine."

"Maisie," Andrew took Maisie by her hand. "Please trust them." Maisie gripped Andrew's hand and shook her head. A few seconds later she was out cold.

Hugo rubbed alcohol on Maisie's leg then took a long sterilized knife and slowly cut open the skin covering her shin, being careful not to splinter the bone. Sweat started to form on Hugo's brow as he carefully took the shin bone in his hands. Once the bone was aligned Hugo slowly inserted a rod through the middle of the bone, again hoping not to splinter it. The process was slow and methodical and four hours later Hugo was applying screws on each end of the rod to help hold it and the bone on place. Now it was time for the leg to be wrapped and a cast to be applied.

The surgery over all that anyone could do now was wait and watch for signs of infection. "Thank you," Andrew said with a look of relief on his face. "I am forever in your debt."

"We aren't out of the woods yet," Hugo said. "She has a way to go yet. Speaking of, you two want to tell me why you hate each other and haven't punched the other one out yet?"

"It's a long complicated story," Andrew began. "One I am very ashamed of."

"Because you failed!?" Varian snarled. "Because you used a confused teenager?!"

"Take it outside or stuff it," The usually soft spoken Mary took Andrew Varian and Hugo by suprise. "I expect more professional behavior from doctors. Espically from the Mother Kingdom. I'm from Corona myself and what Andrew did was ignorant and stupid! Corona has always treated us with kindness and protects us from any enemies we might have. Even homegrown ones. But now with Maisie expect...." Mary stopped herself short and covered her mouth.

"Ing?" Varian looked at Andrew and now he was really angry. "She is pregnant and you failed to mention that?!" Varian had to go outside and cool off before he went off on Andrew.

"I had no idea," Andrew said to Hugo then turned to face his hand-maiden who was now more than nervous. "She wanted to tell you sir," she said, her voice trembling. "That's what the ride was for. She wanted to take you somewhere quiet and suprise you."

"How long has she known?" Hugo asked as he figured he had a more serious problem on his hands.

"A few days," Mary said.

"I'm sorry, but this is not my area of expertise," Hugo said. "We have a doctor that can tell," Andrew said. "Mary, go fetch Dr. Clough."

"Why did she wait to tell you?" Hugo asked Andrew after Mary had left the room.

"I don't know. I'm not the man I used to be and I love Maisie with every fiber of my being."

"Why would you try multiple times to overthrow Corona? Do they have something that belongs to Saporia?"

"Saporia itself," Andrew said. "Five hundred years ago...."

"Andrew! God my leg!" Maisie was awake and in great pain. Andrew went over to her and kissed her forehead then gently rubbed it. "You'll be ok," Andrew said softly. "Hugo fixed your leg..."

"Andrew, I meant....AHHHHHH..." Hugo gave Maisie some more tonic and in a few seconds she was again back out.

"Hugo," it was Varian. "If you don't need me I'm going to bed."

"You both can use the guest bedroom," Andrew said. "It has two beds and a shower with hot water. Thank you Varian, your invention has worked wonders."

"I'll be right behind you Varian. Andrew, if you or your doctor need me do not hesitate."

"I won't. Good night Hugo, Varian."

Despite not having to share a bed with Hugo, Varian was nervously drying himself off. He slipped on his pajama pants and opened the door, Hugo had just walked in and shut the bedroom door behind him. "You look sick," Hugo said, taking notice of Varian's pale face. "Do you need some stomach medicine?"

"I'm fine," Varian answered. "Just stress from the events of the day. I'm sorry if my behaviour upset you. I should have stayed professional."

"You did fine," Hugo said as he approached Varian. "I'm going to get a shower."

Varian went to bed and hoped he was asleep before Hugo got out of the shower, but he wasn't. "Having trouble sleeping?" Hugo asked. "Why don't you tell me what is on your mind."

"You are," Varian said. "I was wondering if you wanted to keep in touch after you go back to Equis?"

"Sure," Hugo answered. "You know, I'm going to be here a while now that I have two patients to keep an eye on. How about dinner sometime? Unless Corona has laws against that sort of thing."

"Oh, no," Varian said. "Frederick and Arianna don't care about that. We're good. I just don't know how my father is going to feel about this, me being attracted to a man."

"Do you think he will shun you?"

"Not shun, no. He would never do that. It's just going to take him by suprise."

"Have you ever been with anyone before?" Hugo asked.

"You would be my first," Varian answered. "So, how about Saturday?"

"Saturday should be good for me."

The next morning Maisie was still in pain from her surgery, but was able to talk. "I'm sorry I didn't tell you sooner," she said. "I was scared. Thank the Gods our baby is ok."

"I don't why you were scared," Andrew said as he gently caressed Maisie's face. "I'm not mad in the slightest. On the contrary I couldn't be happier. I love you Maisie," Andrew kissed Maisie on the lips and it quickly went deep. Maisie wanted so to pull Andrew on top of her, but her leg made that impossible. After a minute they slowly seperated. "As soon as I am able," Maisie said.

After breakfast, Andrew gave Hugo and Varian a horse to ride back to Corona as Maisie and him only had one to spare.

While Varian and Hugo quickly made their way back to Corona, a crowd had started to gather to view Eugene. As the crowd slowly walked by they gave condolences to Rapunzel Frederick and Arianna and some gave hugs. Then Stalyan came up. Her chin quivered as tears pooled in her eyes. "First my dad. Now Eugene. Rapunzel I am so, so sorry. "God what a fool I...."

"Don't," Rapunzel interrupted gently, placing her right hand on Stalyan's left shoulder. "Don't put any unnecessary guilt on yourself for things that you have long been forgiven for and that have long been resolved."

"It's just....I don't understand. Why wasn't it me? This man....I need to sit down." An usher helped Stalyan to a chair off to the side just as Lance, Kiera, and Catalina walked up. The girls looked at Eugene for a minute then looked up at Lance. "We're sorry daddy," Catalina said. Lance looked down at his girls and the three of them moved off to the side and stood by Stalyan. Lance caught a whif of something, a perfume he had not smelt in years: Adira was here. Lance looked out a window for any sign of her but there was none. Why was she in Corona? There was no way she knew about Eugene. The Dark Kingdom was too far away. "Dad, what is it?" Kiera asked.

"It's Adira, and there is no way she knows about Eugene this quickly. I'll worry about her later."

On top of the building Adira was wiping her eyes and crying. "Eugene! No, this can't be real! I need to talk to Lance, but I fear me being seen will cause undo stress."

Cassandra went to view Eugene just as Hugo and Varian arrived. She briefly turned and was more than relieved to see them back safe and sound. She then turned back to Eugene. "I am so sorry. This is my faul..."

"No," Rapunzel said. "Just like I told Stalyan. No guilt for things that have long been settled."

"I'm going to miss you," Cassandra said then stood off to the side with Stalyan. They shared a brief hug then faced Rapunzel Varian and Hugo. "We were Team Awesome," Varian said. "There will never be another one like you. And if it wasn't for you I'm not standing here."

As The Throne Room started to empty the front door slowly opened. It was Lady Caine in a wheel chair with Sarah pushing her. Cassandra Stalyan and Rapunzel were more than apprehensive. As Lady Caine approached she gave a soft look to the three women and then focused on the glass coffin. "Thank you, Eugene. I never told you this because I thought it would make me sound weak, but you saved me. Rest easy Captain," Lady Caine looked up at Sarah and continued, "I guess take me back to bed."

"Wait," Rapunzel said. "We all need to eat. Perhaps Lady Caine could join us for lunch?"

Lady Caine was taken aback by Rapunzel's offer. "May I have a few minutes to freshen up and change clothes first?"

"Absolutley," Rapunzel said. "We'll be at the gazebo."

In her bathroom, Lady Caine was being helped by Sarah, and she was visibly upset. "Look lass, as soon as you are able you can dress yourself," Sarah said, helping Lady Caine put on a clean bra and panties.

"I don't care about that," Lady Caine said. "It's Rapunzel and Eugene. I....used to be a hardened person, criminal, but these people that I hated, just did not return the hate. Instead they did the opposite. They showed me more love and compassion than I deserved."

During lunch Sarah would give glances at Lady Caine while she wasn't looking. 'I wonder if she would like to date,' Sarah thought to herself. 'If she does though she needs to know about...meh. I'm sure she'll be fine with it.'

"Varian, Hugo, how is Maisie doing?" Rapunzel asked, hoping for some desperately needed good news.

"Surgery went well," Hugo answered. "And Varian was a top notch nurse. He helped me stay focused and steady."

A smile creeped across Rapunzel's face. "Are you and Varian....oh this is so awesome. Varian I am so glad you found someone. Come on, anyone else have anything?"

"I'm having an easier time walking," Lady Caine said.

"I'm...." Cassandra paused. "I'm not sure I can say."

"It's ok." Arianna said, making sure no wait staff was around. "So long as it goes no further than this table."

"I'm pregnant. Queen Arianna needed a surrogate mother and I accepted."

"That is one of the most selfless things I think I have ever heard of," Sarah said.

"I'm pregnant, too," Rapunzel said. Lady Caine feigned happiness. She knew she would walk again, and she knew she could carry a child, but she also knew no one would want to lay with her, at least, that's what she thought.

Later that evening at their tree house, Kirea and Catalina were asleep and Kirea had a dream: Catalina and her were eating dinner with Lance when he again caught a whif of perfume. "It's the same smell from the view....Adira," Kiera, shook up from the events of the day and unsure of the visit, stood in front of her sister and clinched her fist. "You have the pure heart of a warrior," Adira said then dropped down from the top of the tree house. "When you come of age The Dark Kingdom could use someone like you."

"Adira, where is your face paint?" Catalina asked as she stepped out from behind her protective sister who found Adira's statement slightly flattering, but said nothing. "And why are you here? It isn't possible that you knew about Eugene."

"You would be correct Catalina. The main reason for my visit was a joyous one. The Dark Kingdom has been completely repaired. As for my face paint being gone I no longer need it. It's only for war. There is peace now, for the time being at least."

"Meaning?" Kiera asked. "Are we going to be fighting again? Does somebody really want to catch hands right now?! Because I am in a mood!"

"Relax," Adira said softly. "I misspoke. What I mean is that we need to watch for any suspicious characters. Like me." Adira lunged at Kiera and then she woke up. "Wha....." She quickly looked around the room and took a deep breath when she realized everything was ok. "Must have been something I ate. A bit of bad beef or maybe it was the mustard. Oh well. Back to sleep."

The next morning while eating breakfast Kiera Catalina and Lance received a very real visit from Adira. Kiera remembered her dream but did not let it bother her. "Adira, how did you know about Eugene?" Lance asked.

"I didn't. The purpose for my visit was a joyous one. The Dark Kingdom has been repaired and will again be taking visitors. I wanted to tell everyone here in person, but then I heard the news about Eugene."

"You're holding something back," Kiera observed. "Are you wanting to date our father?"

"Yes," Adira answered. "I am. Now I must decide what to do next. The Dark Kingdom is without a Prince."

"Just tell 'em about the Dark Kingdom, but leave off the Prince part for a while," Kiera said. "Rapunzel and Cassandra need some good news. Besides, I think Cassandra has some news for you as well."

Adira agreed and went to visit Cassandra and Rapunzel, wondering if they would even want to see her in the first place.

Cassandra was in her bathroom getting dressed when she felt the hairs on the back of her neck stand up. "Frederick, is that you?" No answer. "Eug..." Cassandra had to compose herself. Never again would she get anymore of his annoying jump scares or walk into a bucket of water on her head. "Rapunzel...." still no answer. "Ok, I don't know who is in my room, but you better have a real good reason." Cassandra flung her door open and was more than suprised with who she saw. "Adira?!"

"Calm, short hair. I come with good news. Something I think you will be espically intrested in hearing."

"Does Rapunzel know you are here?"

"Not yet."

"So what is this good news?" It was obvious Cassandra didn't care much about whatever Adira had to say.

"The Dark Kingdom has been repaired and will be reopened."

"Is that it? I have things to do."

"I know about Eugene, Cassandra. And I am very sorry."

Cassandra put her hands on her belly, looking down briefly then back up at Adira. "The baby, is it his? I know you and Eugene were closer than you let on."

"No, the baby is not Eugene's. It's," Cassandra paused and closed her window, pulling her curtains to. "It's Frederick's" Adira was stoic as she sat down on Cassandra's bed. "I was sent a letter explaining that I needed to come back to Corona, but the letter did not say as to why. When I returned the reason for my return was explained. I accepted and had sex with Frederick. He was respectful kind and gentle. He in no way forced me and we have not had sex since I got pregnant, but back to your visit."

"Yes. I don't know if anyone has thought about this, but Eugene's death leaves The Dark Kingdom without a Prince."

Cassandra's blood ran cold. Corona and The Dark Kingdom were without a Prince. What will Rapunzel do when she realizes it, and will she want to do anything about it?

Chapter Text

Cassandra stood still, her heart beating fast in her chest. Sensing trouble Adira stood up and helped Cassandra into bed. "Adira, we CAN'T tell Rapunzel about this. Not for a long while. What difference does it make anyway? Can Edmund...fuck! Edmund doesn't know! I didn't send him a letter! Shit I am so stupid!"

"Do you not see me standing right here?" Adira retorted. "I will tell him when I return to The Dark Kingdom. This will destroy him. As for why it matters you know as well as I do The Dark Kingdom has diplomatic relations with other Kingdoms that Eugene was responsible for. Same goes for here."

Cassandra got out of bed and faced Adira. "And you know as well as I do Rapunzel will never even entertain the idea of seeing anyone else, much less marrying them. If you knew hers and Eugene's story you would understand why."

"I know the last half," Adira said with a smirk.

"If you don't have anything else to say then you need to get going," Cassandra said, doing her best to stay calm. "Like I said I have things to do."

"I wish you luck in your endevours, Cassandra. See you again soon."

Adira quickly left out of Cassandra's bedroom window. Cassandra shut and locked her window then closed her curtains. "Just had to say something. Oh well. I've got bigger problems."

Cassandra opened her door and jumped slightly when she saw Varian. "Fuck me Varian...sorry. What can I do for you?"

"I need to talk to you if you have time." Varian seemed nervous, whatever this was was important. "I've basically got today off," Cassandra said. "You want to go somewhere else and talk? Have some coffee or something?"

"Thank you, Cassandra....where do you want to go exactly?"

"We could go down to the docks. They have a couple of small coffee shops."

"Sounds good to me," Varian said. "How about Laura's?"

"See you there," Cassandra said.

"So what is on your mind?" Cassandra asked then dipped her donut in her coffee and took a bite.

"As you know I have a boyfriend," Varian said.

"That's not illegal," Cassandra said then took a drink of her coffee.

"I know that. It's my dad. I haven't told him yet."

"Gotcha. Been there. Didn't tell my dad about Frederick until after we had sex. He wasn't very pleased, even after I explained why...not helping am I?"

"Not really. I know my dad loves me and he wouldn't disown me or anything like that..."

"You just don't want him being disappointed in you. Has he ever dropped any hints about you being with a woman, having children?"

"No. Not that I remember. But after you left we were really busy. We only talked about rebuilding Corona."

"I'm sor...."

"Don't, Cassandra. I guess I'll just tell him and see how it goes," Varian took some coins out of his money bag and laid them on the table. "Thank you for your time. I'll see you around."

Varian left Cassandra upset and with her heart heavier than it already was. "I should have just stayed and let people beat the shit out of me like I deserved...then maybe none of this is happening." Cassandra took a napkin and wiped her eyes then looked at the door. "Stalyan, I'll sneak out the side."

"Cassandra," Stalyan called out. Cassandra stopped and turned around. "Stalyan, hi. How are you holding up?"

"About as good as you could expect. I was hungry but didn't feel like cooking. So I came down here to get some comfort food. What about you?"

"Varian needed some advice and I don't think I helped much. To be honest I was about to leave when you called out to me."

"Well if you're busy I won't keep you. Good day Cassandra."

'fuck,' Cassandra cursed internally. "I'm not busy. Would you like some company?"

"Please."

"So how are you holding up?" Stalyan asked after Cassandra and her were seated.

"Like you, about as good as you could expect. Got some problems though. The Dark Kingdom and Corona are without a Prince, and Eugene was over diplomatic relations."

"Do Corona and The Dark Kingdom need a Prince for that? Can't Rapunzel and Edmund just appoint someone jointly?"

"I don't know," Cassandra said. "If they do I have no idea who it would be. And while I know the Kingdom of Corona and its laws like the back of my hand I am not cut out to be a diplomat. God I don't know what we are going to do."

"I would suggest talking about something lighthearted, but there isn't anything right now."

"Not anything that doesn't remind me of Eugene, for example we have the Gopher Grab coming up."

Stalyan chuckled. "He...he told me about those. Apparently you weren't too happy about him getting the berries mixed up."

"Not too happy? I was pissed. That damn Gopher nearly took out the entire town. Eugene kept his distance for a few days after that. Then there was the time he used my halberd."

Stalyan laughed "For what? He could barely use a knife."

"To shave with."

"Shave his beard?" Stalyan asked. Cassandra was silent. "Ohhhh. Yeah, I would have kicked his ass."

"Believe me I wanted to. That was one of only a few times I really wanted to hit him, but Rapunzel stepped in and came up with a plan to help us work together. It involved a prison cell and being kidnapped by The Stabbington Brothers." Stalyan was more than confused. "See, Rapunzel locked us in a cell then gave us clues to build a device to get the cell door opened, but we couldn't get anywhere. So we laid in our beds and Eugene opened up to me about his parents. I've often wondered if I had opened up to him, would things have turned out differently. Oh well. Dwelling on the past won't do any good. Though the future isn't looking too good either."

Later that night King Frederick was in the kitchen sitting in front of a cup of coffee when he heard a knock behind him. "Your majesty," Frederick turned in his chair and stood up. "Cassandra, why are you up? Are you sick? Do you need anything? Would you like a cup of coffee?"

"Yes. And a way to fix all the problems we have facing us at once. I don't even want to think about having to tell Rapunzel that Eugene needs a replacement. God, even saying it like that sounds awful. Makes it sound like he was just a pawn on a chess board when he was so much more than that."

"Are you still blaming yourself," Frederick asked after getting Cassandra her coffee. She took a sip and answered. "Yes, and when someone can tell me how I'm not to blame I'll stop."

"Cassandra, you did nothing to cause Eugene's heart to fail. I don't know the underlying cause, but I do know it wasn't you. Cassandra, he spoke very highly of you after you left. He believed the same thing I do; you were deceived. And as I said before, you gave your life, selflessly. I could not find it in myself to charge you with anything, not after you sacrificed your life."

"Still, that doesn't change the last words I heard Eugene say. Words that are never spoken if I don't grab an accursed goddamned stone. Good night your majesty."

Cassandra left the kitchen and left King Frederick wondering how, or, if ever, Cassandra was going to let go of the guilt she was holding on to. Something was going to have to be done, for her sake and for the sake of the baby she was carrying.

"Lass, are you alright?" Sarah asked Lady Caine as she helped her back in bed after using the bathroom.

"I...I was thinking of Eugene. He looked so strong and healthy, then to be gone as quick as he was, it's a very sobering thought."

"It is," Sarah replied.

"Which is why I want to make the most of my life from now on. I want to travel. See the world. Meet new people. See new things. And as soon as I get enough money saved up that is exactly what I'm going to do."

"I wish you luck," Sarah said, trying not to sound upset. She knew a relationship wasn't likely to begin with. "I'm going to get a bite. I'll be back in about fifteen minutes."

"I'm hungry too," Lady Caine said. "Let's go to the kitchen together. And I want to see how long I can walk by myself."

It took a few minutes but Lady Caine made it to the empty kitchen without help. "What are we eating?" Lady Caine asked as she took a chair.

"Sandwiches and lemonade," Sarah said with her back turned to Lady Caine, and Lady Caine noticed something was wrong. She got out of her chair and limped up to Sarah. "Hey, why are you upset," Sarah refused to face Lady Caine and continued making sandwiches. "Sarah?!" Lady Caine forced Sarah to face her and Sarah's eyes were wet. "Have I done something wrong? Made your job harder than it should be? Look, I'll take care of my hygine and dressing myself from now on. You've helped me so much I can do that now. Thank you! And before I go on my travels I'm going to get you something to show my appreciation!." Sarah wiped her eyes and forced a smile.

While Lady Caine and Sarah were eating their sandwiches, Cassandra was standing just outside Rapunzel's room. Her clinched right fist only a couple of inches away from the door. 'I knock on this door, and there is no going back. Fuck is wrong with me. I'm going to bed.'

The next morning during breakfast Rapunzel could tell Cassandra had something besides the obvious on her mind, but she would wait to bring it up. Cassandra was barely eating as it was.

After Cassandra had cleaned the table and done the dishes, she went to leave the washroom only to be met by Rapunzel. "Raps, what can I do for you?"

"Spill it," Rapunzel's words were not a request. She doubled down by folding her arms across her chest.

"No! Raps I'll tell you later! You don't need anything else to deal with right now!"

"Does it have anything to do with Corona?! I'm still a Princess! I still have responsibilities!"

"Fine!" Cassandra snapped. "Neither Corona or The Dark Kingdom have a Head of Diplomatic Relations now! And you and Edmond only have a week to make your respective nominations! Adira....Adira was here last night and gave me this vital piece of information. That and both Kingdoms are without a Prince."

"Well I don't give a fuck..."

"Fucks to give or not you still have to pick a new Head of Diplomatic relations. As for the rest I'm sure there is a way around that. There is a way around that?"

"Eugene won't have an heir for another nine months, and we don't have nine months."

Cassandra got a catch in her breath. A horrifying thought quickly formed in her brain. "What if Hector is named Head of Diplomatic Relations for both Kingdoms?"

"Cassandra, Adira won't let her brother anywhere near a position of authority with that high level of importance."

"Which only makes this situiation more dire. Infighting could start and start quickly."

"Can I help," Rapunzel and Cassandra had never been as happy as they were to see Andrew. "Maisie needs a more tepid climate, so we decided to come here, and I'm technically a citizen."

"What do you know about Diplomatic Relations?" Rapunzel asked. Andrew narrowed his eyes. "Really?"

"Oh," Rapunzel was deeply embarrassed. "I'll notify King Edmund that I have my nomination for Head of Diplomatic Relations."

"Andrew, I don't know exactly who or what changed you," Cassandra said. "But I thank the Gods for whoever or whatever it was."

The minds of Rapunzel and Cassandra had been eased, and after a brief and to the point conversation, the minds of Arianna and Frederick were also at ease. Andrew made it plain that he only had Corona's best intrest at heart.

While Cassandra and Rapunzel breathed a little easier, Varian was more than nervous as he sat across from his father during lunch. "So how are things going?" Quirin asked. "I haven't had a chance to talk to you or Hugo much. Maisie doing good?"

"Maisie?....oh yes," Varian cleared his throat and continued. "She's doing well. She'll be doing even better now that she is in a more comfortable climate....uh dad, can I tell you something?"

"Sure son. You can tell me anything you want to?"

"When I went with Hugo to go to Saporia, I, felt different."

"Different?" Quirin asked. "What do you mean?"

"I mean I want to spend casual time with him. Like dating. I want to get to know him better. And, he feels the same way about me." Varian started to cry and was hugged by his father. "I'm sorry," Varian cried. "I know you're angry with me." Quirin pushed Varian backwards and sat him down. "Varian, what you just told me took a lot of courage and conviction. Two things that if I had more of, maybe things would have turned out different. And while I'm more than a little suprised about this, you have my love and support. That being said, tell me more about Hugo. Is he nice? Some doctors can be snobbish and full of themselves."

"He was born and raised in Equis, and despite basically being a medical prodigy he is very nice and anything but snobbish," Varian said. "And watching him work, they way he delicately repaired Maisie's leg. He cares not about someones past or their current situation. Our doctors could learn a thing or two from him. As for what he likes to do in his leisure time I'm not sure. I hope to find out on our date tonight."

"Where are you two going? You staying in Corona or going out of town?"

"I think with everything that is going on we'll stay in Corona. Oh Gods now I'm nervous about tonight. I'm afraid I'm going to trip over my words or say something embarassing."

"You are," Quirin said. Varian gave a playful scowl. "Thanks dad," Varian said.

"And when you do you'll apologize while Hugo does nothing to embarrass you further. Oh, and I would like some time to talk to Hugo."

"If you're up how about after our date tonight? We should be back about nine, nine thirty."

"That sounds good, Varian." Varian noticed the eyes of his father growing distant. He knew what it was. "I miss mom too dad."

"She would be so proud of you Varian."

After lunch with his father, Varian went back to the castle to get ready for his date. "Ok, button up shirt or pull-over? Pants, loose or tight fitting? I don't want to come on too strong. And I have a feeling tight pants will do that. I wish there was someone I could ask about this, but I feel asking Cassandra may not be the best idea, not after how I left our last conversation. Rapunzel will tell me I look good no matter what I decide to wear. Oh well. Cassandra it is."

Cassandra had just wrapped a towel around herself after a hot shower when there was a knock on her door. "Who is it?" Cassandra quickly dropped her towel and put on underwear a tank and shorts. She was still hot from her shower and the clothes felt good. "It's Varian. Can we talk?"

"Sure, went so well the last time," Cassandra realized she spoke without thinking and bit her lip, hoping that when she opened her door Varian hadn't walked off. "Sorry Varian. Looks like my mouth is getting me in trouble again.

"Not with me. I need your help again. Fashion tips."

"Varian, if you have never noticed I have never been big on fashion. Do you remember the pants I used to wear with my tunic?"

"Yeah, but this is more about fit than it is about color. I have a date tonight and I want to look my best. And there are no guys I feel comfortable asking about this. If it bothers you I'll just figure it out on my own."

Cassandra went with Varian to his room. His first outfit was a white button up shirt with red trousers. "Never wear white to a restaurant, Varian." Cassandra said. "No matter how careful you are you are bound to get something on it. White shirts attract stains like Eugene attracts....." Cassandra and Varian both swallowed a lump in their throat. "Sorry Varian."

"It's going to take a long time," Varian said. "You have nothing to apologize for." The final words Cassandra heard Eugene say again echoed in her head. "Wear a belt with your trousers and pick a different color shirt. You should be good. I need to check on Rapunzel."

Varian tried to thank Cassandra as she left the room, but she either didn't hear Varian or she outright ignored him. "I need to talk to Hugo. He's not a psychiatrist, but maybe he can offer some advise. A way to help Cassandra get over her guilt."

Later that evening Varian got a knock on his door. He opened it and it was Hugo. "Varian, you ready to go?"

"Yeah," Varian was a little flustered looking at Hugo's shirt that showed off his well defined pecs. "Where uh...."

"Are we going?" Hugo finished Varian's question with a smile. "I thought that since you were more familiar with this place than I was that you would pick."

"Of course. How silly of me."

"Varian, are you sure you're ok?" Hugo took a more serious tone. "If you aren't up to this we don't have to go anywhere."

"No. I'm fine. Some fresh air will do me good."

"Something is on your mind Varian. And instead of bearing it alone why don't you tell me what it is? Does your father not approve of you seeing me?"

"No no. He's fine with it."

"Are you having issues accepting your sexuality?"

"No. It isn't that either. Coming out was one of the best decisions I've ever made....it's just first date jitters." Varian lied and did his best to supress his guilt as Hugo and him went out to eat. When they got to the restaurant Varian was becoming overwhelmed with guilt, but he knew if he didn't say anything at all then everything would be ok. Only ot wasn't. Over pasta Varian came clean.

"Look. Hugo. There is a problem, but I don't know if it's my place to tell you what it is."

"Ok..."

"Cassandra needs to talk to you but she won't do it. Do you think perhaps you could accidently bump into her or something?"

"I know all about her, Varian. Thing is her problems are not my area of expertise. I can offer advice but I fear she will reject it. But I will try none the less."

"Thank you, Hugo. So....what do you want to talk about now?"

"I'm not sure. Changing the subject makes me feel as if Cassandra is not worth our time or our thoughts."

"But if she finds out we cut our date short and didn't enjoy ourselves because we were thinking about her, that will only increase her guilt. That and if she is asleep and gets woken up she gets really angry. First thing tomorrow after breakfast?"

"I think that will be the best time to talk to her."

"So, what do you do for fun?" Varian took a bite of paata and a drink of his wine. "I like to read short stories, Poe, to be exact. My favroite is 'The Pit and the Pendulum'. And I enjoy the Opera when the opprotunity presents itself."

Varian scoffed. "We don't have an Oprea. We have plays everyonce in a while at The Royal Theatere, but that is as close as we get."

"I like plays, too." Hugo said. "Now what about you, what do you do in your spare time?"

"I uh....poetry. I write poetry. And I read Dickens. Lots of Dickens."

"What's your favroite Dickens work?" Hugo asked. Varian gulped. Started to get nervous. Then it happened. "'The Luck of Barry Lyndon.' If I've read it once I've read it a hundred times."

"It's an excellent work." Hugo knew Varian was lying, but he was going to give him time to come clean.

Later that night at Varian's home, Hugo was getting acquainted Quirin. They hit it off almost immediately, which gave Varian some much needed relief. They talked about how long Hugo went to Medical School. How long he intended to be in the profession, and his future plans. Children were not brought up during the discussion. Which also gave Varian some relief. Before Hugo left he got to see Varian's room.

"Very nice," Hugo said. "Those papers on your desk, is that your poetry?"

Varian sat down on the side of his bed and faced the wall. Hugo, perplexed by Varian's behavior, sat down beside him. "You don't have to be embarrassed, Varian. Espically not around me."

Varian looked into Hugo's eyes and quickly found himself getting lost in his crystal blue orbs. Never had Varian seen eyes as pretty as Hugo's. "I..don't write poetry. I draw and sketch designs from flying machines. And I read Newton. Sir Isaac Newton. I've been fascinated with flying machines ever since I was little. As for why I told you I write poetry and read Dickens I didn't want to seem...inadequate."

"Varian, I find flying machines fascinating. And I've wanted to know how they work."

"I'm sorry I lied to you. I'm so ashamed. God I screwed up."

"Varian, you seem as if you've always felt inadequate. Looked over. Even if unintentionally. I assure you you are far from inadequate. You are a smart brilliant fascinating young man. One I want to spend more time with." Varian's blood was rushing through his veins. He could feel his heart throbbing in his head, and that wasn't the only thing throbbing.

'You want to kiss me. Don't be stupid, Varian. No one kisses on the first date.' "Would you like to take a look at my designs?"

"I would like that very much," Hugo said. Varian went to stand up and was concious of how he would walk. He didn't want to come off flirtatious or that he was offering. 'God Varian, just walk normal.'

Varian quickly retrived his drawings and sat down by Hugo. "Ok. This first one is called the...." Time flew by, and before Varian and Hugo knew it it was two o'clock in the morning. "Oh God. Hugo I am so sorry. I lost track of time."

"I did too," Hugo said. "And I'm not the least bit sorry. You have some intresting ideas. I hope to see one get off the ground someday. Good night Varian. I look forward to another date with you, and soon."

Varian walked Hugo to his bedroom door. They stopped only a few inches from it and looked at each other. "Good night, Hugo," Varian said. Hugo said the same and went to leave only to be stopped by Varian. "Is it wrong to want to kiss on the first date?"

"Personal preferences," Hugo answered. The lips of Hugo and Varian met briefly and they seperated. "I think we need to call it a night," Varian said. His brain and heart wanted to spend the night in Hugo's arms, but Varian was able to overcome those urges, at least for now.

The next morning during breakfast Cassandra noticed Hugo and Varian acting strange. 'Dicked each other on the first date?' She asked herself. 'Oh well. To each their own.'

After breakfast Cassandra was in her room only a minute when there was a knock on her door. 'Doesn't look like you need relationship advice. Not that I am the person to come to,' Cassandra said to herself then opened her door. "Hugo?!" Cassandra expected Varian. "Cassandra, may I come in?"

"Uh....sure. Please, come in." Hugo entered the room. Cassandra slowly closed the door behind her as she faced Hugo. "What can I do for you?"

"I'm here to talk about you."

"Don't waste your time. I'm getting what I deserve."

"What about the baby in your belly? Is it getting what it deserves?" Hugo asked. His voice was deep and authoritive. "You need help, Cassandra."

"And what am I supposed to do, huh!?" Cassandra snapped. "I can't exactly up and leave Corona! What?! I find a boy or girlfriend?! No one wants sloppy seconds or a woman with baggage who is almost thirty."

"I'd hardly call sex with a King 'sloppy seconds.' As for your baggage, I can help you rid yourself of that."

"Fine, what do you suggest?"

"I'll send a letter to Equis. Surely one of my colleagues can get an answer for you."

"Write it. This has to stop."

"Very well, Cassandra. Have a pleasant day."

Cassandra wasn't going to say anything until the next day. At least that was her plan. She laid in bed and closed her eyes She quickly feel asleep and had a dream: 'I need to go for a walk.' Cassandra was halfway down the hallway when she heard footsteps then the voice of King Frederick behind her. "Cassandra," 'Oh god,' Cassandra groaned quietly, putting on a smile as she turned around. "How are you feeling? You seemed off during breakfast."

"I am, but I talked to Hugo and he is going to write his colleagues back at Equis. See if any of them have an answer for me. Something has to be done. What about Arianna and you? How are you two doing?"

"She's been...curious. She's wanting to try new things."

"Such as....."

"She wants to try a threesome."

"Oh God. A threesome? You can't be serious." Frederick's look conveyed that he was indeed serious. "Tell me she doesn't have me in mind," another look from Frederick. "She has me in mind. But why?!"

"She wants to have a little fun. And she trusts you. If at anytime you feel uncomfortable just say 'stop' and walk away."

"Ohhh, I get it. She wants lesbian sex and is using having a threesome as a cover. If she wants to lay with me to satisify her curiousity and get it out of her system I'll do it. I have no problem with that. I'll be in my room waiting."

A few minutes later Cassandra-wearing only a slip-was sitting on her bed when there was a knock on her door. "Come in Arianna." Arianna slowly opened the door and closed it behind her. Cassandra stretched out on her bed and propped herself up on her right arm. "Frederick said you were curious. As you know this is one time only."

"Yes, of course,' Arianna said.

"Then let us begin."

Arianna slowly approached Cassandra, undressing as she went. Cassandra was in awe at the muscular naked body of her Queen. "Arianna, oh my God." Lips met and soon Cassandra was naked as well. Then the lips of Cassandra were being spread and licked by Arianna. Cassandra let out a moan only to be woken up by a knock on her door. "Who...what?" She sat up, unsure about her dream. "arianna, again?' she mouthed......"Who is it?"

"It's Varian. Are you joining us for lunch?"

"Yes Varian. I'm sorry. I fell asleep after talking to Hugo. I'll be down in a minute."

Lunch was quiet and smooth but after Sarah started to get upset. Lady Caine was healthy and after being given a heafty sum of money from Frederick and Arianna to start a new life on, she hugged Sarah and maid her way down to the docks where a ship would take her far away from Corona.

Sarah sat on the side of her bed crying. She was alone, and would be for quite sometime. She had all the time she needed to cry all she wanted. She went to throw away her tissue when there was a knock on her door. She jerked it open. "Julie....but I thought."

"I did too," Lady Caine said. "And I was dead wrong." Lady Caine threw her bag towards Sarah's bed and brought her into a kiss. Using her foot she shut the door. "I can't leave you." Lady Caine said between kisses. Lady Caine gave Sarah no chance to respond. The kisses quickly turned deep and passioniate then the clothes started to come off. The two women took turns fondleing adn kissing breasts and nipples. By this point Sarah's cock was rock hard and she gently pushed Lady Caine away and lifted up her skirt. "Suprise."

"Nice suprise indeed." Lady Caine said with a hungry smile. Lady Caine and Sarah took off the rest of their clothes and got in bed. "How's your back?" Sarah asked. "I don't want to hurt you."

"On my side should be fine," Lady Caine said. The two women assumed the position and Lady Caine gasped as she felt her walls widen. "Sarah, oh fuck. Oh gods. Gods that feels good." For minutes on end Sarah slowly thrust her hips. Not wanting to cause Lady Caine any pain or discomfort, which was just fine with Lady Caine. A few minutes later the bodies of Sarah and Lady Caine tightened as they quietly came together. Neither one wanting to move, Sarah wrapped her arm around Lady Caine and the two women fell asleep. Another baby would soon be on the way.

A week later King Edmund arrived in Corona for the funeral of his son. He was flanked by Hector and Adira. Cassandra had gotten a tonic from Equis that vastly improved her mood, and even though she was pregnant with King Fredericks baby, she was considering a relationship. She just didn't know if she wanted to be with a man or a woman. She was also considering telling Arianna about her progressively erotic dreams.

Chapter Text

"Gods please let us be civil. We don't need anymore problems." That was Cassandra's short and to the point prayer as she walked beside Rapunzel and Rapunzel's parents to meet King Edmund Hector and Adira. Andrew was following behind Frederick. "Edmund. I am truly sorry," Frederick said, hugging his friend and ally.

"It was quick?" Edmund asked. "He was in no pain? What were his last words?"

"It was quick and painless," Frederick answered. "As for his last words, they are known only to my daughter Rapunzel. "He didn't really say anything," Rapunzel said. Cassandra shivered and to her relief no one asked about it. "He squeezed my hand and then he passed on."

"King Edmund," Cassandra said. Edmund looked at her. "Seeing you turns my stomach," he said. "If you are not required to be here then please remove yourself from my presence immediately," Edmund was a gentleman with Cassandra despite his animosity towards her, and she granted his request without argument.

As for things staying civil. "Yeah Cassandra Potemkin, get out of here," Hector heckled. Cassandra paused and turned around. Her calm demeanor made Rapunzel and Arianna both shiver. Hector and her stepped towards each other. Cassandra balled up her right fist and Hector drew his sword. But just before they were able to engage in combat Andrew stepped inbetween them. "Stop this at once," Andrew demanded. "Cassandra you have a VERY good reason not to fight. And Hector, I heard about The Great Tree."

"What is this 'very good reason?'" Hector sneered mockingly. "You pregnant or something?"

"Yes. I am pregnant. And thank you Andrew for keeping me from doing something stupid."

"Who the fuck would be stupid enough to water your flower?" Hector was asking for it, but he was sure no one was going to do anything given the circumstances.

"She did it for me!" Arianna blurted out. "I can't concieve so I asked Cassandra to get pregnant by Frederick and she accepted!"

"Ohhhh, so you're a Potemkin and a Troia?"

"Hector," Adira snapped. Hector turned around just in time to catch a straight right hook to his jaw, knocking him out cold. "I'm sorry, Cassandra," Adira said. "Hector's language was uncalled for. I'm going to place him back in our caravan.

"I agree," Edmund said. "Despite our issues, vulgar language, espically towards women, is never acceptable. That being said Hector has been justly dealt with."

"Cassandra has as well," Frederick said sternly. "I strongly suggest you do not forget that!"

"That may be but she is not allowed anywhere near my son until AFTER his burial! Have I made myself clear?!" Edmund said after Cassandra was out of ear shot. No one argued his demands. In her room Cassandra laid in her bed on her back and stared up at the ceiling, sarcastically remarking, "Well, we were civil at least."

"Your majesty," Rapunzel began. "Please reconsider. She is not the woman she was. At least allow her to attend from a distance. She has been in great emotional pain as of late and this has only exacerbated it."

"She can watch from a window!" Edmund snarled. "I want no further discussion on this matter! Now take me to see my son!"

A few minutes later Edmund was standing in front of Eugene's glass coffin. He dropped to his knees and began to sob. No one dared touch him. Not even Hector who was rubbing his sore jaw made a move. As Edmund cried he put his hands on the coffin. "My only son...."

Supper that night was tense and quiet. Cassandra sat at the far end of the table away from Edmund Frederick Arianna and Rapunzel. What little she did eat was aggravating her already upset stomach. 'After supper I'm going to take my tonic and go to bed. Maybe when I wake up this will have been nothing more than one messed up dream.'

In her bedroom Cassandra laid wide awake for an hour. 'Tonic has calmed me down, but I'm not the least bit sleepy. Guess, I'll go for a walk...that dream. nope, staying in bed.'

Cassandra forced herself to go to sleep and was only asleep for a couple of hours when she woke up. 'Ten O'clock?! This is bullshit! I'm going to ask Hugo tomorrow if I can take sleep medicine with my tonic. Fuck I need to go to sleep or I'm not going to be able to function tomorrow. Not that it matters. I'm not allowed anywhere near Eugene's funeral procession."

The next morning around seven Cassandra got out of bed just in time to answer a knock on her door. Of all people it was Arianna. Cassadra invited her in and they sat beside each other on Cassandra's bed. "Cassandra I am very sorry," Arianna said. "If there is anything I can do..."

"No," Cassandra answered. "Just another reminder of who I am."

"Were, Cassandra! Who you were! Honey you have changed dramatically! Your turn around is a miracle! But you have to realize not everyone will see that, and not everyone will forgive you. Those are hard realities that you must learn to live with."

"I understand your majesty."

"Cassandra please, you've seen my husband naked more than once. You can call me Arianna from now on."

"And I guess you can call me Cass even though we haven't seen each other naked outside of my dreams. Oh shit!" Cassandra covered her mouth. Her face and the face of Arianna both turned a deep shade of red. "What was that?" Arianna asked after a brief but awkward silence.

"Uhhhh, since I've returned to Corona I've dreams about you, progressively erotic dreams. And I don't know why. Not saying you aren't a nice kind caring beautiful woman, you are. Maybe it's because I've had sex with your husband and its my way of processing you possibly being jealous or somehow feeling left out...I don't know. I'm sorry I said anything."

"Cassandra, why would I be jealous of you? I asked you to do this and I wanted you to have privacy with my husband so you could relax."

"I know.....I just.....I guess I'm going to get ready to do absolutey nothing but eat some breakfast and stay in my room for a while."

A few hours later Rapunzel stood in front of upset crying faces of all ages and struggled to deliver the eulogy. She talked about how her and Eugene met and did her best to keep mentions of Cassandra to a minimum and keep the focus on Eugene, but that wasn't possible, the term "trials and tribulations" made it obvious what and who Rapunzel was talking about. Still, amid hisses and boos, Rapunzel tried to paint Cassandra in a positive light, and that her sacrifice was a big part of why Corona still stood.

Once she was finished with her eulogy, Rapunzel offered anyone else who wanted a chance to speak. Stalyan went first and told of how she was a thief and an extortioner, she even talked about Eugene standing her up at the altar, only to say she didn't blame him in the slightest. Then she talked of the mercy and compassion shown her by Rapunzel and Eugene, and how it changed her and made her into the woman she was. "I only wish there were more Eugene's in this world."

As Stalyan walked back to her seat Lady Caine slowly walked up. "Stalyan just said everything I was going to say. I can only echo her words. Eugene was a kind and special man. Our first few meetings were violent, to say the least. To put it frankly I tried to kill him, and Rapunzel, and Cassandra.

Then one day Rapunzel connected with a frying pan to the side of my head. I heard her apologize then I blacked out. Woke up in a prison hospital. I expected to be sent away for what I thought was the rest of my life, but then I heard Eugene yelling and screaming at the top of his lungs at someone about my father. It was King Frederick, and if I had not have been so groggy I would have sat up. Sometime later I was visited by Eugene who told me that if I went back home, and stayed there, no charges would be filed against me. I put together what had happened and I took his offer. Rest easy Captain. And with Sarah by my side hopefully I'll behave myself and we'll meet again someday."

Varian and Hugo gripped each others hands then Varian went up. He only got a few words out before his emotions overtook him and he sat back down by Hugo who hugged him tight.

Cassandra, allowed to go no closer than just outside the door, wiped her eyes. She knew she had to quickly get back to her room.

Cassandra stood in front of her open window and could hear the twenty-one gun salute. Then when the bagpipes played she sat down up against her bed and cried alone. Two hours later she was still crying when her door opened and Rapunzel ran inside. Cassandra had never hugged Rapunzel as tight as she did in that moment. "Cass I'm sorry," Rapunzel said through tears. "I had no choice."

"I know," Cassandra answered softly. After a minute Cassandra looked behind Rapunzel at Rapunzel's parents and hugged them as well.

After a long day it was not yet seven and Rapunzel was already in bed asleep. Cassandra was in her room again talking to Arianna. ".....good night Cass. I'll see you in the morning."

Cassandra crashed in her bed and it happened again, another dream. "Can I stay in your room?" Cassandra asked. Arianna found the question odd. "I've never felt isolated and it's weighing on my nerves."

"Come with me and I'll see what Frederick says."

"Frederick, I have a request."

"Yes Arianna, what is it?"

"More accurately Cassandra has a request: She wants to spend the night in here. She's felt isolated today not being able to attend Eugene's funeral and it's weighing on her nerves."

"Do you think it best if you stayed in her room with her?" Frederick asked. "Frederick, I think there is something you need to know," Arianna opened her door and beckoned Cassandra to come inside and sit between Frederick and her. "Cassandra, Frederick needs to know what you told me. Now don't be scared. You are in no trouble."

"Your majesty, Frederick," Cassandra began. "Here lately I have had dreams about your wife, erotic dreams. And despite our clear arrangement I guess I felt like she was being left out. I'm sorry."

"Are you curious Cassandra?" Frederick asked.

"Maybe, this is just so...yes. I am curious. There I said it."

"Well," Arianna said, taking Cassandra by her hands. "After what you've done for us I see no harm in satisfying your curiousity." Cassandra got a catch in her breath as she watched Frederick and Arianna stand up and begin to kiss. Then she woke up. "That tears it. What time is it? Five A.M. I'm going to shower and then after breakfast I'll talk to Hugo, see what he says I should do."

Breakfast came and went. Afterward Hugo was at his desk in his room studying when he got a knock on his door. "Come in," he said, closing his book and facing the door. "Cassandra, what can I do for you?" Cassandra quietly closed the door behind her and took a chair across from Hugo. "First, your tonic is working wonders, but I'm having dreams, erotic dreams." Cassandra blushed. It was obvious to Hugo Cassandra was very uncomfortable and was hoping for a quick remedy. "Who are your dreams about?"

"Queen Arianna," Cassandra answered. "I've told her about my dreams, but this last one included Frederick."

"But you've been with Frederick and you're carrying his baby. And it was Queen Arianna's idea. It's obvious she trusts you deeply."

"She does. Which is why I think I know what I need to do. Thank you, Hugo. Now onto my other problem. As I said the tonic you gave me is working. I'm calm and relaxed but I can't sleep."

"It seems your mental health is worse than I thought. I'll see what sleep medicine you can take and get back to you as soon as possible."

"Thank you again, Hugo. Have a pleasant day."

"No problem Cassandra. Oh, and if you see Varian, send him this way if he is able. I need to speak with him."

Cassandra left Hugo's room and turned to her left. "Varian, Hugo needs to talk to you."

"Thanks Cassandra. I was actually going to talk to him. What about you?"

"Do my best to avoid Edmund until this afternoon when the future of our Kingdoms is on the table. Until then I'm going for a walk. I'd go for a ride but," Cassandra briefly glanced at her belly then back up at Varian. "Even if it won't hurt to ride. It will most certainly hurt if I fall. See you around Varian."

Cassandra went to her room and changed clothes. For her walk she chose a red tank with blue shorts and shoes then looked herself over in her mirror. "Not too revealing. Now to check on Rapunzel then go for my walk."

Cassandra stepped out of her room and made her way to Rapunzel's room.

"Cass, hey. How are you?" Cassandra hugged Rapunzel and they sat down on the foot of Rapunzel's bed. "Sorry it isn't made. I haven't really felt like it."

"Well, your Lady-In-Waiting needs to get her ass in gear and get to work."

"My Lady-In-Waiting doesn't need to worry about anything like that right now....Look, I'm sorry about Hector."

"Don't be. Adira set him straight. It'll be a while before he runs his mouth about anyone again.....Hey, you want me to help you make your bed?"

"No," Rapunzel answered. "Not right now. Maybe tomorrow I'll feel like dealing with it."

Later that night in The Throne Room King Edmund and King Frederick sat at the ends of a long oak table covered with a gold trimmed thick red cloth. Edmund was joined by Hector and Adira, while Frederick was joined by Arianna Rapunzel and Andrew. Cassandra stood behind and off to the side of Andrew. She was to be seen and not heard.

"I hope we can come to a quick resolution," Frederick said.

"I agree," Edmund said. "Now, Hector, state your case for Head of Diplomatic Relations."

"I want to put a fifteen percent tariff on corn shipments. The three month journey is a long one and I have felt for a while now that Corona has unfairly reimbursed us for our trouble."

"We can get the corn cheaper and faster from Equis," Andrew argued. "Seems to me there was-and I mean no disrespect-some form of nepotism going on. Three months is an outrageous amount of time to wait for anything. King Frederick, you need to squash your rivalry with King Trevor and end this egregious trade agreement with The Dark Kingdom. Give them a lump settlement if you have to, but this must stop."

King Frederick sat in silence and pondered the words of Hector and Andrew. They were both correct in their own right. "How much time is left on this trade agreement?" Frederick asked after a minute.

"Six months," Hector answered.

"I will work up a payment that will cover the rest of the agreement and that will financially stabilize The Dark Kingdom," Frederick said. "Edmund, name your price."

"One-hundred and fifty million Lunas. Which for you would be two hundred million Sol."

"Done and done," Frederick turned to face Andrew. "I think we have our solution."

"I agree," Edmund said. "Hector, have you anything to say?"

"I concede. Andrew has come up with what I believe will be a successful solution for us all. Just as soon as we find a new buyer for our corn."

"Surely you can find someone closer than Corona," Andrew said.

"It isn't that. Corona is the only Kingdom that doesn't grow...."

"Ingvarr," Cassandra said then covered her mouth. "I'm sorry. I'll shut up."

"No you raise a good point," Edmund said. "I'll arrange a meeting and hopefully get negoatiations started."

"Now that that is settled," Hector continued. "Cassandra, you are under arrest for two counts of attempted regicide, attempted murder, kidnapping and conspiracy to commit murder. And since I'm here..." Hector threw a knife at Cassandra and it pierced her heart. She grasped at the knife and tried to breathe as a crying Rapunzel laid her down on the ground ans screamed for a doctor as Cassandra closed her eyes and stepped into eternity. She immediately saw flames then woke up in her room just before dawn screaming. Her screams were so loud and terrifying that it woke up half the castle. Rapunzel was the first one to her. They hugged tight as Arianna and Frederick made their way into the room. "Oh God!" Cassandra cried. "I'm sorry! Please don't let Hector kill me! I'll do whatever you want!"

"What is all the caterwauling?" Edmund growled. Cassandra stared at Edmund and cowered at the head of her bed. "No! Please God no!"

Edmund was more than confused. "What has gotten into this woman?"

"She's having a panic attack." Hugo said as he came into the room with Varian right behind him. "Did any of you do or say anything to her?"

"We just got here same as you," Rapunzel said as Hugo instructed Cassandra to take deep breaths. "Please, Edmund, don't." Cassandra was fatigued and weak. Hugo briefly turned away from Cassandra and ordered Edmund out of the room then turned back to her. "He's gone Cassandra. No one is going to hurt you. Now let me help you up."

Cassandra complied and Hugo slowly helped her up. "There we are."

"I'm sorry everyone for my behavior," Cassandra said. She was quickly reassured that she had done nothing wrong.

As for the real meeting the night before it went smooth and cordial. In the end the two Kingdoms decided that with Eugene's death, each would have their own Head of Diplomatic Relations; Andrew and Adira, but that they would remain strong allies.

The day progressed and Adira went to visit Lance and explain her situation. There would be no dating beteeen them for the forseeable future. Her Kingdom took priority. Lance Kiera and Catalina, while saddened by Adira having to leave, understood and bid her a fond farewell.

Nighttime quickly rolled around and Cassandra was naked in her room after her bath when there was a knock on her door. "Who is it?"

"It's Arianna. If you're busy I'll leave you be."

"Just a minute," Cassandra said. Quickly throwing on a knee length sleeveless gown she opened her door. "Arianna, what can I do for you?"

"I was just checking on you before I turned in for the night."

"I'll be fine. This morning was a fluke." Cassandra said casually, a cover for what she was thinking about, asking Arianna to stay with her for a night.

"Cass, we both know better. I talked to Frederick and he's more fine with it. He said it would be hypocritical for him not to be."

Cassandra paused, confusing Arianna. "I thought you.."

"I had another dream. This last one had Frederick in it. And with all the dreams I've had lately I'm not exactly sure if this is another dream or if it's real." Cassandra pinched her bare right arm, drawing another confused look from Arianna. "Why did you do that?"

"To make sure this is no dream, it isn't."

"Frederick is in the shower. What if we met him when he got out?" Cassandra had never heard Arianna's seductive voice before, and Arianna's hungry green eyes made Cassandra warm around her middle. Still, she was unsure. "I don't know. This wasn't suppose to happen. I was supposed to have sex with Frederick until I got pregnant and that be the end of it."

"It can be if you wish," Arianna said. "But if you change your mind our door is always open." Arianna let Cassandra be and Cassandra took a cold shower, which actually helped her sleep, until another nightmare invaded her brain. This one was darker than the last one. Despite this Cassandra did not scream when she woke up. 'Maybe I do need to stop sleeping alone. They are offering me a relationship, and fuck what anybody else thinks.' Cassandra had made up her mind; she was going to go to bed with Frederick and Arianna, and she didn't care when or where. That would be their decision. Then she got snapped back to reality. "Rapunzel, she needs a suitor. No she doesn't. Not now. Not with the new arrangement between Corona and The Dark Kingdom. Still, I feel about her the way I felt about Arianna. She's already depressed. And seeing me in a permanent relationship with her parents of all people will only serve to worsen her depression."

While Cassandra was unsure about her future, Varian was in his room unsure about what to do on his next date with Hugo. Hugo had suggested going for a swim, but Varian was hesitant to show that much skin so soon in the relationship. Maybe a picnic? Yeah, a picnic outside Corona would be perfect.

The next day Cassandra-wearing favroite shorts and tank-went to make her decision known to Rapunzel's parents when Rapunzel met her in the hallway. "Raps."

"Hey Cass. I was just going to do some more painting. Where you off to?"

"To talk to your parents about my relationship with them."

"Are you wanting to lay with my mother as well?" Cassandra swallowed hard, her chest getting heavy. "The thought has crossed my mind, but I knew how weird you would find it...."

"Cass you are carrying my father's baby. We're passed odd, weird, whatever adjective you want to describe it. So yeah, go for it."

"What about you? Varian is in a relationship, I'm about to be in a relationship, Andrew and Maisie..."

"Cassandra I am no where near ready to move on, and I am not hurt by your decision, but you do realize this won't be a secret for long."

"I'm pregnant. I figure in a couple of months it won't be a secret anyway. As for how that is handled Arianna will take care of it.....Well, I'm off to talk to your parents. See you later Raps."

In their room a naked Frederick was getting sucked off by his wife who was wearing only a red slip when there was a knock on their door. "Frederick, Arianna, it's Cassandra. May I come in."

"Just a minute," Arianna said as she quickly slipped on a dress while Frederick put on pants and a shirt. "Cassandra, please come in."

Cassandra entered the room and saw Fredericks wrinkled disheveles clothes. "I see I caught you two in the middle of something. Which is actually why I'm here. Rapunzel knows why I'm here and she gave me her blessing. That being said I would like for us to take our time, break me in slowly as it were. Just, not right now. I have a personal matter I need to attend to. I will return before supper."

Cassandra walked from the castle to Eugene's grave. She stood silent at the mound of dirt that would soon be flat and marked with a headstone. "I'm so sorry, Eugene. People can say what they want to try and ease my conscience, I'm even on medicine that has helped, but I will never get over my guilt. Though I am learning how to live with it. I'm even starting a relationship, with Rapunzel's parents of all people. I can only imagine the jokes you would have."

'I don't have any jokes,' Cassandra turned to her right and she froze. "Eugene??"

'Ghost,' Eugene said. 'As for your relationship you are where you should be. Think about it. You go to anyone else and tell them you're pregnant with a King's child they will run like crazy."

"Well, at least you aren't going to Hell," Cassandra lamented.

'Oh, you mean that dream you had? Yeah, let me say that it was just that, a dream.'

"So, I will see you again?"

"Oh yes. See, selfless sacrifices give you automatic entry to Heaven. You gave your life to save Corona. That is the greatest love you can show. The God's have not forgotten that. The fates were pi...upset Rapunzel brought you back, but now they've seen what you've done for Arianna. Which brings me back to what I said earlier. You are where you need to be; a relationship where you will give love and love will be given back to you. Welp, gotta go. See you later Cassandra.' The ghost of Eugene disappeared and Cassandra laid eyes on her father. "Dad! I was just uhhh...how long have you been standing there?"

"Few minutes...So, a relationship with Frederick AND Arianna. Well if you're going to be with someone I couldn't think of two better people. They are treating you right?"

"Oh of course, and Varian's doctor boyfriend Hugo has been a big help. He got me a tonic that relaxes my brain and he's looking for the right sleep medicine for me. For once dad I'm happy, well, as happy as I can be given what all has transpired over the last two weeks. So, what about you?"

"I haven't been up to much. Reading mostly. I've thought about looking for someone, but at my age I just don't know."

"Dad, if we take anything away from this, it's that we aren't promised tomorrow. Hell, we aren't even promised our next meal. Go for it. I'll do you one better. I don't care if it's a man. Go find you someone. At least give it a shot. What have you got to lose? Certainly not your friends or their support."

"Cassandra you're right! I'm going to go out there and look for a mate!"

Cassandra hugged her father and they parted ways. 'Is he jealous of me too?' Cassandra asked herself. 'nah, he's just worried about his daughter.'

Later that night Cassandra was in the room of Frederick and Arianna. "Remember I want to go slow," Cassandra reminded Arianna gently.

"Then have a seat and just watch for now," Arianna said. Her back turned to Cassandra Arianna got on her knees as Frederick dropped his pants and took off his shirt. Cassandra briefly glanced at Arianna's butt then focused her attention on the oral sex Frederick and Arianna were engaged in. While sucking and gulping on Fredericks cock, Arianna took her dress and slip off of her shoulders and exposed her breasts. 'God those are sexy,' Cassandra said to herself. She moved her right hand up to her left breast and started to gently squeeze and grope it, but she was hesitant to do much more than that, at least for the time being.

Soon Cassandra found herself getting warm and wet as Arianna stood up and faced Cassandra. Cassandra could feel her whole body get hot as Arianna's dress and slip were worked the rest off of her muscualr frame. As Frederick took Arianna to bed he got on his back and Arianna mounted him, bucking her hips slowly. Cassandra could see herself naked and sitting on Fredericks face but that's as far as it went. Still, that didn't stop her from rubbing her sensitive pussy through her shorts as Arianna got on her knees and Frederick took her hard from behind. When Arianna had her first orgasm Cassandra took off her shorts and quickly rubbed her pussy. A few minutes later Arianna came again and Cassandra came as well. Frederick also came and filled Arianna up with his cum. When it was over Arianna and Frederick shared a long kiss as Frederick slowly pulled out of Arianna.

"Well Cass, I see you liked what you saw." Arianna said.

"I liked it very much," Cassandra said. "Now I'm going to take a shower and go to bed."

While Cassandra had her best nights sleep in weeks on Arianna's bare breasts, her father had a major problem on his hands. He was at The Snuggly Duckling and he had met a woman who was looking for her son. "John," she said, addressing Cassandra's father. "I have an old picture but maybe it will help." John recognized the boy immediately. It was Varian.