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Chapter Text

Forbes Manor seemed a million miles away from the rest of the world.

Tucked away in the countryside, it also had the added benefit of being located in the loyalist stronghold of the west. Surrounded by trees and forests, it was the perfect place for one to be holed up during a civil war.

Forbes Manor and its occupants had remained entirely unmolested throughout the war, yet did not shy away from duty. Lost and wounded royal soldiers could find a warm bed and a hot meal if they made their way into the home. That was a rarity though, as the fighting was much further eastward. They were lucky in that respect. A home headed by two wealthy women, with no male protector, would have been ripe pickings for plundering.

It was quiet as the men approached. They knocked on the door.

A servant answered. Her immediate reaction was one of deference, seeing that they were men of high standing. She also seemed somewhat wary- Forbes Manor had not seen a visitor like this for a very long time.

“I am Sir Tobias Fell, and this is Lord Parker. We are here on urgent business.”

“Please come in.”

They followed the servant. Forbes Manor was a pleasant place, but far from opulent. It was said that the late Earl was rather less interested in the finer things in life, and that his lady wife was also of the same opinion. A rather snobby nobleman might think that the Forbes place had been plundered for its riches, for it did not compare to what most wanted.

“Sir Tobias Fell and Lord Parker,” a valet announced, before ushering him into the drawing room.

Both women rose politely. The younger, the current Countess, was a pretty young lady with a delicate face and long, blonde hair. The elder, the dowager, was more handsome than pretty. She had a sharper face with more defined features. One could see that she had been an attractive young bride who had aged well. Her daughter might hope for that same privilege one day.

For a woman to become a Countess in her own right was normally completely against the laws of inheritance, but the Earldom of March was so old that the late Earl’s only child became Countess suo jure.

The mother and daughter both wore mourning black. This was unsurprising. They were not only devoted loyalists, but kin of the late king. News of his death on the battlefield had spread faster than cholera.

“Your Graces,” Sir Tobias greeted, bowing deeply.

“Sir Tobias, Lord Parker,” the Dowager Countess Elizabeth came forward, hands clasped, “Welcome to our home. May we offer you refreshments?”

“That would be delightful, thank you,” Lord Parker said.

“Margaret, please fetch some mead for our guests.”

The servant curtsied and left.

“What can we do for you?”

“We are here to speak to the Countess,” Sir Tobias nodded at the young woman.

Caroline, Countess of March, looked at them with interested eyes. She then looked to her mother, as if asking her permission or seeking her advice. The dowager nodded back with a small smile, as if in encouragement.

“What may I do for you?” Caroline asked.

“You will no doubt be aware of the outcome of the Battle of the Crossroads. Whilst that usurper was slain and his uprising ended, we have also lost our gracious and good king. With no children, and the deaths of so many of His Majesty’s close relatives, the line of succession is unclear. The council met and we discovered that you, Your Grace, are the closest living legitimate relative to his late Majesty. You are thus now the candidate to the throne.”

Caroline’s face remained impassive.

“I see.”

“We understand that this is quite a shocking revelation, Your Grace, but we must stress that this is something that you must either accept or decline immediately. With the king dead, our nation is on the brink. A smooth succession would ensure our recovery from this terrible war. I cannot give you time to think about this. I can only urge you to make a decision.”

“There is something else though,” Lord Parker added.

Caroline raised an eyebrow but again remained impassive.

“Whilst your legitimacy as the closest blood relative of the king is unquestioned, there are concerns about your…sex.”

“What Lord Parker means is that, after such a horrendous war, the council worries that the people may not accept a woman as their ruler. It is not without precedent in terms of regents, but we have never had a woman rule in her own right. A female successor comes with risks and limitations.”

“Was it not men who started this war?” Caroline coolly asked, “They were the ones who sent their own sex off to be slaughtered, leaving many of my sex widowed and children orphaned. Was it not a man who questioned our late king and attempted to gain rule for himself?”

Lord Parker and Sir Tobias looked at one another. They had not expected that.

“Whilst we cannot disagree with that assessment, it is still true that we are not a nation who is experienced with female rulers. Most still hold more conservative views on the idea. That being said, the council had an idea that would make your reign more palatable.”

“Go ahead, My Lord.”

“The council believes that if you took a husband, and made him king, then the issue would be a nonexistent one.”

“The council wants me to give my God-given position to someone who does not have blood legitimacy?”

“Your husband would be co-king- your rule would be a joint one. Your children would be made heirs by your blood, not his. If you were to, God forbid, die, and your husband marry again and sire children, then they would not be eligible. You would be every inch the Queen that your blood allows you to be.”

Caroline slowly nodded.

“I assume that you have candidates in mind?”

“Yes,” Sir Tobias confirmed, “All men from old families with their own military forces, impeccable bloodlines and wealth.”

“There is no way in which he could seize the throne for himself, or leave it to children that I did not birth?”

“We would ensure it, I promise.”

“I would remain Queen in my own right, and not be demoted to consort?”

“You are the legitimate heir, Your Grace.”

“I may choose my husband from the candidates that have been agreed upon?”

“Of course.”

“Hmm. I see. Well, I was taught to believe that to be in my position, I must take on responsibilities in exchange for privileges. If I am the legitimate, blood heir to the throne, then I must take it. Very well. I agree to your terms, and you agree to mine.”

“Then it is settled,” Lord Parker rose, “Your Majesty. Long live the Queen.”

“Long live the Queen!” Sir Tobias and the Dowager Elizabeth both repeated, bowing to their new monarch.

Caroline stood, the enormity of her new position immediately dawning on her. No longer was she simply a country Countess, but the Queen of their great nature. Aware of her position, she read the room.

“Mother,” she crossed the room, taking Elizabeth’s hands.

“My dear…Your Majesty.”

“I know that I can always rely on you.”

“Of course. I shall be by your side, in body and in spirit. Your father would be so proud.”

“I am blessed indeed.”

She then moved over to the men, who were on their knees in deference.

“Gentlemen, please rise. Now tell me-who do you have in mind?”

Chapter Text

"Stand upright, boy."

Niklaus Mikaelson rolled his eyes, but did as Father asked. It had been a long time since their home had been such a hive of activity. Their army of servants were working overtime in order to ensure that the castle was perfectly prepared for one very special visitor. Nobody dared to be idle.

The family themselves were no exception. Each wore their finest garments, and in the cases of the women, most elaborate jewels and hairstyles. For the wealthy Mikaelson family, this truly meant elaborate, the type of jewels reserved perhaps only for court or a wedding.

When Sir Tobias Fell had arrived, informing them that he was a potential suitor to the new queen, he was surely intrigued. When Sir Tobias then informed him that doing so would allow him to be king, he was really intrigued. The council was apparently concerned with having a sole female ruler, and her having a husband as co-king would make them feel better. He could actually be king.

His parents had been equally shocked. His mother, naturally, was thrilled at the opportunity. His father, less so. In terms of gaining power for the family, what would be better? Unfortunately, Mikael was not a huge fan of his third son. Klaus was sure that Mikael wished that Finn and Elijah were unmarried, as he would have much preferred them to have that golden opportunity. It was most unfortunate that their marriages had been arranged and happened.

Still, Mikael was not about to let this opportunity slip through his fingers. He was already one of the most powerful noblemen in the country, helped by the fact he'd chosen the winning side during the war. If his disliked son could be king, then he'd probably sacrifice a thousand peasants to God in order to make it happen.

The whole family stood on the front steps in that perfect display of unity. The Duke and Duchess headed the pack, children in age order, along with their respective spouses. Klaus felt for Sage, who was more than a little pregnant. Standing up for so long was probably not good for her.

Klaus wondered what this Caroline would be like. He supposed he could handle whatever was thrown at him, though he would admittedly prefer a beauty. Finn and Elijah had both been lucky, as Sage and Katherine were both beauties. Klaus may not be as noble as his older brothers, but he hoped to be a decent husband. He supposed he could be discrete if he didn't like her.

A carriage came into view. The whole family straightened up and went into their most regal poses.

It stopped, and Klaus readied himself.

"Presenting Her Majesty, the Queen."

The woman who exited was a beauty, he could not lie. With her blonde hair and fair skin, one could suppose that she was almost angelic in appearance. Klaus' eyes subtly moved to her body, which he was pleased to see was a good one indeed. She wore the finest clothes befitting a queen, which only added to her regal bearing.

Still, Klaus sensed a nervousness behind her mask of serenity. She was hiding it fairly well, but he could tell.

They all immediately bowed and curtsied in deference. Caroline approached Mikael first.

"Your Grace."

"Your Majesty," he bowed low, "Welcome to our home."

"Thank you for your hospitality, Your Grace. I am most pleased to finally meet you."

"Please, allow me to introduce my family. This is my wife, the Duchess of Hambleton."

"Your Grace."

"Your Majesty."

"Your home is beautiful."

"Thank you, Your Majesty."

"My eldest son, Lord Finn and his wife, the Lady Sage."

"Congratulations, my Lord, my Lady. I shall pray for a safe birth."

"Thank you, Your Majesty."

"My second son, Lord Elijah and his wife, the Lady Katherine."

She greeted them kindly.

"My third son, Lord Niklaus."

Caroline offered her hand, and Klaus took it. He bent low and kissed her soft skin, keeping their eyes locked together as he did. A small smile appeared on her lips.

"Your Majesty. You are more beautiful than they say."

"You flatter me, My Lord."

"My fourth son, Lord Kol and my daughter, Lady Rebekah."

Caroline greeted them politely.

"How would you like to proceed, Your Majesty?"

"I should like to talk to Lord Niklaus alone, though I would also be honoured to be a recipient of your hospitality whatever the outcome."

"Of course. Please come inside, we have a room waiting."

Mikael led Caroline in, Klaus by her side. The Mikaelson home was far grander than that of the Forbes, and was probably one of the finest castles outside of the royals. Mikael was proud of his family’s wealth and position, and had ensured that his home reflected that fact.

“In here, Your Majesty. We will be down the hall if you need- please do not hesitate to call for a servant if you need,” Mikael said.

“Thank you.”

Caroline and Klaus entered the small sitting room. It was not their largest sitting or receiving room, but it was perfectly suitable for a serious conversation. Klaus remained politely stood up until Caroline had seated herself at a chair by the window. He’d been brought up to wait until the ladies had sat down before he did, and that case was especially true if that lady was the Queen.

Klaus was not used to not getting the first word in, however.

“I believe we have much to discuss,” Caroline finally said.

“Yes, we do, Your Majesty. It is my understanding that you are seeking a husband?”

“Correct. The council is concerned that the people will not accept a sole queen, and thus require me to find a husband so that I may be more accepted. They suggested you as one of the candidates.”

“Due to my family, I believe?”

“Correct. Your father is a powerful man, and you were great allies to the late king during the war. You are also a war hero- the Wolf of Green Bay they call you, is that correct? You slayed the usurper’s best general despite being wounded yourself.”

“That is correct, ma’am.”

“Well I thank you for your service. Your family and service were the reasons I spoke to you, well, and-”

She cut herself off.

“And?” Klaus prompted.

“I was told that you were handsome.”

Klaus smirked, “I hope that I did not disappoint.”

“I feel that I should be allowed to have something personal to gain out of my marriage, as selfish as that may be. Contrary to popular belief, women tend to prefer husbands who are not fat and old enough to be their fathers.”

“You speak so openly.”

“I believe it is only fair, considering we may be wed.”

“I do not disagree. If we are to marry, I will be co-ruler, yes?”

“Yes, but I want to make it very clear that whilst you may be king, I am queen, not just consort but queen. My body contains the royal blood. Any children we may have will be royal due to my blood and my name, not yours. If I were to die and you remarried, those children would have no claim to the throne. There would be no way for them to inherit. I may be your wife and I will respect my wifely duties, but do not expect deference in terms of leadership.”

Klaus raised an eyebrow. She was spirited, and he liked that.

“I understand. I respect the will of God.”

“Though I do not doubt your acceptance of this would be down to the opportunity that arises, I can promise that I will try my hardest to be a good wife.”

“You are not wrong, but I also do not see any reason as to why you would not be suitable otherwise. If you choose me, then I assure you that you will not be disappointed.”

“You are very confident in yourself, My Lord.”

“I see no reason not to be, ma’am.”

“I suppose that is a good trait to have in a ruler.”

“Though I do have two conditions of my own, if we were to be wed.”

“Go ahead.”

“One- my brother Lord Elijah will be one of our advisors.”

“You trust him?”

“He is the most decent, noble man that I know. His advice would be essential. I could not take this opportunity without him by my side.”

“If you trust him so deeply, then I will not argue with you. He shall be an advisor. I shall find a position in my household for Lady Katherine too. Perhaps I could make her my chief Lady-in-Waiting.”

“I am glad to hear it. Secondly, I wish for you to arrange an advantageous marriage for Lady Rebekah.”

“I would have done so anyway.”

“Good. My sister is an unusual creature in that she is quite the hopeless romantic. She yearns for happiness. Whilst I would not support her marrying some farmer or common soldier, I do want her to be happy so long as he’s of appropriate stature.”

“That will not be a problem. Anything else while we’re here?”

“No, those are my conditions.”

“Then if that is all, I am pleased to wed if you are.”

“I would be honoured to marry you. Well, that was rather easy. I suppose this arranged marriage lark isn’t so bad.”

Caroline laughed and rose. Klaus did the same.

“Are you ready to tell my family, Your Majesty?”

“I am, My Lord.”

Klaus held out an arm, which Caroline took. Mikael was going to love this.

Chapter Text

You would not blame the people of the capital to be less than impressed with new rulers entering the city. After all, they’d lived through a year of instability, death and fear.

Instead, they’d greeted the entrance of Caroline and Klaus with great enthusiasm. Whilst the old king had not been universally loved, life was generally stable under him, and thus no one was thrilled about a usurper who seemed to offer them nothing. If this new queen was of the old king’s blood, chosen by God, then they could only hope that their prayers had been answered. Young and old, man and woman, they were all here to greet them.

Caroline looked out of the window at the throngs of people waving and screaming her name. She placed a tentative hand in the air and began to wave. If she was to be the very best, she would have to ensure that the people knew that she cared. To her reassurance, the people looked even more pleased when she began to wave.

Klaus took a very different view on things.

Whilst he was not entirely ambivalent to the needs of the people, he believed in a sense of mystery and awe when it came to royalty. He was king, well nearly, and he felt no need to justify it.

“Are you not going to wave?” Caroline asked.

“No.”

“They are your subjects.”

“I do not believe in making a spectacle of myself.”

Caroline rolled her eyes, but continued waving. She liked him so far, but she could see his obstinate nature. Caroline could not pretend that she was not hard-headed some of the time, but he seemed to be a man rather stuck in his ways. Power was something he felt was owed to him, whereas she derived it from the will of God. There would be a long way to go before the two saw eye to eye on ruling.

In but a few days, they would be man and wife.

Elijah Mikaelson had been officially added to the King’s Counsel and once the marriage and coronation were done, he’d be given the title of Duke of Northfield. Klaus knew that having his brother by his side would be reassuring. Katherine had also been made Caroline’s Lady of the Bedchamber and Head Lady-In-Waiting.

Klaus was not too upset about his new bride-to-be. She was a beauty, no one could deny that, and there was something about her confidence that made him smile. Behind that ladylike facade was a tough woman. Klaus had never been one to tolerate weakness, and he felt as though Caroline would probably not tolerate it either. In looking at her, he felt desire, a desire that would have to wait until the wedding night.

The crowds remained heavy as they got closer to the castle. Caroline’s waving hand and beaming smile did not falter, to her credit. Her mother had taught her the importance of being a lady, in that it was important to be stoic and serene. Caroline had indeed only ever imagined herself to be a typical noblewoman, not a queen.

Klaus admired the sight. It was their kingdom.

He was shocked, however, when Caroline banged on the top of the ceiling. The carriage shuddered to a halt, and Caroline moved towards the door.

“What are you doing?”

“I am walking the rest of the way.”

“Are you quite mad?”

“I am perfectly sane, thank you. I just think the walk should be a good thing.”

Without anymore comment, Caroline stepped out of the carriage. Klaus sighed deeply before following her out of it.

The crowds went wild at the sight of them. Caroline walked ahead of the carriage, waving and smiling in continuous motion. Klaus walked beside her. He sighed again before a small smile appeared on his lips and he put up his hand to wave too.

“Is there a reason behind this, love?” he asked.

“I want the people to see that I am open and honest and willing to see them. I do not wish to speak ill of the late king, but I heard that he was not the type to ever really make himself visible. They should know that they can put their faith in me. I want them to like me, and like you too.”

“Well, in that case.”

Klaus took Caroline’s hand. The crowd yelled even louder at the sight of the attractive young couple. Caroline looked at Klaus questioningly.

“Elijah always says that if you inspire great loyalty in the hearts of men, then it will go further than fear ever well. Do not be surprised. I do listen sometimes.”

“I am glad that he shall be an advisor then.”

“He is said to take my worst impulses.”

“A task that I hope I shall not have to take as your wife.”

“A woman is obligated to submit to her husband, as they say.”

“Even if I submitted to you as a wife, I shall not submit to you as ruler.”

Klaus smirked. She had bite.

“Is there where you remind me that you are the one who has royal blood and any child we have will receive their inheritance from you?”

“No, but I am glad that you understand.”

They continued to wave in smiling silence until they got to the castle. As they came into view of the entrance, the fanfare started. A chorus of trumpets sounded as sticks beat against drums. The soldiers lining the route locked into position.

Their welcome party was large. Caroline recognised several- Sir Tobias Fell, Lord Parker, Elijah and Katherine among others. They all immediately fell into low bows and curtsies among seeing her.

“Your Majesty, My Lord,” Sir Tobias came forward first, “Welcome to the castle.”

“You have honoured us with your kind welcome, Sir Tobias,” said Caroline, “As have the people. We are grateful to be received by you.”

“The honour is ours. Please allow me to introduce…”

Chapter Text

Caroline had given a lot of thought to marriage.

As any woman of good breeding might expect, it was inevitable. She was to marry a man of similar social standing. Most women were betrothed or married by her age. She remembered eavesdropping on her father and mother arguing about it when she was younger. Her father would mention an old friend with an eligible son but her mother would immediately reject the idea. Truthfully, Father didn’t need Mother’s permission as he was the man of the house, but he seemed to acquiesce to her wishes. When Father died, it seemed all but forgotten.

Elizabeth and William had been betrothed by their own families. He was the future Earl of March, her family held no title but as the only living child, she was the heir to their vast estate.

Now here Caroline was, drinking wine on the eve of her wedding day.

Across from her was Katherine, Duchess of Northfield, formerly Lady Katherine Mikaelson, formerly Katherine Pierce.

Katherine being her new chief lady-in-waiting had been a favour to Klaus, and his family by extension. It worked well as custom dictated that the chief lady-in-waiting must be a married woman.

She’d learned that Katherine was the daughter of a baron and had been betrothed to Elijah since before they were teens. They’d had a small marriage ceremony during the war- he’d had to up and leave the next morning. Luckily for the newlyweds, Elijah had come back alive, telling all that his brother had bravely saved him.

Caroline had meant to ask about that.

“Your Grace,” Caroline was still proper, and would address her new friend by her title, “Is is true what they say about Lord Klaus and his actions in the Green Bay?”

“Yes,” said Katherine, “Elijah was there. He told me what happened.”

“Could you tell me?”

“Well, the traitor’s army was marching towards the Lockwood lands. God knows what would have happened if they’d got it, considering the importance of the Lockwoods. Half of the loyalist army was defeated and their commander was defeated. Klaus managed to get every soldier who could walk to follow him. God knows how, but Elijah said everyone just listened to him like they were meant to follow him into Hell. He led them through the Wolf Straits and caught the army at the mouth of it. The traitor was gone, but Sir Adams was there, his second-in-command. His forces were twice the size of ours. Somehow, we managed to defeat them. When the dust was settled, Klaus was alone against Adams in close combat. We all know the tales of Sir Adams and how he was the mightiest fighter in all the land. Well, Klaus managed to trick him. Adams thought Klaus was done for and went in for the kill. Klaus managed to slip under him and put a sword right through his throat. Those left of the traitor army surrendered there and then. Klaus had been injured himself, he came away with an infected wound, but he’d killed Adams. That’s why he’s the Wolf of Green Bay.”

Caroline was impressed.

“So he is brave.”

“Brave, yes, but I’d argue ruthless more than anything. Some men are born for war and Niklaus Mikaelson is one of them. It is said that he made the battlefield look like he owned it. He was one of the first to join the call.”

“He is not a horrid man, is he?”

“If you cross him, then he is certainly ruthless. I heard what he did with the deserters.”

Katherine saw Caroline’s panicked look.

“He does not do that to women, if that’s what you’re concerned about. In truth, I think he’s probably your best option.”

“Do you like him?”

“He is my favourite of the Mikaelsons, after Elijah of course, but we are not close. I’ve heard more about him than I know of him myself.”

“I suppose I shall have to see.”

“Why did you choose him?”

“I thought it was the most pragmatic choice. His family is very wealthy and powerful, but most importantly, a friend to the crown. He is a war hero. Besides, I also heard that he was handsome.”

“I cannot blame you for that. One of my childhood playmates married a man with children older than her recently. He has yellow teeth and cannot walk without a cane. If we are to marry as women, can we not ask for looks?”

“I suppose that is not a lot to ask for.”

“Are you looking forward to tomorrow night?”

Caroline blushed red.

“I suppose.”

“How much have you heard?”

“My mother told me the essentials.”

“I wish my mother had. She’s one of those types that believes that if a lady hears anything indecent then it shall ruin her innocence. Too bad for her that I paid a maid to tell me when I get betrothed.”

“That is rather conniving.”

“I agree. Well, let’s hope you shall get some enjoyment out of it.”

“I was always under the impression that it was something to be endured,” Caroline frowned.

Katherine rolled her eyes and placed her goblet down.

“They tell women that marital relations are unpleasant because they don’t want us actually wanting it. If everyone knew that it could be pleasurable then we wouldn’t be so worried about it- perhaps we would even fornicate like the men do.”

“So it is a pleasurable act?”

“It can be. It is with Elijah, anyway. I enjoy it. That is not to say every man can pleasure a woman, I’d say many either don’t care or don’t know. They assume we don’t think it would be good anyway. That’s why they have their whores, so they can get their pleasure and do things no proper lady would allow them to do. Frankly, I think they should do it to get practice so that we may enjoy it too. It makes sense, really. God wants us to be fruitful, and if it is with a husband, then it is alright. It might hurt a bit the first time but then it’s better.”

Caroline could not deny she was physically attracted to Klaus. He was handsome, and his devilish smile pulled her towards the idea of sin. To know that she may enjoy him was quite satisfying.

“Do you think he will take a mistress? I heard that’s what happens. Unwed men have whores and married men have mistresses.”

“Well, Finn would never do that to Sage, and Elijah wouldn’t do it to me. I’d like to think that Klaus isn’t stupid. If he takes a mistress then he wouldn’t brag about it, especially considering his wife has the royal blood. Look, if he does, don’t take it personally. A lot of them do. A lot of them also don’t.”

“I don’t believe my father ever did.”

“Mine may have, but I didn’t know about it if he did.”

William and Elizabeth Forbes had never been an affectionate couple. To Caroline, it seemed like they were merely friends or friendly. Never did they hold hands or sit close together. It was a marriage of convenience, as many were. Her father got the dowry and her mother got the title.

“Are you still going to be sitting on the council?” Katherine asked.

“Yes.”

“Gosh, that sounds dreadfully dull, all that politics.”

“I am queen; this is my duty.”

“I suppose it’s different when you’re the ruler and not just the wife. Still, I do not envy you. I am content being a duchess.”

“A duchess who is my chief lady-in-waiting.”

“Then I can just boss around the other ladies.”

Caroline laughed. She liked Katherine.

“When do you think I should invite Lady Rebekah to court? Lord Klaus wishes for me to find her a husband. She’s staying for the wedding but the family leaves soon after.”

Katherine snorted, “That poor man.”

“Do you not like her?”

“I find her rather spoiled. Youngest child, only living daughter, but to answer your question, wait a few months until you are settled.”

“She is the daughter of a powerful duke and the sister of the king. I am sure a husband will not be hard to find for her, good personality or not. I do not think personality factors in to most marriages.”

“That is true. I do not think my father would have cared if Elijah was a beast or a bore. Frankly, I could have tolerated it myself if he was. A separate household might be needed, but I could do it.’

Caroline hoped Klaus was neither a beast nor a bore.

As Katherine continued her free thoughts on marriage, Caroline’s mind turned to tomorrow. Tomorrow, Klaus would be her co-ruler. Perhaps equally importantly, he would be her husband. One would influence her private life, the other her public one. She was entranced by the idea of enjoying his physical company, but concerned about some of what Katherine said.

Ruthless?

The late Edwin I had been known as Edwin the Ruthless. His ruthless and cruel nature had led to thousands being killed for minor infractions. Whole villages were slaughtered because one man had plotted against the crown. So cruel was he that his eldest son had dethroned him and nobody had minded. Surely Lord Klaus was not that kind of ruthless.

A good man and a good husband. That’s all Caroline wanted- and she would see if that was the case tomorrow.

Chapter Text

"I now pronounce you husband and wife."

With that, it was set. Klaus Mikaelson and Caroline Forbes were married.

The bride wore a gown of purple silk, with gold embroidery so ornate that it was clearly being worn by a woman of influence. Her hair was placed up like a crown upon her head, perhaps unnecessary because of the tiara that already accessorised the look. Adding to this were the jewels that had come from the royal stash. Despite the many wealthy and noble families in attendance- such as the Gilberts, Bennetts, Lockwoods and Saltzman- none of their opulence could outshine her.

Klaus offered a hand, which Caroline took. They walked back down the aisle before a crowd which bowed and curtsied in deference. The crowd outside the chapel was equally as excited to see them, despite their lesser standing. It seemed everyone in the capital had come out to see them.

Hand in hand, the newlyweds waved to the peasants. Once that was done, only then could they spend a short time alone before they were to make their entrance into the reception.

"A drink?"

Caroline was snapped out of her thoughts. She and Klaus were seated in a small lounge just off the main ballroom, far enough away so that they did not have to hear the excited chatter of the guests as they entered the reception.

"I believe that they're for the reception."

"You are queen. I am king. I do believe that we can do whatever we wish. I certainly plan to make use of my new position to do as I see fit. Drink?"

"Fine."

Klaus poured the red wine into the glass and handed it to his new wife.

"We are married," he said, "Cheers."

"Cheers," she clinked their glasses together.

"Does that mean that I may be called a king?"

"Yes."

"Delightful," he grinned.

Caroline rolled her eyes.

"I hear that you are the one who oversaw the handling of our wedding reception. Decorations, music, the menu, the works."

"I take great pride in planning."

"Then I am sure that it will be splendid, my dear."

"Oh, it will be perfect if I have anything to do with it."

"Here I was thinking that you thought that I had the ego."

"I believe in my capabilities."

Klaus smirked. He'd grown rather interested in his new wife. Klaus' heart was not soft enough to even indicate an idea of potentially loving any wife, but he was generally pleased with who he'd been lumbered with. Of course, the fact that he was now king had been a rather large draw, but at least he was king with a comely queen. Others had not been so blessed with their wives.

He also admittedly looked forward to what was coming tonight.

A knock graced the door and a servant entered, announcing that their presence was now required.

"Time for the show, dear wife."

Arm in arm, they entered the ballroom.

True to her word, Caroline had done an excellent job in decorating the ballroom. Despite the vast size and the majority of the floor being covered by tables and chairs, there was a grandeur that few could ever pull off. Even the flowers were perfectly matched with the portraits on the wall.

Behind the head table was a giant banner with the royal symbol on it. On each side was a smaller banner, one with the Mikaelson crest and the other the Forbes'.

"Their Majesties, King Niklaus and Queen Caroline."

"My, you have outdone yourself," Klaus said as they walked to their seats.

"I take that as a compliment?"

"It is."

It was not until that both were seated that everyone else finally sat down. The servants immediately swarmed the area with the starting course.

"It is a fine gathering, Your Majesty," Esther Mikaelson said.

"You flatter me, Your Grace. It is all the better for having you and everyone else with us."

"Never would have I guessed that I would ever be at a table such as this."

"I'm sure Father wouldn't either," Klaus muttered.

Esther hid her surprise behind her napkin, while Mikael sent his son the coldest look imaginable. He opened his mouth to say something before he remembered that he was both talking to the new king and at a wedding. Mikael's mouth welded shut. Luckily, Caroline's head had been turned by her mother and had thus not heard what was said.

The courses came with alarming frequency. No sooner had the plates been taken away did a new delicacy take its place.

"Do you know what I find rather strange?" Klaus asked.

"What?" Caroline replied.

"That the wedding dinner is so hearty. I do not complain about the quality, but I often feel tired after having too much to eat. Surely it would be better if the newlyweds were to have a smaller meal so that they do not fall asleep immediately afterward? Perhaps a more substantial celebration would be better the next day as opposed to on the wedding."

"I dare say a lot of brides may wish to delay the inevitable or for their husbands to fall asleep."

Klaus smirked, "Oh dear. I do hope that you are not one of those brides."

"I am not."

"Then I shall not partake in the excesses of the night."

"You shall not eat any more?"

"I did not say that."

They smiled at one another.

Klaus thought that the food would never cease coming, but the final course was finally served. Once that was over, he stood. This caused everyone but Caroline to also rise.

"Please, do not stand on my account," he said, "I just wanted to thank you on behalf of Her Majesty and myself for coming to our wedding. Now that the food has been served, I believe it is time for the dance floor to open. My Queen?"

He extended a hand to Caroline, who accepted. They walked around the table and into the empty space.

Klaus bowed. Caroline curtsied. The music began.

It was a whirl. Their fingers were intertwined and  bodies close as they performed the first dance. This was perhaps the closest that Caroline had ever been to Klaus and she had to say that she enjoyed it. She felt tingling in her waist as his hand firmly sat on it and his eyes lingered on hers. Caroline thought he was handsome, and had from the moment she’d met him, but it was right now that she truly saw him.

“You are quite the dancer, my queen.”

“Thank you. I always took great interest in my dance lessons as a girl. You are quite good as well.”

“I was always told that dancing attracts the ladies.”

“Is that true?”

“Should I not be asking you that?”

“I find a gentleman who can dance to be an attractive prospect.”

“I am glad,” as he moved closer, he could smell the scent on her skin.

“Is that perfume you are wearing?”

“Jasmine from the south.”

“A rarity indeed, though I suppose it shall now be fashion if the queen wears it.”

The dance ended as the music did.

They would not get a dance together for the rest of the night. Other partners, mainly family, demanded their attention. Caroline felt that each of the Mikaelson men was a good dancer, though none as fine as Klaus. She nevertheless made pleasant conversation with them all, such as discussing the impending birth of Finn and Sage’s baby.

Dancing was not the only order of the night. Klaus and Caroline were obligated to greet each guest individually. It could sometimes be hard remembering everyone’s name and rank, but both managed to muddle through on charm on Klaus’ end and enthusiasm on Caroline’s.

The reception came to an end after many hours, but the night was not finished yet. Caroline departed with Katherine and several maids.

Katherine and the maids immediately got to work when they entered the chamber. Her beautiful dress was replaced with a simple white nightgown to represent the ‘purity of the bride and her innocence entering the marriage.’ The jewels and tiara were taken, her hair long and free, and her makeup wiped. She was to be as minimalist as possible, as was he.

“Remember what I told you,” Katherine said as she stood in front of Caroline.

“I will-I do.”

“Good. Now, let us get you to your husband.”

They escorted Caroline down the empty halls to the bedchamber, the flickering flame from the candle their only source of light. Caroline steadied herself throughout the duration of the walk.

The large oak door finally arrived in her field of vision. Looking to the maids for reassurance, she knocked.

“Enter!”

Caroline entered alone. Klaus was dressed as simple as her in his nightclothes.

“Your Majesty,” she inclined her head.

“Your Majesty.”

“So, are you ready?” Caroline awkwardly pointed to the bed.

“I assume that you are untouched?”

“And why on earth would I not be?” an aghast Caroline asked.

“Relax, just managing expectations. Should you like me to lead you?”

“If you think that is best.”

“But first,” he drew her in closer, “I think we should start with a kiss.”

Their lips came together. It was the first time they had kissed, but it was passionate and raw and real. Caroline could already feel her heart race as they kissed. He reached out to the back of her nightdress and pulled it down, before taking off his own trousers. Klaus guided her to the bed, the kiss resuming as they fell onto the covers.

It hurt at first, but only for a second. Soon after, Caroline began to feel the pleasure that Katherine had talked about. Klaus’ breath tickled her skin and his fingers excited her.

She didn’t speak, but she didn’t need to. Her gasps and moans of pleasure told him all that he needed to know. It went on for what seemed like hours and hours.

Thank God that the days of courtiers crowding around the bed to watch were long out of fashion.

Caroline was going to enjoy it.

Chapter Text

Hi everyone.

I’m not sure about continuing this fic. I still have a story in mind but I’m not quite happy with how it’s written. Would you guys read a rewritten version with a similar vibe and the same story?