The Return

[Victor Steiner]

He knew what the prince wanted, he also knew that he was obliged to obey the command of his prince and that the prince knew this. Strange then that what could be obtained so easily by command, would instead be phrased as request. Victor believed, much like his brothers at large, that the Steiners were done. They had done their duty, they sat as the left and right hands of the Queen and the House and enjoyed their time in the sun, and now they retired into obscurity.

Victor blamed William, it was his idea to send letters out. Now look what happened. Very well your highness. You have my sword, once again. For whatever you may need it for, I shall endeavour to carry out your commands to the best of my abilities.

Something told him he would regret that oath, nevertheless it was done. Even as the words came from his mouth he knew in speaking them, events were almost instantaneously taking place that would have dire repercussions for his family. They would need to return, all of them, to Cambridge. Elizabeth Hall would have to be told, although he could not say for certain that she would welcome their return.

[AlphaWolf215]

One last thing, Mr Steiner

He adjusted his coat before continuing

I mentioned that my hands are tied. It may be a good idea to keep my involvement quiet for now, though should you need my support at any stage, I am simply a communications message away. I'm sure Lord O'Brian's people can set you up with a direct communication channel?

Of course Your Highness, I'll arrange it now

Thank you, Mr Steiner. Your assistance will not go unnoticed. Good luck

---

[Victor Steiner]

Victor took that to mean 'sod off' in the politest possible terms. Needing no further invitation he stood and bowed Your Highness he said, before turning to O'Brian and touching his officers cap Ma'am before turning on his heel and walking out the door.

He didn't think this was a good idea. In fact he thought it was a very bad idea, terrible even. He might have a job, sure, but was it one he wanted? He could have gone back to civilian life easily. No one would have noticed, no one would have cared. Which was fine, so why was he dragged back into the hellishness of politics and the military?

Fuck it was all he said as he walked passed the P.A, who gave him an odd look. Now word would inevitably reach Elizabeth...unless he sent her a message first. Why he would do that he didn't know. Nothing is worse than being a pariah who's decided to return to the fold.