Dimitri felt a sense of relief now that the ceremony was over. He knew now his duties would be increased tenfold but just to have all the formalities done was refreshing. Now he could look forward to spending time with his new wife.

Deciding the staff could handle the dispersion of the guests themselves, the couple snuck off to the empty great hall. Slipping in through a side door Dimitri grinned conspiratorially at his wife. The stairs were just there and they could sneak upstairs to their chamber if they so desired.

“I don’t feel so well…” Alexia’s words came softly and Dimitri turned in time to see his wife beginning to swoon.

He quickly rushed to her and scooped her up into his arms shouting for Lucy.

Swearing softly to himself he started toward a nearby settee. He’d known she wasn’t feeling well but had hoped it was only nerves. Now fear gripped him as he looked down into her very pale face.

He could hear Lucys hurried footsteps on the stairs behind him. “Hurry Lucy, Alexia is not well.” He heard her give a few quick orders to someone.

“Send for the doctor.” He said, throwing a glance over his shoulder. He again looked at his wife, noting the glassy look in her eyes.

“I don’t know how to be a Queen…” was Alexia’s last coherent thought as darkness overcame her.