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Being brave isn't the absence of fear
being brave is having that fear but having a way
through it.

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Natasha was rushed up to the balcony the moment the maids announced to the guards she was done dressing. Apparently, this was more urgent then Natasha thought it to be. She hadn't fully made up her mind about the whole ordeal, which was probably not a good thing considering she was just about to go on and speak to the kingdom. 

As she approached, Queen Sarah and King Joesph gave her kind heartwarming smiles. She wasn't sure if it was to persuade her decision or not. She also saw Wanda sitting beside her mother. She was quiet and you could tell she was very nervous. This indeed would affect her because she might have to start looking for a husband sooner. 

And last but not least was Steven. He sat beside his father, and he too showed a curious concerned face. He didn't want to pressure Natasha's decision so he didn't make eye contact. He knew if he had then he would drop at the sight of her green orbs and beg her to be his husband. He didn't know what it was about Natasha, maybe the fact that someone he 'loved' tried to kill her or her opening up to him, but she was falling for him. And hard too. 

Queen Tatiana and King Nicolas were waiting patiently with their daughter as the announcer began to speak of business that the kingdom has gone through before and then topics they would discuss during this meeting. This was something they did every month to make sure that things are moving along and aren't just stopping. 

"Natasha." Her father started to speak in her direction. "I don't have to words to tell you how proud I am of you." Nicolas came out. Natasha gave him a perplexed look, not understanding the need for a compliment. "You making this choice was very mature. Very queen like." He said with a kind loving smile. 

"Thank you father," spoke Natasha, "I know how important this is for their kingdom and our own. I hope I will not disappoint you." She said with hope. 

"You could never disappoint us, Natasha," Said Tatiana as she stroked her daughter's arm in caring motion. 

"I know but there is a lot riding on this and I hope I don't mess it up." Admitted Natasha. She was very nervous about this because everyone would be watching and judging her. She has not only never been in front of this many people in her life, but hasn't even been released from her room for quite a period of time. Even if it was indeed her choice. 

Before anyone could have a chance to utter another word they heard the screaming of the crowd when King Joesph began to address the kingdom. The Romanova family turned giving the king their undivided attention.

"Attention people of Rogerteria, as you all know we have been through a state of distress these last couple of days. We have limited time people have to come into the kingdom, because of the threats to the royal family we have here visiting our wonderful land. For some of you, this may come as a surprise that one of our own has committed such a heartless act, but that will all be solved today. 

We are here today to announce two things. The future of our alliance and marriage of Princess Natasha and our very own Prince Steve. We will also reveal the fate that Sharon Carter will face on a charge of murder to Princess Margret and attempt at murder to Princess Natasha. But whatever the royal family decides to do we as the kingdom of Rogerteria will respect not only them but the choices the princess makes to make sure she is safe and everyone else. So enough of me, may I present the Princess herself, Princess Natasha." 

Natasha made sure her dress was smooth before walking over to where the king was. He gave her a friendly smile, in which she returned to him. She then looked out at the kingdom of people, some cheering others watching very intently. To say the least, this is one of the most intimidating speeches she has ever had to give. 

"Attention kingdom of Rogerteria, I am Princess Natasha of the Romanavia kingdom as many of you know. As you probably heard the king we all have gone through deep pain and lost these last few days. Due to the actions of one individual we have all lost a piece of the kingdom we know and love. 

I am here to announce to you the future of the woman who harmed not only me but all of you. I know many of you have divided yourselves over what is going to happen to her, but the king has asked me to pick the punishment and I have thought long and hard about this." She looked behind her and Wanda gave her a kind friendly kind of smile.  "I think the best punishment is to not sentence her to execution but to spend the rest of her life in jail." 

The entire crowd erupted into a conversation. Many booing started to happen because a lot of the citizens cared for Natasha and wanted her to have her revenge. Others saw this as a perfect opportunity for Natasha to show her power. 

"I know many of you wanted revenge but from what I understand Rogerteria is not a violent kingdom. You guys forgive and I refused to make you all have to do something you are uncomfortable with. My kingdom may believe differently but we are not in my kingdom." Many stopped after this, surprised she wasn't going to use her power greedily. 

"Now that we have addressed that, I am sure you are all wondering about the alliance between our two kingdoms. Steven if you will join me." She asked politely, Steve was shocked she asked for him, he looked at his father who nodded so Steve stood to stand by her. "Prince Steven Rogers, your kingdom has shown me nothing but kindness since I have come here, besides the exception of one they have all been welcoming. You have a strong kind kingdom, it would be foolish of me to say otherwise. 

My kingdom could not be any more different than yours, but in some way, it makes us connected. So Steven Of Rogerteria I Princess Natasha Romanoff of Romanavia have made the choice of uniting our kingdom for futures to come." She said ever so confidently. The crowd was now clapping and Steve stood there shocked. 

"Are you serious?" Steve whispered to her. She nodded her head. 

"I trust you, Steve." She said and held out her hand for him to take. Steve smiled kindly at her before taking her hand in his and held it up for the cheering kingdom. For once they could just enjoy the idea of peace. 

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Trust
/trəst/
noun
a firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability, or
strength of someone or something.

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