Chapter 55
Thank you all again for your patience on the uploading of these Chapters. Before we dive I just want to make something clear. In one of the scenes in this Chapter, there will be dialogue in Turkish. Now, I may be fluent in three languages, but Turkish is not one of them and neither is my writing partner. Therefore, a translator was used for that dialogue, so it may not be perfect or one hundred percent correct, so please understand. Also, there will be two sex scenes in this chapter, so reader's discretion is advised. Please Read and Review and enjoy Chapter Fifty-Five!
6 May 1559
Hampton Court, England
Edward, Prince of Wales' Bedchamber
Prince Edward was kneeling at the altar in his room, praying fervently. He had many things to pray for. He had been Prince of Wales now for exactly one year and the twenty-one year old had finally accepted his destiny.
Suddenly, one of his servants came in and bowed.
"Your Highness, a letter for you. It is from France." he said.
Edward smiled and nodded.
He looked at it and smiled. It was from his betrothed, Princess Elisabeth of France.
He opened and began to read:
"Dearest Edward,
I thank you so much for the jewels and the books you sent to me for my birthday. I love the story of King Arthur. You are so kind to me. I read the book to my younger siblings everyday and they are always begging for more. It is a beautiful story.
My brother, Francis, is married to the Scottish Queen. I hope you are not too grief-stricken, since she was the betrothed of your late brother, William. The wedding was beautiful and they look very happy and in love. I may be young, but I know that the affection I see from my brother and his wife is rare for people of our rank. I pray to God that we will have a happy union as well. They are currently on progress through the Kingdom of France and I miss him very much.
My English lessons have greatly improved. My tutor is a former instructor from Oxford and he is very patient and caring. He says that I will sound like a natural English woman. My deepest desire is to know your people.
I shall continue reading my stories. I count the days that we will be able to fulfill our destiny.
Faithfully yours,
Elisabeth
Edward smiled. He loved his letters from Elisabeth very much. He honestly was hoping that their marriage would be one based on love, not just politics.
He knelt at his altar again and began to pray again.
"Lord, as your humble servant, I have to submit into your will and reason. My brother, William, was called to your side, Making me my father's heir. I have accepted my new role. I not a selfish man, but I beseech you to allow Elisabeth and I to have a happy union. Grant us many years and beloved children for us and England. In your name I pray. Amen." he said, as he crossed himself.
12 May 1559
Pembroke Castle, Pembroke, Wales
The Gardens
Lady Catherine Stokes was walking in the garden of her home with her four daughters and two grandsons. Catherine loved this moment. She hadn't had her four daughters together in awhile, with Lady Jane Grey-Stewart married and living in Scotland and Lady Katherine Dudley married and mainly at Court. Catherine couldn't believe her daughters were now twenty-two, nineteen, fourteen and four years old.
Jane smiled.
"Mother, it will be hard to leave. Arthur and Elizabeth seem to love each other's company." she said.
Catherine smiled.
"Well, I'll always love seeing you and my grandson. I'm so glad you all came." she said.
Jane nodded.
"Duncan and I are just happy to leave Scotland for awhile. Things are not well there. My father-in-law and the rest of the Council are not happy with the Queen Mother and her regency. They are even whispers that she murdered the late Duke of Albany." she said.
Jane's younger sister, Lady Katherine Dudley, looked at Jane.
"Is really that serious Janey?" she asked.
Jane nodded, but noticed her mother wincing in pain and touching her side and stomach.
She touched her shoulder.
"Mother, are you ill?" she asked.
Catherine shook her head.
"No, darling. I am well. It's just the years catching up to me is all. Your younger sister drains my energy alot these days." she said.
Jane and Katherine looked at each other, with worry on their faces. Their mother was only forty-four years old.
Katherine put her hand to her mother's forehead and gasped.
"Mother, you're burning up. I'm taking you inside." she said.
Catherine's two younger daughters, fourteen year old Lady Mary Grey and four year old Lady Elizabeth Stokes, walked up with Jane's four year old son, Arthur, walked up.
Mary looked at her mother.
"Mother?" she asked, in concern.
Catherine smiled.
"I am well. I am just tired. Kate, take me inside to rest. Jane, you'll stay with the children." she said.
The two eldest sisters looked up at each other, but did what their mother said. Katherine took her mother by the hand and helped her inside of the castle, praying that it was just fatigue afflicting her loving mother.
19 May 1559
Madrid, Spain
Queen Elizabeth of Spain's Privy Chamber
Queen Elizabeth, Princess Giovanna, Duchess of the Infantado and Lady Sancha, Viscountess of Narbonne were all working on their embroidery and having pleasant conversations about their husbands and children.
Elizabeth laughed at Princess Giovanna's remark about her husband.
"Princess, I am sorry to inform you, but the men of Spain have a fiery passion." she said.
Princess Giovanna laughed.
"I guessed that very soon. I was thought to be barren, since I never conceived in my first marriage, which was eight years, before he died." she said.
Elizabeth looked at her new friend.
"Msy God rest his soul, but maybe he was the issue. The Duke of the Infantado is a little older than your late husband and you have had two children in very close range." she said.
Princess Giovanna shook her head.
"I do not know, Your Majesty. He had an illegitimate daughter the year we were married from a mistress, who he dismissed upon our wedding." she said.
Sancha looked up.
"He also became dangerously ill months after the wedding. You told me that." she said to her stepmother-in-law.
Before Giovanna could answer, the door opened and King Luis walked in. Both Sancha and Giovanna stood to their feet and curtsied.
"Your Majesty." they both said.
Luis smiled at the two women.
"Ladies, I am so sorry to disturb you, but I must speak to the Queen alone." he
Both women bowed and left the room.
Elizabeth stood up and kissed Luis deeply.
"I love your visits. What did you want to talk about, darling?" she asked.
Luis smiled.
"Well, we should talk about the offer from Portugal for Eduardo." he said.
Elizabeth nodded.
"What do you think?" she asked.
Luis sat down in front of her.
"It is very promising. If little Joana doesn't have a brother, she would become the Queen of Portugal and our grandchildren would be heirs to a massive Empire. If we had Portugal to our territory, our family will rule the entire Peninsula. It will be a wonderful inheritance for our grandson one day." he said..
Elizabeth nodded her head.
"That is true. However, we are not thinking of one thing. Infanta Maria is only nineteen years old and from what I understand, despite the birth being very difficult, she is not barren. She can have a son at any time. However, nothing is stopping little Joana from being Queen of Spain one day. We do need an alliance with Portugal." she said.
Luis smiled and took her hand.
"I will write to them and say nothing is official, but we will consider it." he said
Elizabeth nodded and then she spent a wonderful afternoon and evening in the company of her loving husband. She also thought of her five children and what their futures would hold.
22 May 1559
Turkey, The Ottoman Empire *The following scene will have English Translations following Turkish dialogue*
The Harem of Sultan Suleiman I was alive and bustling with activity. The recent arrivals from Europe had most of the women confused, and the older woman from Europe, called Caroline, typically stayed to herself, not sure what the ladies she was surrounded by were saying. It was strange to her to be surrounded by only other women all day. Usually, the men in charge were always around and always trying to dictate what happened, but the only men she saw here in Turkey were the eunuchs who had exclusive access to the Sultan's concubines.
Among the women in the harem, there was one who stood out. She was about the same age as Caroline, and her hair was greying, but showed strains of its original reddish color. Caroline did not know where the woman was from, but she was definitely not Turkish by birth. She carried herself as if she was a Queen, and perhaps she was, as the ruler of this place visited her often.
Although she was in a foreign land, surrounded by people she could not understand, Caroline was not mistreated, and neither was the Princess who had been placed in her care. The were given new clothing, warm beds to sleep in, more than enough food to eat, and were smiled at often by the other women. The little Princess was not taken from Caroline, but was in fact, allowed to sleep in the same quarters in a smaller bed, fit for a child of her station. The only real problems they encountered were the lack of a priest and the fact that no one understood what they were saying.
One afternoon, the horns sounded in the hallway and the women of the harem all stood. The ruler was coming to the harem. Caroline had come to learn what that meant. The women all stood in a line, with the older red head at the front of it. The ruler entered the room and greeted everyone, then pulled the red head aside. Caroline watched their actions while they spoke, with Joan sitting in her lap. After a few moments, the ruler left the room, and the red head came over to her. She motioned for Caroline to stand and follow her. Caroline grasped Joan's hand and did so.
They went into the hallway of the palace and into one of the most ornately decorated rooms Caroline had ever seen. Nothing in France was this elegant, not even the Queen's bedchambers, which she had only ever seen once. The ruler and the red-haired woman sat on a padded seat around a window and motioned for her and the little girl to sit down.
They spoke in their language, but Caroline still couldn't understand them. She looked at her charge. Joan also appeared to be confused by their tongue. Caroline just shook her head, hoping they would understand that she didn't know what they were saying. The ruler and the woman looked at one another, then tried something else. He pointed to himself and said, "Sultan" in his native tongue. The red head then did the same and said "Sultana". Caroline recognized that the two words were similar. Perhaps that was what they were called as King and Queen?
Caroline pointed to herself and said "Caroline." They each repeated the word. She pointed to Joan and said "Princesse", the French word for Princess. The red-haired Sultana looked at Caroline, then to the Sultan, then back at Caroline. "Bence o bir prenses," the Sultana said.
"I think she is a princess," the Sultana said.
"Evet, o kadarını biliyorduk," the Sultan replied.
"Yes, we knew that much already," the Sultan replied.
The Sultana looked at Caroline again. She pointed to herself once more. "Hurrem Sultana," she said. Caroline looked confused again. 'If Sultana was Queen in their language, then what was Hurrem?' Caroline wondered.
"I'm sorry," Caroline said in French, the only language she spoke, "I don't understand." She shook her head. The Sultana looked at her again.
She turned to the Sultan. "Bu dili daha önce duydum," the Sultana said. "Hangi dil olduğunu bilmiyorum ama tanıdık geliyor. Polonya değil. İtalyan değil. Rus değil. O kadar eminim."
"I've heard this language before," the Sultana said. "I don't know what language it is, but it sounds familiar. Not Polish. Not Italian. Not Russian. Of that I am certain."
The Sultan thought for a moment and replied to her, "Dinlerinin başına ne denir?"
"What is the head of their religion called?"
"Papa," the Sultana told him.
"The Pope"
"Roma'ya bir elçi göndereceğim ve soruşturma yapacağım," the Sultan said. "Belki bu Papa onun nereden geldiğini bilecek."
"I will send an emissary to Rome and make inquires. . . Perhaps this Pope will know where she comes from."
With that, the Sultan stood and bowed to Caroline, which made her feel out of place, then left the room. Surely this man did not think she was royalty like Princess Joan.
The Sultana also stood, motioning for Caroline to do the same. She looked at Joan, who also stood up. They returned to the common room where the other ladies of the harem gathered. Caroline smiled at the Sultana, then took Joan and returned to the spot they had occupied before they met with the Sultan. Caroline was grateful that they were trying to communicate with her, but she worried for her little charge. If Joan ever returned to France, she would be different from her siblings, having spent time in this nation that did not understand the Catholic faith. Caroline couldn't help but wonder if they would be forced to convert to Islam, which was all she knew about her captors. She worried for Joan's immortal soul, and what would happen to the girl if anything were to happen to her, and she prayed that the King and Queen of France would find them before anything worse happened.
2 June 1559
Hampton Court, England
The Throne Room
King Harry and Queen Lillian were sitting on their Thrones. Today was a day that Harry was dreading for awhile. Two of his children, twenty-year old Prince Owen, Duke of Buckingham and sixteen year old Princess Eleanor, were departing for Naples today for their upcoming marriages to the Prince Giovanni of Naples, Duke of Calabria and the heir to the Neopolitan Throne and Princess Lucrezia of Naples, the eldest daughter of the King. This alliance brought more finances to England and a trade alliance within the Mediterranean.
A side door opened and Edward, Prince of Wales and nine year old Princess Margaret walked in and bowed to their father and stepmother.
Harry smiled at them. After today, they would be the only children he had left remaining from his marriage to his beloved Anne.
Edward looked at his father.
"Has the Royal escort from Naples arrived yet?" he asked.
Lillian shook her head.
"Not yet. They should be here any moment. I understand that the gentleman is Lord Alessandro Trastamara, the eldest son of the Duke of Salento. He is a cousin of the King, he' around twenty years old and he's actually marrying Lady Melanie de Medici, your youngest cousin from your late aunt, Princess Christina." Lillian said, looking at her husband.
Harry nodded, in shock at how much his wife knew. Her knowledge must have come the fact that Lillian's late father is the one who bestowed the Dukedom of Sicily to Lorenzo de Medici, due to his military service and loyalty.
Suddenly, Prince Owen and Princess Eleanor walked in the Throne Room with their attendants and belongings.
Owen and Eleanor walked up to their father and stepmother and bowed.
Harry stood up and walked over to his youngest son.
"Owen, my boy. Today you are leaving here for your wife. This will be an exciting and also a scary time for you. Princess Lucrezia is known for her good nature. I am praying that the two of you will be happy together. If you can not love her, I ask as your father and King, that you respect her. Do not disgrace her in your marriage." he said.
Prince Owen nodded.
"I will, Father. I will respect her." he said.
Harry hugged his youngest son and moved to his daughter.
"Eleanor, my sweet girl. Remember that you are loved and not alone. As a father, I can not promise that Prince Giovanni will be kind or loving to you. However, you'll have your brother as an ally. You will never be alone. One day, you will be Queen of Naples and the people will love you as the angel you are." he said.
Eleanor smiled and nodded.
"Thank you, Father. I will remember that everyday." she said.
Lillian stood up and smiled at her two stepchildren.
"You two have brought me such joy. I did not give birth to you, but I have a mother's love for you. You two have special places in my heart. I love you both." she said.
Both of them smiled.
"We love you too, My Lady Stepmother." Prince Owen said.
Eleanor nodded, in agreement.
Edward walked up and didn't have much words. He just hugged his two younger siblings, with unshed tears in his eyes. Little Margaret joined the hug as well.
She looked up Owen and Eleanor.
"Please don't forget me." she said.
Owen smiled.
"Never, my little Meg." he said.
Eleanor kissed her sister in the forehead.
The herald called out:
"HIS GRACE, LORD ALESSANDRO TRASTAMARA!"
A young Italian man walked in. He was olive skinned, black-haired and had vibrant blue eyes. He was very attractive.
He walked up to the Royal Family and bowed.
"Your Majesties, I am here to escort the Prince and Princess on their journey and with your permission, we will leave immediately. We wish to return to Naples as soon as possible." he said.
King Harry cleared his throat.
"Very well. You are carrying two precious cargo of mine and the Queen. You must see to it that they arrive safely." he said.
Lord Alessandro nodded.
"Yes, Your Majesty." he said.
He turned towards Owen and Eleanor and bowed.
"Your Highnesses, your journey awaits." he said.
Owen and Eleanor nodded. They took one more look at their family. They both bowed one last time and then turned away and began to leave for their journey. Both didn't know what would await them in the new foreign land, but both were a little comforted by the fact that they had each other.
6 June 1559
Windsor,England
Lady Rose Tudor, Baroness of Windsor's Bedchamber
Lady Rose was laying in her bed, rubbing her swollen stomach. She was now full-term and was due to give birth any day now. She missed her husband. Her beloved John was still out at sea and was not going to be home anytime soon. Rose was excited for her child to come, so she would be able to have a piece of her John with her.
She looked up when she heard a knock at her door.
"Come in." she said.
The door opened and her aunt/former guardian, Lady Catherine Tudor née Parr, Duchess of Somerset, walked in and smiled at her niece.
"I am bringing you something to eat. You need too." she said.
Rose shook her head.
"I am very sorry, but I just don't have the appetite for food, Aunt Catherine." she said.
Catherine shook her head.
"If not for you, please eat for the child." she said.
Rose winced.
"I understand, but I am very uncomfortable. My belly is very tight and I get sharp pains every few minutes." she said
Catherine looked at her niece and walked over to her.
"These pains are close together?" she asked.
Rose nodded and then began to breath through another pain.
Catherine stood up.
"I believe your child is coming. I'll fetch the midwife." she said, as she departed.
Several Hours Later...
Lady Rose screamed, as another contraction came over, as she clutched her rosary. She was praying for her immortal soul, should she rejoin the Lord at his side during this dangerous time.
Catherine held her niece's hand.
"Rose, keep pushing. The child will be healthy. Don't stop pushing." she urged.
Rose pushed with everything she had. She screamed, not caring who heard her anymore.
The midwife looked up.
"Baroness, keep the progress coming. The child's head is almost here." she said.
Rose kept pushing and looked at her aunt.
"Aunt Catherine, if I die, please take care of my son. Let the child know that I love them. Please make sure John will be a good father." she said.
Catherine shook her head.
"Do not talk nonsense. You will live. Push now! Do not give up on your child." she said.
The twenty-one year old listened to her aunt, with tears running down her face and pushed with everything she had.
"The head is out! Keep pushing, Baroness." the midwife cried out.
Rose closed her eyes, leaned forward and pushed as hard with the little strength that she had. She wanted her child in this world and she would not give up.
Finally, she felt a burning sensation between her legs and her child slide from between her legs. She smiled as she heard a very loud cry. She was now a mother.
The midwife carried the crying child away to be bathed and swaddled in a blanket. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity for Rose, the midwife carried the child over to her.
The midwife smiled.
"It's a boy, my Lady. A healthy boy." she said, as she handed the newborn to his mother.
Rose smiled, as she held her newborn son for the first time. He was a beautiful boy and settled down, as soon as he was in his mother's loving arms.
Catherine smiled.
"He's beautiful, Rose. He's so beautiful." she said.
Rose smiled.
"John will be so proud to meet our son. Out little Edmund." she said.
Catherine looked at Rose.
"Edmund? I would have thought you would name him Henry, after your late father, The King." she said.
Rose shook her head.
"No. Our first born son deserves to have the name of the man who raised both of his parents. He is named after Uncle Edmund." she said proudly.
After a few moments, Little Edmund Tudor fell asleep in his mother's arms. Catherine took the child away to sleep in the cradle next to his mother's bed. After looking at him for awhile and having her bedding and nightgown changed, Rose followed her son into a peaceful slumber.
15 June 1559
Madrid, Spain
King Luis of Spain sat in his study, looking over some paperwork concerning the lands that Spain was amassing in the New World. He could hardly believe the figures that his commanders had sent back. If the numbers were correct, Spain was well on its way to becoming the dominant nation it had once been under the reign of his great-great-grandparents, Ferdinand and Isabella. His thoughts were interrupted by one of his guards.
"Enter," Luis commanded.
The guard entered the room and bowed. "Your Majesty," he said, "there are seven gentlemen who claim to be from the Holland who wish to have an audience with you."
"I didn't know I had any appointments today," Luis said, continuing to read the papers from his commanders.
"You didn't," his personal secretary chimed in from across the room.
Luis thought for a moment. He wondered what these men would have come all the way from Holland to discuss, and his curiosity was peaked. He put down the papers that were in his hands. "I will see them," he said to the guard. "Show them in."
A few minutes later, the men walked into the room, one, who appeared to be the leader, had some papers in his hands. Luis sat up straighter, acknowledging the men once they had bowed.
"Your Majesty," the leader said, "I am Wilhelm of Orange. These men are friends of mine. We have come to petition your Majesty on a matter that has been. . . overlooked. . . by our Spanish leaders for a great while."
"What matter is that?" Luis questioned.
Wilhelm held out the papers that he had brought with him. Luis took them and unrolled the parchment scrolls to see what this was all about. The petition, which had been signed by more than two-hundred men from various regions in Holland, was asking that the Spanish Monarchy reinstate the nobility of Holland and allow for a council to be reformed in the nation, where the Dutch people could have some control over their own lives once more, instead of being bound by the culture and ways of their Spanish and Austrian leaders.
"How did it come to pass that your countrymen lost their council?" Luis asked.
"It was your late father, Your Majesty," Wilhelm said. "I mean no disrespect Sire, but while Prince Philip was in Holland, he dissolved the council, claiming that the Austrian nobles were better suited to handle such a crude people as he deemed us to be."
"I see," Luis said. He had no romantic ideas about his father being a kind man. From everything he'd been told about Prince Philip, he was harsh and arrogant, and he had no problems letting people know that the Austrian nobles were better educated and better suited to rule, but his father was young when he died. Luis hoped that his boastings were that of a young man, and had he lived, that his father would have eventually outgrown the need to brag.
"All we are asking is that our own culture be allowed to be restored to us, and that we have some say in matters of our own government, Your Majesty," Wilhelm told him.
"Gentlemen, you've given me a lot to consider here, with your petition and your words," Luis said, standing up from his desk. He walked the gentlemen to the door of his study, opening the door. "Allow me time to consider your request." He turned to his page. "Have the household staff make rooms ready for our Dutch guests immediately," he told the boy, who left to do as he was asked. Luis then turned back to the gentlemen. "I will take this request under serious consideration, but please, be patient and let me consider what's in the best interest for all concerned."
"Of course, your Majesty," Wilhelm replied, stepping out of the King's study with his companions.
"I will call a meeting of my council for Monday, and we will discuss the matter," Luis said. "You will have our proposal within two weeks. In the meantime, please, make yourselves comfortable. You are guests of the Spanish Crown."
"Thank you, Your Majesty," Wilhelm said. He and his comrades bowed to the King, then followed the guard to a sitting room nearby to wait for their rooms to be prepared.
Luis sat back down at his desk and read the petition from start to finish. When he was done, he began making notes on what could and could not be done to appease his Dutch subjects. Then he had his secretary notify the council members of the meeting on Monday. Unlike his father, he did not believe that the Austrian culture was superior to all others. He and Elizabeth both saw value in the heritages of other lands. Although he was still very new to his position as King, he would do his best to always listen and care for the needs of his subjects, no matter where they came from in his Kingdom. In his mind, it was the only way to be a just ruler.
19 June 1559
Geguti Palace, Kutaski, Imereti
Crown Princess Amadea of Imereti's Bedchamber
Princess Aimee took a deep breath, as the older woman examined her. She had been ill for a few months and was hoping that it meant she was with child again. It had been exactly one year since she gave birth to her first surviving child, Princess Anneliese. Her and her husband, Crown Prince George, were happy that they had a healthy daughter together, but she could not be their only child. Imereti didn't allow women to take the Throne. George now had two daughters, seven year old Princess Maria from his first marriage and little Anneliese. He and Aimee needed a son and his father, King Bagrat, was always reminding them of the fact.
The older woman stopped examining Aimee.
"Your suspicions were correct, Your Highness. You are definitely with child." she said.
Aimee smiled and silently thanked God that she was carrying another child in her womb.
"Thank you. Please send the Prince in." she said.
The midwife bowed and left the room.
Several minutes later, Crown Prince George walked in and smiled.
"I am so happy you are with child again." he said
Aimee nodded.
"Hopefully it will be a boy. The King reminds me all the time that I have to give you a son." she said.
George caressed her face.
"I just want you to survive the birth. I lost my mother in the birthing chamber and my first wife as well. Our son will come." he said, with a smile.
Aimee sighed and nodded. She just hoped the child she carried would be her long awaited Prince.
22 June 1559
France
"I hope they are happy to see us, Francis," Mary, Queen of Scots, told her husband as they approached the home of her Uncle and Aunt, the Duke and Duchess of Guise. "It's not like this was originally part of the plan for our wedding tour."
"I know, my love," Francis replied, "but what could we do? The carriage's wheel won't be repaired overnight, and in the wake of what happened with my sister, I think my parent's will be worried when we fail to show up today as instructed."
Mary just nodded. They had been on their way to the palace, where the King of France, Henri II, was keeping court, when the driver of their carriage hit a rut in the road, causing the wheel to break apart. As luck would have it, they were less than two miles from the estate of the Duke and Duchess of Guise, who were Mary's Uncle and Aunt.
The Duke was a kind man, but power-seeking. He involved himself in court politics often, and Francis' father was keen on the advice the Duke gave, as it was always in France's best interest. He was the brother of Mary's mother, the Dowager Queen of Scotland, Marie de Guise. The Duchess was the sister of Mary's late father, King James V of Scotland. They had been married for quite a while and had several children, and the Duchess was expecting another soon, within the next two weeks. Mary just hoped they wouldn't be too put out with her Aunt in confinement, and her Uncle managing their other children for the time being.
When they arrived, Francis told the footman to inform the Duke they were there, and another servant showed them into the sitting room. Mary's uncle took only minutes to greet them, bowing to them, as King and Queen of Scotland.
He kissed Mary's hand. "What an unexpected surprise, your Majesties," he said.
"Uncle, I am sorry about our unannounced visit, but our carriage wheel broke when the driver hit something in the road," Mary told him. "In light of what happened with Princess Joan recently, we thought it best to come here and send word to Francis' parents, as we were due back at the castle by nightfall. We did not want to put undue worry on the King and Queen of France."
The Duke looked at the doorway anxiously, then acknowledged his niece. "Of course," he said. Then he went to the door and called for one of his servants, ordering the man to take a horse and ride ahead to the castle, informing the King and Queen of France what happened and that the King and Queen of Scotland were at his home and safe while the repairs were being made. He then turned back to his guests. "I will see that a room is prepared for your Graces for the night, and in the morning, I will lend you one of my carriages to continue your journey."
"Thank you, your Lordship," Francis responded.
Mary was puzzled by her Uncle's actions. He seemed preoccupied. "Is anything wrong, Uncle?" she questioned.
The Duke shook his head. "You Aunt went into labor two days ago, but the child has yet to be born," he told her. "I am worried about my wife and child. I do not want to lose either of them."
Mary nodded. "I thought she wasn't due to deliver until July?"
"She wasn't," her Uncle said. "She went into labor early."
Mary was concerned. Although it wasn't uncommon for ladies to go into labor earlier than expected, for the labor to take two days with a child that wasn't the first to be born was not common. "Would you like me to go check on her?" Mary offered. She knew the Duke wouldn't be allowed in the birthing room, but as a woman and a Queen, they wouldn't deny her entrance.
He looked at his niece for a moment, then nodded. "If you wouldn't mind. It would set my heart at ease knowing she was safe."
"Of course," Mary said, then she kissed her husband on the cheek. "I'll be back soon."
Francis just nodded. He also knew that women faced hardships during childbirth. His own mother, the Queen of France, had experienced issues when she was having his siblings, Victoria and Joan, leaving her unable to have more children unless she wanted to risk her life. Luckily, his mother survived the birth, as did his siblings, but Francis knew that many women did not, and that childbirth did not discriminate against those who were privileged. It was no wonder that the Duke was concerned.
While they waited for Mary to reappear, he and the Duke discussed what was going on at court. His parents had negotiated a successful betrothal between his five-year-old sister, Princess Margaret, and the heir presumptive to the Swedish throne, Prince Johan. Francis de Guise was intrigued by that bit of news and the fact that a Valois would become the Queen Consort of a Protestant nation. King Francis told him that his parents only agreed when the Crown Prince and Crown Princess of Sweden, the boys' parents, promised that she could continue to practice her faith in private, much as the Crown Princess does now. King Francis also told the Duke of the ongoing search for his missing sister, Princess Joan, and how his father had made little headway in the matter, despite the vast resources available to him.
After several hours of waiting and conversation between the two men, Mary finally appeared at the doorway to the sitting room. Both men stood at her entrance. "My wife?" the Duke asked, "How is she?"
Mary smiled softly. "Aunt Sophie is tired, but fine. She will recover completely."
The Duke crossed himself. "Thank God," he said. "And the child?" Mary said nothing, but a tear fell down her cheek. Both Francis and the Duke knew something was wrong. "What of our child, your Majesty?" he asked again.
Mary just shook her head. "The Duchess gave birth to a daughter, but the child never took a breath on this earth. The midwife isn't sure why not. The little girl appeared to be perfect other than not being able to breathe on her own."
The Duke nodded, showing he understood. She was not the first child they had lost. Their second son, James, had been taken from them in 1551 during an outbreak of the grip, and in 1556, the Duchess had suffered a miscarriage during her third month of pregnancy. However, this was the first stillborn child in their immediate family. After a moment to regain his composure, the Duke spoke. "God must have another plan for us, and for that precious little girl, to call her back to His side before she could even live."
Francis nodded and Mary tried to smile. Neither was sure what to do in a situation like this. Neither the Queen of France, nor the Dowager Queen of Scotland had experienced a stillbirth, so their siblings were all born alive.
Mary went to her uncle and touched his hand lightly. "The midwife said that she would send someone for you when they were ready, and you could be with Aunt Sophie for a while."
The Duke looked at his niece. "Thank you, your Majesty," he replied. "I will go wait outside her chambers and will send someone to fetch you when your rooms are ready. Please, accept my apologies for not being able to. . ."
Mary just shook her head. "Apologies are not necessary, Uncle, and neither are formalities at times like these. Go," she told him, "be with Aunt Sophie and don't trouble yourself over us one bit further. We will be fine."
The Duke nodded, then left the room. Mary went over to Francis. "It was horrible Francis," she told her husband, falling into his arms. "The baby never took a breath, and Aunt Sophie. . . she kept begging for her daughter to live," Mary said, tears rolling down her face.
"It happens Mary," Francis said. "It's a cruel fact of life, but it happens. Babes are not always as healthy as they appear to be, and sometimes, it's nothing more than the will of God. We can't change it. We can only survive it and move forward."
Mary hoped he was right about that; that her Aunt and Uncle could move forward after this. She wondered if this would happen to any of her children in the future; she wondered if she and Francis would be able to move forward if it did. All she knew right now was that there were no certainties in life, and that made the future a very scary place to be.
25 June 1559
France
The palace was filled with the usual buzz of activity for a fine summer morning. The gardeners were out tending to the flowers and shrubs, the cooks were cleaning up from breakfast, and the maids were opening the windows on the second floor to allow the breeze into the castle. However, when the trumpeters sounded their horns to announce the arrival of royals, everyone rushed to the entry way of the castle to see who it was, forgetting their daily tasks for the time being.
The carriage they saw was that of the Duke and Duchess of Guise, but it was not the Duke and Duchess that were inside. Instead, the carriage held the King and Queen of Scotland, Francis and Mary, who were returning from their wedding tour. Queen Catherine was worried when she saw her son and his new bride exit from her Uncle's carriage, and she couldn't help but wonder what had happened to cause this unusual change.
Once the formalities were observed, the young couple stepped inside the entrance to the palace, surrounded by Queen Mary's ladies, who were fussing over their Queen. Catherine de Medici, Queen of France, shooed the girls away. "Mary, Francis, welcome home," she said. "What happened? Where is our carriage?"
Francis just shook his head. "There's no reason to fear, my Lady Mother," he said. "Our carriage hit a rut in the road near the home of the Duke of Guise. We felt it would be safe to stay there overnight, and so it was. He lend us the carriage until ours could be repaired and promised to have it delivered once the repairs were made. He will fetch this one then."
Catherine sighed in relief. "Did you have a good visit with your Aunt and Uncle, Mary?" Catherine asked.
Mary shook her head, unable to speak. She looked at Francis. "Mother," Francis said, softly, so no one else could hear, "the Duchess delivered a stillborn daughter while we were there. Mary witnessed it and is still horrified that the child could not breathe on her own."
Catherine looked at Mary, "Oh, my dear, I'm so sorry."
Mary just nodded at her mother-in-law.
"Please, Mary, understand that it is not the fate of all children, though I'm sure that reality does your heart no good at the moment, as you grieve the loss of your cousin," Catherine said. "Babies dying is part of life, but so are babies who live and thrive and grow." Catherine reached out and touched Mary's hand, trying to reassure her that although life could be cruel, it could also be full of joy and happiness where children were concerned.
"How was your trip otherwise?" Catherine asked her son, while still holding her daughter-in-law's hand.
"It was wonderful," he told his mother. "We saw the orchards at Nice, the Loire Valley was amazing, and the Alps were just as I remembered them from our time there."
"Count has been rather dull without the two of you here," Catherine admitted. "Your sister drones on and on about marrying the Prince of Wales. I know Henri is all for the marriage, but frankly, the idea of marrying her off to the nation who stole Calais from us is preposterous in my book, whether God arranged their meeting or not."
"Who is to know what God thinks, Lady Mother?" Francis asked. "If it is His will, then it is."
Catherine just shook her head at the idea. "At least, your sister, Claude, has a decent match in her future with the Duke of Guise's eldest son."
Francis just nodded. Mary touched his hand slightly. He caught her eye while his mother's back was turned for a moment. "Mother, if you'll excuse us, Mary has had a long ride from her Uncle's estate, and frankly, I don't want to tire her out completely before the banquet tonight," Francis explained.
Catherine looked at Mary. She did seem out of it. Perhaps she was with child already. Catherine knew better than to risk it. "Of course," she said, stepping out of their way. "Rest well."
Francis offered Mary his arm and led her to their chambers. He helped her undress, then undressed himself, despite it being mid-afternoon. They both were expected at the banquet that they knew would be held that evening. It wouldn't be a large event, mostly just the family and those nobles who were already at court would attend, but they would be expected, nonetheless.
Mary cuddled into his arms and laid her head on his chest. She had been unusually clingy since her Aunt had delivered, but Francis didn't mind. If he could give her the illusion of safety when she felt vulnerable, then he would gladly do it. She was his everything, his light through the darkness, his rainbow in the storm. She was every beat of his heart, and even if the world couldn't understand the concept of two royals falling completely in love, Francis knew that this was just the beginning of their lives together, and come what may, they would make it through any darkness.
28 June 1559
Caserta Palace, Naples, Italy
The Royal Throne Room
King Alfonso and Queen Adriana were awaiting the arrival of their children's future spouses from England. It was a moment of concern, since they learned that the two Royals were nearly shipwrecked by s horrible storm, but thankfully no ships were lost and neither was Princess Eleanor's dowry.
Queen Adriana looked at her husband.
"I hope they are not ill. The letter we received said the storm was terrible and I prayed for their safe journey." she said.
King Alfonso smiled.
"They made it to land safely. They will be fine." he said.
On King Alfonso's left side stood Prince Giovanni, Duke of Calabria. He was dressed in his finest clothes. He was excited to meet his wife. King Alfonso just hoped that the rage that ran through his son would be simmered down with the companionship of a wife.
On Queen Adriana's right side, Princess Lucrezia stood. She was exceptionally beautiful. She was no concern of her parents. She was beautiful, intelligent, mild-mannered and was a joy to be around.
Suddenly the herald called out:
"THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES PRINCE OWEN, DUKE OF BUCKINGHAM AND PRINCESS ELEANOR OF ENGLAND!"
The double doors opened and Prince Owen and Princess Eleanor walked in with their entourage. Despite their rough journey on the sea, they were dressed well and had recovered from the terrible voyage.
Both of them made it to the Neopolitan Royal Family and bowed to them.
"Your Majesties." they both said.
King Alfonso stood up and looked at the two young people.
"Your Highnesses, welcome to Court. We are delighted to have you here with us. This is your new home and we will show you all the love and care that you need. Eleanor, come here, my child." he said, holding his hand out to Eleanor.
Eleanor gave him a shy smile and took his hand. She then came face to face with her future husband. She had to admit he was handsome.
Prince Giovanni came closer and kissed Eleanor's hand.
"My Lady." he said, with a slight smile.
Eleanor smiled. Giovanni looked at her and he loved her beautiful face, her long dark red hair and her kind eyes.
"I an pleased to meet you, Your Highness." she said.
Prince Owen looked on, as his younger sister met her future husband, but he also turned to look at his future wife and was mesmerized. Princess Lucrezia was now eighteen years old, with long, wavy auburn hair, kind hazel eyes met his blue ones and her figure was nearly perfect.
He bowed to her.
"Your Highness." he said.
Princess Lucrezia smiled at him.
"Your Highness, I have dreamed of our union for so long. Welcome to Naples." she said.
Owen smiled. He took a quick glance at Eleanor, who was also smiling. They both knew that the other was thinking life in Naples wouldn't be so bad after all.
30 June 1559
Madrid, Spain
Luis, King of Spain, and his wife, Queen Elizabeth, sat in his council chambers with their visitors from Holland. Several weeks had passed since the gentlemen had come to Luis with their petition to restore the nobility of Holland and create a council where the Dutch could have some say in their own lives instead of being subjected to the rule of Austrian and Spanish nobles who had no idea what their culture was about and had no desire to learn. Finally, after meeting with his advisors, Luis had a tentative answer for the men to take back home with them.
"Gentlemen," Luis began, "we appreciate your endless patience while my advisors and councilors went over your petition. As you all undoubtedly understand, there are many things to consider when a matter of political advisement comes into play among people of varying opinions.
"Of course, your Majesty," replied their leader, Wilhelm of Orange.
"We have come to this conclusion," Luis said, "the Dutch should be able to have a say in the day-to-day workings of their lives, and therefore it is within the best interest of all concerned that a council be designed that consists of mostly, if not all, Dutch nobles who will remain loyal to the Spanish crown, but who will also consider the needs and culture of the Dutch people when making decisions that affect both sides of the situation. This council will also be able to make immediate decisions concerning cultural issues in Holland, such as setting up holiday events and the like."
The men looked at each other. It was a good solution for now, and one that would appease their countrymen. "Thank you, Your Majesty," Wilhelm of Orange said.
Luis raised his hand. "We also agree that the restoration of the Dutch nobility is in all of our best interests, but that will come over time more than instantly." He looked directly at Wilhelm. "For this to happen, I will need a list of nobles who lost their lands and titles, as well as what lands were taken from them for consideration." Wilhelm nodded.
"Elizabeth and I will send an envoy to Holland in August to present the proposal we will come up with to you," Luis said. "If all are agreed at the time, we will proceed. If not, then we will iron out the terms so that they satisfy us all, or at least the majority of us."
"August, your Majesty?" Wilhelm asked, curious as to why it would take so long.
"Yes," Elizabeth explained, "it will take time for our advisors to draft a proposal that will be of benefit to both sides of the issue here. We want to do what's best for our Dutch subjects, but we also do not want to leave our Spanish nobles in Holland high and dry. We will have to have time to find them lands that are more suitable."
"I understand," Wilhelm said, nodding at his friends.
"I hope you have enjoyed your time here in Spain," Luis said to the men. "We have bags of supplies for your journey back to Holland, and we look forward to seeing you there in August to present our proposal to you."
The men stood, realizing their discussion was concluded. They bowed to their King and Queen, then left the room. Although their request was not approved in full, it was also not denied. August was only two months away, and if they had waited this long to regain what was rightfully theirs, they surely could wait another two months. As they left Spain, Wilhelm's only thought was the hope that they had done the right thing, instead of fighting the Spanish for their independence, as so many of their countrymen wanted. He hoped that his dreams of a peaceful return to the old ways would be realized and that no more men would have to die for justice to be served.
1 July 1559
Naples Cathedral, Naples, Italy
The Dressing Chambers
Princess Eleanor was being dressed by her attendants. She was finally getting married today. She would become the Duchess of Calabria, which means she would be the future Queen of Naples. She was nervous. She had heard that Prince Giovanni had a terrible temper, but he was so romantic and sweet to her. He had even kissed her several times. She hoped he would be a good husband, but she was prepared to try and please him in all ways.
Queen Adriana walked in and smiled.
"You are a beautiful bride. Your mother is surely smiling down upon you from Heaven." she said.
Eleanor smiled.
"Thank you, Your Majesty. My Lady Stepmother had this gown made for me and I'm wearing a necklace from my late mother." she said.
Queen Adriana gently touched her gown.
"My sister definitely has good taste." she said.
Eleanor had completely forgotten that Queen Adriana was the eldest surviving sister of her stepmother, Queen Lillian of England.
"May I ask you a personal question, Your Majesty?" she asked
Queen Adriana nodded.
"Of course." she said.
Eleanor sighed.
"How was it when you married King Alfonso?" she asked.
Adriana smiled.
"We were both young. I was eighteen and he was only fifteen. His father, the late King, was anxious to have grandchildren. Alfonso fell in love with me instantly. He would even avoid his tutors so he could be with me. We had Giovanni within a year and then we became King and Queen that that same year. We've always had a happy marriage and I am fortunate that he has never taken a lover when I was with child. However, if he had, I'd love him the same." she said.
Eleanor nodded and smiled.
Suddenly, there was a knock at the door.
Eleanor looked at it.
"Come in." she said.
The door opened and Prince Owen walked in. When he noticed Adriana in the room, he bowed.
"I am sorry to disturb, but it is time." he said.
Queen Adriana smiled at Eleanor.
"Soon you will be our new daughter. I am going to take my seat." she said, as she left the room to enter into the cathedral.
Owen, who was going to be giving Eleanor away, walked up to his little sister.
"Are you ready?" he asked.
Eleanor took a deep breath and took his arm.
"As I'll ever be." she said.
Caserta Palace, Naples, Italy
Princess Eleanora, Duchess of Calabria's Bedchamber *Warning: There will be sex in this scene. Feel free to skip if uncomfortable*
Eleanor was exhausted. The wedding had taken over an hour, but it was a beautiful ceremony. The banquet that followed was very long and tiring. There was so much food and wine, that many people were intoxicated by the second hour. Eleanor had endured it all, with Giovanni by her side. Now, the moment she feared had come. Their marriage now had to be consummated and made official. Since her mother had died when she was only thirteen years old, it had been her stepmother, Queen Lillian, who had told her what to expect the first night in the marriage bed.
Her ladies were preparing her and had placed her in a nightgown and nothing else. Her dark red hair was down her back. They had bathed her in rose scented water and now we're placing perfume on her wrists and neck.
Queen Adriana approached her.
"The priests will be here soon. Don't worry, they will not stay for the entire act. They just want to make sure you will not be a virgin. It will be over soon." she said, reassuring Eleanor.
The sixteen year old Duchess nodded her head.
The doors opened and Prince Giovanni, King Alfonso, the young Archbishop of Naples, Alfonso Carafa, and Cardinal Mario Carafa entered the room.
Giovanni walked up and kissed Eleanor on the lips passionately.
Adriana bowed to the men and she and the female attendants departed the room.
The Archbishop of Naples stepped forward and blessed the bed and prayed that the marriage would bring forth a multitude of children. After the prayer, he and the cardinal and the King sat on the the three chairs at the foot of the bed.
Giovanni let his night shirt fall to the ground and his nude body was visible to Eleanor for the first time. She thought they would keep their nightclothes on, but she was mostly wrong. She knew this was her duty. She slid her nightgown off her shoulders, revealing her nude body. She could see the lust in the Giovanni's eyes and even in the young Archbishop of Naples' eyes, since he was only around nineteen years old.
Giovanni took her hand and laid her down on her bed and stayed on top of her, looking deep into her eyes. She wanted to relax and be reassured, but she was still nervous.
He kissed her.
"Pretend they aren't here." he whispered.
Eleanor took a breath and opened her legs. A sharp pain overcame her and she let out a loud moan, which seemed to excite Giovanni. He proceeded to continue.
King Alfonso looked at the young Archbishop, who was was sweating and his hands were twitching. As a devout man, Alfonso was disgusted.
"We've seen enough, Your Eminence. Let us leave them alone." he said, standing up.
The young Archbishop, not taking his eyes off the young couple and their intimate activity, stood up and departed with the King and the Cardinal.
Several moments later, after the consummation was over, Eleanor was laying on her side, overwhelmed by what had just taken place. After awhile, it didn't hurt her anymore.
Giovanni rose from the bed and Eleanor watched him walk naked to a chest that he had brought in her room. She noticed for the first that he had lash marks down his back. He took a strap out and walked back to Eleanor. She had a nervous look on her face, wondering what he wanted.
He caressed her face.
"You are beautiful. Do you want to always please your husband? " he asked.
Eleanor nodded her head, trying not to show her fear.
He handed her the strap and knelt on the floor.
"Whip me." he ordered.
Eleanor looked surprised at her husband's demand.
"My Lord?" he asked.
He turned to her.
"I want you to beat me like i am am old mule. Do as I say." he said, with demand in his voice.
Eleanor sat up in bed, and wrapped the strap around her hand one time and slowly stood up. She looked at the lash marks down his back. She knew she wasn't the first to do this to him, but she was now his wife.
She closed her eyes, pulled her hand back and struck him across his back, making Giovanni grown and wince in pain.
"More! Punish me! I'm a sinner! Again! Harder! " he screamed.
Eleanor whipped him again and he yelled out this time. She opened her eyes and he had small droplets of blood on his back.
He turned towards her.
"I want you again." he said, as he stood up and got on top of her.
Eleanor didn't know if this would be her marriage, but we least he seemed to respect her so far.
13 July 1559
Candia Castle, Crete, Kingdom of Candia
Queen Marina of Candia's Bedchamber
Queen Marina was standing by the window, watching as a thunderstorm raged outside. As a noblewoman born and raised in Venice, she adored storms. She rested her hand on her large stomach, which currently carried her and King Giacomo's fourth child. The entire Court was happy that their young King and Queen kept the Royal Nursery full, as King Giacomo had been an only child. The Nursery currently held eight year old Crown Prince Nicolai, five year old Prince Matthias and two year old Princess Helena. Now with her fourth pregnancy nearing its end, she would be going into her confinement by the end of the week.
Her door opened and her loving husband, King Giacomo, walked in. The couple had been married for over nine years and they were a loving couple.
He kissed his pregnant wife.
"I see you are enjoying the storm, darling." he said, with a smile.
Marina nodded.
"I love them. You know that they bring me peace." she said.
Giacomo nodded.
"I am still dealing with advisors." he admitted.
Marina softly took her husband's hand in hers.
"What are you trying to do? You've been very busy for weeks. Is the Ottoman Empire still giving you troubles?" she asked.
Giacomo nodded his head.
"Yes and I have decided to do something that I never thought that I would do." he said.
Marina looked at her.
"What are you thinking? " she asked.
Giacomo sighed.
"I want to reclaim all of Greece into our family. I hate that those monsters own parts of these lands." he said.
Marina looked at her husband, in shock.
"Are you saying you will go to war with the Turks?" she asked, worriedly.
Giacomo sighed.
"I do not want to go to war, but I will if I have to, darling." he said.
Marina turned away, in surprise. She was always against war and battles and preferred peaceful negotiations.
Suddenly, Marina felt pain in her belly and doubled over.
Giacomo grabbed his wife.
"Are you well, my darling?" he asked.
Marina looked at him.
"Our child is coming, Giacomo. I need my midwife." she said calmly.
Giacomo nodded and helped Marina to her bed and called for help
Queen Marina was in a lot of pain, as she began to bring her fourth child into the world. The labor hurt her more this time, but the midwife assured her that the birth was going well.
The midwife looked at the twenty-six year old Queen.
"Keep going, Your Majesty. The head is nearly out." she said.
Queen Marina kept pushing as hard as she could. She wanted to have a healthy child and wanted this painful ordeal to be over.
Finally, Marina felt her child slide out of her body and she laid her head on her pillow, as the newborn let out a loud cry.
The midwife took the child away and began to bathe the wailing child. Marina watched, as the older matronly woman swaddled the newly bathed baby and brought the child over to Marina.
The midwife smiled.
"It's a healthy and beautiful girl, Your Majesty." she said.
Marina smiled, as she took her second daughter in her arms. She could see that this child inherited her auburn hair and blue eyes. She was happy about her new daughter, although she knows the Court would have preferred a third son.
King Giacomo walked in, after Marina had been cleaned and placed into a fresh nightgown.
He sat near his wife and new daughter. He smiled with pride. As an only child, he had been a very lonely child and he promised that he would never just have a single child. Now, he was the father of two sons and two daughters and young enough to have more.
He kissed his newborn daughter.
"She looks just like you, darling. Her name will be Marina, after her beautiful mother." he said, smiling at his wife.
Marina smiled. She knew that her newborn daughter was very important this moment, however she couldn't help but be nervous about the possibility of war.
21 July 1559
Stockholm Palace, Stockholm, Sweden
Princess Cecilia of Sweden's Bedchamber
Nineteen year old Princess Cecilia, one of the daughters of King Gustav of Sweden, was preparing for her long journey to Prussia to marry her betrothed, Duke of Albert of Prussia. She was terribly nervous.
Crown Princess Matilda and Queen Catherine of Sweden were watching the young beautiful Princess, as she paced the room. Both of the women knew how she felt. They both had to marry men that they were not prepared for and accepted their destiny.
Matilda stepped forward.
"I have heard that he his handsome and enjoys hunting." she said.
Princess Cecilia looked at her sister-in-law.
"He also enjoys women. I didn't think I'd have to deal with that. When my mother was alive, my father was faithful. I thought he would accept a marriage for my sisters and I that was similar." she said.
Matilda took a look at Cecilia. Out of her six sisters-in-law, Cecilia was definitely the most beautiful. She had very fair skin, reddish-blonde hair and bright blue eyes. Matilda knew that when it came to her physical beauty, Duke Albert would have no complaints.
"It's rare that a husband of his rank doesn't fall into that temptation. However, you must stay true to yourself. An unloyal husband doesn't condemn you to unhappy life or even an unhappy marriage." she said.
Queen Catherine stepped forward.
"I was unhappy to marry the King, because he was so much older than me. However, he was a wonderful husband to your late mother, my beloved aunt. We have a happy marriage today and I am grateful." she said.
Cecilia sighed and nodded.
"Is my father going to see me off? I know he threw the banquet for me yesterday." she said.
Queen Catherine shook her head.
"No. He asked me to see you off. He's ill again." she said.
Cecilia sighed and nodded.
"Very well. I shouldn't need the Royal Guard waiting. I love you both. Pray that my journey is safe. Matilda, I know we don't have the same Faith, but please don't forget me." she said, sadly.
Matilda nodded and hugged her young sister-in-law.
"I shall never forget you." she said.
Cecilia smiled at her stepmother, bowed to both of them and left her Chambers for her new life in Prussia. Matilda could only hope and pray that she would find love and happiness.
1 August 1559
Holland
The Spanish ambassadors sat in the library of the government building with several men from the area, including those who had journeyed to Spain in June to petition King Luis for the restoration of the Dutch Council and the Noble ranks that had been stripped from them. The ambassadors had come to present the King's proposal to the area leaders, in the hopes that the terms would be accepted, and peace would ensue. Representing the Crown of Spain directly was Lord Carlos de Mendoza, Viscount of Narbonne, and the heir to the Duchy of the Infantado, one of Spain's most illustrious Dukedoms. It was Carlos who was addressing the assembled group.
"I have a letter from King Luis, which I will read to you all, then we will discuss any issues or questions that you have," Carlos told the group. Wilhelm of Orange, the group's leader, nodded, and everyone went silent to hear what the King had to say.
'To the gentlemen of Holland from his Majesty, Luis, King of Spain, and her Majesty, Elizabeth, Queen of Navarre.
Greetings,
In response to your petition dated 7 June 1559, the Spanish and Austrian councils have decided to recreate the council of the Dutch Republic of Holland with the following conditions. First, the council will have the full backing of the Spanish Crown on decisions made concerning cultural and societal decisions that do not have any bearing on the Republic's relationship with the Austrian and Spanish Empires. Secondly, the Dutch council will consist of no fewer than seven nobles and no more than thirteen from areas within the Republic, and all appointees will be subject to the approval of the King of Spain, Luis I. Third, all council members will continue to acknowledge the King of Spain as their monarch and will not swear fealty to any other. Finally, all members of the council must be nobles in good standing with their communities and the Roman Catholic Church.
Should these conditions meet with your approval, the following letters patent will be distributed, and Lord Wilhelm of Orange will become the leader of the council of the Dutch Republic immediately, with the ceremony of ennoblements to take place on the fifteenth of this month.
Lord Wilhelm Nassau will be granted the Dukedom of Orange and all lands within its jurisdiction; Lord Charles Egmond will be granted the Dukedom of Gavere and all lands within its jurisdiction; Lord Reginald Wassenberg will be granted the Dukedom of Brabant and all lands within its jurisdiction.
Upon the recommendation of Lord Wilhelm of Nassau, the following Counts have been accepted by the Crown: Lord Arnold Egmond, brother to Lord Charles, will be granted the County of Egmond; Lord Lamoral Simmern will be granted the County of Horne; Lord Philip Walburgis will be granted the County of Souberg; Lord Louis Nassau, brother to Lord Wilhelm, will be granted the County of Culmberg; Lord Albert von Herwijnen will be granted the County of Hoogstraten; Lord George Rennenberg will be granted the County of Porceau; and Lord Wilhelm Dietz will be granted the County of Noucarmes.
The King also authorizes Lord Wilhelm Nassau, Duke of Orange, to work with the representatives of the Spanish crown to create twelve baronies within the Republic. One year from the ennoblement, if the situation continues in peace and loyalty to the Spanish crown remains firm, ambassadors will be sent from Spain to negotiate the creation of three additional Dukes, five additional Counts, and another twelve Barons, to be nominated and ennobled by the Council of the Dutch Republic at that time.
Signed here, this day, 15 July 1559
Luis, King of Spain
Elizabeth, Queen of Navarre'
When Carlos had finished reading the letter, he looked at the gentlemen in the room, who were looking at one another. "Gentlemen, the ambassadors and I will withdraw and let you deliberate the proposal amongst yourselves. We will return in approximately two hours to answer any questions you might have and hear your thoughts on the matter." Carlos stood, as did the ambassadors, and left the room.
Two hours later, they returned. "Gentlemen," Carlos began, "what say you to the proposal by our King and Queen?"
Wilhelm of Orange stood. "The proposal stipulated that all men on the council must be in good standing with the Catholic Church, is that correct, my Lord?"
"It is," Carlos confirmed.
"But others who are not on the council can practice their faith as they see fit? Without persecution?" Wilhelm asked.
Carlos thought for a moment. Although Spain and Austria were both outwardly Catholic empires, there were those within them who practiced Protestantism, though most did it in secret. "As long as the individual does not outwardly appear against the Catholic church, and no one openly goes against a command issued by the crown, we have no reason to ask what their chosen faith is, sir," Carlos responded.
Wilhelm looked at the other men in the room, who slowly nodded their acceptance. "We agree to the proposal set by our King and Queen, my Lord, and welcome the opportunity to govern ourselves once again in matters of heritage and culture."
Carlos smiled. "Then we will begin preparations for the ennoblements and the restoration of the Dutch council in the morning."
With that, the meeting adjourned, and Carlos returned to his rooms to inform King Luis of what took place, as well as his plans for the ennoblements. It was a good day.
2 August 1559
Caserta Palace, Naples, Italy
The Banquet Hall
Prince Owen smiled, as he danced with his new bride, Princess Lucrezia of Naples. They had been married in a grand ceremony and now they were enjoying their banquet. The last two months had been wonderful between the two. They grew close almost immediately. Lucrezia had many things in common with Owen, including animals, the country, hunting and children. Lucrezia was also very honest and admitted that she couldn't wait until they became parents.
Lucrezia smiled.
"Are you happy that we are finally married?" she asked.
Owen nodded.
"More than anything in this world, darling." he said.
Lucrezia smiled and took his hand and they walked around. Owen noticed his sister, Princess Eleanor, Duchess of Calabria dancing with her husband. It had been over a month since her marriage and she didn't look happy or sad.
Owen looked at his new wife.
"Do you think your brother is being good to my sister?" he asked
Lucrezia sighed.
"I do hope so, sweetheart. He worries me. He used to be a sweet boy, but now he has rages." she said.
Owen glared at in Giovanni's direction.
"I love you, Lucrezia, but if your brother hurts my sister... "
Lucrezia turned his head towards her, gently.
"You actually love me?" she asked.
Owen nodded.
"Of course I do." he said.
Lucrezia kissed him passionately.
Princess Lucrezia's Bedchamber *Warning: There will be sex in this scene. Feel free to skip if uncomfortable*
Lucrezia was standing in her Bedchamber, dressed in her nightgown. It was now after midnight and she awaiting her husband for the first time. She was relieved that they would be alone and that she wouldn't be watched, like her brother had been on his wedding night just four weeks prior.
Her mother, Queen Adriana, walked over to her.
"He'll be here soon, my sweet girl. Are you nervous?" she asked.
Lucrezia nodded.
"I am, Mother." she admitted.
Adriana smiled and touched her eighteen year old daughter.
"The Prince will not try to hurt you. The consummation will be over soon and then all will be well." she said.
Lucrezia smiled and looked up, as Prince Owen walked in, wearing only his night shirt and was followed by the young Archbishop of Naples. The Archbishop proceeded to bless Lucrezia's bed, praying that the necessary sin of tonight would bring forth children. After the blessing was said, everyone was dismissed and Lucrezia and Owen were left alone.
Owen looked at his new bride. Her wavy dark auburn hair cascaded down her back and his blue eyes met her hazel orbs. His pale skin was complimented by her light olive complexion. She glistened like gold. She truly looked like an angel.
Lucrezia came closer to him and took her hands and placed them on his shoulders.
"May I?" she whispered.
Owen nodded his head and Lucrezia slid his night shirt off, revealing his naked body. Although he wasn't as muscular as his late brother, William or as toned as Edward, Lucrezia found his average body appealing. He didn't have much body hair and she could see his member was already fully ready for their night's activities.
Owen put his hands on her shoulders and stopped, looking into her eyes for permission to disrobe her, which she gave him a nod. He slid her nightgown off slowly, until the white fabric slid to her feet. He was mesmerized by her body. Lucrezia had a perfect figure and he couldn't stop himself from staring at her raised full bosom and her flat stomach.
Lucrezia closed the distance between their naked bodies and gave him a passionate kiss and he eagerly returned it. They both felt the fire of desire consume their young bodies. Now that they were man and wife, nothing would stop them.
Owen laid Lucrezia on her bed, without breaking their kiss. Lucrezia opened her legs and Owen positioned himself between them, still kissing her soft lips. He then began to kiss her neck, earning him a soft moan from Lucrezia. He moved to her breasts and began to kiss and suck, making Lucrezia scratch his back in pleasure.
Owen stopped and looked at Lucrezia. Her eyes were telling him a message. They didn't need words between them. He knew that she was ready to be his forever. He began to slide inside of her, which made Lucrezia cry out.
Owen caressed her face.
"Look at me." he said, gently.
Lucrezia opened her eyes and looked at Owen. The love in his eyes made the pain go away. She felt her body relax. Owen was gentle with her and that was her prayer.
She nodded.
"I am ready." she said.
Owen kissed her and began to thrust inside of her softly and lovingly. Lucrezia kissed him back and grabbed his back and buttocks, as their lovemaking became more intense. Owen took his one of his hands and began to gently rub her lower region, making her moan out in pleasure and making Owen go faster. Lucrezia had never felt this good feeling before in her life and she never wanted it to end. She felt a feeling building up inside of her that she didn't know what it was, but she held on to Owen, his lovemaking became more vigorous, making them both moan in pleasure.
Suddenly, Lucrezia felt a tightening within her body and then a sudden release, making her scream and dig her nails into Owen's back, which was difficult as both were sweaty and Owen did not stop. He looked into Lucrezia's eye's and with a loud moan and body jerking reaction, he finally reached his climax. He collapsed on Lucrezia and she held his exhausted sweaty body, kissing his head, as he lay on her breasts.
Owen looked up at her.
"I love you so much." he said.
Lucrezia smiled.
"I love you too, darling. I am now yours forever." she said.
After a few moments, both of them fell into a deep sleep, with Owen still lying on top of his wife, her steady heartbeat putting him to sleep.
9 August 1559
Hampton Court, England
Edward, Prince of Wales, waited anxiously outside of his father's study. He had a matter that he wanted to talk to his father about, but was unsure how to go about asking, or even if it was wise to bring up the subject. He looked at the door, then decided to go to the chapel and pray once more for guidance.
When he entered the chapel, he saw it was occupied. His stepmother, Queen Lillian, was there, also praying. Edward did not want to disturb her, but he was glad that his father's new wife was as devout as he was when it came to God. He had heard that his grandmother, the late Queen Katherine of Aragon, was also such a believer, but he never really knew her. It gave the young man comfort to know that others of his family were like him.
He was about to leave when Queen Lillian noticed him. "Edward?" she questioned.
"My apologies, my Lady Stepmother," he said, turning to address her and bowing, "I did not realize you were in here. I was coming to speak to our Lord on a matter that concerns me."
"Of course," Queen Lillian said, in her usual gentle tone. "I will leave you to it." She crossed herself, then stood. She looked at her stepson for a moment, feeling a tug at her heart. "Is there something I might help you with?"
"Why do you ask?"
"I'm not sure, to be honest," she replied. "I just felt like I should."
Edward nodded. Perhaps he could ask her for advice on how to handle the situation. He thought for a moment. "I am the Prince of Wales, but I have no council to govern. I have no home of my own to live in. When I marry, I should be taking Elisabeth to Ludlow, but with father's actions after William died, there is no Ludlow to go to now," he told her. "I was going to speak to Father about rebuilding it, but in light of how it was destroyed, I am not certain if I should, or if it would only bring him more heartache."
Queen Lillian listened to his explanation of the problem, then smiled. "Edward, when your Father burnt Ludlow, he was grieving. He had lost his wife, your beloved mother, the year before, then the loss of William a little over a year later. His heart was torn into pieces," she told him. "I know one does not often think of their King as having emotions that strong, but your father does. His love and devotion to his family are rarely felt, but if one pays enough attention, one realizes that everything he does, everything he suffers through, it is all for us, and he does it all in silence most of the time."
Edward nodded. He understood what she was saying, though it was hard to imagine his father like that. His late mother had told him that his grandfather, the late King Henry VIII, was also very emotional at times, but again, he did not remember the man.
"If it's something that truly concerns you, then speak to him, Edward," the Queen said. "He is your father, and he does love you very much. He will listen, even if he doesn't act on what you want."
Edward smiled at his stepmother. She wasn't his mother, and no one could ever take her place in his heart, but she was proving to be a wise friend. "I will, my Lady Stepmother," Edward replied. He kissed her hand, bowing, then left to speak with his father, as she suggested.
The King was receptive to the idea, after hearing Edward's reasons for asking. Edward realized that Queen Lillian was right; his father did hear him out. However, the King also explained why he had done what he did when it came to Ludlow.
Harry told his son that Ludlow was a place that had a destructive history for their family. He explained that in 1483, his great-grandmother's brother, Edward, had been the Prince of Wales and lived their as such, until his own father, the late King Edward IV, had died. Edward was to become King at the age of twelve, but was taken prisoner by Edward IV's brother, Richard, after leaving Ludlow for London, and held in the Tower of London for several months before disappearing from history. No one knew what happened to the boy or his younger brother, also called Richard. Then, in 1502, his own mother's first husband, Arthur, another Prince of Wales, had died there from the sweat, leaving his mother a young widow, who eventually married King Henry VIII, Arthur's younger brother, and Harry's father. Edward knew that his grandfather could be cruel and temperamental at times, and that his grandmother endured a lot of hardships as Henry's wife.
What Edward didn't know the details of was why his father hated the place so much. Harry told him that when he was Prince of Wales, he had taken Anna, Edward's mother, to live there, and that his own father had taken William soon after he was born back to London. Harry told him how his mother had grieved for William not being with them in Wales, and how after Matilda had also been taken from them, that they hid Edward's own birth for quite a while, so they did not have to give him up. The final straw that broke Harry was when William died of the sweat, just like his Uncle Arthur had, at such a young age, and left a promising future with a Scottish alliance unfulfilled. Harry was beside himself and couldn't stand seeing that building still standing in the face of so much tragedy.
Edward could understand his father's rage, but he still had to face the fact that he would soon have a wife to care for and needed a place that they could live.
Harry hugged his son, promising Edward that he would consider the idea, and would let him know by Christmastide what would be done concerning Ludlow and Wales. Edward left the room with a newfound respect for what their family had been through over the past several decades. He hoped that if his father agreed to rebuild it, Ludlow could become a happier place in the future, especially with Elisabeth's lovely face to grace its halls.
15 August 1559
Holland
The ennoblement ceremony for the newly reestablished Dutch gentlemen went well. Three Dukes, seven Counts, and twelve Barons were given their letters of patent, and the Spanish Crown had sent rings for the new Lords of Holland as gifts. The men had all sworn fealty to King Luis and Queen Elizabeth, and the first meeting of the Council of the Dutch Republic was about to take place.
Lord Wilhelm Nassau, Duke of Orange, had been appointed Viceroy of Holland and was given leadership of the council. The appointments to the council were on his shoulders. He looked out over the nobles and Spanish representatives and held up his hands to silence them.
"Ladies and gentlemen, as Viceroy of Holland, it has been given to me to appoint the first members to the new council. It has been a long and tedious decision, but with the full support of the representatives of Spain, I have decided that for the time being, the council will consist of seven members, including myself, and will grow, over time, as it becomes necessary," he announced. "The following gentlemen will adjourn to the council chambers for our first meeting, if you please: Lord Charles Egmond, Duke of Gavere; Lord Reginald Wassenberg, Duke of Brabant, Lord Lamoral Simmern, Count of Horne; Lord George Rennenberg, Count of Porceau; Lord Niels Meyer, Baron of Dillenburg; and Lord Philippe de Croy, Baron of Chimay."
The crowd applauded as the gentlemen called went into the council room behind the banquet hall. They were all excited that they would have some voice in what happened in the future, and that there was now a way for their grievances to be heard by the Crown, which was so far away in Spain.
Once the men were seated, including Lord Carlos de Mendoza, Viscount of Narbonne, and the Spanish ambassadors, Lord Wilhelm called the meeting to order. The council set officers for their meetings, including deciding that another member would have to be brought in to act as a secretary to keep track of their meetings and what was discussed, as none present really had the experience of being a scribe for official proceedings.
Their first course of action was to agree to meet on the first of each month to discuss new developments in their respective areas of the country, and to meet every other month, on the third, to hear any grievances that needed the council's full attention. The meeting that would be held on the first of September would include a discussion for establishing formal rules concerning how those grievances would be brought to the council, then a notice would go out to the villages and towns on what should be done in the event of a grievance being filed.
Before the meeting concluded, Wilhelm asked that the Crown send a religious advisor who was somewhat tolerant of the Protestant faith to Holland in order to establish a protocol for religious issues that were not sins against God, so that the matter could be handled more swiftly than if they had to send to Spain for each matter. Carlos agreed to ask the King for such a man to be sent to Holland as quickly as possible, and then Wilhelm adjourned the meeting so they could all return to the festivities. After all, the newly created nobles of Holland had a lot to celebrate.
27 August 1559
St. Hilarion Castle, Kyrenia, Cyprus
Queen Christina of Cyprus' Bedchamber
Queen Christina of Cyprus, formerly Princess Christina of Naples, was sitting with her mother-in-law, the Queen Mother Rebecca and her youngest sister-in-law, four year old Princess Charlotte, affectionately known as Lottie, and Christina's own son, Prince Nicholas, who was nearly two years old. He was the apple of his mother's eyes. Christina was also proud that she was currently expecting her second child. She was expected to give birth in the beginning of October and she and her husband were happy that another child would be joining their son.
Rebecca looked at her twenty-year old daughter-in-law.
"How are you feeling today, my dear?" she asked.
Christina sighed.
"I feel like a small barge. I also have a horrible pain in my back." she said.
Rebecca looked at her, with sympathy. At forty years old and the mother of seven children, she knew exactly how this stage of being with child felt like.
She gently touched her daughter-in-law's hand.
"It will be over soon." she reassured her.
The door opened and nineteen year old King Janius of Cyprus walked into the room. As soon as they door closed, little Charlotte ran towards her eldest brother.
"Jani!" she called, as he picked her up.
Janius moved her long brown hair out the way to kiss her cheek.
"My sweet sister." he said.
Janius looked down, as he felt a tugging on his clothes. He saw his twenty month old son reaching up.
"Pa." little Nicolas said.
Janius smiled and picked him up as well.
"How's my strong boy?" he asked.
Christina slowly stood up and walked to her husband of three years.
Before she could say anything, he placed a big kiss on her lips.
He smiled at her.
"Hello, my love. How are you feeling?" he asked.
Christina smiled.
"I am fine. I love when you are here." she said.
Rebecca stood up.
"Janius, you must be more formal. You are King." she gently said.
Janius rolled his eyes.
"Mother, we are standing in the room where both of my children were conceived. I believe the formalities can stop here. This is our family, not the Kingdom." he said.
Suddenly, Christina winced in pain, grabbing her stomach.
Janius quickly put the two toddlers down and touched Christina.
"Christina? Sweetheart?" he asked, looking at his wife,worriedly.
Christina looked up at him, in alarm.
"My labor has started." she said.
Janius looked at his mother.
"Mother, take the children and fetch the midwife and a priest. Our child will need to be baptized immediately. It's too soon." he said, as he helped Christina to her bed.
Rebecca walked over.
"Janius, the birthing chamber is no place... "
He spun around.
"DON'T START MOTHER! DO AS I SAID!" he yelled.
Despite his anger, Rebecca could see the fear in her son's green eyes. She nodded and did what he said, as Christina's first contractions could be heard.
Several Hours Later...
Janius sat in a chair, holding Christina's hand. Both of them looked exhausted and anxious. Christina had given birth to a baby, but he wasn't as strong as everyone hoped for. The important thing is that he was alive. The priest was currently baptizing the newborn.
Christina started to cry.
"I am so sorry, Janius. I do not know what I did wrong. I do not know why he came early." she said.
Janius shushed her.
"Do not ever apologize about this. It happens, sweetheart. My youngest brother is frail. Our little boy will make it. This is not your fault." he assured her.
Christina gripped his hand harder. She was relieved to have a loving husband and was thankful that he didn't blame the premature birth on her.
The midwife carried the infant to his parents.
"He is a little smaller and weaker than his elder brother, but with proper care and prayer, he will thrive." she said.
Christina took her son kissed him.
"I will take care of you, my boy. I promise. I love you, my little Yiorgos." she said.
A/N Thank you all so much for your patience and understanding. I hope you all enjoyed the Chapter and will leave many reviews. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to PM me. Please Review and Chapter Fifty-Six will be up very soon!