Hi guys! I am back! I am sorry for the long wait. This chapter took longer than it should, but it is what it is. I really do hope you like this chapter. Like always let me know with your reviews! Enjoy!
Chateau de' Rambouillet, Rambouillet, Yvenlines, France
"When did you become aware of the king's investigation?" Cardinal Bosquet questions the English earl, Henry Percy. The English lord looks to the holy man. "I learned of the investigation when his majesty's secretary, Cromwell approached me."
General Babineaux and several other council members sit up, and turn to look at the visitor in complete surprise.
"A king's private secretary leading a sensitive investigation! That is unheard of!" A lord exclaims in utter disdain.
"Why would King Henry allow a low born secretary take charge of such a critical issue?" The Lord Chancellor questions the English man. "I cannot-
"The English king is mad!" A lord shouts, cutting off the earl. Henry Percy turns to look at the shouting lord, who sits back in his chair. The earl returns his attention to the Cardinal and Lord Chancellor. "My Lord Chancellor, I give no explanation for the king's decision. There are none."
"Then what do you know?" General Babineaux irritably asks.
"I can tell you that the evidence which Cromwell and his associate collected was not factual. It was all fabricated." The earl continues his story as the council listens, some willingly and others listening with disdain. In the corner of the room, King Francis sits quietly in his chair and listens. He does not participate but remains silent. The questions continue and the king's secretary walks into the room through a hidden door, and walks to the king. He comes to a stop, close enough to the monarch and bows. The king turns and waves the man over.
"I apologize sire for the interruption but there is something that you need to be aware of." Francis sits up as LeBlanc hands him an open letter. "A letter from out ambassador in England."
The king quickly reads the letter then looks up at his secretary. "When did this arrive?"
"Just now, your majesty." He nods and jumps to his feet. The conversation stops as the men jump to their feet, and bow to the monarch as he leaves the room. The council looks to the Cardinal and the Lord Chancellor for some answers.
"We will finish this meeting in the morning." The lords gather their tings and leave the room one by one. Henry Percy turns to Cardinal Bosquet. "Your grace?"
The cardinal stops and looks at the English earl. "Nothing to fear Lord Northumberland. The King of France is a busy man."
NLAQ
LeBlanc stands quietly near the fireplace, waiting patiently for the king to speak. King Francis turns away from the window and looks at LeBlanc.
"Why are we receiving this information now?" The French monarch questions his secretary with anger. The private secretary steps forward, away from the fireplace. "I cannot say, your grace. I can only imagine that our ambassador learn of this shortly after the earl's arrival."
"If that is true then we acted too early." The monarch shakes his head as he moves away from the window. "We never should've invited the earl until we had all the information. The earl was invited with the understanding that he provide helpful information. His testimony could possibly damn Anne."
"Lord Percy believes he is helping the Queen. I understand that the earl feels guilty, but he believes that the queen is innocent." King Francis shakes his head again in disappointment and sighs, as he walks to his desk. He throws the folded letter onto his desk. LeBlanc walks close to the king's desk.
"Your majesty cannot stop the earl's testimony. To do so would cause suspicion and illegitimacy to the earl's testimony." LeBlanc advises the King. Francis nods his head in agreement.
"Very well. I will not interrupt the testimony, but the earl must be kept away from Anne. He took part in her investigation in England, he is a danger to her." Le Blanc nods his head and bows in response. "Yes your majesty. What shall you tell the queen? Your majesty cannot hide this sensitive information from her, especially considering they're past connection and now friendship."
Francis pulls out his chair and sits down. He looks at LeBlanc. "I will tell the queen myself. I want her to hear the news from me and only me. First, I would like to speak with the earl after his testimony is complete."
LeBlanc bows his head in response to the king's order.
The former queen and her dear friend, Nan walk arm in arm in the chateau's gardens. Anne looks around the peaceful garden.
"Have you spoken with Lord Percy?" Nan politely asks the former English monarch. "No, I haven't. It's been days since our last conversation. I've been told the he has been preoccupied with the Privy Council."
Nan looks at her friend. "Day and night? That seems impossible."
"My thoughts exactly. There is something else brewing and it is being kept quiet for now." Anne goes silent after out spoken thought, as they walk down the gravel path. "Have you spoken with the king? He may know the earl's meetings with the council."
Anne smiles at her friend's suggestion. "No, I will not ask the king. When we arrived in France, I promised to stay away from court, politics and the crown's business. It is better and safer."
Laughter catches the two women's attention and looks toward tent at the end of the gravel path. Anne smiles at the young lady underneath the tent, the king's youngest daughter, Princess Margaret. Anne lets out a small laugh, clearly amused at the princess' exchanging facial expressions. From the tent, Princess Margaret looks in their direction and waves excitedly.
"Princess Margaret has quickly adjusted to the chateau's quiet routine." Nan comments as she turns to look at the former queen. Anne waves to the princess in return. "She is quite taken with your grace."
Anne turns to her friend, her smile un-wavering. "The king made a similar comment earlier."
"Tis' true. Caring for the princess has restored you." The former queen returns her attention to the young princess. "Princess Margaret has been very kind and warm. I know she is not Elizabeth but I've come to care for her as she is my own."
"Then the princess is very lucky to have you, your grace." Anne gives her friend a gentle squeeze of the hand. Anne pulls her hand from Nan as they approach the tent.
"Lady Anne!" The young royal shouts as the former queen walks under the tent. Nan follows her mistress.
NLAQ
The doors to the king's private chambers open and Henry Percy enters the room. He walks to the end of the long table, where King Francis sits at the head. The earl stops near the table and bows to the French monarch. The king looks up from his work and slowly puts his pen down.
"My Lord Northumberland, I thank you for your generous hand in regards to Queen Anne's case." Percy bows his head to the monarch. "I am at your majesty's service."
Francis looks at the Englishman closely before speaking. ""If that is the case then I must ask: why withhold information concerning your position in the queen's investigation."
The English earl freezes at the king's words. Francis sits back in his chair with his eyes on the man, waiting for some sort of explanation. Percy takes a deep breath.
"You majesty, if I may explain-
The king puts his hand, changing his mind and refusing to listen to the earl's explanation. "Please Lord Percy, I have no desire to hear excuses."
The monarch sits up and pulls out the letter from under his ledger, and throws out onto the table. The king sits up as he watches the earl's eyes move to the letter. "You were to serve on the jury set up by Cromwell and her uncle, Norfolk. You and her uncle, and the jury were to find her guilty."
"Yes, I was meant to partake in the jury but no such trial took place. Your majesty stopped the trial before it occurred." The earl reminds the monarch on the daring and successful rescue. "I did not forget, Lord Percy. I am reminded of deed daily with the queen's presence on the grounds. Had Anne remained in England, she would have died at the hands of false men and their lies."
Percy stays quiet, biting his lip at the king's words. The French monarch sighs at the man's silence.
"Despite this new information, I have no intention of telling the council. If the council learns about this, then the council's decision will go against the queen. They may also see this as your revenge on the queen." The earl tenses up as she looks at the king. "I am fully aware of your past with the queen, and your intention to marry her at one point. From my perspective and possibly others, your silence about the matter and your involvement in the investigation would strike as revenge."
"Your majesty, my involvement was not out of revenge. I accepted the decision when our engagement was not accepted, and thus our relationship ended. My actions and decisions were not out of revenge or resentment, your majesty must believe me." The king silently nods his head but nothing more, unsure if the earl is telling the truth. Francis slowly rises to his feet and walks around his chair.
"Since you have brought the matter to my attention, I have made it my duty to prove Anne's innocence and protect her. I have kept her safe and will continue to do so even after she has been cleared and can live openly, and in peace." Francis holds onto his chair as he looks at the earl. "I have no wish to put the queen in any more danger. With that said and in light of this new information, I cannot let you near the queen."
"Your majesty, please-
"That is my decision and I will not move, my lord. You may not wish to harm the queen in any way, but I cannot take the risk." The earl reluctantly nods his head, silently agreeing to the king's demand. "As you wish, your majesty."
The monarch walks back around his chair and sits down, and pulls some of his work closer. The earl watches him quietly before the king looks up at him. "If your majesty has no need of me no longer, I wish to return to England. My absence will soon be notice."
"You have my permission and blessing, Lord Percy. Safe travels." The earl bows to the monarch, who returns his attention to his work and lets the earl leave without another word.
NLAQ
"My aunt, Queen Marguerite sent me a beautiful ruby pendant and a set of books. I believe they're Greek but I haven't open them." Anne smiles at Princes Margaret, as she brushes her hair and listens to the young royal. "She also sent me some lovely patterns in skirts, bodices and sleeves. I can't wait to show them to you and papa."
"We w ill need a special occasion for you to wear you new dress." The former queen kindly tells the young royal.
"Papa should put on dance. Can you ask him, Lady Anne? It will be so much fun." The princess spins around to look at Anne, with pleading eyes. "I will ask the king."
The princess smiles and turns back around. The former English monarch resumes brushing the young girl's hair.
"Of course, if father does agree then we would have to invite Henry and Catherine. Did you know that they didn't come to my birthday party? I did invite them." The young royal states, clearly irritated at the memory of her brother's absence. "Papa told Henry that he wasn't allow to bring Madame de Portiers to court. So Henry didn't come and neither did Catherine. Not that it matters, they're both horrible."
"You should not say such horrible things, princess." Anne quietly advises the princess. "Despite their personality, you should remain kind to your brother and the Duchess. They are your family."
"You do not know them like I do, my lady. Catherine believes she is better than me. Of course, she has no right. She hasn't even given my brother a child nor has she gotten pregnant since they married."
"You should not be so hard on the duchess. It is not easy for some women when it comes to bearing children. When the time is right, God will grant the duke and duchess a child." Margaret does not respond but remains silent for the first time that evening. Behind Anne, the door to her private chambers open and the king quietly enters.
"What about your sister, Princess Madeleine? Did she attend?" Anne mentions the eldest princess. "No she didn't. Aunt Marguerite did not allow her to come, she said that she was still recovering from her sickness."
"I have no doubt that your sister is well recovered now, and soon be home." Anne puts the brush down on the table beside her, and grabs a small piece of ribbon.
"I don't think she will. My aunt seems adamant that Madeleine remain in Navarre for her health." Anne ties the ribbon around princess' hair. "Princess Madeleine will come home, my dear, Francis is her home.
"Lady Anne is right." The princess and the English lady turn around at the king's voice. Francis smiles at his youngest child, who jumps to her feet and runs to him. She stops in front of her father and curtsies to him. "Your majesty."
"Madeleine will come home, my child. Your brother, Philip will bring will ensure that she returns to court." Margaret smiles up at her father. Anne smiles at the young princess and the happiness she expresses. "My dear, it is time for bed."
The young princess turns around and walks back to the former monarch, and stands before her. She bows her head as Anna leans forward, and kisses the princess' forehead. Margaret pulls away and looks at the exile queen. "Say your prayers and sleep well."
"Yes, my lady." Margaret turns back around and walks to the king, who kisses the top of her head then let's her pass. Francis walks to Anne, who shifts in hear chair as he takes the seat across from her. Anne smiles at the monarch. "This is a surprise, majesty."
"As was seeing Margaret here." Anne sits back in her chair. "I doubt that your majesty, I know you know about Margaret's visit."
"Yes, I do and I am happy to see her and you together. She needs a mother figure after Claude's death." Anne blushes at the mention of the dead French queen. "The princess is a comfort to me, your grace. She also amuses me with her various stories and opinions."
"Margaret does have her way with her stories. Her opinions are another matter which I sometimes ignore." A comfortable silence comes between the French king and the former English queen. Francis looks at Anne, ready to tell her news. "There is something which I must tell you, Anne. I am afraid that may not like it."
A look of confusion appears as she looks at the king. "It's about Lord Percy, isn't your majesty?"
King Francis is taken aback by her question. "How do you know?"
"I was not spying, your majesty. After speaking with Lord Percy on the first day, I had not seen or spoken to him. I assumed that he had done something to displease your majesty." Anne tells the king quietly. A shiver fear runs down her back. "I did not wish to ask your majesty any questions, I did not think it was my place to do so."
The monarch moves to the edge of his seat and reaches out his hand, and places it on top of Anne's. "Anne, I want us to be open with one another. I have no intention of hiding anything from you, especially when it concerns you. There is a reason, the earl stayed away."
The monarch pauses for a moment, unable to stop the pain he would be inflicting. "The earl was part of a jury that was formed by Cromwell. They were to find you guilty and sentence you to death. I could not have him near you, not after learning about his role."
The exile queen sits silently, her attention moved to the fire. Francis watches her and waits patiently. Moments go by and still Anne remains quiet. The king gently wraps his fingers around her hand and gently squeezes it. Anne looks up and turns to the king, tears in her eyes.
"I am truly forsaken." The queen whispers, saddening the king as he brings her hand to his lips, and kisses it. "Oh my dear."
Palacio Real Olite, Navarre
Philip walks down the hall, leading towards his sister's rooms. As he approaches the open door, the dauphin can hear the sound of loud voices arguing. He stops under the doorway, recognizing the voices of his sister and aunt.
"I do not think it is wise, Madeleine. You have just recovered." The royal can hear his aunt, Queen Marguerite pleading. Princess Madeleine stops in the middle of the room and looks at her aunt, the queen. "Dear aunt, it's time that I return home. I am also well enough to travel."
Philip smiles at his sister's stubbornness. Madeleine turns to the door and smiles at the sight of her older brother. "Philip!"
The prince walks into the room, unable to hide as he comes to a stop near his sister. He turns to his aunt and bows to her in respect. The queen steps forward, hoping she can find an ally in her nephew.
"Philip, thank the Lord. Please tell your sister that she shouldn't travel, not now when she has just recovered her health." The princess rolls her eyes at her aunt's repeating plea. "Our aunt is being over-protective. I am well enough to travel to France. I consulted with the physician and he said that I am in full health, and I am fit to travel."
"Philip, please." The queen pleads to her nephew. The dauphin sighs. "I am sorry aunt but I am of no use. Madeleine has always gotten what she wants and there is nothing we can do to stop her."
Madeleine smiles as she turns to look at her aunt. Marguerite sighs in defeat.
"Very well, I will not argue you any longer." The queen surrenders to her niece, smiling at the prince and princess. "But I do insist that you travel carefully and with much needed warmth. That is what you were lacking when you came here. I have no desire to learn that you are ill again."
"I promise your majesty." Madeleine curtsies to her aunt. Marguerite shakes her head at the princess then she turns to Philip. "Walk with me, nephew. We'll leave your sister to her packing."
Philip looks at his sister and winks. Madeleine smiles then walks away without another word. The queen and the dauphin quietly walk out the room. The dauphin glances at the queen ass they walk down the hall.
"Madeleine will be well taken care of. There is nothing for you to be worried about, dear aunt." Marguerite does not respond or glance at her nephew. "I am not concern, Philip but I am concern of what awaits you both in France."
The dauphin looks at his aunt, concern written on his face. "What has happen?"
The queen does not answer the question but turns a corner. Philip quietly follows his aunt down the hall, leading to her rooms. The door to the queen's rooms open and the two royals walk in, the door quickly closes behind the two.
"Aunt, what is going on?" Marguerite walks to her desk and turns to look at her nephew. "Francis' secret ally in the matter turns out that he is false."
"How is that possible? Philip questions in disbelief. "Father was confident in this man. He knew the man would be useful when he came to father the first time."
"He was useful until the ambassador learn about the earl's role in the matter. He was to be part of the jury that would sentence Francis' ward to death." The queen informs her nephew as she sits down at her desk. Philip takes a few steps forward, still in shock. He opens his mouth but nothing comes out, unable to say anything.
"Does the council know about this new information?" Philip finally speaks as his aunt shakes her head silently as her response. "No, Francis kept that to himself. If he allowed the council to hear this information, they would think the earl had an ulterior motive. The council might also believe that she is truly guilty."
Philip shakes his head at the idea. "The earl's guilt should tell the council that the lady is innocent and falsely accused."
"Maybe but you or I do not know that. You know the lords on that council, especially Babineaux. He will fight this." The queen points out. Philip takes a seat near his aunt's desk. "Do you believe that the lady is innocent?"
The queen sits back in her chair and sighs. "I have known the lady for many years and she is many things, but she is loyal to those she loves. She loved the English king passionately and devoted herself to him. She would never betray him, it is not in her character."
"Father said something similar when he was first informed about the matter. He claims that our cousin is mad." Marguerite shakes her head at the comment. "It is never wise to claim that any king is mad, especially the English king."
"I take it that you know the English king well." Philip hints to his aunt. Marguerite only smiles at her nephew's notion, as she remembers her visit to the English court. "I did know the king well once. During my visit to England, I learned that only charming words and sexual advances move the king. It's the only language he speaks."
The dauphin looks at his aunt but not shocked to learn about her visit.
"You don't look surprise, nephew." Philip smiles at his aunt and her small story. "I am not surprise at all, aunt."
The queen sits up, her smile gone and a serious demeanor appears. She reaches across the desk for her writing tool and paper, and begins writing.
"I would not worry much, the council will agree to protect her. They will want to stick it to the English, they are French." She returns her attention to the task before her. Philip silently nods his head. "The general will say otherwise. He'll claim the lady will start a war between France and England."
"She won't start a war or be the cause." Marguerite states as she looks up at the dauphin. "I believe that she may prevent a war, one way or the other."
NLAQ
The morning sun shines brightly on the courtyard of the palace. Half of the royal court gathers as two carriages, fully packed await their travelers. Princess Madeleine and Philip walk out, dressed in travel attire. Behind them, Queen Marguerite and King Henry walk behind the young royals. The princess and dauphin approach the two carriages and turns around to face the monarchs. Marguerite steps forward and looks at her niece and nephew.
"I pray you have a safe travel." She looks at the princess. "If you are feeling ill at any moment, then I advise you stop and rest. Again I repeat, I have no desire to hear you died during your journey."
"I promise your majesty." Madeleine respectfully responds. Her aunt reaches out and grabs her niece's hand, and steps closer; closing the distance between them as the queen leans in. "Be cautious, niece. Court is very dangerous palace with untrustworthy individuals. Trust God first and foremost then family."
Madeleine nods her head silently at her aunt's words. Marguerite kisses the princess' cheek then pulls away, then steps back. The queen turns from her niece then looks to her nephew.
"Walk with me, nephew. One last time." Philip nods and steps forward. King Henry looks at his wife. "Marguerite, dear, we cannot delay them."
"It will only take a moment, my king." The monarch grabs her nephew's arm and they walk away from the small party. She pulls out a sealed letter and hands it to the dauphin. Philip takes the letter and notices the name on the letter, then quickly hides it in his coat pocket. "For my friend. She will need friends and allies that she can count on."
"Yes your grace." Philip respectfully responds. The aunt and nephew come to a stop and face one another. "Always remember what I have told you about court and courtiers. Do not let them fool you, especially the women and their charms." The dauphin nods his head in response. "I will aunt, as long you are."
Marguerite raises an eyebrow at her nephew's words. "The Spanish ambassador visited my chambers a few days ago. He is persistent that my father accepts the Emperor's proposal. I believe that the ambassador has an ally in your court."
The queen looks at the young royal in surprise, and then slowly moves her eyes to her husband. For a moment the queen watches her husband, who is completely distracted by a young, pretty girl. Philip silently watches his aunt.
"Aunt." Marguerite turns back to her nephew. "Do not worry, I will deal with the matter myself."
Philip sets back and bows to the monarch. "Come, you cannot be late."
The two walk back to the travel party. The dauphin turns to his uncle and exchanges their farewells. Madeleine is the first to climb into the carriage, followed by the dauphin. The queen and kind come together and stands beside each other, as the carriage slowly leaves the courtyard.
"I don't know what deal you have with Spain but will end badly." The last carriage leaves and the palace gates begin to close. Marguerite turns around but her eyes and her attention remain on her husband. "Spain already has our country, they will not give it back. No matter their promises."
Chateau de' Rambouillet, Rambouillet, Yvenlines, France
The Privy Council rise to their own feet as the double doors open, and King Francis walks in. he walks behind the lords, reaching his chair and sitting down. The lords all follow suit. The monarch looks over the council.
"I assume you have come to a decision, my lords." He looks at the cardinal, who bows his head. "We have your majesty."
The monarch looks all around the table, glancing at each of the lords. He returns his attention to both the cardinal and Lord Chancellor. The cardinal is the first to speak up. "After reviewing the evidence and the earl's testimony: the council have come to an agreement the Lady Anne Boleyn, once Queen of England is innocent of all charges against her. We firmly believe that the lady was falsely accused by the King of England's men, thus should be granted sanctuary." The French monarch nods his head then looks to his general, who remains tight-lip at the moment. "General Babineaux, what say you? I understand that you were against my request."
The military general moves in his chair as he sits up, and looks at the monarch.
"I must be honest your majesty, granting the lady sanctuary could start a war with England. A war that we cannot afford." The general states, not holding anything back. "With that said, I do not believe that the lady is guilty of what she has been accused of."
"Do you believe England will declare war when they learn Lady Anne is alive?" King Francis questions, already knowing the answer but also the reaction of his cousin. "There is no doubt the English king will declare war in anger. Fortunately for France, England does not have the resources, means or allies to start a war. France is safe."
Many of the lords nod their heads in response, some content at the information. The king shoulders drop in relief at the council's decision, but does not drop his guard as he readies himself for the next task.
"I thank you lords for the kindness and mercy. Lady Anne will be grateful to you, my lords." Many of them murmur in response. "Now that Lady Anne will have the crown's protection, I strongly advocate that the lady be given a title to ensure her safety."
The lords look at one another, an action that they started since the beginning of the meeting.
"What title does your majesty suggested for the lady?" A lord questions the monarch. The king looks at the lord, who sits a good distance from the king. "I want to bestow the title of the Duke of Valois on the lady."
"The title belongs to the royal family. Surely this title will raise the lady to a royal standing." A lord points out. The king looks to the cardinal for some insight on the matter. "Lord Durand does raise a point, your majesty. Many would say that the lady was given the title out of favoritism, or for some gesture."
"I acknowledge your concerns Lord Durand, but I have no intention of allowing the court to know of the lady's presence. I intend to keep her presence a secret for the time being." The monarch states clearly. A statement that is not up for debate.
"I pray that bestowing the title on Lady Anne will offer more security, and protection. I have no intention of playing royal privilege, only protection." Again, the lords nod their heads at the king's intention. The king looks at Lord Durand, who bows his head to the monarch. "If that is your majesty's true intention then I do not object."
"Thank you my lords." Next to the cardinal, the General leans forward to look straight at the monarch. "Your majesty, now that we have grant your request. We ask that you return your attention to Spain and the emperor's proposal."
The room goes silent as all eyes are on the king. King Francis turns to the general with a relax demeanor.
"We cannot hold off the matter any longer." The military man adds. The king nods his head as a response. "You are right, general. We cannot put Spain off any longer. It is time to discuss the matter."
The council sits in complete silence. Manu of the lords shock at the monarch's willing cooperation Lord Chancellor Russo is the first to break the silence.
"We are glad to hear your majesty's eagerness." The Chancellor comments at the king's sudden change in behavior. The king smiles as the council starts to talk about Spain with some excitement.
NLAQ
Lady Anne Boleyn steps out of the shade and into the sunlight, as she walks down the gravel path alone. She lacks ahead of her and finds Nan, and Princess Margaret under the tent. She smiles at the women as she walks towards the tent. Nan leaves the princess and walks out from under the tent, and walks to the former queen. Anne comes to a stop as her friend approaches. She spots something in the woman's hand.
"Nan, you didn't have to come and greet me." Nan smiles as a short response. "I did not think that we should talk in front of the princess."
Anne looks at the lady in confusion at the statement. Nan stretches out her hand, revealing a sealed letter. "This was left for you."
The former queen hesitantly takes the letter and looks it over. She finds the writing somewhat familiar and looks up at her friend for some answers. "It is from Henry Percy. He asked that this be given to you after his departure."
"Has the king seen this?" She questions, unwilling to open or read the letter. "No your grace. Lord Percy instructed that the letter be handed directly in your hands. I have no knowledge of what's in the letter."
Anne nods her head and looks down at the sealed letter. Nan watches the lady quietly. "Are you going to read the letter?"
"I am not sure. I feel it is unwise to read this without some clue to its contents." Anne states, her eyes remaining on the letter. "It would not matter now. Lord Percy was not a true friend. This letter will have no meaning."
The former monarch looks up and hands the letter back to Nan. Nan stares at her mistress in shock. "Are you sure, your grace?"
She didn't answer nor did she get it as LeBlanc walks down the gravel path, shouting for Anne's attention. Anne slowly turns around as the king's secretary stops in front of her. He quickly bows to her. "LeBlanc."
The man straightens up and does his best to catch his breath. "I apologize for the intrusion your grace, but the king wishes to see you."
"Is something wrong?" She grows concern at the sudden request. Her thoughts go to the letter in her hand. "Not at all, your grace. In face, it is the opposite. The council voted in favor with the king. Your grace will remain in France under the crown's protection."
Anne does not move at the goods news. Behind her, Nan puts a hand of her shoulder as she contains her happiness.
"Where is the king now?"
NLAQ
The door opens to the king's room then closes moments later, Anne Boleyn stands near the door.
"Your majesty." Ann addresses the monarch loud enough for him to hear. The king turns away from the window and looks at the Englishwoman. A smile suddenly appears on his face as he quickly walks to her. Anne walks a few steps until they meet in the middle. The monarch quickly wraps his arms around her, and spins her around. Anne lets out a small shriek as the king laughs joyfully.
"Your majesty!" She shrieks as her feet touch the ground. The king looks down at her smiling. "I apologize, my dear lady, I cannot contain my excitement."
"LeBlanc informed me about the council's decision." Her smile does not wavier as the French monarch pulls one hand away, while the other holds onto Anne's hand. "I assume he didn't tell you everything."
She looks at King Francis with confusion. "I don't understand, your majesty."
"The council did not just grant you the protection of the crown, but has decided to bestow the title of Duchess of Valois." Anne opens her mouth to protest but the monarch puts his hand to stop her from protesting. "The title would not only protect you, it would also ensure your status as a French citizen and noblewoman. You will have a place at court, land, and a more than comfortable income."
"Your majesty did not need to do all of this." Anne finally speaks from the news. The monarch smile shrinks a tad. "I wanted to do this for you. You were falsely accused. Although I cannot fix the wrong by others, I can do my best to give you a happy life."
A single tear falls down her cheek as she smiles up at the monarch. The king uses his free hand and wipes the tear away. He takes a step forward and leans his forehead against Anne's. The two close their eyes and share a moment of silence.
"I know it's not my place nor appropriate but you, dear lady have me happy. You have been a wonderful companion." Anne slowly pulls away from the king and slowly opens her eyes. King Francis opens his eyes and looks down at the English lady.
"Thank you your majesty, for your kindness." She pulls her hand away from the king's hand, and walks away from the monarch with a small smile.
NLAQ
Anne stands quietly in the middle of empty chambers. She watches some of the household staff put the room together. Behind her, Nan enters the room with her hands clasped together.
"Your grace." The former monarch slowly turns around. She smiles at her friend. "I am sorry to bother you but General Babineaux wishes to speak with you."
Anne remains silent, a little shock at Nan's announcement. She takes a deep breath.
"Did he say why?" Nan shakes her head as a response. The exile queen sighs. "Very well then."
Nan bows her head then walks away. Anne looks around the rooms; the staff continues to work without bothering to learn about her unexpected guest. Nan returns with the general behind her. The lady stops in front of the former monarch and bows her head in respect.
"General Babineaux, your grace." Anne nods her head and Nan walks away, and stands in a corner. Anne bows her head to the military man. "General Babineaux what a surprise."
"I am sorry for the interruption, my lady." He does not address her by newly bestowed title. Anne only smiles and does not correct him. "Not at all, General."
The general looks around the room then back to the exile queen. "You must excuse the mess, General. I am having Princess Madeleine's rooms aired out and ready for her."
The general nods his head silently in response. "You must be overjoyed that you may do as you please. Especially now that you have been granted protection and a new title."
Her smile quickly disappears at the military man's critical words.
"I am sorry, general but I do not understand. His majesty ask that I prepare the princess' and dauphin's rooms." Anne responds, her heart pounding in fear of the general. Babineaux takes a step forward, one step close to Anne.
"I have not forgotten how you use men for your own proposes." He whispers to her. "King Henry may have been entrance with you but I will not let that happen to his majesty."
She takes a step back trying her best to hide hear fear. She takes a deep breath.
"General Babineaux, I know that you do not like me nor will I change your mind." She confesses to him. "I have no intention of using his majesty. I am grateful to the king for all his efforts but I will not move his majesty to get what I want. I only wish to live in peace, my lord, nothing else."
Babineuax silently observes the Englishwoman for a moment.
"You may say all the right things but it does not erase what you are capable of. I will be watching you, my lady. One wrong step and I will be there to ensure that you return to England." The general turns around and leaves the room, without another word. Nan walks towards Anne, who turns to look at her. "My lady, you need to tell the king about the-
"No! The king must never know about this. If he does than if will play until the general's hand." Nan silently nods her head as Anne stares out into the hall, her heart pounding in fear.
Two weeks later…
Anne walks down the hall with Nan being her, and Princess Margaret beside her. They reach the open double doors, where King Francis and his secretary stand waiting. The king turns and smiles at Anne and Margaret. The women stop and curtsey to the monarch.
"Are they here?" Margaret excitedly questions her father. The monarch smiles down at his daughter. "They just pass the gates and should be more momentarily."
The young princess smiles and walks ahead of the group, and outside. King Francis looks at Anne, who smiles at one another. Anne walks to the king's side and together walk outside. The small group stands on the chateau's front door, watching the carriage draw close to the chateau. The carriage comes to a slow stop and a footman steps forward, and opens the carriage door. Philip is the first to climb out of the carriage, making the young princess overjoyed.
"Philip!" Margaret runs to her brother and jumps into his arms. Philip quickly catches his youngest sister. "Hello Margaret."
"Margaret, please." The king kindly tells his youngest child. The young princess pulls away from her brother, and steps back. She smiles at her brother. "I am sorry, Philip."
"It's fine, Maggie. Hello, your majesty." Philip turns to his father and bows his head to him. The king bows his head in return. "Welcome home, Philip."
Philip smiles and turns to Anne, who bows her head and curtsey. She stands up and smiles at the dauphin. "Welcome home, your grace."
"Thank you, your grace. It is good to be home." Behind Philip, Madeleine pokes her head out of the carriage then slowly climbs out. Francis smiles at the sight of his oldest daughter. Madeleine climbs down the last step and runs to her father. The monarch engulfs the princess into a hug and holds her tight. Madeleine sighs in contentment. A few moments pass and the two pull apart. The princess steps back.
"I hope your aunt did not mind you leaving." Madeleine smiles at the mention of her aunt, the queen. "She tried to persuade me but she couldn't change my mind."
"I am glad to heart that." The monarch smiles at the princess. Madeleine turns to Anne, who is quietly talking with her brother. Philip catches his sister's expression and quickly informs the former English queen. Anne turns to look at the princess and curtsies quickly. The princess walks over to Anne and unexpectedly gives her a hug. The royal pulls away with a wide smile.
"I am glad to see you safe, your grace." Anne smiles at the princess. "Thank you, your highness. I am glad to see your highness well and back in France."
"Madeleine, you need to see your rooms. The duchess did a beautiful job." The princess looks at her sister then back at the duchess. "If your grace doesn't mind."
"Not at all, only if your highness is not too tired from your journey." Madeleine shakes her head and Margaret grabs her hand, and pulls her inside. Anne smiles at the king as she turns around and walks inside. Philip walks to his father.
"We may have a problem." Francis looks at his son with some confusion. "In Navarre? It seems unlikely, your aunt would know about it."
"Unfortunately not. It seems my uncle has a secret alliance with Spain. I don't know what deal he has made but it cannot be good." The monarch sighs and looks to LeBlanc. "Get me the Spanish ambassador now. Spain will not get the upper hand or make a fool out of me."
