Chapter 74
Here we have Chapter Seventy-Four. I am doing my best to update this story as much as possible. I had to do research. There will be some historical changes, so please just accept it as fictional entertainment. If any of you have any questions, do not hesitate to PM me. Also, the person I use for research seems to not be active anymore. If anyone would like to help, I would love the assistance. in the meantime, please Read and Review and enjoy Chapter Seventy-Four!
4 July 1567
Ribiera Palace, Lisbon, Kingdom of Portugal
The Great Hall
Archduchess Joanna sighed, as she took in her new surroundings. It had been nearly two weeks since her wedding to Lord Carlos, the seventeen year old son to the Duke of Braganza. Her husband's family had been very kind, however the Portuguese Court was still foreign to her.
A beautiful older woman walked up to the younger woman. She was Archduchess Catherine of Austria, Duchess of Trancoso and Countess of Miranda do Corvo, Joanna's older sister.
Archduchess Joanna smiled.
"I am happy to see you." she said.
Archduchess Catherine hugged her younger sister.
"I have not seen you since your wedding night. I do apologize. I had to return to our estate to see our younger children." she said.
Archduchess Joanna nodded.
"I understand." she said.
Archduchess Catherine took her younger sister's hand.
"Tell me, is your husband kind to you?" she asked.
Archduchess Joanna nodded her head.
"Yes, he seemed very happy and eager for the wedding night, however he was gentle and kind. I have wanted to learn more about the Court. I do not want enemies here." she said.
Archduchess Catherine nodded.
"That is wise, but difficult. You have married into one of the most powerful families in Portugal. Your husband's family's wealth rivals that of the Queen herself." she said.
Archduchess Joanna looked at her sister, in shock.
"Is that so?" she said.
Archduchess Catherine nodded.
"Queen Catarina likes to keep many nobles close. It lets her keep an eye on them. She is Portugal's first queen and she had a few obstacles, including from your husband's family." she said.
Archduchess Joanna looked at her father-in-law, talking to other courtiers, especially a tall auburn-haired man.
Archduchess Catherine smiled.
"That is Infante Duarte, the Duke of Guimarães. He is the Queen's uncle and one of her most loyal confidantes. He is married to the sister of your father-in-law. Many campaigned for him to be King, especially your father-in-law. The Queen prefers to watch them always." she said.
Archduchess Joanna looked at Queen Catarina on her throne.
"She is exquisite." she said.
Queen Catarina of Portugal was seated on cushions on a dais covered with a beautiful tapestry. She was wearing a gown of black and blue trimmed silver and her long dark brown hair was a topped with a beautiful blue sapphire.
Archduchess Catherine nodded.
"Yes, but do not let her beauty fool you. She is a true leader. She will not show mercy to people who show treason or who are a threat to her or the succession." she said.
Archduchess Joanna looked at her sister.
"Do you have a good relationship with the Queen?" she asked.
Archduchess Catherine smiled.
"I am one of her close friends. My husband is her cousin and we have always been faithful to her and her reign. Settle into Court. Soon , I will present you. She was present at your wedding. She is truly watching you." she said.
Archduchess Joanna looked scared.
"Why?" she asked.
Archduchess Catherine looked at her.
"You are a Braganza now. Like I said, she wants to make sure people in certain families are within the Court." she said.
Archduchess Joanna looked a little afraid.
Archduchess Catherine took her hand.
"Do not worry. She will be kind to you, if you are loyal. Do not let the sins of your husband's family pave your way. You can make your way into her heart and she will favor you." she said.
Archduchess Joanna nodded. She made sure to here her older sister's words. She knew that she was well respected within the Court and she hoped to have the same respect that her sister had, especially with the Queen.
15 July 1567
Stockholm Palace, Stockholm, Kingdom of Sweden
Queen Matilda of Sweden's Bedchamber
Queen Matilda sighed, as she was pacing her Chambers. The last few months had been very hard on her and the entire Court. King Eric attacked and brutally murdered several members of the noble Sture family. He was now imprisoned in his own chambers
Princess Elisabet, her husband's younger sister, who was very close to the Queen, was in her chambers.
"Your Majesty, what will become of us?" the eighteen year old asked.
Queen Matilda sighed.
"I do not know. However, Eric is clearly not well. I need to do something. I am Queen and I am just sitting here, helpless." she said, frustrated.
Princess Elisabet nodded.
"Do you think that they will throw him from the Throne?" she asked.
Queen Matilda shook her head.
"He is an anointed King. They would not dare. The main thing I am worried about are my children." she said.
Princess Elisabet sighed.
"I can not believe this is happening." she said.
Queen Matilda nodded.
"Something must be done." she said.
She turned towards the door and walked towards her door and she made her way down the corridor. Princess Elisabet, slightly confused, followed behind her.
Queen Matilda opened the doors that led to the Council Chambers. All of them men stood up.
"Your Majesty." they all said.
Queen Matilda sighed, as she walked to the head chair.
"Gentlemen, I do not mean to intrude. I know that I am a Catholic, a woman and a foreigner. However, I have given birth to children in this realm. You are my people. Regardless of anything, we all want the same thing. I humbly beg you to let me hear you and also to listen to me." she said.
The men looked at the Queen, in shock and also respect. They all bowed to her.
Queen Matilda sighed and took a seat.
"Where are we on the subject of the King? His actions two months were atrocious, however he is the anointed sovereign." she said.
The Duke of Dalsland cleared his throat.
"The King is unwell, as we all know. I propose that his son and heir, Prince Johan rule on his behalf, untill he has recovered." he said.
Queen Matilda shook her head.
"My son is fifteen years old and would need a regency council and we need to reevaluate who's eligible. The King's reign must be respected." she said.
Prince Magnus, the Duke of Östergötland and King Eric's younger brother, held his hand up.
Queen Matilda nodded.
"Your Highness?" she said.
He cleared his throat.
"It is true, my brother, the King is unwell. Her Majesty has clearly shown that her love of our lands is paramount. Gentlemen, we should trust our Queen." he said.
The men murmured and nodded.
Prince Magnus looked at Queen Matilda.
"Do you agree to be regent, Your Majesty and to uphold our laws?" he asked.
Queen Matilda nodded.
"I do. Convene a council to make a formal decision." she said.
The Duke of Öland looked at the Queen.
"What will be done with the King?" he asked.
Queen Matilda looked at everyone.
"The King and I both will travel to the Örbyhus Castle. It is away from the capital. Weekly, if it is agreed that I will be regent, I will meet with the Regency Council to discuss affairs of State." she said.
All the men nodded in agreement.
Queen Matilda stood up.
"I will make the preparations for our departure as soon as possible. Gentlemen, I will take my leave of you." she said.
Queen Matilda walked out of the room, with all the men bowing to her. She and Princess Elisabet made their way to her Chambers.
Princess Elisabet smiled.
"I will tell my servants to ready my belongings, as well." she said.
Queen Matilda looked at her sister-in-law.
"I do not think it'll be necessary, sweet Elisabet." she said.
Princess Elisabet shook her head.
"There is nothing for me here. My marriage to Christopher of Mecklenburg is obviously not happening. I will resign myself and help you care for my brother." she said.
Queen Matilda took her hand and smiled.
"Thank you." she said.
24 July 1567
Windsor Castle, Windsor, Kingdom of England
Queen Lillian of England's Bedchamber
Queen Lillian smiled, as she watched her stepdaughter, Princess Margaret, who was now seventeen years old, who was playing dolls with her two year old daughter, Princess Lillian, affectionately called Lilly.
Lady Mary Brandon, Duchess of Suffolk smiled at the Queen.
"They grow fast, do they not, Your Majesty?" she asked.
Queen Lillian nodded.
"They definitely do." she said.
Lady Catherine Carey, Queen Lillian's Lady of the Bedchamber, nodded.
"Absolutely. It almost makes you forget the pain it took for them to come." she said.
Lady Mary smirked..
"Especially with you. You've given birth fourteen times." she said.
Lady Catherine nodded.
"The Lord is good." she said.
Lady Charlotte Howard, the Duchess of Norfolk smirked.
"Apparently so is your husband." she said.
Queen Lillian looked at her friend.
"Says the only one of us currently with child." she said.
Lady Charlotte was currently expecting her seventh child.
"My husband and I do our duty, when he is not preoccupied." she said.
Suddenly, the door opened and King Henry walked in. Everyone stood up and bowed to him.
Little Princess Lilly toddled over to him.
"Papa, up." she said.
He smiled.
"Hello, darling. How is my little Princess?" he asked.
Princess Lilly laid her head on her father's shoulder.
Queen Lillian smiled.
"What brings you here, Your Majesty?" she asked.
King Henry smiled.
"I have news. Ladies, would you leave the Queen and Princesses alone for awhile?" he asked.
The ladies all curtsied and left the room.
Princess Margaret looked at her father, nervously.
"Father, is something wrong?" she asked.
King Henry shook his head.
"No. I just received a letter from Vienna. You have been officially selected as Archduke Philip's future bride." he said.
Princess Margaret sighed and nodded.
"That is wonderful news, Father." she said.
Queen Lillian smiled.
"It surely is. You could very well be the next Holy Roman Empress." she said.
Princess Margaret nodded her head.
"When do I depart for Vienna?" she asked.
King Henry smiled again.
"You will depart next spring. I do not want you to travel in the winter. We will also plan a proxy wedding as soon as we can." he said.
Princess Margaret nodded. Queen Lillian, noticing her stepdaughter's anxiety, caressed her cheek.
"Are you well?" she asked.
Princess Margaret sighed.
"I thought that the Austrian marriage would pass me by. I was happy to remain in England." she said.
King Henry sighed.
"Parting with you is harder than you can ever realize, darling. We enjoy you home. The sacrifice we make as sovereign, is our children are not just ours. However, just know that you are loved and I don't best to not send you to a marriage that sends you misery." he said.
Princess Margaret smiled.
"I love you both as well. I will do my duty to England and to god." she said.
5 August 1567
Palace of the Infantado, Guadalajara, Kingdom of Spain
The Great Hall
The entire Mendoza household was celebrating and also very busy. Today the marriage of Lady Anais de Mendoza and Lord Luca Davila, the future Viscount of Mille. The two young people were not only well-matched, but they were deeply in love. The Duke of the Infantado had spent lavishly on his daughter's wedding, which also has members from the Royal family in attendance.
The wedding has taken place in the Infantado Family Chapel and it was very beautiful. The Archbishop of Toledo presided over the Wedding Mass, in which the chapel was packed and the two young lovers were finally married.
Later in the evening, Lady Anais and Lord Luca were seated at the high table. The groom was dressed in a light blue doublet, trimmed with cloth of gold and had a cross stitched into the front,also in cloth of gold, courtesy of his grandmother, Lady Souveraine Davila, the Dowager Viscountess of Mille.
Queen Elisabeth, Princess Giovanna, Duchess of the Infantado and Lady Sancha were enjoying the festivities
Princess Giovanna smiled.
"She is so beautiful." she said.
Queen Elizabeth nodded.
"She is. I want you to inform her that now she is married, she is entitled to two rooms at Court now. Lord Luca will also be welcome as well." she said.
Princess Giovanna smiled.
"She will be delighted to hear that." she said.
Queen Elizabeth looked at Lady Anais and Lord Luca, as they began a dance with each other. She fondly remembered her own wedding day seventeen years ago.
"Does she fear tonight, Giovanna?" Lady Sancha asked.
Princess Giovanna shook her head.
"On the contrary, I would say she's looking forward to it." she said.
Princess Giovanna caught sight of Infanta Isabel and her dancing with her ladies-in-waiting.
"Your Majesty, any news on the Infanta and her wedding?" she asked.
Queen Elisabeth nodded.
"Yes. Emperor Ferdinand has decided to go with my niece, Princess Margaret of England, for his son and heir." she said.
Lady Sancha smiled.
"That should clear a way for Infanta Isabel to become Queen of Naples." she said.
Queen Elisabeth sighed and nodded.
"We are in negotiations still. I have a feeling that King Alfonso wants Sicily back in the House of Trastamara. If we made Isabel Queen of Sicily, I highly doubt that he would say no." she said.
Princess Giovanna nodded.
"I know my brother would love Sicily to be apart of his Kingdom again." she said.
Queen Elisabeth nodded.
"I would not suggest that to the King, unless it will benefit Spain. " she said.
Lady Sancha smiled.
"It is getting late. I am sure Anais is ready for bed." she said.
Princess Giovanna nodded.
"Please excuse us, Your Majesty." she said.
Queen Elisabeth nodded and smiled, as the young married couple left the hall and the party continued.
King Luis walked up to his wife and kissed her.
"It was a beautiful wedding." he said.
Queen Elisabeth nodded.
"Yes, it was. Lady Anais and Lord Luca are a beautiful couple. Have you thought more about Isabel's situation?" she asked.
King Luis sighed.
"Unfortunately, no." he said.
Queen Elisabeth smiled.
"I may have a suggestion. However, let us enjoy the night and not discuss politics on a night such as this." she said.
King Luis smiled and led his wife to the middle of the dance floor and they began to follow everyone else in a dance.
13 August 1567
Ribiera Palace, Lisbon, Kingdom of Portugal
Queen Catarina of Portugal's Privy Chambers
Queen Catarina was sitting by one of her favorite windows, enjoying her favorite book, as her ladies in waiting either played dice games or did their embroidery. Queen Catarina also had to deal with four of her five children in her household. Her eldest son, Sebastian, Prince of Portugal, now aged thirteen years old, held a separate household from his parents and siblings.
The door opened and King Juan walked in. All of the ladies stood up and bowed.
He walked up and kissed Queen Catarina.
"How are you?" he asked.
She nodded and smiled.
"I am well. Is there any news on our son's progress?" she asked.
King Juan nodded.
"He is currently visiting your mother. His comptroller has said the journey is going well." he said.
Queen Catarina nodded.
"I need to talk to you about Sebastian." she said.
King Juan and Queen Catarina walked into the doors that led to her private Bedchamber.
King Juan looked at his wife.
"Is something wrong?" she said.
Queen Catarina sighed.
"The dispensation is clear for Sebastian to marry one of the Spanish Infantas, correct?" she asked.
King Juan nodded
"Yes, everything is set. Why do you ask?" he asked.
Queen Catarina took a deep breath.
"I think instead of Infanta Maria, I think we should go with either Infanta Isabel or Infanta Juana. They are the older daughters and I think it is more appropriate for our son." she said.
King Juan looked at his wife.
"I do not think my nephew would be offended, however, I do o know that their eldest daughter is most likely promised to Naples." he said.
Queen Catarina sighed.
"And Juana?" she asked.
"They were going to send her to Poland." he said.
Queen Catarina shook her head.
"I will send a representative to my aunt and renegotiate the match." she said.
King Juan nodded.
"I will trust your judgement, sweetheart." he said.
Queen Catarina smirked.
"Will you trust my judgement in bed?" she said.
King Juan smirked and began to kiss his wife. She felt herself giving into passion, when there was a knock at her door.
Queen Catarina sighed.
"Come in." she said.
The door opened and her sister, Joanna, Princess of Eboli, walked in and bowed.
"I'm sorry to disturb you, Your Majesties." she said.
Queen Catarina nodded her head.
"What is it, sister?" she asked.
Princess Joanna sighed.
"News has arrived. There is to a new Emperor." she said.
King Juan looked at his sister-in-law.
"My sister is a widow?" he asked.
Princess Joanna shook her head.
"No. King Giacomo of Candia has reclaimed the Greek lands. The Pope has will be granting him the title of Latin Emperor of the Greeks, letting him start a new Christian dynasty from the hands of the Turks." she said.
Queen Catarina looked at her sister, in shock.
"He conquered the Turks?" she asked.
Princess Joanna nodded her head.
Queen Catarina sighed.
"That is good for them. However, how do we know that the Turks will not come and conquer us now that that they have lost the Greek lands" she wondered.
28 August 1567
Prince Edward of Wales' Bedchamber
Arundel Castle, West Sussex, Kingdom of England
Prince Edward was saying his prayers at the altar in his Bedchamber. He and his household were on summer progress and the Duke of Norfolk invited the Prince of Wales and his entourage to stay at his estate.
The door opened and his wife, Princess Elizabeth of Wales, walked in. She was already in her bedclothes.
Prince Edward made the sign of the Cross and stood up. He smiled and kissed her.
"Hello, darling. I thought you were staying in another suite of rooms." he said.
Princess Elizabeth shook her head.
"I want to be with you." she said.
Prince Edward smirked and began to kiss his wife. She kissed him back passionately and felt him trying to drop her nightgown off her shoulders.
She suddenly stopped him.
"Edward, stop. We can not do this." she said.
Prince Edward looked at his wife, in surprise. When it came to their intimate relations, his wife never denied him.
"Have I offended you, sweetheart?" he asked.
Princess Elizabeth shook her head.
"No, however I can not lay with you in my condition." she said.
Prince Edward looked at his wife, with a gleam of happiness in his eyes.
"Are you carrying another child?" he asked.
Princess Elisabeth nodded her head.
"Are you pleased?" she asked.
Prince Edward hugged her and kissed her cheek.
"Of course, my darling. Children are a blessing to us." he said.
Princess Elisabeth nodded.
"We do need another son." she said.
Prince Edward sighed.
"A daughter is still a blessing." he said.
Princess Elizabeth nodded.
"Yes. I just do not want the stress of just having one boy. Our little Henry is healthy. I just know that a brother will be favorable." she said.
Prince Edward nodded his head.
"For England, yes. However, you are my wife and any child is no disappointment to me." he said.
Princess Elizabeth rubbed his face.
"That is why I love you so much. I thank the Lord daily to be your wife. I would be your wife no matter what ." she said.
Prince Edward smiled and kissed his wife.
"We will announce our child's upcoming birth when we arrive back at Ludlow. We do need to discuss our children's households." he said.
Princess Elizabeth sighed.
"I do not want our children to be apart from us. I love them." she said.
Prince Edward hugged her.
"I love them as well, sweetheart. It is just for their education and to build loyalty to our nobles. We will hand pick them." he said.
Princess Elizabeth nodded.
"I am not sending little Catherine away. She is just a babe." she said.
Prince Edward kissed her forehead.
"I promise we will make the decision together." he said.
7 September 1567
Palace of Madrid, Madrid, Kingdom of Spain
Queen Elisabeth of Spain's Bedchamber
Queen Elisabeth has just arrived to her private apartments with many of her ladies. The Court had celebrated the thirty-fourth birthday of their beloved Queen with a masque ball and wonderful pageantry.
Lady Sancha smiled at her dear friend.
"The festivities were magnificent, Your Majesty." she said.
Queen Elisabeth nodded.
"It was beautiful. Ladies, you are all dismissed for the night. Have a wonderful night and I will see you all in the morning. Sancha, Giovanna, please stay behind." she said.
The rest of Queen Elisabeth's ladies-in-waiting bowed and retired to their rooms. Sancha and Princess Giovanna looked at Queen Elizabeth, in concern.
"Is something wrong, Your Majesty?" Lady Sancha asked.
Queen Elisabeth shook her head and took a deep breath.
"The King is visiting me tonight. I wanted you two to help me prepare. It has been a year since I was able to be intimate. I feel ashamed of being nervous. We have been married for seventeen years. Why should I be nervous?" she asked.
Princess Giovanna, resting her hand on her growing stomach, smiled at her friend and mistress.
"The nervousness is wonderful. Now, let us get your gown and jewels off and we will help you prepare for the King." she said.
Princess Giovanna and Lady Sancha helped Queen Elisabeth out of her beautiful black and blue gown that she had worn that evening for her birthday. Princess Giovanna removed all of her jewelry and placed them in the beautiful casket box that only she had a key for.
Queen Elisabeth had her long chestnut hair let down. Despite her being in her thirty-fourth year and being the mother of nine children, she was still very attractive. She was still an active woman and enjoyed horseback riding and hunting and it kept her figure intact, despite her numerous pregnancies.
She was placed into a beautiful white nightgown, that made her look like an angel.
Princess Giovanna winced and rubbed her stomach and smiled.
Queen Elisabeth looked at her friend, in concern.
"Giovanna?" she asked.
Princess Giovanna shook her head.
"I am well, Your Majesty. It was just a kick." she said.
She smiled and looked at Sancha.
"The lemon scent. Luis loves it." she said.
Lady Sancha nodded and went to the the box and brought out the lemon perfume that was there. She applied the scent to Queen Elisabeth's neck and her wrists.
Lady Sancha smiled.
"The King will melt with love. You are so beautiful." she said.
The door suddenly opened and King Luis walked in. He had gone to his chamber and gotten dressed for bed, before being told that the Queen wanted to see him.
Lady Sancha and Princess Giovanna bowed and began to leave. Lady Sancha would be going to her Chambers that she shared with her husband and Princess Giovanna, since she was Camarera mayor de Palacio to Queen Elisabeth, would be sleeping in her apartment, that was adjacent to the Queen's.
King Luis looked at his wife, with lust and love filling him.
"You are so beautiful. It is a sin to be this desirable." he said.
Queen Elisabeth blushed and came forward.
"Even after all of these years?" she asked.
King Luis began to passionately kiss Queen Elisabeth. She felt herself giving into the kiss. Her body was ablaze with desire. She felt her nightgown being slipped off and she noticed her husband was now bare as well.
King Luis looked at her and bit his lip.
"I do not care how many years pass. The Lord has my soul, but only you will possess my heart and body." he whispered, with their lips touching.
Queen Elisabeth responded with a even more passionate kiss and she pulled her naked husband to her bed for a long, passionate night together for the first time in a year.
16 September 1567
Linlithgow Palace, Linlithgow, Kingdom of Scotland
Lady Jane Stewart"s Bedchamber
A woman , dressed in a beautiful gown, was enjoying her embroidery, as a severe thunderstorm raged outside. Lady Jane had settled into her married homeland and has earned the upmost respect from the Scottish Court. Her father-in-law, the Duke of Ross, was the Lord Protector of the Kingdoms, due to Queen Mary's absence.
The door opened and her husband, Lord Duncan, walked in and kissed his wife.
"Hello, darling. Are you well?" he asked.
Lady Jane smiled.
"The sickness stopped awhile ago." she said.
Lord Duncan began to rub his wife's shoulder. She was in her third month of pregnancy with her and Duncan's seventh child. Despite the two losses they endured, they were a loving family with their four surviving children.
"The Queen will be making a visit soon." he said.
Lady Jane nodded.
"I have heard. It is a good thing. Your father has been ill recently. How is he doing?" she asked.
Duncan nodded.
"The fevers have subsided. He is just weak." he said.
Lady Jane nodded. Her husband had been dealing with the affairs of government and she had not seen much of him in recent weeks. She did miss him very much, but she also managed to deal with the household of her family.
"How is our son, Arthur?" Lord Duncan asked.
Lady Jane smiled.
"He is well. The tutors sent wonderful reports on his progress on Latin and French. He does not miss any assignments either. Our daughter, Arabella, is excelling in French and Greek. Her Latin is a bit poor, but will get better." she said
Lord Duncan laughed.
"Arabella is only seven years old. She has time. They are just children." he said.
Lady Jane shook her head.
"My parents made sure that my sisters and I had an outstanding education. They're the descendants of Kings. They may never wear a crown, but they do not deserve the scraps of life." she said.
Lord Duncan nodded.
"Yes, but they should be able to enjoy childhood. My siblings and I loved running through the palace and the gardens at our estate with the hounds." he said.
Lady Jane sighed.
"Very well. I will lessen the need for foreign languages, once they show proficiency in the ones needed at Court." she said.
Suddenly, she felt an intense pain in her stomach and cried out.
Lord Duncan grabbed her.
"What is It?!" he asked.
Lady Jane looked at her husband.
"Our child. It is too early." she cried.
Lord Duncan laid her in bed.
"I will gather your ladies and the midwife." he said.
Later that night
Lady Jane, with silent tears falling down her face, was confined to her bed. She still felt the horrible cramps that took her unborn child from her. Her third loss.
The midwife sighed.
"I am so sorry, My Lady." she said.
Lady Jane looked at her.
"Was there damage done? I only have two sons. I need to make sure my husband's line is secure." she said.
The midwife shook her head.
"No. However, please stay in bed at least a week to recover, Your Highness." she said.
Lady Jane nodded.
"I will be churched before I return to my duties. Let my husband in." she said.
The midwife bowed and walked away to the door. Lord Duncan walked in, looking sad.
Lady Jane let a few tears fall.
"I am so sorry, Duncan. I did not mean to lose the child." she said.
Lord Duncan shook his head.
"Do not apologize for this misfortune. I share the same tears as you, my love. I only care now that you recover and survive." he said.
Lady Jane took his hand and just held his hand.
"I want to be churched before rejoining the public." she said.
Lord Duncan nodded and kissed her.
"My mother will help with anything you need." he said.
Lady Jane nodded.
"When I recover, I will leave Court for a time. I need to see my children." she said.
Lord Duncan looked at her sternly.
"No." he said.
Lady Jane looked at him, in surprise. She did not think that he would deny her to see her children.
He smiled.
"We will leave Court together and see our children." he said.
Lady Jane, despite her pain, smiled and nodded, until she finally fell into a dreamless sleep.
25 September 1567
Angelokastro Castle, Corfu, Kingdom of Greece
Giacomo, Latin Emperor of Greece's Privy Chambers
Emperor Giacomo was writing a letter to his new nobles. At his coronation, he made sure to accept the faith of the Eastern Church and its practices. So far, he was favored, but he knew his crown was new. The financial situation was now improving the Kingdom with the trade routes with Venice.
The door opened and his son and heir, Prince Nicolai, now sixteen years old, walked in. He was dressed in the Venetian style and was a good looking young man, who favored his father.
He bowed to his father.
"I am sorry to disturb you, father. However, there is an urgent visitor here and they demand to see you." he said.
Emperor Giacomo nodded.
"Send them in." he said, as he stood up.
He was shocked when the door opened and his wife, Empress Marina.
Emperor Giacomo smiled and walked up and kissed his wife of eighteen years. The two had a loving marriage and family. Emperor Giacomo had no immediate family, as his mother had died during his birth and his father never remarried and had more children, so Emperor Giacomo only had his wife and six children and he adored all of them.
"Marina! I cannot believe you are here. You are the Empress we should have received you with celebrations." he said.
Empress Marina shook her head.
"I missed you very much and the crossing was not terrible. Our children are here too. Everyone needs to see that we're united. Have you been crowned?" she asked.
Emperor Giacomo nodded.
"We will plan your coronation as soon as possible. Everything happened very quickly." he said.
Empress Marina smiled and looked at Prince Nicolai.
"Son, go make sure your siblings are settling in. I need to speak to your father alone." she said.
Prince Nicolai nodded and left his parents alone.
Emperor Giacomo looked at his wife.
"The children are with you?" he asked
Empress Marina nodded.
"Yes. In Venice, I rarely saw my parents. I know we must delegate our children's upbringing, but I want them close. There would be months I did not see my parents and my siblings and I felt horrible." she said.
Emperor Giacomo kissed her hand.
"We will keep them close. However, Nicolai will be given the title Crown Prince and with that, he will have his own household separate from us and his siblings. He will be married very soon." he said.
Empress Marina nodded.
"I will hate to be away from him. However, I know he is going to be a man." she said.
Emperor Giacomo nodded.
"You know that you will always have access to our children. Including our heir." he said.
Empress Marina nodded.
"My brother has agreed to keep the trade routes through here. It will improve the financial burden that the war caused. The dowry of Princess Isabella of Naples will definitely help as well." she said.
Emperor Giacomo nodded.
"The Turks, who do not want to leave, will also pay a heavy tribute every six months to remain here." he said.
Empress Marina, pouring wine for herself, looked at her husband, with concern.
"Do you think the Pope will object to the tolerance of the heretics in these lands?" she asked.
Emperor Giacomo sighed.
"We will have to see what he says. I do not want any enemy of the Holy Father, but I also do not want this to be Spain and start burning people." he said.
Empress Marina took his hand.
"God's will shall be prepared. The Holy Father knows you are a good Christian." she said.
Emperor Giacomo smiled.
"I hope so." he was, pouring himself wine.
8 October 1567
Wawel Castle, Krakow, Kingdom of Poland
Princess Sybilla of Poland's Bedchamber
Queen Dorothea of Poland sighed, as she saw the belongings of her daughter packed. Her daughter, Princess Sybilla, was to depart for the French Court to marry Henri, the Duke of Angouleme and Prince of Conde, the younger brother of King Francis II.
King Sigismund II walked in and smiled.
"Are you still melancholy about our daughter's departure?" he asked.
Queen Dorothea nodded her head.
"Yes. I do not see why she has to leave now." she said.
King Sigismund II sighed.
"She is betrothed to the Duke of Angouleme. I do not want her to travel in the winter. You know they can be brutal here." he said.
Queen Dorothea nodded.
"I know. I will just miss her very much. The French they are so..." she said.
King Sigismund II held his hand up.
"I know that you do not trust the French. However, Sybilla did not have many prospects." he said.
Queen Dorothea sighed.
"Our daughters are nearly all gone. I will just miss them. It is hard to separate my affection as a mother and my obligations as Queen." she said.
King Sigismund nodded.
"You have our youngest daughter and three sons. Everything will be just fine." he said.
They heard footsteps and eighteen year old Princess Sybilla walked in and bowed to her parents. She was wearing a blue gown with a black traveling cloak. Her chestnut colored hair was pulled into a bun, since her proxy marriage took place.
Queen Dorothea smiled and kissed her daughter on her cheek.
"Prince Henri is a lucky man." she said.
Princess Sybilla smiled.
"Thank you, mother. Father, I am thankful for the wedding feast you held in my honor." she said.
King Sigismund nodded.
"Of course. Your actual wedding will take place in Paris, but that does not mean we will not celebrate you here." he said.
She smiled and then a guard came in and bowed.
"Your Majesty, the entourage for the Princess is ready to depart." he said.
King Sigismund nodded and kissed Princess Sybilla on her forehead.
"I pray you have a safe journey, daughter. Carry your Polish blood with you and never depart from what you were taught." he said.
Princess Sybilla nodded and smiled.
"I never will." she said.
Queen Dorothea kissed her daughter.
"I shall miss you, darling. You will never be forgotten. Write me often and do not forget your teachings. When you become a mother, be loving, but firm." she said.
Princess Sybilla nodded.
"I will follow your example, mother." she said.
Princess Sybilla bowed to her parents and made her way to the carriage with her entourage and her guards that would escort her to France. Queen Dorothea wept silently. Sybilla had been her favorite daughter, though she loved all of her children and she knew that she would never see her again, although she hoped that her beloved daughter would have a good life in France.
15 October 1567
Windsor Castle, Windsor, Kingdom of England
King Henry IX of England's Privy Chambers
King Henry sighed, as he paced back and forth. Queen Lillian was seated and doing her embroidery. King Henry was expecting his second daughter, Princess Eleanor, the Dowager Duchess of Calabria, to return to England from Naples, since she was now a widow and had not given her husband a male heir.
Queen Lillian looked at her husband.
"Harry, why are you pacing? She is your daughter. She is no stranger." she said.
King Henry IX nodded.
"I know. It has been eight years. She will be very different. I worry about my daughters. Matilda is dealing with a husband, who has completely lost himis reason and now Eleanor is a widow and was forced to leave her only child behind. How do I know she will not hate me?" he asked.
Queen Lillian stood up and walked over to her husband.
"Eleanor is your child and a Princess of England. Just remember that she is not a child. She is a woman now, who has lost her spouse, something you have feeling of. Comfort her, let her react however she needs. In time, the best decision will occur on what will happen with Eleanor." she said.
The door opened suddenly and Princess Eleanor walked in. She was dressed head to toe in black , definitely still in mourning for her late husband. She had changed in the eight years since her departure from England.
She curtsied to her father and her stepmother.
"Your Majesties. I am sorry to have failed to you and England in my marriage." she said, timidly.
King Henry looked at his second daughter. He had last seen her when she was a girl of sixteen and now she was a beautiful widow of twenty-four.
He walked up to her and enveloped her in a hug.
"My dear girl. You are not a failure. Oh, I have missed you." he said.
Princess Eleanor hugged her father back and tears filled her eyes.
"Thank you, Father. Thank you so much." she said.
Queen Lillian walked up and hugged her.
"We bid farewell to a young girl and a woman has come home." she said.
Princess Eleanor smiled.
"Thank you, Stepmother." she said.
King Henry kissed her forehead.
Queen Lillian looked behind her stepdaughter.
"Where are your attendants? Do you not have any ladies?" she asked.
Princess Eleanor sighed.
"King Alfonso dissolved my household. He said that the ladies should be reserved for the new Duke of Calabria's new bride, when she is decided upon of course." she said.
King Henry looked angry.
"You deserve an entourage, especially since you had to leave my granddaughter behind. I presume your dowry is also in the hands of your father-in-law, the Italian dog." he said.
Princess Eleanor shook her head.
"No, Father. The King sent me home with my dowry in full and my pension will be twenty-five hundred florins annually." she said.
Queen Lillian nodded.
"That is generous of His Majesty. In the meantime, you can have Lady Lettice Devereux and Lady Anne Howard in your household, until we establish your permanent household." she said.
Princess Eleanor smiled.
"Thank you very much." she said.
King Henry nodded.
"You will have a suite of apartments here and at Hampton Court. I will arrange for you to have Hunsdon House as your residence in the meantime." he said.
Princess Eleanor smiled at her father.
"Thank you, father. I am happy to be home and I know you will care for me." she said.
26 October 1567
Örbyhus Castle, Tierp, Kingdom of Sweden
Queen Matilda of Sweden's Bedchamber
Queen Matilda was laying in her bed, listening to the storm raging outside. She had been settled into this new palace with King Eric, due to his health. Most of her children were still in Stockholm. She did miss them, but she knew her duties as Queen.
Suddenly, Queen Matilda heard a loud scream and she immediately sat up in bed.
Her principal lady-in-waiting, who was in a separate bed, also woke up.
Queen Matilda looked at her.
"Birgitta, what was that?" she asked.
Lady Birgitta shook her head.
"I am not sure, Your Majesty." she said.
Queen Matilda got out of her bed and grabbed her robe and left her Chambers. She made her way towards King Eric's Bedchamber. She heard the screams get louder and she recognized it as her husband's.
She opened the door to his chambers and she was horrified to see her husband, suspended by ropes, in the nude and he was screaming in agonizing pain.
Queen Matilda looked and saw a physician.
She stormed over to him.
"What are you doing? Let the King down immediately!" she yelled.
The physician looked at the angry Queen.
"Your Majesty, it is to cure the King." he said.
"YOU WILL KILL HIM! RELEASE HIM!" Queen Matilda screamed.
The physician nodded at his assistant, who immediately let the King go. King Eric began to cry, in sadness and in pain. Queen Matilda knelt down to him.
"Eric?" she asked, quietly.
Eric looked at her, with pain in his eyes.
"Please do not touch me. It hurts. I am sorry. Please make them stop." he sobbed.
Queen Matilda looked at the doctor and his assistant.
"You two, leave these chambers. If I find you anywhere near my husband again, I will see to it that your miserable heads are removed from your shoulders, but not before you receive the same treatment that you subjected the King to. Now, out." she said.
The two men left the Queen's presence and Queen Matilda stood to get up, but King Eric grabbed her hand.
"Please do not leave me. You are the only one who never hurt me. Please stay." he cried.
Queen Matilda nodded.
"Of course." she said.
Queen Matilda looked at Lady Birgitta.
"Prepare a warm bath for His Majesty." she said.
Lady Birgitta nodded and left. Queen Matilda gently covered her husband , as he silently cried. Queen Matilda looked at her husband, with pity and sadness. She did not want anything, but to care for him.
10 November 1567
Palace of Madrid, Madrid, Kingdom of Spain
Queen Elisabeth of Spain's Bedchamber
Queen Elisabeth sighed, as she took a sip of her watered down wine. She had been unable to sleep and had risen from her bed. She was now sitting at the desk in her Chambers, in deep thought.
She looked up when she heard a door opened and Princess Giovanna, Duchess of the Infantado, walked in. She was wearing only her robe, which barely fit now, since she was due to give birth very soon.
Princess Giovanna looked at her mistress.
"Your Majesty, what are you doing awake at this hour? Are you unwell?" she asked.
Queen Elisabeth shook her head.
"No, I am fine. I could not sleep and I thought I would go over some financials for my children's households. What has you up this late?" she asked.
Princess Giovanna smirked.
"You have been big with child many times. You know at this point, the child gives you no rest." she said, as she sat down.
Queen Elisabeth nodded her head.
"Do you feel discomfort?" she asked.
Princess Giovanna shook her head.
"No more than usual. Is there anything I can help with? I manage the Mendoza estates for my husband." she said.
Queen Elisabeth nodded.
"My eldest son's household is being established. When it is full, I want him to go on a progress around Spain. The people and the nobility must know their future King. He has the title Prince of Asturias, however he must be known. He is nearly thirteen years old now." she said.
Princess Giovanna nodded.
"That is a wonderful idea, however you and the King are young and healthy." she said.
Queen Elisabeth smiled.
"The nobility look to the future more than anything. They will try to win him over with favor. He needs to know how to govern. Your son, Lord Alfonso, will join him as well. They are very close and I know sovereigns need those around them they trust. I am blessed to have you , Sancha and the other ladies." she said, with a smile.
Princess Giovanna smiled.
"You have a respectful household. The ladies enjoy serving you, as do I." she said.
Queen Elisabeth touched her hand.
"It is my pleasure." she said.
Princess Giovanna looked at the Queen.
"My nephew was a little disappointed to be leaving Spain." she said.
Queen Elisabeth looked at her friend.
"Was he? I know that France and Naples are mostly at piece. He is not happy to return to his family?" she asked.
Princess Giovanna nodded.
"He was. However, he took a deep likening to the Infanta Isabel. I think he was secretly hoping for a betrothal between them two." she said.
Queen Elisabeth nodded.
"I do as well. I want our bloodline to be present in the Mediterranean. I also know that my daughter cares deeply for the Prince. It would be lovely if all of my daughters married men who would be true to them, however as Queen I know I cannot guarantee such a thing. Does the Prince have any other options?" she asked.
Princess Giovanna sighed.
"There are the Austrian Archduchesses. I know the Pope did not allow for Alfonso to marry his brother's widow, your niece and she was sent back to England. The youngest Polish Princess is also an option, as they are also distantly related through the King's late mother, Bona Sforza." she said.
Queen Elisabeth sighed.
"My husband was hoping for Isabel to be the Holy Roman Empress. However, I know that my niece, Princess Margaret of England, will be departing for Vienna in the beginning of the new year. I hope that we settle everything. Isabel is definitely patient, but I do not want her to see her younger sisters marry before her." she said.
Princess Giovanna nodded her head, in deep thought.
"I am sure His Majesty will make the most prudent decision." she said.
Queen Elisabeth nodded and stood up.
"I think I will try to sleep now." she said..
Suddenly, she felt a bit dizzy and grabbed the table to steady herself.
Princess Giovanna stood up carefully.
"Your Majesty?" she asked.
Queen Elisabeth shook her head.
"I am fine. It's just fatigue. Good night, Giovanna." she said, as she was getting in her bed.
Princess Giovanna bowed her head and went back to her adjoining bedroom.
14 November 1567
The Royal Palace, Naples, Kingdom of Naples
King Alfonso III of Naples Privy Chambers
"Son, everything is almost ready." Dowager Queen Catalina said.
King Alfonso III sighed and nodded. He was happy that his son, Prince Alfonso, the new Duke of Calabria, was now back home. However, the entourage that had brought his son home would be escorting his daughter, Princess Angela, to her new life in France and her marriage to the Duke of Orleans.
"I know, Mother. I have never been filled with regret, as I am now. Angela, my darling daughter, is to marry into France." he said.
Dowager Queen Catalina sighed.
"Angela is dutiful and is charming. This marriage will be a sign of peace. We will be stable and Angela will be a respected Duchess in France. We have to make sure the Council is summoned, so that your son can take his oath." she said.
King Alfonso III nodded.
"I have sent the summons out already. I have no issues with Alfonso being The heir. I do not have the uneasiness I had with Giovanni, may God have his soul." he said.
Dowager Queen Catalina made the sign of the cross.
The door opened and Princess Angela walked in with the same entourage that escorted her brother from Spain. She was wearing a dark green dress with a black traveling cloak, trimmed with cloth of silver. Her dark brown hair was pinned up now, since she was married by proxy.
She bowed to her father and grandmother.
"The celebrations were beautiful and extravagant, father. I hope I did not cause much expense. I know my sister, Isabella, will be marrying soon and I hope not to take from her dowry." she said.
King Alfonso III smiled.
"You let me worry about that." he said.
Dowager Queen Catalina nodded.
"We love to celebrate you, as your marriage is also the representation of peace." she said.
Princess Angela smiled.
"Father, tell me, what is my duty on France? What do you need me to do?" she asked.
King Alfonso III kissed her forehead.
"I want you to be happy, my dear daughter. I hope you have a child and can teach him that he's descended from a true Royal House. Better than the Valois can ever be. Do not forget where you come from." he said.
Princess Angela nodded.
"I will, father. I am not fearful of this marriage. I once was. However, I know my duty and I am happy to bring peace to my homeland. If God is merciful, I will find the happiness you had with my dear mother." she said.
King Alfonso kissed her cheek.
Dowager Queen Catalina took her granddaughter by her hand.
"My darling, I would accompany you myself if age was not catching up to me. I do not trust France. Seeing your courage, I will pray fervently for you and your life." she said.
Princess Angela nodded.
"Thank you, Grandmother. I love you and will never forget you." she said.
The door opened and Prince Alfonso, the new heir, walked in. He bowed to his father and grandmother and smiled at his sister.
"Sister, I wish you nothing but good on your journey. The entourage will escort and I can speak that they will do the greatest job escorting you and your ladies." he said.
Princess Angela took his hand.
"I thank you sincerely brother." she said.
She hugged her younger brother and whispered in his ear:
"Despite our duties, I pray you marry the Infanta, who has captured your heart."
Prince Alfonso looked at his sister and smiled at her boldness. Princess Angela bowed and made her way and began to leave her life in Naples. Behind her, she had ten ladies-in-waiting and many guards, who would escort her to the ship. She took a deep breath, as she saw the large litter, that would hold her and her ladies. She would be a French Duchess and she hoped God would ease her journey, both on sea and in life.
28 November 1567
St. Hilarion Castle, Kyrenia, Kingdom of Cyprus
King Janius II of Cyprus' Bedchamber
King Janius sighed, as he stood at the window, naked. He loved to watch the waves from the sea. He had been nervous by the recent events taking place near his realm. He had been in deep thoughts for several days about how to make his Kingdom secure.
In his bed, Queen Christina woke up, also nude and sat up, looking at her husband of eleven years. She smiled at him, as he had not noticed that she was awake. She quietly got up from their bed, put her robe on.
She grabbed his robe and placed it on his shoulders and held him from behind.
She kissed him on the cheek.
"As much as I enjoy the view, you must cover up or you will become ill." she said.
King Janius sighed.
"I am sorry, love. I didn't want to wake you up with my troubles." he said.
Queen Christina rubbed his shoulders.
"Your problems and troubles are mine as well. Talk to me. Let me give you relief." she said.
King Janius turned around to look at his wife.
"I am considering traveling to Athens. I will pay homage to Emperor Giacomo." he said.
Queen Christina looked at her husband.
"I am sure the Latin Emperor will be kind to our lands and our domains." she said.
King Janius sighed.
"I have have been thinking how we can appease him, so we are protected." he said.
Queen Christina looked at him.
"I have a suggestion, sweetheart. A marriage is a lasting show of peace." she said.
King Janius sighed.
"That is true, darling. However, their heir is betrothed to your niece, Princess Isabella." he said.
Queen Christina nodded her head.
"Yes, but their eldest daughter is betrothed to no one. I know that our soni s betrothed to my niece, Joanna, however if we could betroth our son to Princess Helena instead of my niece, her dowry would be substantial and would include protection, since I am sure he would not want harm coming to a realm that would be inherited by his future grandson." she said.
King Janius smiled.
"That is perfect. We know that the Council also opposes the marriage of our son and Princess Joanna, due to them being cousins and us needing to appeal to Rome. Sweetheart, you are intelligent as you are beautiful." he said.
Queen Christina smiled.
"It is still hours away from sunlight. Come back to bed and get some more sleep." she said.
King Janius smirked.
"I will come to bed, but I will not sleep and neither will you." he said.
Queen Christina responded with a deep kiss, which her husband responded with. Their kiss became more intense, as their robes fell to the floor and they made their way to their large bed.
8 December 1567
Palace of Fontainebleau, Seine-et-Marne, Kingdom of France
The Banquet Hall
The entire Court was colorful and loud and dressed in their finery, as everyone was celebrating Queen Mary's twenty-fifth birthday. Everyone was drinking wine and eating good food and dancing.
On top of a beautiful platform, King Francis II and Queen Mary of Scots were seated on their respective thrones. King Francis shamelessly showed affection to his wife and many commented on it. It was well-known that the King was very much in love. He has spared no expense on the festivities for his wife and he felt that after the failed war with Naples, his Kingdom needed joy.
King Francis II was dressed in a bright silver doublet, trimmed with golden thread. His dark brown hair was cut short and many could see that although he was ill frequently in his youth, the French courtiers could see that their King was healthy and quite handsome. Many young women would try to become his mistress, however he only had eyes for his wife.
Queen Mary was dressed in a gorgeous gown matching her husband. Her auburn hair was in a bun and decorated with gems. She also was much taller than most ladies and even some men at Court, but she was very beautiful.
Dowager Queen Catherine walked up to her son and daughter-in-law and bowed.
"Your Majesty, I wish you a happy birthday and many more to come. I bring you a small token of my affection." she said.
She gestured to one of her servants and they brought forward a small casket and when opened, Queen Mary was amazed at the beauty of the jewels inside.
Queen Mary smiled.
"Thank you very much, Lady Mother. " she said, and nodded at her principal lady-in-waiting to take the jewels for her.
Queen Mary rose from her throne and joined the festivities with her mother-in-law. The two Queens grabbed a cup of wine and they found a nice corner to talk.
Queen Mary sighed.
"I am grateful for the celebrations, but Francis just threw the double wedding for Henri and Charles." she said.
Dowager Queen Catherine nodded.
"I told him, but he wanted his brothers to marry on style, especially since they were both marrying foreign for you, the Court enjoys celebrating their Queen. You did a wonderful job as Regent here. They all remember." she said.
Queen Mary nodded.
"Thank you so much." she said.
Dowager Queen Catherine took a long sip of her wine.
"You will be departing the Court soon?" she asked.
Queen Mary nodded her head.
"Yes. My uncle's wife, Maria de Medici will give birth soon and I also would love to see my grandmother." she said.
Dowager Queen Catherine sighed.
"He married that young girl and now she's with child. My daughter, Claude, has written and said the Medici girl is pale and shows signs of weakness." she said.
Queen Mary sighed.
"I pray for her daily. If she gives him a don't, he will let her recover awhile." she said.
Dowager Queen Catherine nodded.
"She's the daughter of my cousin. I promised him I would ensure her safety. Her mother was not happy to hear about her being with child so soon." she said.
Queen Mary took a sip of wine.
"I understand. My Margaret is only three years old and I could not think of her making me a grandmother before her body is ready." she said.
Dowager Queen Catherine took her hand.
"We will protect her from there, I assure you. My son would never let her come to any of your children, especially his only daughter." she said.
Queen Mary smiled.
"I know. We are fortunate in that way." she said.
24 December 1567
Windsor Castle, Berkshire, Kingdom of England
Lady Rose Tudor, Baroness of Windsor's Apartments
Lady Rose was sitting in a chair by the fire, working on her embroidery. Just two weeks ago, she had given birth to her sixth child, a daughter named named Anne, after her late mother-in-law. Lady Rose was late taking to her chamber, as King Henry decided to move the Court to Windsor and she decided she would give birth to her child at Court.
Lady Rose smiled, as she heard her newborn daughter cooing. She enjoyed being a mother to her children and did not mind that the Lord continued to bless her with them.
One of her ladies-in-waiting waiting walked in.
"I am sorry to disturb you, Your Grace, but Princess Eleanor is here to see you." she said.
Lady Rose nodded.
"Send her in." she said.
Moments later, her twenty-four year old niece , Princess Eleanor, Dowager Duchess of Calabria, walked in.
Lady Rose smiled and hugged her niece.
"I was unable to see you upon your return. Welcome back home, sweet Eleanor." she said.
Princess Eleanor smiled. She was still dressed in all black , as she was still in customary mourning for her late husband.
"I am happy to see you. I wanted to before you took to your Chamber, but it was too late. How is my new cousin?" she said.
Lady Rose looked at the cradle at her newborn daughter.
"She feeds very well, according to her nurse." she said.
Princess Eleanor looked down at baby Anne and smiled.
"She reminds me of my own daughter." she said, sadly.
Lady Rose looked at her niece, with sympathy
"I am so sorry you have had to deal with such sadness and pain. I hope being around your family will be the balm to your heartache." she said.
Princess Eleanor shook her head.
"I wish it was. My father has said that he will find me a husband after my mourning period and I do not want another husband. My late husband was not the kindest." she said.
Lady Rose sighed.
"I understand your pain. I was like you and did not want marriage at all. However, your father, the King arranged my marriage and I am immensely happy with John." she said.
Princess Eleanor looked at her aunt.
"I was not happy with Giovanni. He was a monster and may God forgive me, I am only mourning him for decorum. I am not sad he is gone." she said.
Lady Rose made the sign of the Cross.
"Eleanor, do not speak ill of the dead." she said.
Princess Eleanor shook her head.
"He was a monster and an oaf. The only good thing that came from my marriage was my darling Maria and now I am not allowed to have her." she said.
Lady Rose sighed.
"What can you think of that will be a comfort to you?" she said.
Princess Eleanor looked at her.
"I wish to remain unmarried. I've done my duty to England and I have failed. I just want to live in peace and pray that one day my daughter and I can reconcile. Will you intercede on my behalf to my father? He has great affection for you and listens to you in all things." she said.
Lady Rose sighed.
"We do have a loving relationship, but..."
Princess Eleanor grabbed her hand.
"I beg of you." she said.
Lady Rose looked at her.
"I will do my best. However, he is your father and our King. He must be obeyed in everything, even if we do not like it." she said.
Princess Eleanor nodded.
"I know. I pray he will consider me and what I have gone through." she said.
31 December 1567
Royal Palace of Madrid, Madrid, Kingdom of Spain
The Great Hall
The Spanish Court was in high spirits with its New Years celebrations. King Luis and Queen Elisabeth were sitting in their respective Thrones and were interacting with each other and their attendants. Both were dressed in beautiful attire, trimmed with cloth of silver and wearing beautiful jewelry.
King Luis looked at Queen Elisabeth and smiled.
"Sweetheart, we have had a wonderful year. Should we move the Court to a different palace for a brief time?" he asked.
Queen Elisabeth nodded her head.
"I think a good hunting trip in the warmer weather will be wonderful time." she said.
King Luis took her hand.
"How is Giovanna doing?" he asked.
Queen Elisabeth smiled. Her best friend, cousin and head of her household, Princess Giovanna, Duchess of the Infantado had just given birth to her fifth child, a daughter named Isabel and she was currently recovering in her chambers.
"The birth went very well, despite her years. Both are well." she said.
King Luis smiled and nodded and took a drink from his wine.
"In the new year, I want to see my mother as well." he said.
Queen Elisabeth nodded.
"You need to. She is our children's only grandparent left. I do know they she tends to get lonely." she said.
King Luis sighed.
"I love my mother, but she is the mother of a sovereign. She knows our relationship will be different than most children with their parents." he said.
Queen Elisabeth looked at her husband.
"I wish I had more time with my own mother. I beg of you not to let time slip away from your own mother." she said.
King Luis kissed Queen Elisabeth on her hand.
"I promise." he said.
Queen Elisabeth looked at Lady Sancha and rose from her throne to speak to her friend.
"How is Giovanna?" she asked.
Lady Sancha smiled.
"She is well. She is drinking wine and constantly looking at little Isabel." she said.
Queen Elisabeth smiled and looked at another lady-in-waiting, Lady Anais Davila, dancing with her new husband, Lord Luca.
Lady Sancha chuckled.
"They are beautiful, are they not?" she asked.
Queen Elisabeth nodded.
"We looked just like that when we married. I am going to elevate her in my household. She's a married woman now, so she does not need to be with the maidens. She'll also get another set of rooms. She'll need it, especially when children start to arrive." she said.
Lady Sancha smiled.
"She will appreciate that." she said.
Queen Elisabeth sighed.
"It is my pleasure. The household is changing. I will need support for several months." she said.
Lady Sancha looked at her friend.
"Your Majesty?" she said.
Queen Elisabeth smiled.
"I'm expecting another child, Sancha." she said.
Lady Sancha smiled and raised her cup.
"God blesses our King and Queen once more. When will you announce it to the Court?" she asked.
Queen Elisabeth looked at everyone dancing.
"Tonight will be the night. Only you, Giovanna and the King knows about my new pregnancy." she said.
Lady Sancha smiled.
"I will definitely help as much as possible. I am not with child and I am glad, may God forgive me." she said.
Queen Elisabeth and Lady Sancha laughed together, both expecting great things in the new year and proud of everything they have done and would continue to do.
A/N I hope you all are doing well and enjoyed reading this Chapter. There may be some edits in some Chapters, so please don't panic. I will be doing research again, but the story will be continuing. If you have any questions, concerns or wants and desires, please do not hesitate to PM me. I always respond. Please Read and Review and Chapter Seventy-Five will be here soon!