Chapter 11
Chapter 11 has arrived! Once again, with wedding plans and getting my daughter ready for soccer, it was a little chaotic for the last month or so, but I am back and I want it to stay that way now. Well, life happens and we have to go on with it. Also, thank you to all the faithful reviewers and followers who understood my absence and didn't think that I just gave up on this story, which I will never do. I am still open to ideas and suggestions, so please feel free to send them my way. The story is far from over. The story is taking place a month after the last chapter. Please Read and Review!
December 23, 1549
The Royal Ship
Princess Elizabeth's Chambers
Elizabeth was sitting on her bed, looking out her window, watching the ocean. She just heard that she will be landing on the coast of Portugal very soon and her heart had fallen in her stomach. She was very excited to see her older sister, Mary again. It was hard to believe that she was a Queen now. Elizabeth as looking forward to seeing her sister, because she really wanted advice about her upcoming marriage, but from a sister's point of view, not just a mother's.
She looked up, as a knock came at the door.
"Come in." she said.
Kitty Howard walked in and smiled at Elizabeth.
"We are all packed and ready to leave hip, when we dock. It is so exciting. In my twenty-eight years of life, I have never been outside of England and this is very exciting. It hurt to leave my children behind, but I am so glad that the King is giving me this opportunity to accompany you and make sure you get settled into Spain." she said.
Then, she noticed the sad look on Elizabeth's sad look on her face.
"Princess, what is wrong?" she asked.
Elizabeth shook her head.
"In a few hours, I'm going to see my sister, who is the Queen of Portugal now. I feel slightly intimidated by her already. What if she isn't the same May that left England when I was a child? What if I'm not the sister that she expects to see?" she asked.
Kitty smiled.
"Princess, I know you're nervous about meeting your future husband, not your sister. It will be fine." she said.
Elizabeth nodded and took Kitty's hand.
"I hope." she said.
Suddenly, on of the shipmen came in and bowed.
"Your Highness, we are docking into Portugal at this very moment. We must get you on land." he said.
Elizabeth nodded and stood up.
"Shall we go?" she asked.
Sintra, Portugal
Sintra Palace
The Banquet Hall
Mary were walking around, making sure that everything was prepared for her sister's arrival. She was doing her best to make final preparations, despite the fact the she was eight in a half months pregnant and was due to give birth very soon.
Carlos walked up behind Mary and touched her shoulder.
She turned toward him and smiled.
"Sweetheart, there you are. I'm so excited about today." she said, excitedly.
Carlos nodded his head.
"I know, darling and I am too. I haven't seen that child since she was nearly six years old, but the child in your womb needs to grow and slumber just a little while longer. The way you are going about this whole situation, its like you forget that you are heavy with child and the stress can bring him or her early in the world. I just don't want to repeat what happened to us four years ago." he said.
Mary nodded her head, in agreement. Now that her pregnancy was in its final days, her stillborn son weighed heavy on her mind and she was scared that her child currently in her womb would fall to the same fate.
"I know and I'm sorry. It's just Elizabeth has left our homeland and will never return. She's getting married soon and I just want her to feel comfortable around us, before she goes to Spain." she said.
Carlos smiled.
"You're Elizabeth's sister. She loves you. You love her. I don't mind you being there for your sister, but please do not press yourself. You have already had two false alarms this month." he said.
Mary touched her large stomach and rubbed it soothingly.
"I promise I will not overdue anything." she said.
Suddenly, one of Mary's ladies-in-waiting ran up to her.
"Your Majesty, Princess Elizabeth's entourage has arrived at the Palace!" she said.
Mary nodded her head.
"Excellent. Lead her and her entourage to their respective chambers to allow them to get ready. She's had a very long journey and may want to rest or bathe. Give her anything she needs and let her know that we will see her tonight." she said.
The maid nodded and left the room.
Carlos held out his hand to Mary.
"Well, since we have a few hours, I would like you to lie down in your chambers." he said.
Mary smiled.
"Only if you will join me." she said.
Carlos smirked.
"That can be arranged." he said.
Sintra Palace
Princess Elizabeth's Chambers
Elizabeth walked into her new chambers and was amazed at the sight before her. Then entire room was had silver adorned tapestries. She had never seen such a beautiful room before.
Kitty walked behind her and was equally shocked.
"Princess, I've never seen such a beautiful room before." she said.
Elizabeth nodded her head, in agreement.
"I totally agree. I wonder if Mary or Carlos will come here. I'm so nervous." she said.
At that moment, the Mayor of the Palace walked in the room and bowed before Elizabeth.
"Princess Elizabeth of England, welcome to Sintra Palace. I'm the Mayor of Sintra and I have been sent here to welcome you here. The King and Queen are most excited about your arrival. Due to the Queen's condition, she is currently resting and will greet you tonight at the banquet being held tonight." he said.
Elizabeth eyes grew wide.
"The Queen's condition? Is my sister ill?" she asked, worriedly.
The Mayor shook his head.
"No, Your Highness. She is heavy with child and the child will be arriving soon. At the orders of the King, She will be resting until to the Banquet." he said.
Elizabeth sighed a breath of relief.
"Good. I forgot that she was expecting another child." she said.
The Mayor nodded his head.
"Yes. The entire Kingdom is praying for the delivery of a healthy son. At the orders of the Queen, the entire Palace is at your disposal. You may walk rest if you like or explore. Are you fluent in Portuguese at all?" he asked.
Elizabeth nodded.
"I can have a conversation with everyone here. I think I want to explore this beautiful Palace. Kitty, how about you?" she asked.
Kitty shook her head.
"I'm sorry Your Highness, but I am awfully tired. May I have permission to rest?" she asked.
Elizabeth nodded her head.
"You are relieved until the Banquet. Have a good rest." she said, with a smile.
She turned back toward the Mayor.
"Please inform Their Majesties that I am very grateful for their hospitality and their sanctuary. I really hope that the French will ease their tension on my new homeland. I will be exploring the Palace and maybe the grounds. I will do my best to stay out of everyone's way." she said.
The Mayor nodded his head and walked out of the room, very quickly.
Elizabeth looked at Kitty.
"You enjoy your nap. I want to just walk around." she said.
Kitty bowed and went to her chambers.
Elizabeth smiled and walked out of her Chambers. She began to walk the halls and was amazed as to what she saw before her. This palace was very beautiful. However, she did miss her family back in England. She was very worried about her mother. She looked very weak and tired.
Suddenly, Elizabeth bumped into a dark-haired young girl with deep blue eyes. It was Infanta Catarina.
Catarina seemed embarrassed.
"I am so sorry. I was not watching where I was going." she said.
Elizabeth smiled.
"It's perfectly alright. We all make mistakes. So who are you? I would like to know the name of the first young lady I have met here in Portugal." she said.
Catarina nodded.
"I see. Well I'm Infanta Catarina, the eldest daughter of King Carlos and Queen Maria." she said.
Elizabeth was shocked. This couldn't be her niece Catarina. The last time that she had seen her niece, she was two years old and toddling after her in the Gardens. Now here she was, almost a teenager and almost the same height as Elizabeth herself.
Elizabeth smiled at her.
"I can't believe it. It's so good to see you again. I'm your mother's sister." she said.
Catarina's blue eyes opened very wide.
"You're Princess Elizabeth, the future Queen of Spain?" she said.
Elizabeth nodded and Catarina curtsied to her.
"Forgive me once again. It is very good to meet you. My mother has told us all about you and why you were coming here." she said.
Elizabeth nodded her head.
"You know about the problems with the French? Aren't you young for that?" she asked, as they began to walk together.
Catarina nodded,
"Of course. My parents think that me and my brother really need to be educated in matters of state, even though I am only marrying a Spanish Duke." she said.
Elizabeth nodded her head.
"I heard about that. I am just nervous seeing your mother again. I know she's my sister, but I haven't seen her in such a very long time." she said.
Catarina linked her arm with Elizabeth.
"I guarantee that you have nothing to worry about. Mother is a kind, sweet woman. She will be glad to see you. As for myself, I am very excited to meet you and I hope that we have a very close relationship." she said.
Elizabeth nodded.
'I definitely see that happening." she said.
Later that evening...
Mary and Carlos were sitting on their thrones watching their banquet unfold. Carlos was keeping his eye mainly on Mary, due to her advanced pregnancy.
"Do you know when Elizabeth will be here?" he asked.
Mary nodded her head.
"She should be here very soon. I also want to thank you for allowing me to throw this beautiful party for her. I haven't seen her in so long and I just wanted to let her know that I still love her." she said.
Carlos smiled at her.
"Good. But, you shouldn't throw a party for your sister to let her know that you love her. Just show her." he said.
Mary was about to say something, before the herald called out:
"PRESENTING HER ROYAL HIGHNESS, PRINCESS ELIZABETH OF ENGLAND!"
Suddenly, two large doors opened and Elizabeth began to walk into the room. She chose to wear an emerald green gown with a diadem that was studded with bright green emeralds. She finally could see her older sister Mary. She was deeply in awe of her presence.
As she approached the throne, she bowed deeply to Carlos and Mary.
"Your Majesties, I humbly fall at your feet." she said.
Carlos stood up and took Elizabeth's hand.
"Dear Cousin, welcome to Sintra. I don't need to introduce you to my Queen, your sister." he said, as he turned towards Mary.
Mary stood up slowly, with tears forming in her eyes. This beautiful young woman couldn't possibly be the small brown-haired six year old sister she left back in England ten years ago. She took a few steps toward Elizabeth and noticed the look in Elizabeth's gray-blue eyes.
"Sweet Elizabeth, I have missed you so much," she said, as she enveloped her sister in her arms.
Elizabeth eagerly returned the hug that she had missed for a whole decade.
"I've missed you too, Mary. I really have. I'm so happy to see you once again." she said.
The Portuguese Court began to applaud the two sisters' reunion. Everyone was glad to see their Queen happy.
December 24, 1549
Saint-German en Laye, France
King Henry II's Bedchambers
King Henry II was sitting in his chambers, drinking wine. He was dressed in black, since his infant son, Louis, had just died in October. Thankfully, he had an older son, Francis. He also had two daughters, Elisabeth and Claude, but since there was Salic Law in France, they had no chance to be Queen. Also his Queen, Catherine de Medici, was three month pregnant with their fourth child that was due in the summer of 1550.
Suddenly, Queen Catherine walked in, took of her robe and got into bed, without saying a word to Henry. She seemed to be very upset about something.
Henry II looked at her and walked over to the bed.
"What is wrong, dear? Is your pregnancy bothering you at all?" he asked.
Catherine looked at him.
"No. This is my fourth pregnancy, so please do not insult me and pretend like you care. All you care is that I give you more sons, which I will do, since it's my duty." she said, in her Italian accent.
Henry let out a deep sigh. He and Catherine didn't really love each other. They were married when they were only fourteen years old back in 1533 and for the first ten years of their marriage, Catherine did not become pregnant, because he spent more of his time with various mistresses. Finally in 1544, Catherine bore their first son and the French Court respected her more. Henry still took mistresses, but he still spent more time with his wife, so she could bear more children and he was beginning to enjoy her company and her love for the arts. However, she also had a temper that even he couldn't match.
Henry II got into the bed.
"If it isn't your pregnancy, then why are you so mad?" he asked.
Catherine looked at him.
"Our children. You made a double alliance with England instead of looking at Italy. There are plenty of worthy Italian noblewomen and Royalty to have made alliances with, besides England. Elisabeth has to leave and marry the third born son." she said.
Henry II nodded his head.
"I understand that and we are getting their second born daughter to marry Francis. She'll be Queen of France one day." he said.
Catherine rolled her eyes.
"Yes, but why is even interesting in about her? She's half German after all. I do not want her to bring Heresy into this family." she said.
Henry II closed his eyes, in frustration.
"Catherine, the English Princess that is engaged to Francis is only six years old. She will be more useful in ten years, I guarantee that. Besides, France is my country to run. Your only concern is to bear its heirs. I do not want you to bring this matter up to me anymore. Who our son marries is none of your concern. I am trying not to lose my patience with you right now, since we are both grieving the death of our poor son just two months ago. Now, please get some sleep and leave government affairs to me and learn your place. Understood?" he asked in a firm voice.
Catherine, not wishing to argue with her husband, simply nodded.
Henry II kissed her cheek.
"Good night mon amour." he said, as he turned over and drifted to sleep.
Catherine blew her candle out and also went to sleep.
Somerset Castle
Duke Edmund's Bedchambers
Edmund was sitting by the fire, with little Anne on his knee. His youngest daughter was now over a year old and was a beautiful baby and was a joy to everyone in Somerset, who hadn't enjoyed the presence of a baby since Anne Boleyn was alive. Edmund, despite being fifty-one years old, enjoyed being a father again. He was also happy to see that his wife was more happy now that they had a child together.
Catherine Parr walked in. She had managed to lose all of her weight that she had gained during her pregnancy. Even at thirty-seven years of age, she was still a very beautiful woman.
Edmund looked up.
"Hello darling, are you alright?" he asked.
Catherine nodded.
"I'm alright, however I was looking for little Annie and I figured that she was here with you." she said.
Edmund nodded.
"Yes, I wanted to spend some more time with her, before I have to leave back for Court." he said.
Catherine sighed. She hated when Edmund had to return to Court. Even though she had the baby and the entire household staff, but she wanted her husband more than ever now.
"I wish that the King would let you stay home more. I want you to see Annie as she grows up and I also need my alone time with you." she said, in a low voice.
Edmund nodded.
"I know that and I feel the same way, but I am a Duke and I have things to do for my nephew. I promise you I will not be gone long this time. You also have Mary and Annie to keep you busy. Now that Mary is sixteen years old, she is going to have to be married very soon. I'm sure as her stepmother, you can explain some things to her." he said.
Catherine smiled.
"Of course. That's what I am here for." she said.
Edmund kissed her.
"Now, why don't we put Annie in the nursery and we can get some of our alone time, before you leave?" he asked.
Catherine took the sleeping infant in her arms and winked at Edmund and walked to the nursery.
Hudson House
Princess Christina's Bedchambers
Christina and her husband were lying in her bed. The youngest sister of the late Henry VIII had not really been at Court that much since her brother's death two years ago. She had mainly focused on her family. However, since her children were all growing up, she decided to make an appearance at Court. She was now forty-six years old and was determined to find her daughter, Lady Bianca, a suitable husband. Her betrothed had died suddenly of smallpox and now that she was twenty-one years old, she was still unmarried, but since she was one of the wealthiest young women in England and was descended from Italian Nobility, finding a husband shouldn't be hard at all.'
Lorenzo kissed her forehead.
"Sweetheart, I know that Bianca needs to be married, but do we need to take her to the Court? You know it is like a wolves' den. Many men may just want her for her wealth and beauty." he said.
Christina nodded her head.
"I understand that, however I have heard that my nephew has greatly improved the Court. My brother, may God receive his soul, really only gave his favorite courtiers any type of favor. At least my nephew is fair. Also, Queen Anne is expecting their sixth child and I would love to be there when she delivers the new baby this coming year.' she said.
Lorenzo nodded.
"I know. You have already said that you wish we had more children." he said.
Christina nodded her head.
"I do wish we had more children, but I am two old to bear another child. I have become content with our family. Now, we need to just have Bianca marry a suitable man." she said.
Lorenzo got out of bed.
'That is so. I will still look through Italy. However, I refuse to have her marry a Frenchmen." he said.
Christina looked at him.
"I'm sure you are happy that a member of your family is the Queen of France." she said.
Lorenzo shrugged his shoulders.
"That was the decision from her branch of the family, not mine. Besides, she has no voice in that country anyway." he said.
Christina nodded.
"I just hope that my nephew did not anger the Spanish Monarchs. Refusing the betrothal of Infanta Lilliana surely made his aunt, The Spanish Queen, very upset." she said.
Lorenzo let out a breath of air.
"I'm sure we will soon find out." he said.
Alcazar of Segovia
Segovia, Castile, Spain
Queen Juana of Castile and Aragon's Bedchambers
Queen Juana was very upset. She was reading a letter from her nephew, King Harry of England. He had formally refused her betrothal of his first born son and her granddaughter. She was shaking with anger. Her long, dark auburn hair was now beginning to dull. Despite being seventy years old, she was in perfect health and still sharp for her age.
Suddenly, there was a loud knock at her door. She looked up from the letter.
"Come in." she said.
Charles walked in. He was wearing his robe.
"Mother, I am so sorry to disturb you, but we have news from Portugal. Princess Elizabeth has arrived and they will make sure she arrives safely here after the New Year. We will be able to have the wedding in just a few short weeks. We should start making preparations." he said.
Juana nodded.
'That's fine. We will start in the morning. It is Christmas, but I am sure we can get some things accomplished." she said.
Charles began to study his mother's expression and immediately noticed that she was angry at something.
"Mother, what is bothering you?" he asked.
Juana looked up from the letter.
"Your cousin, the King of England, refused the betrothal between Lilliana and the Prince of Wales. He wants the Scottish Queen, Mary. I cant believe he is willing to wait until that child is grown up. A lot of things can happen, before that girl is sixteen years old. What if, God forbid, she died suddenly before becoming mature? His son would still be unmarried." she said.
Charles nodded.
"I feel your anger. I really wished my cousin would have accepted the marriage offer. Her dowry would have been one million pounds and he would have had a wonderful choice. My daughters are admired through all of Europe." he said.
Juana stood up.
"Apparently not to the English King. I have always had affection for him, since he is my sister's son, but I feel so angry. Lilliana is a much grander choice for a bride." she said.
Charles began to think.
"Why not write to Aunt Katherine? I am sure that he will listen to his mother, before us anyway." he said.
Juana shook her head.
"No. I refuse to make my sister choose between her son and her sister. That is something that her late husband would have done. I will not use Katherine as a pawn in this political battle." he said.
Charles nodded his head.
"Very well, but I am not going to give up on my daughter. I will not have her growing into a spinster or joining a nunnery." he said.
Juana touched her son's shoulder.
"We will figure something out. God is on our side. Now, get some rest. We have a wedding to plan." she said.
Charles nodded his head and left his mother's chambers.
December 31, 1549
Sintra Palace
Sintra, Portugal
Queen Maria of Portugal's Bedchambers
Mary and Elizabeth were sewing together. They were really enjoying their time together once again, before Elizabeth departed for Spain to be married. Mary had another false alarm on Christmas Day and under the instructions from the Royal Physician, she was to remain close to her chambers, so everything will go smoothly.
Mary looked at her younger sister.
"My, Elizabeth you have grown very beautiful. Once Luis has you as his bride, he will feel personally blessed by the Lord." she said, with a smile.
Elizabeth faked a smile. She knew that in just a few days, she would continue her journey to Spain and would finally meet her soon-to-be husband. She decided that now, since she was alone with her older sister, she could confide in her about her fears of her upcoming marriage.
"Mary, may I please speak freely as your sister?" she asked.
Mary nodded her head, as she sat her sewing down.
"Of course. You can tell me anything." she said.
Elizabeth stood up and walked toward the window.
"Pretty soon I will be in Spain and I will be marrying a Prince that I don't even know and I will be expected to lay down with him and have...relations with him and bear his children and stand by him until the Lord separates us by death. I am frightened. I do not know if I can tolerate some man who will do nothing, but bring me harm." she said.
Mary stood up and walked over to her sister. She was worried that growing up in the English Court would give her sister a negative outlook on marriage.
"Sweet Elizabeth, there are two types of men in this world: One type is a vile man, who will never respect you, care about your feelings and will listen to others, before even glancing your direction. He will also take other women to his bed and afterwards, he will come to you, because he was instructed that he need legitimate children from you, but he will most not care about you, unless you are fertile enough for him. Then there is another type of man. A wonderful man. He will take the time to learn many things and talents about you. He will only want to be with you and only yearn for you. However, there is one thing you must do in either situation: You must be a loving and loyal wife. God will judge your soul individually, not jointly with your husband. No matter what he does in this life, you just do your best to live for God and do all you can to satisfy him, because at the end of this life, you will be standing before him, not your husband." she said.
Elizabeth smiled at Mary and grabbed her hands.
"Thank you so much, sister. Your word are really helping, but there is something else that I need help on something a little more...delicate." she said.
Mary gripped Elizabeth's hand, in reassurance.
"What is it? You can tell me." she said, as she rested her hand on her large stomach.
Elizabeth took a long breath.
"I also fear the...consummation." she said, in a low voice.
Mary nodded.
"I see. May I ask you a question?" she asked.
Elizabeth nodded.
Mary took a seat by the window.
"Do you still have your maidenhead?" she asked.
Elizabeth nodded her head.
"Of course. Honestly, I feel if I didn't have it, I wouldn't be as fearful as I am right now." she admitted.
Mary smiled.
"Don't feel ashamed about the way you feel. When I got married to Carlos, I feared the consummation and I was a little older than you. I will tell you this: You will get used to intercourse. You will even...enjoy it." she said, as she blushed red, despite being nearly thirty-four years old.
Elizabeth gasped.
"Enjoy intercourse? But lusting is a sin." she said.
Mary sighed a breath.
"It is, however there are some matters between a husband and wife that cannot be controlled. Loving your husband and loving your time with him is not going to send you to hell. You will be only sleeping with your husband. That's what a wife is also supposed to do as well." she said.
Elizabeth flushed red.
"Does that mean...I will crave my husband eventually?" she asked.
Mary smiled.
"If you two love each other, you will crave each other and the Church cannot stop that." she said.
Suddenly, Mary felt a very sharp pain in her stomach. She doubled over in pain. Elizabeth grabbed her.
"Mary, are you alright?" she asked.
Mary shook her head.
"I think my time has really come this time." she said.
Elizabeth looked at her sister, in shock.
"No. It can't be. The physician said that there was not any progression yet. Please tell me it's another false alarm." she said.
Mary cried out, as another contraction ripped through her.
"Get help...please." she cried.
Elizabeth ran for Mary's maids.
seven hours later...
January 1, 1550
Sintra Palace
Queen Maria's Bedchambers
Maria was laying on her bed, struggling to push her child into the world. The midwife was at the foot of the her bed, getting Mary to push harder.
"Come on Your Majesty, you're doing very well." she said.
Mary sat up and gave another hard push. Mary's bedchamber had several Courtiers watching the birth. Elizabeth was confused as to why there was so many people were watching her sister give birth. She looked around and was shocked to see Mary's oldest daughter watching the situation. Catarina was nearly thirteen years old, but she did not need to see this.
Elizabeth kneeled toward Mary's ear.
"Mary, Catarina is here. Do you want her to stay and watch this?" she whispered.
Mary, hardly able to breath due to her labor pains, shook her head.
Elizabeth walked over to Catarina.
"Catarina, you're mother wants you to wait outside with the King. You don't have to stay and witness this." she said.
Catarina, looking pale and afraid, nodded, in relief.
"Thank you Aunt Elizabeth." she said, as she walked out of the room.
Mary yelled out, as more pain overwhelmed her. The midwife continued to encourage her.
"That's it your Majesty. You're almost there. I can see the head. Just a little more." she said.
Mary cried out, as she gave another push. Finally, she felt her child slide out of her body. She breathed out a few gasp of air, in relief.
"The child...is it alive?" she asked out loud.
The midwife nodded and smiled, as she cut the child's umbilical cord and handed her to a maid, to be bathed and swaddled in a warm blanket. The child began to cry, not very loud, but the cry was soothing to Mary. The last time she gave birth, her son was silent and she never would know he would've sounded or even look like.
The maids pulled a blanket over Mary, as Elizabeth kissed her hand.
"You did wonderful, Mary. She is such a beautiful child." she said.
Mary looked at her younger sister, with a smile.
"I had a baby girl?" she asked.
The midwife walked over and handed the swaddled ,cooing infant to her mother's waiting arms. The new Portuguese Infanta had tufts of brown hair and when her eyes opened up to look at her mother, they were a beautiful shade of blue.
Mary smiled down at her newborn daughter.
"Hello, my princess. We waited a long time for you to arrive." she said.
Elizabeth smiled down at her niece.
"She's so beautiful." she said, in awe.
Finally, King Carlos walked in. He was wearing a magnificent crimson robe. Clutched in his right hand was a rosary that he inherited from his late mother, Maria of Aragon, Queen of Portugal. He was scared that this pregnancy would end up like the previous one, but it appeared God had mercy on him and Mary and blessed them with a healthy daughter.
Elizabeth stood up from Mary's bedside, curtsied to Carlos and moved aside so he could see the newborn child.
Carlos sat next to his exhausted wife.
"Is this our beautiful little girl?" he asked, with a huge smile on his face.
Mary nodded her head.
"Yes it is. What do you think of her?" she asked.
Carlos took the cooing baby girl in his arms.
"Just like her sisters before her, she is most perfect. As for her name, are we still in agreement on the name we settled on?" he asked her.
Mary nodded her head.
Carlos smiled.
"Infanta Cristina de Avis of Portugal it is then." he said.
He turned toward Elizabeth.
"Elizabeth, the Queen and I had a talk not long ago and I must ask you something: Would you do our new Infanta the honor of being her Godmother?" he asked.
Elizabeth smiled and nodded, with enthusiasm.
'I would love to be her Godmother. Thank you so much for such an honor." she said.
Carlos nodded.
"it is not a problem. You're not only my wife's sister, you are my cousin. You are my family." he said.
Mary smiled.
"I completely agree with Carlos, Elizabeth. I really want you to be Cristina's Godmother." she said.
Elizabeth smiled.
"I will gladly accept the honor." she said.
January 3, 1550
Richmond Palace
Dowager Queen Katherine's Bedchambers
Katherine was laying in her bed, battling a very high fever. She noticed that her health had started to decline once her youngest daughter departed. She was trying her best to hide her failing health from her son, the King. Especially, since Queen Anne was expecting their sixth child this coming summer. She did not want her son to be spending more money on physicians for her, when a new heir to the Throne was on its way.
There was a knock at her door.
Katherine struggled to sit up.
"Come in." she said, weakly.
Elizabeth Darrell walked in, carrying a bowl of cool water and a cloth.
"Your Majesty, how are you feeling?" she asked, as she sat next to her.
Katherine took several breath, before she could answer.
"I cannot lie. I feel very weak, but I am thankful to the Good Lord allowed me to wake up this morning." she said, with a small smile.
Lady Darrell took the cloth and began to apply it to Katherine's burning forehead.
"Of course he woke you up, Your Majesty. Why wouldn't he?" she asked.
Katherine smiled.
"Elizabeth, I am no longer a young woman. My health has not improved yet. I feel like the Lord is preparing me to make my transition from this life." she said.
Lady Darrell shook her head.
"No. You are not dying. You will recover. God will heal you." she said, as tears began to appear in her eyes.
Katherine took Lady Darrell's hand.
"I know he will heal me. Even if it is not in this body, I know I shall be healed. I am not scared." she said.
Lady Darrell shook her head.
"I refuse to believe that you will not recover from this ague. I apologize, Your Majesty." she said.
Katherine nodded her head.
"I understand, sweet Elizabeth. I guess we will see how God wants it." she said.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh Palace
Dowager Queen Margaret's Bedchamber
Margaret was drinking a goblet of wine, celebrating the finalization of her granddaughter's betrothal to the Prince of Wales. Even though her granddaughter was not even eight years and Prince William was eighteen years old, he had no choice but to wait on her maturity and she was satisfied about it.
Suddenly, little Queen Mary's governess walked in.
"My Lady, the Queen requests an audience with you.' she said.
Margaret smiled.
"Send her in, but not too long. The Palace is drafty and she needs to be in her Chambers with the fire keeping her warm. She doesn't need to catch a cold." she said.
The Governess nodded and let little Queen Mary walk in. The young Scottish Queen was growing into a beautiful little girl. She had auburn hair and bright brown eyes and was tall for her age.
Margaret hugged her granddaughter.
"How are you, Your Majesty?" she asked.
Mary nodded.
"I am well, Grandmother. Thank you for asking. I have come to ask permission to have my companions in my Chambers tonight for dinner?" she asked.
Margaret shook her head.
"No. You are not allowed to have company, especially children, at this time of year. You cannot fall ill." she said.
Mary lowered her head.
"Well, why do I have companions if I am not allowed to spend time with them?" she asked, in a low voice.
Margaret suddenly grabbed Mary and slapped her across the face.
"How dare you question me? I am doing what is best for you and Scotland. I do not care if you are angry at me now. You will thank me one day for preserving your health and protecting your Crown. You are a Queen. You do not have time to play games and participate in frivolous activities. You need to prepare for yourself for running this country and being Queen consort to the next King of England, which is my home country. You will not shame our bloodline." she said, in anger.
Mary began to tear up. She hated when her grandmother was angry at her. All she wanted was to play with her friends, but since she was the only surviving child of her late father, King James V, her grandmother really never let her out of her sight. She was examined by a physician four times a week even, because Margaret was paranoid that she would come down with a life-threatening illness.
"Yes, Grandmother. I understand.' she said.
Margaret nodded.
"Very good. Now, return to your chambers and sit by the fire." she said.
Mary nodded and left her grandmother's sight.
January 5, 1550
Sintra Palace, Portugal
The Royal Chapel
Elizabeth was holding little Cristina, while the Archbishop of Lisbon was baptizing her. Elizabeth couldn't take her eyes of her newborn niece. However, while the Archbishop was blessing the newborn Portuguese Infanta, Elizabeth kept thinking that she would be leaving the very next day for Spain to finally meet her betrothed and embrace her new life.
Finally, the ceremony was concluded and as her role as Godmother, Elizabeth had to carry Cristina back to her parents. Elizabeth smiled, as she saw her sister, Queen Maria, sitting up in her bed. Despite the fact that she gave birth four days ago, Mary looked very beautiful and happy.
Elizabeth bowed and handed Cristina to Mary.
"Here you are, Your Majesty." she said, with a smile on her face.
Mary held Cristina close to her and smiled down at her.
"Hello, darling," she said.
Carlos looked at Elizabeth.
"You did very well, Princess. Thank you." he said.
Elizabeth nodded.
"Thank you for bestowing upon me such an honor. I pray that my goddaughter has a long and prosperous life and when she grows older, the good Lord will bestow upon her many blessings." she said, with a bright smile.
Mary held out her hand to grab Elizabeth's hand.
"Sweet sister, I thank you God that I got the opportunity to see you again. When will you be leaving us?" she asked.
Elizabeth sighed.
"Tomorrow morning. It's a long journey, but I am prepared for it." she said.
Carlos smiled.
"Well, the next time we here about you, you will be the Princess of Asturias and Girona. Hopefully we will hear that you and the prince will have many healthy children." he said.
Elizabeth took in a deep breath.
"Only God can will that, Your Majesty." she said.
Mary could sense that Elizabeth was uncomfortable with the idea of having many children at this moment, but she was praying that once Elizabeth and Luis were married, they would be happy together, just like she was with Carlos.
"Elizabeth, why don't you go and enjoy your last day here in Portugal? Have a nice walk in our Gardens." she suggested.
Elizabeth smiled.
"I would really enjoy that. In England, I can never walk outside at this time of year." she said.
She bowed and walked out of Mary's Bedchmaber.
Hampton Court
King Henry XI's Bedchamber
Harry was sitting by his fire, drinking a goblet of ale. With winter baring it's ugly face, he was doing his best to stay warm. He also felt very lonely. Ever since Elizabeth left for Spain, he felt that most of his family was gone. he don't know why he felt so melancholy.
Suddenly, he heard a soft knock at his door.
"Come in." he said.
Queen Anne walked in, wearing her nightgown.
"Sweetheart, is it alright if I sleep in here with you tonight? It is a little cold this evening." she said.
Harry smiled.
"Of course, darling. How are you feeling tonight?" he asked.
Anne smiled and placed a hand on her stomach that carried their sixth child.
"I am doing well. The sickness seems to be ending well. I just cannot wait to meet him or her this summer." she said.
Harry nodded his head. he was looking at his wife. He and Anne had now been married for nineteen years and they had five children together. A lot of people were shocked that Harry had not taken a mistress after all this time, especially due to Anne's appearance. She was no longer the beautiful sixteen year old German Princess from the La Marck family. She had put on some weight, but not enough to be considered overweight. The people of Court loved and respected her so much, but they did talk about how she looked. She wasn't ugly, but no one could say she was a very beautiful woman anymore.
Harry put his hand on her.
"I am glad that you are feeling better. Now, let's go to bed." he said.
Anne smiled.
"I would love that." she said.
January 6, 1550
Sintra Palace
Princess Elizabeth's Bedchamber
Elizabeth was sitting in a chair, watching Kitty pack the last of her belongings. Her heart was basically skipping beats. She felt comfort with her sister and her family. Now, she was going to Spain to be with people who she wasn't sure would love and respect her. She was not accustomed to their lifestyle, so she was prepared to be silent and just watch them.
Kitty looked over and smiled at Elizabeth.
"Princess, everything is done. We have a long journey ahead of us. Aren't you excited?" she asked.
Elizabeth rolled her eyes.
"I am actually getting irritated that people keep asking me if I am excited or not." she said, as she rose from her chair and began to look out of the window.
Kitty walked over to her young mistress.
"Princess I sincerely apologize. I do not want to upset you." she said, sadly.
Elizabeth gave her a small smile.
"It is not your fault. Maybe I need to settle down and control the way I feel." she said, as she gave Kitty a hug.
Kitty rubbed Elizabeth's back.
"I know that you are scared, Princess. I promise you that once you are married, you will be yourself again, maybe even better. I have been married for eleven years and I love it very much. Even if Luis wont be a good husband to you, you will have beautiful children and that in itself will be a wonderful thing." she said.
Elizabeth nodded.
"Thank you, Kitty. I love everything you have done for me." she said.
Kitty smiled.
"I will always be here for you, Princess." she said.
Elizabeth smiled and took a deep breath.
"Well, let's go. I am sure that the journey needs to start now." she said.
Kitty smiled.
"I believe you are right, Princess. However, tell me...is there anything are excited about most of all in Spain?" she asked.
Elizabeth sighed.
"The only thing I can say about Spain is that that's where my children will be born and I will end up dying there one day." she said, with a sad smile.
Kitty hugged her.
"You will find happiness there. I guarantee it." she said.
Elizabeth smiled.
"God willing." she said.
King Carlos and Infanta Catarina was waiting outside for Elizabeth and her entourage to come out to depart. Catarina looked a little sad. She had really grown close to her aunt, since she was only four years older than her. It was hard seeing her leave.
Catarina looked at her father.
"Father, I am really sad to see aunt Elizabeth leave. it has been fun having her here. " she said.
Carlos hugged his daughter.
"Oh, sweetheart, do not be sad. In a few years' time, you will be leaving for Spain to marry the Duke of Franco. I am sure that you two will also keep in contact." he said.
Suddenly, Elizabeth appeared with her ladies in waiting. She curtsied to Catarina and Carlos.
"Your Majest. I want to thank you for allowing me to reside with you and your Court. Due to the tensions between the French and my betrothed husband's family, I really was scared about my safety. I am glad that my brother, the King of England, was kind enough to ask you for your hospitality." she asked.
Carlos smiled.
"You are family. I pray that our nation will still on good terms when you are the Queen of Spain. Have you seen the Queen?" she asked.
Elizabeth nodded her head.
"Yes, Your Majesty. Thank you for allowing me to see her, even though she is recovering from the birth of Infanta Cristina." she said.
Carlos smiled and then looked at Kitty Howard.
"Mistress Howard, forgive me, since I my English isn't as fluent as yours, but thank you for attending to my wife's sister. I wish you a safe journey to Spain and then back to England with your family." he said.
Kitty bowed.
"Thank you, Your Majesty. I thank you for your kindness and hospitality." she said.
Carlos nodded his head.
Finally, one of the guards escorting Elizabeth to Spain walked up to them.
"Excuse me, Princess Elizabeth, we really have to depart. Queen Juana will be very upset if we are not on time with your arrival." he said.
Elizabeth nodded her head and turned toward Catarina and smiled.
"Spending time with you has been a pleasant experience, Catarina. Please write me whenever you get a chance and I cannot wait until you join me in Spain." she said.
Catarina took Elizabeth's hands in her own.
"I will write you very often. To be honest, knowing you will be in Spain with me is such a huge comfort." she said.
Elizabeth hugged Catarina.
"Take care of yourself, Catarina. Until we meet again." she said, as she turned away to face her guard.
"I am ready." she said.
The guard held his hand out and helped Elizabeth in her carriage. Elizabeth takes one last look at Portugal and smiles. She was very proud of her sister Mary. Elizabeth then realized that she was descended from Great Queens. She could only hope to be a good Queen like her grandmother, mother and her sister.
Finally, Elizabeth's carriage left, taking her to her new destiny.
Janaury 8, 1550
Medina del Campo, Valladolid, Castile, Spain
La Mota Palace
Isabella and Andres were lying in bed. Andres was watching his wife sleep. Over the past few months, she had grown very distant with everyone, including him. The only thing that he and Isabella had done more was have intercourse. Other than that, they did nothing else together anymore. Also, Isabella's behavior was beginning to worry about him.
He shook her.
"Sweetheart, wake up. I need to talk to you." he said.
Isabella opened her eyes.
"What is it?" she asked.
Andres sighed.
"We have been married for awhile now and I feel like you are hiding something from me. Why can't you tell me what is bothering you?" he asked.
Isabella sat up, looking scared. How did Andres know something was bothering her?
"Why do you think something is wrong with me?" she asked.
Andres sat up with her.
"I love you and everything about you. Please open up to me. Do you want another child? Is that what is bothering you?" he asked.
Isabella shook her head.
"Andres, I will be forty years old at the end of this month. I have no desire to have another child. There is something bothering me, but I cannot tell you." she said.
Andres touched her arm.
"You can tell me anything, darling. I married you and I will never judge you." he said.
Isabella closed her eyes.
"I feel like my late husband is haunting me." she said.
Andres looked her, confused.
"Why would you think that? King Diego has been dead for nearly seven years." he said.
Isabella shook her head.
"No, not him. My first husband, King Manuel." she said.
Andres looked at her, even more confused.
"He's been dead nearly seventeen years. Why would you remember anything about him?" he asked.
Isabella sighed. She loved Andres and her life with him. However, she felt she couldn't tell him what she done. She was so scared that he would tell someone and she would burn for her crime and mortal sin she committed.
She began to tear up.
"Please...don't make me tell you." she begged.
Andres looked at her, with a hurtful look on his face.
"We've been married for six years and you do not trust me to tell me anything about what bothers you. If you don't trust anyone in this life, I would expect you to trust me, your husband. If you do not trust me after these years, let me know now, so I will not be hurt any longer that my wife will never confide in me." he said.
Isabella looked at him.
"Am I hurting you?" she asked.
Andres nodded his head.
"I have done nothing to you to be treated this way. I cannot help you, if you do not tell me what hurts you." he said.
Isabella sighed.
"Andres...I have sinned horribly." she said.
Andres moved closer to her.
"What have you done, sweetheart?" he asked.
Isabella rose from the bed.
"I was only sixteen when my father sent me to Portugal. I knew as a Princess that it was my duty. I also knew that I was not that relevant to my father. I was just a pawn in his political game. When I married Manuel, I tried to be a good wife to him. I gave him five children in seven years, even though none lived to their first year and he hated me for that. I was not happy with him at all. I prayed and prayed and prayed for some relief and it never came. After the death of our last child, we pretty much hated each other. He would...force himself on me after taking mistresses in the same night." she said, as tears fell down her face.
Andres got out of bed.
"That's terrible." he said.
Isabella continued.
"Finally, after the last time I was forced upon, I do not know why, but I just couldn't take it anymore. He was so cruel to me, I had to lose all my children and my father didn't care and my mother couldn't do anything because of my father. Finally, one night I lost it. After intercourse, I took my pillow and I put over his face and I just held it over his face until he stopped moving. I have been filled with so much guilt ever since." she said, as she began to cry.
Andres looked at her, in shock.
"You...killed a King of Portugal?" he asked.
Isabella nodded her head.
Suddenly, Andres hugged his wife tight him.
"It's alright. No one will ever know." he said.
Isabella looked at him.
"You're not going to tell Queen Juana? You must. You're one of her most loyal subjects." she said.
Andres nodded his head.
"That maybe so, but you're my wife. My loyalty comes before the Queen. This is something I will take to my grave. I love you so much." he said.
Isabella smiled.
"I love you, too." she said, as she began to passionately kiss him.
Finally, Isabella truly felt one with her husband.
A/n There we go! This was a very long chapter, but I really enjoyed writing. I would love to thank everyone who made some very great suggestions and leaving great Reviews! Please keep them coming. I would also like to tell you all that other Royal Families, only if the a Tudor relative will be marrying them into them. There will be different plotlines and some things that are very different than history [obviously lol]. Now, the next chapter will focus on Elizabeth and Infante Luis finally meeting. That will be the main thing, but there will be other things there also. To the viewer who suggested me doing a Pov from the French Family, I love the idea and they will appear so much more, especially when Princess Eleanor marries into the family. I am also taking gender suggestions on Queen Anne's baby. Also, name suggestions are also very welcome. Now I know it seems dark, but who should be the next Tudor sibling to die? Please don't judge me, but they are getting older now. Keep the Reviews and Suggestions coming! Chapter 12 coming soon!