Chapter 12
Chapter 12 is now officially here. I have to say, I love writing this story. I am so happy you all are enjoying this story. Thank you all fro the motivation. I hope you all didn't mind that chapter 11 was such a long chapter. I do not want to have such a long introduction, so I will start the story. Please Read and Review!
January 15, 1550
Segovia Castile, Spain
Alcazar of Segovia
Queen Juana of Castile and Aragon's Privy Chamber
Queen Juana was finalizing some wedding plans for Luis and Elizabeth's wedding. She was finally excited that Spain was going to have it's future Queen in its land now. She was still very upset that Lilliana's betrothal to Prince William of England was turned down, but she would have to put her feeling aside, since the marriage of the Prince of Asturias was very important.
Suddenly, there was a knock at her door.
Juana looked up.
"Come in." she said.
Her grandson, Infante Luis, walked in and bowed.
"Your Majesty." he said, in Spanish.
Juana smiled.
"Come in, Luis. I am just preparing for your wedding." she said.
Luis nodded.
"How is everything coming?" he asked.
Juana sighed.
"It is a very expensive wedding, but it is worth it. We haven't had this much fanfare for the wedding for the Prince of Asturias, since your father married your mother." she said.
Luis nodded.
"I cant wait to meet her. We have written so much, but to actually have her here in Castile is amazing. How many days will I have to get to know her, before the wedding?" he asked.
Juana stood up.
"About five days. Your Father is in Aragon, dealing with the Catalonians. As King of Spain, we both need to be in attendance at the wedding to the heir to the Throne." she said.
Luis smiled.
"I can't wait until we meet. I can just feel that she is a wonderful person. I want to make her happy and never disappoint her." he said.
Juana hugged Luis.
"I am proud of you. I hope you are true to your word." she says.
Luis looked confused.
"Why would I change how I will?" he asked.
Juana sighed.
"Men in the Royal Family tend to stray from their wives, once they start to bore them. I really want you two to have a good marriage, not like the one I had with my late husband." she said.
Luis nodded.
"Or the one my parents had." he said.
Luis and his sister unfortunately had to witness the way that their late father treated their poor mother. The Dowager Princess of Asturias had to deal with her husband parading his mistresses in front of her.
Juana smiled.
"There is no need to worry. There are some exceptions to marriage. Look at your grandfather. He and your Grandmother were happily married for over twenty years." she said.
Luis smiled.
"I want Elizabeth and I to be married longer than that." he said.
January 17, 1550
Hampton Court
King Henry IX's Privy Chamber
Harry was looking over some documents from the French Royal Family. He was outraged at the things that Henry II was demanding about his daughter's betrothal to Prince Owen. In his three years as King, he had never seen so many marital demands.
Suddenly, there was a loud knock on the door.
Harry looked up.
"Come in." he said.
The Guard walked in.
"Your Majesty, I hate to disturb you, but The Duchess of Sicily and Lady Bianca are here to see you." he said.
Harry smiled.
"Send them in." he said.
Christina and Bianca walked in and bowed to Harry.
"Your Majesty." they said.
Harry smiled and walked up and hugged Christina.
"My dear Aunt, I am so glad to see you. Welcome back to Court." he said.
Christina smiled at her nephew.
"Thank you so much, Your Majesty. Do you remember my eldest daughter, Lady Bianca?" she said.
Harry smiled at the young woman.
"Dear Cousin, it is wonderful to see you again. You have grown into a very beautiful young woman." he said.
Bianca smiled.
"Thank you so much, Your Majesty." she said.
Harry turned toward Christina.
"What brings you to Court, Aunt Christina?" he asked, as he offered her and his cousin a seat.
Christina took a seat.
"Well, Your Majesty, the young Italian Duke that our daughter to unfortunately passed away and now Bianca is unmarried. So, I came here to ask if she may join the Court and hopefully she will find a suitable husband here." she says.
Harry smiled.
"Of course. She is my cousin. Lady Bianca, welcome to Court." he said.
Bianca smiled.
"Thank you so much, Your Majesty. I will be of no trouble to you or any of the courtiers." she said.
Harry nodded.
"That is a good thing." he said.
January 21, 1550
Segovia, Castile, Spain
Alcazar of Segovia
Infanta Lilliana and Infante Juan were walking around the Palace, watching all the hired help prep for Luis and Elizabeth's wedding. Lilliana was excited about all the preparations, while Juan remained silent. He was upset that not, at age twenty, he was still waiting for his bride to fully mature.
Lilliana looked at her brother.
"Oh, Juan please cheer up. Luis is finally getting married and hopefully have children very soon. Spain will be secure very soon. You know Grandmother has wanted Luis married for awhile now, so he could produce more heirs." she said.
Juan rolled his eyes.
"I get it. Luis is the heir and you and I must marry second best. Oh, wait, you aren't even betrothed to anyone, since King Henry of England didn't want you for his son's wife." he said.
Lilliana frowned.
"I am not upset about that. It was clearly not meant for me to be Queen of England and I am not bitter or angry about that. Why must you do everything to try to hurt me and remind me that there could be a chance that I will never marry anyone?" she asked.
Juan looked at his sister.
"I would never do anything to harm you, sweet sister. I love you. You're the one who I trust more than anyone in this world after God himself. You know you are special to me." he said.
Lilliana sighed.
"Then you need to understand that I am terrified that I wont be married and be the spinster in the family. You are always saying that you are horrified that the person you will marry is not fully mature for you to physically have her. However, you have to realize that you are lucky to be able to say you will be married. I do not know if I will be married ever in my life and have children." she said.
Juan hugged her.
"I am sure that you will marry. You're a Daughter of Spain. Anyone would be lucky to have you." he said.
Lilliana smiled.
"Thank you, brother. However, it is up to Father and Grandmother on who I marry. I don't have to marry a King or Prince. I am perfectly content with staying here in Castile with a courtier as a husband and raise a family away from Court. Our sister, Maria, has spent her entire life here and she is perfectly happy." she said.
Juan nodded.
"I told you that. You could always just ask a nice, wealthy man from Court to marry you. I am sure any of them would love a beautiful Infanta to be a wife. Especially one with such a large dowry." he said.
Lilliana shook her head.
"No. I will not do something like that. My marriage is a matter of State. I will not do anything that could Spain at risk." she said.
Juan rolled his eyes.
"Sister, sometimes I wish you would think more about yourself and not the matters of State." he said.
January 19, 1550
Segovia, Castile, Spain
Alcazar of Spain
Elizabeth and Kitty Howard finally pulled up to the Alcazar of Segovia. Elizabeth felt her heart jump in her chest. She had not seen this palace in many years. It was at this Palace that she would meet her soon to be husband and even possibly bear their children.
Kitty looked at Elizabeth, who seemed to be pale.
"Your Highness, why is your face so melancholy. We are finally at our journey's end. By the end of the week, you shall be the Princess of Asturias and the future Queen of Spain. You will be the mother of Queens, just like your mother and her mother before her." she said.
Elizabeth smiled.
"I pray you are right." she said.
Finally, the carriage doors opened And Elizabeth and Kitty were helped out and met by a Spanish gentleman of the Court, who looked about twenty-five years old.
"Welcome, Alteza. I am Beltran de Mendoza, the Mayor of the Palace and I will be attending to your every need, under orders from Queen Juana herself. Tonight, there shall be a celebration, in celebration of you and the Prince of Asturias' engagement and you two shall formally meet." he said, in Spanish.
Elizabeth shook her head.
"Forgive me, Mi Senor, but there is no need for any lavish celebrations." she said..
Mendoza put his hadn up.
"I am sorry, but it is by the orders of the Queen. Now, the Queen would love to meet you now, personally." he said.
Kitty Howard looked at the man, in shock.
"Now? But the Princess must be dressed into a new gown, if she is to meet the Queen of Spain." she protested.
Mendoza shook his head.
"No, she wants to see the Infanta immediately. Also, no servants are allowed. You will be escorted to the private chambers to wait, while the Queen meets with the Princess privately." she said.
Kitty was about to object, but Elizabeth put her hand on her shoulder.
"No Kitty. The Queen made a command and we must obey her. Go wait in my chambers." she said gently, but firmly.
Kitty sighed and nodded her head.
Elizabeth turned back to Mendoza and began to talk in perfect Spanish.
"Now tell me, where does Queen Juana wish to meet me?" she asked.
Mendoza looked in the Palace.
"You may follow me." he said, as he began to walk in.
Elizabeth walked in, keeping her head held high.
The Royal Throne Room
Queen Juana and Emperor Charles sat on their respective Thrones, waiting on the arrival of Elizabeth. Juana was dressed magnificently. She was dressed in complete gold, as was Charles. They were so happy that the heir to the Throne was finally getting married.
Charles smiled at his mother.
"Mother, after this wedding, now you can relax. Luis will be married in just several days and the next generation will be on it's way soon." he said.
Juana nodded her head.
"Yes. Now, we just need Luis and Elizabeth to produce an heir." she said.
Charles rolled his eyes.
"They are just sixteen, Mother. They have time." he said.
Juana shook her head.
"Charles, I am seventy years old. I would love to see them have a child, before God calls me home to be at his side." she said.
Charles took his mother's hand.
"I am sure you will." he said.
Finally, the herald called out.
"HER ROYAL HIGHNESS, ELIZABETH TUDOR, PRINCESS OF ENGLAND!"
Elizabeth walked in, once again, keeping her head held high. Her face was also very stoic. Despite having traveled for many days, Elizabeth had a beautiful light blue traveling gown on, that really complimented her blue-gray eyes. Her brown hair was let down her back, but had a beautiful clip in it, to keep her hair out of her face.
She bowed to Juana and Charles.
"Your Majesties, I humbly fall at your feet." she said, in Castilian Spanish.
Juana smiled and rose from her Throne, looking at Elizabeth.
"My dear niece, welcome to Castile. I pray that you come to consider this your home." she says.
Elizabeth gave her aunt a smile.
"I pray in time I will too, however my loyalty is firm now." she said.
Charles stood alongside his mother.
"Princess, As King of Spain, I formally welcome you to Court." he said.
Elizabeth nodded.
"Thank you, Your Majesty." she said.
Juana cleared her throat.
"Now, that we finally have you here, we can finally relax. Now, I would love to personally escort you to your rooms." she said.
Juana and Elizabeth began to walk and Juana could not take her eyes off her niece. She was finally cementing her Dynasty's future. Her grandson's marriage was of vital importance now.
Princess Elizabeth's Bedchambers
Juana and Elizabeth finally arrived to Elizabeth's new Chambers. Elizabeth was smiling, as she admired her new rooms. She could see that her new family was very wealthy, but all the gold and silver tapestries that hung around the Palace. Her bed was very grand.
Juana smiled at her.
"These are your new rooms. I hope they are to your liking. We had them designed to be to you and Luis' liking. After all, you two will be sharing these rooms together after your marriage." she said.
Elizabeth sighed and nodded her head.
Juana looked at her niece, with concern.
"Is there something wrong. dear?" she asked.
Elizabeth shook her head.
'No, Your Majesty, I'm just a little homesick. I really miss my mother." she said.
Juana gave Elizabeth a hug.
"I understand how you feel. When I left home, I missed my parents, but the death of my brother, his daughter, my sister, and her son made me return here. We will do everything to make sure you are comfortable here with us. Now, why don't you get settled in and we will see you this evening."she said.
Elizabeth nodded her head.
"Yes, Your Majesty." she said.
Juana touched Elizabeth cheek.
"In private, you may call me Aunt Juana." she said, before leaving Elizabeth alone.
Later that evening...
Luis was drinking a goblet of wine, enjoying the banquet. Juan and Lilliana were also standing by him.
Juan grinned at his nephew and former playmate.
"Well, your bride has finally arrived. If you need some pointers for the wedding night, let me know." he said, with a grin.
Luis rolled his eyes.
"Juan, the matters of our bedchamber are to be private to everyone, especially to you. The only thing that will be known is that the result will be our children." he said.
Lilliana nodded her head.
"Luis is right. You don't belong in their Bedchamber. However, I am so happy to see Elizabeth again. I hope we will become fast friends. just like we did when we were children." she said.
Luis nodded and smiled.
"I am sure you will. From what I have heard, she is very sweet and friendly." he said.
Suddenly, the herald called out:
"HER ROYAL HIGHNESS, THE PRINCESS ELIZABETH!"
Elizabeth walked in, with Kitty a few steps behind her. She was wearing a beautiful dark blue gown. Luis was mesmerized by her beauty.
Elizabeth walked up to Juana and Charles, yet again.
"Your Majesties." she said.
Juana stood up and addressed the Spanish Court.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, may I present to you the future Princess of Asturias." she said.
The entire Court applauded at the news and then everyone was wanting to get close to the new soon-to-be-Princess. Elizabeth smiled at everyone.
Juana address the Court again.
"Let the festivities continue." she said.
Elizabeth began to walk and soak in her new home. She would most likely never leave Spain ever again.
Suddenly, Juan and Lilliana walked up to her.
Juan cleared his throat.
"I don't suppose you remember us very well, do you? " he asked.
Elizabeth looked at Juan and Lilliana and smiled.
"Lilliana! It is wonderful to see you again!" she said, as she hugged her cousin.
Lilliana hugged her back. Juan smiled, as his sister and cousin embrace for the first time in twelve years.
Suddenly, a guard walked up to Elizabeth.
"Excuse me, Your Highness, but Queen Juana requests your presence. She insist that you and the Prince of Asturias meet privately." he said.
Elizabeth sighed and nodded.
"Very well. Excuse me." she said to Juan and Lilliana, as she walked away.
Queen Juana's Private Chambers
Juana and Luis were waiting on Elizabeth to arrive. Juana was excited that she lived long enough to see her great-grandson meet his bride. She sat proudly, watching Luis pace back and forth.
Luis sighed.
"I hope she likes me." he said.
Juana sighed.
"The most important thing that you must do is marry her and produce heirs, but I am sure that you will be happily pleased with her." she said.
Suddenly, the guard came in.
"Princess Elizabeth is here, Your Majesty." he said.
Juana stood to her feet and smiled.
"Wonderful. Send her in." she said.
Finally, Elizabeth slowly walked in toward Juana and Luis. She curtsied to both of them.
"Your Majesty, Your Highness." she said.
Luis stared at Elizabeth, in shock. He had never seen such a beautiful young woman in his life. She was the same height as him and had beautiful chocolate brown hair, which complimented her very light skin. her pale gray-blue eyes were the same color as the sea.
He walked up to Elizabeth and took her by the hand.
"My Lady. I am pleased to meet you." he said.
Elizabeth rose to her feet and was finally face to face with the young man that she was going to marry within a few days. She had to admit that he was very handsome. He had a nice tan complexion, with very light brown eyes. His dark hair was cut to the modern European fashion and he was dressed very nice and very grand, despite being sixteen years old.
"I am very pleased to meet you as well, Your Highness." she said.
Juana smiled.
"I am pleased you two finally met. Now, I will give you a moment alone." she said, as she left the two nervous teenagers alone.
Luis looked at Elizabeth and smiled.
"Are you enjoying the party?" he asked.
Elizabeth nodded.
"Yes. Although I am not one for lavish parties." she said.
Luis laughed.
"I told Grandmother she didn't have to do all this. However, she wouldn't listen to me." he said.
Elizabeth walked over to a nearby window.
"I really forgot how beautiful it was here, especially at night. How is it in Asturias?" she asked.
Luis smiled.
"It is pretty nice, however I do not go there much. My mother and sister still reside there. Since I am the heir to the Throne, Grandmother wants to keep me close to her and Grandfather Charles." he said.
Elizabeth nodded.
"That sounds understandable. My mother liked to keep me close to her, when she was the Queen of England." she said.
Luis sighed.
"I wish I could be with my mother and sister more. Especially now that I am getting married." he said.
Elizabeth gave him a sad smile.
" I really wish that I could have my mother here with me. It's hard to believe that I may never see her again." she said.
Luis gave her a sad look.
"I am so sorry. I know that your mother means a lot to you." he said.
Elizabeth nodded.
"She does, but I have had years to prepare myself for this destiny that God has paved for me. I am ready to be your wife." she said.
Luis smiled.
'And I am ready to be your husband." he said.
Elizabeth smiled at him.
"Forgive me, but I am very scared right now. I was here as a child, but this isn't my home. I do miss England, but hopefully in time, I will consider Spain my home." she said.
Luis nodded.
" I hope you will too. Especially since one day we will have to rule over this land." he said.
Elizabeth sighed and nodded.
"I pray that is a long time away." she said.
Luis laughed.
"It is a long time away. Grandmother isn't going anywhere anytime soon." he said.
Elizabeth nodded.
Luis extended his arm.
"I guess we should return to the party." he said.
Elizabeth took a deep breath and took his arm.
"I suppose we should." she said.
January 21, 1550
Richmond Palace
Dowager Queen Katherine's Bedchamber
Katherine was sitting by the fire in her room. She had finally recovered from her illness enough to be able to walk around her room. Now in her early sixties, her age had finally caught up with her and she was not a well woman. She didn't wear fancy clothes anymore and now wore black gowns more and had her long grey-streaked dark hair covered. For the first time in a long time, Katherine felt truly sad. all of her daughters were no longer in England and her only son was really busy running England.
Suddenly, there was a knock at the door.
Katherine looked at up.
"Come in." she said, weakly.
Lady Darrell walked in and smiled at her.
"Your Majesty, how are you feeling?" she asked.
Katherine smiled.
"I am fine. I just miss my children is all. There is so much that Royal women have to sacrifice." she said.
Lady Darrell looked at her mistress with pity.
"I am so sorry, Your Majesty.' she said.
Katherine looked at Lady Darrell.
"Dear Elizabeth, how old are you?" she asked.
Lady Darrell blushed.
"I am nearly thirty-eight years old, Your Majesty.' she said.
Katherine smiled.
"I want you to enjoy your life once I am gone. Why don't you return to your son, Francis?" she said.
Elizabeth Darrell had a son that was conceived during a long term affair with Sir Thomas Wyatt. They had three sons together, but two of her sons died in 1538 during an outbreak of the Sweat.
Elizabeth nodded her head.
"I probably will, but not now. You are here and I will die before I leave your side." she said.
Katherine took her hand gently.
"I am so thankful for you. Thank you for keeping an old woman happy in her final days.' she said.
Elizabeth firmly took her hands.
"You are not in your final days." she said.
Katherine took a deep breath.
"Only God knows." she said.
Royal Mile, Edinburgh, Scotland
Holyrood Palace
Dowager Queen Margaret's Bedchamber
Margaret was drinking a goblet of wine, enjoying the fire. Her granddaughter continued to thrive in several more years, would be able to take the Throne. Finally, her plans were coming into fruition.
A loud knock came at her door.
Margaret looked over.
"Enter." she said.
Mary of Guise, the widow of her late son, King James V, walked in, looking furious.
"Madam, why do you have my daughter confined to her quarters and not receiving visitors?" she asked, in her heavy French accent.
Margaret stood up, in defiance.
"How dare you come barging into my chambers? I am doing what is best for the Queen of this Country." she said.
Mary of Guise chuckled.
"Do not insult my intelligence. You want my daughter to marry your nephew's son, in hopes that she will take the Throne from him. That is why you pushed the betrothal so much. I had no say in my own daughter's marriage. Merging Scotland and England is for your own benefit, because you have always carried a jealousy that your brother inherited the Throne forty years ago, instead of you. Now his son sits on the Throne and your offspring will merely be Consorts." she said.
Margaret suddenly slapped Mary so hard, she landed on the ground.
"Madam, you will thank me, when young Mary sits on the Scottish AND the English Thrones. What she is learning will do her good in the long run." she said.
Mary stood to her feet.
"What you are teaching her will do nothing, but cost her the head on her shoulders. She is only going to be England's Consort. Do not set her up to be harmed. Teach her to govern this country, not take over another." she said.
Margaret scowled at her daughter-in-law.
"Do not tell me anything. You are of little importance now. The last thing that you need here at this Court is enemies." she said.
Mary of Guise walked closer to her.
"Be careful of what you say, dear Mother. I am not the only one who will make enemies." she said, as she turned and walked away.
Margaret looked around her room in fear and walked over to her door and locked it.
January 23, 1550
Seville, Castile, Spain
Alcazar of Seville
Elizabeth and Luis were walking around the Palace, getting to know each other. Despite the fact that they were both very shy, they seemed to have several things in common. Both were very pious and attended Mass regularly, they both had a love of animals. Both had very close relationships with their mothers and missed them dearly and both were nervous about their upcoming marriage in just two days. Queen Juana had the entire Court moved from Segovia to Seville, to be closer to Seville Cathedral, which is where the wedding was to take place.
Luis and Elizabeth stood by a fountain.
"I can remember my father taking me and my sister here, after matters of State were attended to. He had his good moments." he said.
Elizabeth looked at the fountain, amazed at its beauty.
"This entire city is very beautiful and they applauded and cheered for us so. I do not know why." she said.
Luis smiled.
"Because they know that their future is in our hands. With our marriage, a new beginning will happen. They look forward to what we can do. Grandmother Juana has ruled over them for nearly fifty years. I guess you can say that they want new blood on the Throne." he said, with a chuckle.
Elizabeth smiled. Luis gasped, which startled her.
"Is something wrong?" she asked.
Luis shook his head.
"No. I just haven't seen you smile and it is wonderful." he said.
Elizabeth blushed bright red.
"I'm sorry, I have to go." she said, as she ran off.
Luis sighed and sat near the fountain.
Sintra, Portugal
Sintra Palace
Queen Maria of Portugal's Bedchambers
Mary was sitting in her bed, holding her three week old daughter. She was so protective of her. She had not been churched yet, so she had not returned to public life yet. She still could not believe she had four healthy, beautiful children now. However, little Cristina didn't seem to be as strong as her older sisters and brother. At least she was feeding from her wet nurse frequently and was putting on weight.
Suddenly, King Carlos' oldest sister, Infanta Beatriz, walked in. The forty-six year old Portuguese Princess smiled and bowed.
"Your Majesty, congratulations on the birth of Infanta Cristina. You have made the Kingdom proud." she said.
Mary smiled at the older woman.
"Thank you so much. After the debacle of my last pregnancy, I am so glad to have provided another heir to the Throne." she said, as she cuddled her infant daughter.
Beatriz sighed.
"She is truly beautiful, but you know the entire Court was hoping for another son. You and my brother already have two daughters. We really needed another male. My parents produced many sons. Your next pregnancy must result in a son." she said.
Mary looked at her, in confusion.
"Beatriz, I'm nearly thirty-four years old. I'm getting old for childbearing." she said.
Beatriz smiled.
"Your mother, the Dowager Queen of England, had a successful pregnancy in her forties." she said.
Mary nodded her head.
"Yes, but my grandmother, Elizabeth of York, died giving birth to her last child and she was barely older than me." she said.
Beatriz nodded her head.
"I understand that you fear death in childbed, however that has to be a risk that you are willing to make for the good of the country." she said.
Mary shook her head.
"If it is God's will for me to have more children, so be it. However, I will not promise another son. Many Queens promised many sons and it did not happen. I have given Portugal a healthy Prince and he is nearing maturity. I believe Cristina is my last child." she said.
Beatriz nodded.
"Very well. I disagree, but you are a Queen and I am not. Get well, Your Majesty." she said, as she left the room.
Mary sighed and looked at Cristina.
"Don't worry, sweetheart. You are important to this family. Do not ever hate the sex you were born." she said, with a smile.
January 24, 1550
Alcazar of Seville
Princess Elizabeth's Bedchamber
Elizabeth sat on her bed, clutching her rosary. This was her final day as a Princess of England, because tomorrow was her wedding day. She was completely nervous about the entire process. She had to admit that Luis was very attractive, but she felt guilty for admiring him in such a manner.
Kitty Howard walked up to her and sat next to her.
"Princess, why are you do troubled? Please talk to me." she said.
Elizabeth sighed.
"I'm going to be married tomorrow. I don't know what to do. I know that getting married to Luis is my duty to England, but to think I will never see my family again is really setting in." she said.
Kitty looked at Elizabeth, with sadness in her eyes. She remembered when she felt the same fears about marrying the illegitimate son of a King, but Edward was such a wonderful husband to her. She could only hope that Luis would be good to Elizabeth. If he wasn't, only God knows what would happen to her in this foreign land.
"Princess, you cannot go into this marriage with fear. How would you have felt if you had to marry Emperor Charles?" she asked.
Elizabeth looked at her friend, with horror.
"Kitty! I respect the Emperor, since he has been nothing but kind to me. However, he is fifty years old and I am sixteen. We wouldn't have many years together. Besides, he would have no use of me. My aunt Mary gave him many children. Besides, Luis is... " she said, before pausing.
Kitty smiled at Elizabeth's innocence.
"Princess, what are your thoughts on the Prince of Asturias?" she asked.
Elizabeth's face turned bright red.
"I think he is very kind, he's funny, he's a good Christian and he's... very handsome. May God forgive me." she said.
Kitty laughed.
"Princess, you will not go to Hell, for being attracted to the man who will share your bed very soon. The Church cannot control private matters between a husband and wife. You cannot bear children, unless you are comfortable with your husband." she said.
Elizabeth sighed.
"What should I do?" she asked.
Kitty took her hands.
"Talk to him. You will never know the truth if you do not talk to him about these matters. The gift between spouses is that they can talk to each other." she said.
Elizabeth sighed.
"I guess it wouldn't hurt to speak to him. I am going to marry him tomorrow." she said.
Kitty smiled and gestured toward the door.
"Well, I suggest you go to talk to him now." she said.
Elizabeth smiled and stood to her feet.
"I will." she said.
Alcazar of Seville
Infante Luis of Castile and Aragon's Bedchamber
Luis was sitting at his desk, reading one of his favourite books. However, he couldn't get the significance of tomorrow off his mind. He was getting married tomorrow. However, he felt discouraged. Ever since her arrival, Elizabeth had seemed really shy and uneasy around him. He hoped to change that really soon, as tomorrow night, a big responsibility fell upon them both.
Suddenly, there was a knock at his door.
"Come in." he said.
Elizabeth came in.
Luis stoop up.
"Elizabeth, this is a surprise. Please have a seat." he said.
Elizabeth nodded her head and took a seat.
"I hope you don't mind, but I really needed to speak with you." she said, in perfect Spanish.
Luis smiled.
"I appreciate this visit. Especially since tomorrow I will be your husband." she said.
Elizabeth nodded.
"I just want to know your expectations for our marriage." she said.
Luis looked at her, in confusion.
"What do you mean?" he asked.
Elizabeth stood to her feet and walked toward the fireplace.
"When I was a child, I saw my father with another woman that produced an illegitimate daughter for him. I care deeply fory bastard sister, but I cannot get the hurt I saw in my mother's eyes out of my mind. It hurt deeply. I swore as a young child that if that's how marriage was, I would rather join a nunnery and dedicate my life to God, who would never do me any harm or injustice. However, I saw the love that my brother, the King of England, has for his Queen and their children. I am ready to be your wife, but I need to know what to expect, before we make that permanent oath to God and our people." she said.
Luis smiled at her. He couldn't believe she was so intelligent and demure, but he could sense a passion in her. Not sexual, but a passion to do the right thing, like he wanted.
He stood to his feet.
"There are things I expect from you as my wife. However, there are also things I expect from us as a union also." he said, smiling.
Elizabeth nodded her head.
"Well, please tell me, that way I do not lack anything as your wife." she said.
Luis walked up to her.
"I want you to be my partner in all things. I want you to feel equal to me. I want you with me as often as possible. Even if you never grow to love me, I hope that you will grow fond of me." he said, with a smile.
Elizabeth nodded her head.
"What will happen when we have children?" she asked.
Luis took Elizabeth's hand, gently.
"I want us to be loving parents. I can see you walking in the Gardens, reading to our children. I want you to take a very big part in their upbringing." he said.
Elizabeth looked into Luis's eyes and felt butterflies in her stomach. She had never felt like this before. Before she could stop herself, she felt the space between her and Luis closing, until their lips were inches apart. Finally, her eyes closed and Luis kisses her lips softly. She felt a feeling rush through her that she had never felt go through her.
Luis pulled away slowly and opened his eyes. He smiled at her. Elizabeth returned the smile and they gave each other a hug. Elizabeth didn't want to jump to any conclusion, but she felt that Luis was just perfect for her.
Chateau de Fontainbleau
King Henry II'S Bedchamber
King Henry was sitting by the fire, while Queen Catherine was reading her Bible. They had just had another argument about the betrothal with England. Queen Catherine, being an Italian Noblewoman by birth, was really pushing for an Italian Duchess to marry her eldest son, but King Henry wanted Princess Eleanor to be the future Queen of France one day.
Henry looked at his wife.
"How is the child?" he asked.
Catherine touched her belly, that was starting to swell.
"He is fine." she said, bitterly.
Henry glared at her.
"Lose the attitude, Catherine." he said.
Catherine sighed.
"Fine. I am sorry that I am upset that none of my children will marry into any Italian family. Their mother is Italian. It's bad enough I have no say so in their raising at all, but no none of my grandchildren will have anymore Italian blood." she said.
Henry sighed.
"Our children will learn Italian. No please stop complaining." he said.
Catherine closed her Bible, sat it on the table and went to the bed.
"Henry, what do you need me for? Francis, Elisabeth and Claude are my children as well." she said.
Henry looked at her.
"Louis was our child as well." he said.
Catherine began to tear up, at the mention of their dead baby son.
"He was loved. I promise that this baby in my womb will be a boy. I know it will." she said.
Henry nodded his head.
"It needs to be. Francis isn't enough." he said.
Catherine glared at him.
"He will be King of France. You can be assured of that. He is healthy and strong. Even if he is marrying that simple English Princess. I hope she has something to offer him in the future." she said.
Henry nodded his head.
"Her mother has given birth to five children and is expecting a sixth one at the moment. Her fertility is what I am interested in. That and her dowry. Also, maybe England will help us with our future wars with Spain." he said.
Catherine sighed.
"Whatever you say, Your Majesty." she said.
January 25, 1550
Hampton Court
Queen Anne of England's Bedchamber
Queen Anne was sitting by the fire in her chambers and listened as Princess Matilda played the harp. Anne smiled at her eldest daughter. Matilda was nearly fifteen years old and this was her last year in England, before she departed for Sweden to marry Prince Eric of Sweden.
Matilda finished her music and bowed her head.
Anne and the rest of her household applauded.
Anne stood up.
"Well, that was wonderful, sweetheart." she said, as she hugged her daughter.
Matilda hugged her back.
"Thank you, Mother."
There was a sudden clap. Anne and Matilda turned and saw King Harry.
Anne smiled.
"Your Majesty. We didn't expect you today." he said.
Harry chuckled.
"Well, I am full of surprises. Matilda, please go to your room, while I talk to your Mother." he asked.
Matilda nodded and left the room.
Anne looked at her husband.
"Is there something wrong?" she asked.
Harry nodded.
"Yes. I have been hearing about plots against me. I just don't know who." he said.
Anne gasped.
"Oh Lord. What will you do when you find them?" she asked.
Harry sighed.
"I'll have to send them to the Tower. I just really hope it isn't who I think it is." he said.
Bradgate House
Catherine Brandon's Bedchamber
Catherine was reading her Bible. She was reading some new thing to teach her daughters. As a cousin of the King of England, Catherine wanted the entire Country to know that her three daughters were very smart and well-educated. Thirteen year old Jane was fluent in French, Greek, and Latin. She could easily have a conversation with anyone in those languages. Ten year old Katherine was a avid reader and everytime you saw her, she ad a book with her and Catherine was proud of her middle daughter. Even little Mary at five years old, was showing that she was a bright child. She could have a conversation and was even speaking French and some sentences in Latin. Catherine decided she would teach her Greek when she was six years old.
Suddenly, Catherine's husband of seventeen years, Lord Henry Grey, walked in. Catherine and Henry were not in love, but they both had a mutual respect for each other. However, there was some resentment, since Catherine was the rich spouse and they also had no son. Catherine's first two pregnancies ended with a son and a daughter, who both died before they were a year old. Now that she was in her mid-thirties, the chances of another pregnancy was very slim, if even possible at all.
Henry sat on their bed.
"Catherine, I think we should try to have another child. We really need a son." he said.
Catherine sighed.
"Henry, it's been five years since I had Mary. I don't think that I want to be one of these women who will risk a pregnancy in my middle age years." she said.
Henry glared at her.
"Well, I want relations tonight. Also, we need to discuss our daughters' marriages. I think Jane should marry the Prince of Wales." he said.
Catherine looked at her husband, in shock.
"That's not possible. He is betrothed to the young Queen of Scots. Jane can marry the Duke of York. They're the same age. The King does not want the Heir to the Throne marrying his own subject. That will not look right at all. Queen Mary of Scots is of even higher birth, since she is already a sovereign. That marriage will be beneficial for England." she said.
Henry groaned.
"Stop fighting me on this. Jane could be Queen of England. When she turns fifteen, we are bringing her to Court and will present her to Prince William." he said, in anger.
Catherine stood to her feet.
"I will not have you use our daughters as pawns in your pathetic little schemes. They are innocent. I do not want to see my girls on the scaffold." she said.
Henry took a step forward.
"I wouldn't have to use them, if you just gave me a son. I have to work with what God gave us." he said.
Suddenly, a small voce was heard.
"Mother? Why is Papa angry?" it asked.
Catherine turned away and saw her youngest daughter, Mary, standing at the door.
Catherine smiled.
"Oh, darling. Papa is not angry. Come, let's go back to your room." she said, as she escorted her out of the room.
Seville, Castile, Spain
Seville Cathedral
Elizabeth was standing on a stool, as Kitty and several Spanish maids were dressing her for her wedding. Her brown was curled down her back, and she was in a white gown that was trimmed with gold. She had a veil that was going to cover her face.
Kitty smiled at Elizabeth.
"Oh, you look so beautiful. I cannot believe that I am about to watch you get married. You are such a beautiful bride." she said, as she smoothed out her hair again.
Elizabeth smiled.
"It is a nice feeling. I just hope he thinks I am beautiful." she said.
Kitty laughed.
"Infante Luis will be a blind man if he doesn't see your beauty." she said.
There was a loud knock at the door.
"Infanta, the ceremony is starting. The procession must start." the herald said.
Elizabeth sighed and nodded at her ladies. Kitty took the white veil and covered put it over Elizabeth's head.
Elizabeth smiled at her ladies.
"I guess it's time for me to become a wife." she said, as she began to walk out of the her chambers.
The Sanctuary
Luis sighed, as he waited for Elizabeth to walk into the Church. He couldn't believe that now he is getting married. He looked in the balcony. Emperor Charles and Queen Juana were watching the ceremony separated from everyone else. Queen Juana wanted to make sure that the wedding went on complications. Luis's marriage was vital for Spain's future. She secretly hoped that Elizabeth would become pregnant right after the wedding. Now that she was seventy years old, she wanted to leave behind a grand legacy.
Suddenly, the doors opened and Elizabeth began her walk into the grand church. The Royal Family Spanish Nobility were shocked at how beautiful she looked. She glided down the aisle, like an angel in white.
Luis smiled. He had been waiting for this day for years. Not only was he doing his duty for Spain's future, but he would do it with a beautiful wife at his side.
Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, Elizabeth reached the altar. To her shock, she wasn't as as she thought. She did fear the consummation that would have to take place later in the night, but being Luis's wife did not frighten her anymore. He was very kind and loving, not to mention handsome. She could not forsee the future, but she prayed it was peaceful. She was finally fulfilling her destiny. One day she would be the Queen of Spain. As she walked u the stairs, she said a silent prayer for God to bless and guide guide her path, no matter where it took her.
Finally, she and Luis were standing in front of the priest.
"Good Christian people. We are here to join in matrimony Infante Luis, Prince of Asturias, from the House of Habsburg and Princess Elizabeth of England, from the House of Tudor. Marriage is of vital importance. A blessed sacrament that is holy before the Lord God and cannot be destroyed by man." he said.
After a few more words were spoken, a Cardinal stepped forward and read the dispensation from the Pope. Since Luis and Elizabeth were technically cousins, they needed the permission from. The Vatican to have a valid marriage.
Finally, the priest turned to Luis and Elizabeth.
"Do you, Infante Luis, take Princess Elizabeth to be your wedded wife? Dedicating yourself only to her, until you are parted by death?"
Luis nodded.
"I do." he said.
The Priest turned to Elizabeth.
"Do you, Princess Elizabeth, take Infante Luis, to be your wedded husband? Dedicating yourself only to him, until you are parted by death?"
Elizabeth nodded.
"I do." she said.
The Priest continued.
"By the power vested in me, the authority of the Pope and in the name of Almighty God, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss your bride." he said.
Luis turned toward Elizabeth and lifted her veil to reveal her fave. He was awestruck at how beautiful she looked.
The two teenagers closed the space between them, with a soft and tender kiss.
Elizabeth and Luis took each others hand and walked back down the aisle, while the congregation applauded the newlywed. Elizabeth did her best to look regal. These same people now expected her to carry the next generation.
From the Royal Pew, Queen Juana whispered to her son, Charles.
"Carlos, they are Spain's future. Let us pray it is a golden future." she said.
Later that evening
Alcazar of Seville
Princess Elizabeth of Asturias Bedchambers
Elizabeth was being attended to by her ladies, before Luis came to join her for the first time as her husband. She knew the importance of this night. This was making their marriage official in the eyes of God. Although she was terrified of the pain of losing her maidenhead, she knew it had to happen.
Kitty, who was brushing Elizabeth's hair, smiled at the newly married Princess.
"Do not fret, sweet Princess. It will be over before you know it and soon, you will love Luis." she said.
Elizabeth sighed.
"I pray you are right." she said.
Then, one of the ladies said, in frantic Spanish:
"Infante Luis is coming!"
Elizabeth stood to her feet. She was in her nightgown, but she felt naked. No man had ever seen her in such revealing attire. She suddenly felt herself blushing. However, she also didn't want her new subjects and new husband to see her filled with fear over a duty that many women in her status had to do.
After what seemed like an eternity, Luis finally walked in. He was wearing a robe, but only his nightshirt underneath. He greeted Elizabeth with a smile, that she returned shyly..
Suddenly, the Priest came in and he blessed the marital bed. He then sat at the foot of the bed with two other courtiers and a Royal physician. Elizabeth looked at them, with confusion.
"What are you all doing?" she asked.
The Priest looked at her, with a sharp look.
"We have to witness the consummation take place. That way we no the marriage is official." he said.
Elizabeth felt her heart stop. Not only would Luis have to see her nude, but four other men, including a Man of God would see her at her most vulnerable state. Slowly, she brought her hands up to begin to undress herself, when Luis stopped her.
"No. I will not allow this. I order all of you from this room immediately." he said in a sharp tone.
The Priest looked at Luis, in shock.
"Alteza, we must make sure that the Princess of Asturias is a true maiden." he said.
Luis nodded.
"I understand that. Therefore, we will produce the bed sheets when the act is done. But I will not perform my marriage obligations before an audience or make my new wife uncomfortable. Now I said to leave." he said.
The four men looked at each other, in shock. However, they stood up, bowed and left the room.
Elizabeth looked at Luis, with gratitude.
"Thank you. I don't think I could bear witnesses to something like this." she said.
Luis smiled.
"I couldn't either. Please don't fear. I promise I won't harm you. I only want what's best for all of us. Can you please trust me?" he said.
Elizabeth looked into Luis's eyes. She didn't see anything unkind or malicious. He had been kind and warm to her since her arrival in Castile. Maybe he was a good young man and would be a wonderful husband
She sighed and nodded.
"I will do my best to trust you. Just please don't hurt me. If you can't keep a promise to me, don't make it." she said.
She looked at him.
"Should we get undressed?" she said.
Luis turned a bright red and took his robe off. He was only in a thin nightshirt.
"Should I take this off or would you like to?" he asked.
With a deep sigh, Elizabeth began to take his nightshirt off. Finally, he was completely naked in front of her. She had never seen a naked man before, but she was intrigued by how he looked. His chest was smooth, but not immature. His stomach was flat and had some hair on it. Luis wasn't a muscular young man, but he was very handsome.
Elizabeth began to blush.
"You're very...handsome." she said, as she put her hand up to touch his chest.
Luis smiled and wrapped his arms around her. Elizabeth tensed up, but after a few seconds, began to relax in his arms. She began to feel something she never felt before and before she knew it, they were kissing each other in a why they never had before. They broke apart briefly. Luis tugged at Elizabeth's nightgown and looked at her for permission to remove it.
She nodded her head.
Luis slowly slipped the garment away from Elizabeth's body. The sight of her bare breasts aroused Luis. Before he knew it, he was kissing her again, with such gentleness and passion, that Elizabeth felt her self becoming more aroused. They softly fell onto the bed, with Luis on top of Elizabeth and continued to kiss and touch each other. Luis began to kiss on her neck, which resulted in a gasp of pleasure escaping Elizabeth's lips, as her hands ran through Luis's dark hair.
Luis broke their kiss and looked into her sea blue eyes.
"Do you consent?" he asked, softly.
Elizabeth nodded her head.
Luis took himself and gently started to push inside of her, which made her cry out, but she didn't let go of him. When he was fully in, he started to gently thrust in and out of her. He began to moan loudly, since he was also losing his virginity and the pleasure was overwhelming. After a few minutes, Elizabeth's pain turned to pleasure and she began to moan in rhythm, as Luis pumped faster. She grabbed his back and buttocks, urging him not to stop.
Suddenly, Elizabeth heard herself and Luis scream at the same time, as they both reached their climax.
Slowly, Luis pulled out of her laid on his back. He put his arm around Elizabeth she laid her head on his chest. She could hear his heart pounding, just like hers was.
He looked down at her.
"Are you alright?" he asked, softly.
Elizabeth nodded.
"Yes."
Luis smiled and kissed her forehead.
"Good. Now sleep. I promise you no harm will come to you, as long as I am here." he said.
Elizabeth smiled and drifted off into her first peaceful slumber, since her arrival in Spain. She was now officially the Princess of Asturias and the future Queen of Spain. God had led her to her destiny.
A/N Another chapter is finally up! I am sorry for the long wait, but wedding plans are now almost done. Plus I know you all love longer chapters. I was so excited finally writing Elizabeth's wedding. I hope you all didn't mind the intimate scene. I tried not to be too graphic. Now, more questions for the foreseeable future of the story. Should Queen Maria of Portugal have anymore children? What should happen with Princess Isabella, Dowager Queen of Portugal? If Elizabeth and Luis succeed in having children, how many should they have and when will the first birth take place? Hope to get many ideas for those. The next chapter will be a time jump to either late Spring or early Summer of 1550. I will have the next chapter up soon. Please Read and Review! Chapter 13 is coming very shortly!