Chapter 48
Chapter 48 has arrived and the story continues. I hope you all enjoy it, since we have forty-six years to go before the end of the story. Also, I'm gonna take a bite soon on if we should continue this series with a part three going into the beginning of the 1600s. Let me know what you all think. Anyway, many characters will appear throughout the chapter, so enjoy Chapter 48. Don't forget to Read and Review!
1 January 1557
Sicily
It was bound to be a grand affair. The servants had been preparing food for the party all day, and the staff had every inch of the manor house sparkling from their cleaning. Lorenzo and Eleanor, Duke and Duchess of Sicily, had invited everyone in Italy who was of any importance to attend their New Year's Day festivities, with replies coming in from all over of guests who would be in attendance. The weather was even warm enough for outdoor entertainment to have been planned, and Eleanor had managed to entice two of Italy's most famous poets to give recitations for their guests under the stars.
Lady Eleanor was over seeing the food that was lining the walls of the banquet hall for the guests to nibble on before dinner was served when she felt a strange feeling in her stomach. She rushed outside through the patio doors and heaved into the bushes that surrounded the garden paths. One of her ladies followed, escorting her to her rooms when she felt well enough to move. Her action had not gone unnoticed, nor had the fact that she was not eating over the course of the past several weeks. Despite her protests, her husband was summoned to her chambers.
"Darling?" Lorenzo asked as he entered the room.
Eleanor shook her head. "It's nothing, Lorenzo. I must have eaten something for breakfast that didn't agree with me."
"I think it's more than that. You've worried me with how little you've been eating these past few weeks," he told her. "I've sent for the physician. I want you well enough to be by my side this evening."
Eleanor sighed. She didn't want to trouble him, especially today.
"None of that," he said. "Just see the doctor."
She closed her eyes and laid her head back on her settee. A few moments later, the doctor arrived and examined her, feeling her head and taking her pulse. He asked her to lie back on the sofa, pressing into her stomach softly. The man then stood up and smiled.
"My lord, my lady, there is nothing to be overly concerned with," he told them together.
"It's just something I ate, right doctor?" Eleanor asked, sitting up.
"No, my lady, it's a bit more serious than that," he said. "You will want to confer with a midwife, of course, but if my suspicions are correct, you will be brought to childbed around June."
Eleanor looked at the man, wide-eyed, halfway in shock. Lorenzo just stared at the doctor, speechless.
"A child? Are you sure?" he asked the doctor.
"Of the timing, not entirely," the physician admitted. "Of the condition, absolutely. I'll see myself out."
Lorenzo looked at his wife as the doctor closed the doors to his wife's chambers.
"Lorenzo," she said when she was able to speak, "I didn't. . . I mean. . ."
He shook his head, still not believing what he had just heard. He was fifty-four years old. His children were grown and married with families of their own now, except for Melanie who was in school in France completing her final year of musical training.
"No darling," he rushed to Eleanor's feet, taking her hand in his. "I didn't think it was possible either."
"Are you. . ." she couldn't get the words to her question out, but he knew what she was thinking in this instance.
"No, I'm thrilled, love," he told her quickly. "I'm just surprised, is all."
She nodded.
"Well, we wanted a party that everyone would remember," he said. "We're going to get just that, especially when we announce that an old man is expecting a baby with his new, young, intelligent and beautiful wife."
She giggled. Yes, that is definitely something that no one would forget. This would be a night they would both remember for the rest of their lives; that was certain.
5 January 1557
Hampton Court, England
The Royal Chapel
Infanta Liliana was walking to the Royal Chapel. She was still wearing black for the mourning of Queen Anne England, up who had died nearly two months prior. Liliana had grown close to the late Queen and was going to light a candle and pray for her soul.
As she got closer to the chapel doors, she could a hear a man's voice that sounded like the owner of the voice was in tears. She knew that the man was King Henry. She didn't want to to interrupt his prayers, so she waited.
King Henry continues to speak:
"Lord, why? Why did you take my Queen from me? Don't you realize how much we need her? My Kingdom, my children and myself have only suffered from her absence. I can't she'd anymore tears. You should have taken me instead. Anne was a gentle soul. Why did she not have a long life?" he asked.
After a few moments of silence, Liliana decided to step forward and light her candle and pray God Queen Anne's soul.
King Harry looked behind him and smiled at the twenty-three year old Spanish Princess.
"You can come in, Liliana. You don't have to be afraid to share a chapel with me. Thank you for honoring Queen Anne." he said.
Liliana smiled.
"Thank you, Your Majesty. I admired the late Queen. She deserves honor. I hope that you eventually will heal." she said.
King Henry sighed.
"The Queen's death has pierced my heart. I wish people knew my pain." he said.
Liliana stepped forward.
"I do. It seems like every man I am to marry dies before our wedding. I was engaged to a Duke in Spain, but he was murdered by the French in the war." she said sadly.
Harry looked at her, in shock.
"I'm sorry, Liliana. I hate that you lost someone you loved." he said.
Liliana smiled sadly.
"I was more in love of the thought of finally having a family, Your Majesty. My siblings all married and had children. I am the only one who hasn't been blessed that way and I sometimes fear that it won't happen for me." she said.
Harry shook his head.
"It will. You will find your Prince." he said.
Liliana smiled.
"Your Majesty, why don't you visit Ludlow Castle? Prince William's Court is there and I have heard it's lovely. Maybe being around your eldest son will ease your heartache." she said.
Harry nodded.
"I think I shall do that. Thank you, Liliana." he said.
She bowed to Harry.
"Your welcome, Your Majesty." she said.
9 January 1557
Austria
Ferdinand sat at his desk trying to read the scriptures, but it was of little use. His mind kept wandering to his wife, Anna, who went into labor with their first child together earlier that morning. It was the Archduchess' first child, despite their ages, as she had lost her betrothed at a young age and was genuinely in love with the man she was to marry. Ferdinand, Archduke of Austria, was no stranger to love lost, as his first wife had died several years ago, and he had loved her greatly. His biggest comfort before he met Anna, a Princess of Denmark and Norway, had been his children, especially his youngest, the little Archduchess, Joanna. Now he was feeling the worry of losing another wife that he also loved to childbirth.
His son and heir, the Archduke Ferdinand, who was called Andy to avoid confusion, walked into the room and watch his father carefully. He was a father himself, and it amazed him how the older man could sit there and read while his wife was in labor. Perhaps it got easier with each passing child, but he doubted it.
"Father," Andy said, announcing his presence in the room.
The older man looked up and smiled. "Come in, my boy," he replied, motioning to one of the armchairs that sat in front of his desk. Andy sat down and crossed his legs. Moments later, he spoke, "How can you just sit there while my lady step-mother is in labor?"
Ferdinand chuckled. "In all honesty, I can't," he told his son. I've been reading the same chapter in the Bible for the past three hours, I think," he admitted. "I shouldn't be this nervous. I am not a first-time father. However, the loss of your late mother left a hole in my heart and soul that still isn't completely repaired, and if I was to be completely honest with myself and you, I am terrified of losing Anna to childbirth."
Andy just nodded but was somewhat shocked. This was the first time he'd ever heard his father admit to being scared of something. "Would you like me to fetch the other children? Perhaps their antics would amuse you and help pass the time," Andy suggested.
"No," Ferdinand said. "Although I adore you children, right now is not the time for anything that could cause more frustration on my part. I need to remain calm in case the worst happens."
"Would you like to go pray in the chapel then, Father?" Andy replied. "Perhaps talking with God would help calm you?"
Ferdinand thought for a moment, the smiled. "That would be good for my soul if not my spirit," the older man said. "Shall we?" He stood, waiting for his eldest son to rise also.
Just as Andy stood, there was a knock at the door. "Enter," Ferdinand called. One of Anna's ladies in waiting walked to the room. There was blood on her apron, but she was smiling. Ferdinand waited for her to speak, but she said nothing. Finally, his lack of patience got the better of him. "Well?" he asked.
"Congratulations, your Grace," the woman said. "You have a healthy son. He is to be called Rupert."
Ferdinand looked at Andy, who was beaming from ear to ear. "I have a new little brother," Andy said, hugging his father.
"So, it seems," he acknowledged, then turned back to the woman. "And my wife? How is she?"
"My lady is doing well, your Grace," the woman said. "She struggled a bit, but no more so than any first-time mother. She should be fully recovered by the time she is churched."
"This is wonderful news," Ferdinand said. "Please return to my wife and tell her I will be there in a few moments." Andy looked at his father in surprise. He'd thought the Archduke would rush to his wife's side. "Not to worry son," Ferdinand reassured him. "After each of you were born, and my grandchildren as well, I have always went to the chapel to say a prayer of thanks for the gift of a new life in our family, as well as to pray for the safety and survival of both mother and child. You run ahead and meet your brother. I will be there shortly."
Andy just nodded and walked out of the room. His father was devoted to God in nearly every aspect of his life and reign. It was not surprising once he had heard the reason for his father's delay. As he left, he noticed his father smiling still and realized just how much the older man loved his family. It was clear on his father's face, and with that, Andy understood how unique his family really was with a man who was truly devoted to them at the helm.
27 January 1557
Ludlow Castle, Welsh Marches
Wales
King Henry, still clad in black, was riding in his carriage. In the two months since Queen Anne's death, he had been in seclusion and had not received any visitors. However, his cousin, Infanta Liliana, had suggested that he visit the more livelier Court of his eldest son, William, Prince of Wales. Reluctantly, Harry agreed. The forty-two year old King looked at the Palace that used to be his home. His father had sent him to this very palace when he was just six years old and he was educated here, away from his three sisters and his mother. He was too precious, because he was the only legitimate son if his parents.
"We are approaching the Palace now, your Majesty." the driver said.
Harry looked outside and saw his son's household all standing outside. They were all dressed in black, since the mourning period for Queen Anne was still mandatory and they all stood out in the light winter snowfall.
As the carriage came to a stop, King Henry's was opened and King Henry stepped out and came face to face with his eldest child.
Prince William bowed low.
"Your Majesty, Welcome to Ludlow. We are honored by your presence." he said.
Harry smiled at his eldest son and hugged him.
"Thank you, my son." he said.
After greeting, King Henry and Prince William walked into the palace. King Henry looked around the palace and was filled with such memories. He was starting to get angry. He was imagining when William was taken from his mother's arms when he was just a baby. He could remember Anne crying for a week.
William looked at his father.
"Father, are you alright?" he asked.
Harry face glared and walked into his Bedchamber. William followed him.
"Father, why are you angry?" he asked.
Harry looked at his son.
"It was my fault. I shouldn't have let my Father take you from your mother and i." he said.
William sighed.
"Father don't worry, it wasn't that bad." he said.
Harry turned towards his son.
"HE HAD NO DAMN RIGHT! DO YOU KNOW THE PAIN HE BROUGHT UPON YOUR MOTHER?! SHE WAS A SEVENTEEN YEAR OLD FOREIGN PRINCESS AND HAD HER ONLY FLESH AND BLOOD RIPPED FROM HER ARMS! he screamed.
William had never seen his father this distraught and rushed to close the door. He was still in shocked.
Harry looked at William, with tears in his eyes.
"I let your mother down." he said, as he broke down in tears.
William hugged his father. He said no words, since he knew that it wouldn't matter, since he also had tears falling down his face.
3 February 1557
Greenwich Palace, England
The Royal Stables
The winter day was silent with very little wind, except for twenty-five year old Prince William. The eldest Royal Child had been riding his favorite horse, Nellie, most of the afternoon. He loved he couldn't get over how nice it felt outside today. He hadn't felt this since his poor mother's death just nearly three months ago.
William jumped on off his horse and led her into the stable. He had snuck out and decided to ride out, so there were no servant boys outside.
Suddenly, he saw someone he had been thinking about for awhile now. He was so excited to see this person. It was Lady Elizabeth Fitzroy. Ever since their sexual encounter, he couldn't get her out his mind. He had business to attend to in Wales, so he was gone for a bit.
He walked up to her and grabbed her and began to passionately kiss her.
Suddenly, Lady Elizabeth pulled away from him and glared at him.
"You're Highness, what is the meaning of this?" she asked.
William looked at her, confused.
"I thought you would have been happy to see me, Elizabeth. Especially after...that night." he said.
Lady Elizabeth turned away.
"What happened was a mistake and it shouldn't have happened. Now, I have lost my virtue and whoever I marry know I am no maiden." she said.
William frowned.
"I don't regret our time together." he said.
Elizabeth sighed.
"I do. We can never do that again. It was a terrible mistake." she said, as she walked away towards the castle.
William looked at Lady Elizabeth, as she walked away. He was filled with so many emotions. He cared for Lady Elizabeth. How could she refuse him? He was the Prince of Wales!
Suddenly, he saw a bale of hay. He drew his sword and walked over to it.
"Ahhhhhh!" William yelled, as he destroyed the hay bales.
18 February 1558
England
Lady Katherine Grey wasn't your typical bride. She was a sixteen-year-old noble woman, connected to the royal family of England by blood, the daughter of an executed traitor, and she was marrying a man who she loved, instead of one that someone else chose for her. She was being given one of the finest manors in London as a gift from the King of England, as an apology for his not attending her wedding personally due to the mourning period for his late wife, Queen Anne. Her uncle, Charles Brandon, Duke of Suffolk, was attending in the King's place and as his representative.
Although she had been granted permission to have her wedding as she had planned, the King requested that she move it to a different venue, as it had been scheduled for the Royal Chapel at Whitehall. She had spoke to her mother about the King's request, and Lady Catherine Stokes had decided to move it to the church near her childhood home of Westhorpe Hall. It was large enough for the intimate gathering that had been planned and would do nicely. Although the King was still in mourning and regretted not being able to attend, he promised to hold a reception for the young couple that summer at court. That satisfied the bride-groom's parents on the matter, especially since their son, Lord Robert Dudley, was marrying slightly above his station, even if his chosen wife was the daughter of a traitor in the eyes of the nation.
Katherine stood in one of the side rooms of the church, making ready for her debut in the chapel. She was a nervous wreck, like most brides, but unlike most brides, it wasn't the wedding night or her duties to Robert as his wife that worried her; it was the fact that she would walk down the aisle of the church alone. Even if Henry Grey had been a traitor, even if he had attempted to murder a Prince of England, he was still her father and today, he wouldn't be here to give her away. Her mother had tried to pressure her into allowing her stepfather to fill that role, but Katherine did not want the roll merely filled. She smoothed her dress again in the mirror as she thought about her father not being there with her. She was just about to cry when her mother walked into the room, telling her it was time. Katherine nodded and the older woman left, then Katherine picked up her flowers and walked out the door herself.
She nodded at the two choir boys who stood guard at the chapel doors. They obliged by swinging the doors open and revealing Katherine standing there to her guests and others in the room. Her dress was a pale blue, which was her favorite color, and it was trimmed in silver, showing her position as an extended, blood member of the royal family. She wore a small circular diadem in her hair that had been her mother's on the day she married Katherine's father. It was accompanied by a silver veil that hung down her back and over her face. She was also wearing something that many people in the chapel would not understand the meaning of, but those who knew the Tudor family knew what it was. Katherine was wearing the pearls of the late Mary Tudor, Dowager Queen of France and Duchess of Suffolk. They had been given to Katherine's mother after Mary's death, and Catherine had held on to them for this very day, when her second daughter and namesake would marry.
Katherine's worries were gone from the moment those doors opened and she saw Robert waiting for her at the end of the aisle by the altar. All she had to do was focus on his face and everything was right in the world. She walked down the aisle with confidence, her head held high, and when she reached her groom, he held out his hand to her and helped her onto the dais of the church. They knelt before the priest, and the ceremony began. The couple said their vows, and Robert presented her with not one, but two rings; one was her wedding ring, but the other was a ring bearing the Dudley family's coat of arms. After, the priest announced them as Lord and Lady Dudley, they kissed and walked down the aisle together as husband and wife.
14 March 1557
Greenwich Palace, England
The Royal Council Room
King Henry was sitting in his council meeting, listening to everything his council members had to say. The issues were mainly tax costs, the costs of grain, petitions etc. After being King of England for ten whole years now, he was used to everything. Unlike his late father, he actually took the time to hear all the issues and come to the best solution
Suddenly, Charles Brandon, 2nd Duke of Suffolk and a cousin of the King, spoke up.
"Your Majesty, we have covered most of the issues, but there is something we would like to to discuss with you." he said, carefully.
King Harry looked at his cousin.
"I am listening." he said.
Suddenly, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Reginald Pole, spoke up.
"Your Majesty, we all know that it has been less then six months since the unfortunate death of our beloved Queen Anne. However, many are starting to think that maybe it is time that maybe it is time to make an alliance." he said.
Harry stared at the Archbishop.
"What exactly are you trying to say, Your Eminence?" he asked.
Reginald Pole sighed.
"We think that England needs a new Queen." he said.
Suddenly, Harry stood up, in anger.
"The Queen has been dead four months and you want someone else to have the title that's is rightfully hers?!" he yelled.
Reginald Pole looked at the forty-two year old King.
"Many Kings remarry, Your Majesty. You also have a young daughter who needs a mother figure." he said.
Harry turned red.
"I WILL DECIDE WHAT'S BEST FOR MY FAMILY AND ENGLAND! WHO THE HELL DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?! I HAVE DONE MY DUTY TO ENGLAND! THE LATE QUEEN GAVE BIRTH TO THREE SONS AND THREE DAUGHTERS! ENGLAND IS MORE THAN SECURE! I HAVE NO REASON OR DESIRE TO HAVE ANOTHER QUEEN AND IF I EVER DECIDE TO, IT WILL BE MY DECISION AND NOT YOURS! YOU SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF YOURSELF! WORRY ABOUT THE SALVATION OF THE SOULS OF ENGLAND AND NOT IF I HAVE A WIFE TO WARM MY EMPTY BED!" he said, as he turned red and took deep breaths.
The entire Council Room was looking at their Queen. It was in this moment, that they knew this was truly the son of King Henry VIII.
Harry sat back down.
"All of you, please leave my sight. You're dismissed." he said.
All of the men left the room except one: Prince Edmund Tudor, the Duke of Somerset.
King Harry looked at his fifty-nine year old uncle.
"Uncle, she hasn't been gone that long. How can he suggest something that cruel. Everyone knows how much I love Anne." he said.
Edmund smiled.
"I know how you feel, my darling nephew. However, you must realize that if you do remarry, you are not being disloyal to Queen Anne. She will always be your wife and Queen, but she is in Heaven. I know how you feel. I lost my lovely Anne nineteen years ago, but I still love my Catherine. I understand your frustration and outburst, but do not hate people for suggesting something that you do not like or agree with. You are a loved and respected King. Do not make this a new habit of yours." he said, as he bowed and left the room.
Harry sighed. He knew that his uncle was correct and that he should have handled this situation better.
2 May 1557
Imereti
King Bagrat III of Imereti sat in his study with his son, George, the Crown Prince, anxiously awaiting news from the court physician concerning his daughter-in-law, Princess Aimee, and their child. The King new that it was not uncommon for babies to arrive earlier than their expected due date, but he also knew that there were dangers associated with childbirth, regardless of when the child arrived. George's first wife, Maria, had developed a condition during her second pregnancy that took both her life and the child's. This was Aimee's first baby and the pregnancy showed no signs of distress, but the worry existed all the same. His own wife, the late Queen Elene, George's mother, had also died several years ago from complications while having their eighth child, and the court still greatly missed their Queen, as did the King.
Prince George was also nervous about the outcome of this pregnancy. His daughter with Maria who survived, Princess Maria, had become quite close with her stepmother, Princess Aimee, and he did not want her to experience another loss of a mother in her life. He also had grown quite fond of Aimee in the short time they had together so far. He saw her as being a solid, level-headed, kind person with a lot of joy to add to the world, and to his family. He could easily see her becoming a wonderful Queen for his people. He did not want to lose her or their child.
Minutes turned to hours as the two men waited for news of the Princess and the baby. Late into the evening, they finally got news, but it was not what they had hoped for. Prince George left his father's study and went to the chambers where his wife had labored for so long. He knocked on the door softly, and after being permitted to enter, he walked slowly over to the bed that had been freshly cleaned.
Princess Aimee was laying on her pillows on the bed. She was laying next to a baby swaddled in several blankets. Aimee was turned on her side and had one hand on the babe. Tears were rolling down her face. George knelt down beside the bed and touched his wife's hand gently. She looked up at her husband.
"She's so perfect George," Aimee said through her tears. "She would have been beautiful had God not called her back to his side."
George just nodded, looking at the face of his lifeless daughter. She had Aimee's nose and lips, but he also saw himself in the infant's features. She had his ears and cheekbones. He lifted the body of his daughter from the bed and held her.
"She never took a breath," Aimee told him. "It was like she was here, but she wasn't."
"It happens sometimes, sweetheart," George replied, gently. "We are powerless to stop it, much less to understand it, but it's God's will that some children do not stay here long."
"I'm so sorry," Aimee said to him.
"Sorry?" he questioned. "Darling, you have nothing to be sorry for. This was God's decision, not yours. I dare say that had it been yours this precious little one would be cooing for us right now. You've done nothing wrong, my dear." He handed the baby back to her mother and took his wife's hand in his, kissing it.
Aimee just held her child and cried as George moved to sit beside her on the bed. Later into the evening, the priests came to her room and prayed for her recovery, as well as for the soul of their infant daughter who would never know life. They would bury her in the catacombs under the palace, as they had so many royal children who did not survive, and there she would be surrounded by the remains of her ancestors, and all those who came before her, while she slept in eternal peace.
8 May 1557
Portugal
"Push m'lady," the midwife said. "That's it."
Princess Catarina, Duchess of Franco, lay in her rooms at the palace in Portugal, giving birth to her second child. Her eldest, a son who they named Sebastian was two. She hoped that the baby was a girl. Catarina longed for a daughter, but she also hoped the baby was healthy.
Seven months ago, she and her husband, Prince Juan of Spain, Duke of Franco, had travelled to Portugal so her parents could meet their son. They had planned to stay a month and then return home, but as events would have it, she discovered she was pregnant when severe morning sickness had delayed their return. Due to the severity of the sickness, they decided to stay in Portugal until the baby was born so Catarina would be more comfortable. Catarina was happy that this child would be born here, in the home of her parents, but even more so that her mother was with her during the birth.
"You're doing so well, Catarina," Queen Mary said, wiping sweat from her daughter's face. "I'm so proud of you."
Catarina looked at her mother with grateful eyes. It was a comfort to have her with her, despite the fact that it was unusual for a Queen to attend a birth, even when the mother was her own daughter. Queen Mary was a different type of Queen though, as Portugal had come to know over the past several years, since her husband had succeeded to the throne.
Her sister, Joanna, was also in the room. Joanna was betrothed to the Dauphin of France and would soon leave Portugal for French Court. She would one day be Queen of France, and their mother decided that Joanna should witness childbirth, so she knew what to expect when her own children started coming. Catarina looked at her sister, who seemed to be nervous and scared. "It's okay, Joanna," Catarina tried to reassure her. "This is totally normal for childbirth."
Joanna just nodded, but Mary knew that Joanna, despite being nearly fourteen, had not yet had her first courses. Mary knew that she would have to tell her husband this soon. It would probably mean the end of the Portuguese-French alliance and her daughter's prospects of ever marrying, but the French King, Henri II, had to be told of the situation, if it did not change between now and the time that the formal betrothal was to take place.
Catarina looked at her mother, then started feeling another contraction. She pushed again. "I see the baby's head, your highness," the midwife told them. Mary smiled at her eldest daughter. It was almost over and soon there would be another life in the world. Catarina wondered if her mother ever dreamed that she would be doing this when she was a Princess, growing up in England. Then she wondered if she would be doing this twenty years from now with her own daughter but being a Duchess by marriage would allow her more freedom than her mother had as Queen. "Give me a small push now and the baby will be here," the midwife said.
Catarina did as she was told. Her efforts were well rewarded when the loud, piercing cries of a newborn baby were heard throughout the room. The midwife cut the cord and then handed the baby to one of her aides, who went to clean the child. Catarina laid back, breathing heavily, listening to the cries of her child. "What is it?" she asked the midwife when she had caught her breath.
"Your highness is delivered of a healthy baby girl," she responded.
Catarina smiled from ear to ear. She had her daughter, at last, and she was healthy. Catarina crossed herself and silently thanked God for her baby girl. The midwife's aide came over to her bedside and placed the bundle in Catarina's arms.
Queen Mary leaned over the bed and looked at her first granddaughter with pride. "She's beautiful Catarina," Mary said. "She looks just like you did when you were born."
"Don't tell Juan this, but I am glad she's a girl. I asked for a healthy baby, but also told God that I would like a daughter, if it was in His divine will for me to have one," Catarina confided in her mother.
"Well, apparently it was," Mary answered. She turned to Joanna who was standing next to one corner of the bed. "Come, sweetheart, meet your niece."
Joanna timidly walked over to where her sister lay in the bed. She had seen other babies before, but she had to admit that her niece was beautiful. She was shocked when Catarina put the baby into her arms. The little girl weighed nearly nothing. Joanna handed her back to her mother quickly and ran from the room. Catarina just looked at her own mother with confusion. Queen Mary shook her head.
"Do not worry," Mary told her daughter. "Joanna hasn't bled yet, but her formal betrothal to the Dauphin is upon us later this summer. If she hasn't bled by then, King Henri will have to be told, and it scares her that he will react poorly to the news."
"Oh, I see," Catarina responded. "Poor Joanna." She looked at the doorway that her sister had ran out. She made a note to talk to Joanna once she had been churched. Perhaps she could reassure her sister that it would all work out according to whatever plan God had for her. For now though, the midwife's aides had set about cleaning her room from the birth, and Catarina had a hungry baby waiting for her first meal.
21 May 1557
Dudley Manor, London
Lady Katherine Grey-Dudley's Bedchamber
Lady Katherine was busy admiring her new Bedchamber. Her and Robert's new home was magnificent. She could hardly believe that she was not even seventeen years old and was already the Lady in her own home. She enjoyed her role. She also loved being married to Robert. She especially loved their...nights together. Since being married three months ago, Robert had bedded her every night and she enjoyed every time.
Suddenly, a middle aged woman, who's name was Lady Bridges, walked up to Katherine. She was Robert's former governess and she adored him and was already find of his young wife.
"My Lady, the garden looks lovely. I am so happy we finally have a Lady here who can can actually tend to it." she said.
Katherine smiled.
"Everything is lovely. I can't imagine what else can be perfect." she said.
Lady Bridges smiled.
"Oh I can. When you and Lord Robert fill this home with little pittering feet, I'll be immensely happy." she said.
Katherine smiled but suddenly felt dizzy and held on to a chair. Lady Bridges touched her arm , in concern.
"My Lady, are you alright? " she said.
Katherine nodded her head.
"Yes, however I must confide something to you." she said.
Lady Bridges nodded her head.
"Of course, My Lady." she said.
Katherine sighed.
"I believe I am with child. I haven't hag my monthly bleeding and I am constantly dizzy." she said.
Lady Bridges smiled.
"My Lady, this is wonderful news. I'll summon a midwife for you." she said.
Katherine nodded her head.
Several hours later...
Katherine was sitting at her dining table. She was wearing a light green dress and a simple silver necklace and she was happy. She couldn't wait until Robert came home.
Suddenly, the doors opened and Robert walked in and kissed his young wife.
"I'm sorry I am late. I didn't know my journey from Court would be so long. " he said, as he sat down to dinner.
Katherine sighed.
"It's perfectly alright. I understand how Court is." she said.
Robert smiled.
"King Henry is really more demanding now. I may have to return to Court soon. I will have to bring you with me. I can't bear to be without you. I know since Queen Anne died that you don't have a role at Court..."
Suddenly Katherine spoke up.
"Robert, I am with child." she said.
Robert stopped talking and looked at his wife. He couldn't believe what he heard.
"Sweetheart, we've only been married three months. I can't believe it. We're going to be parents?" he asked
Katherine nodded and gave her husband a small smile.
Robert laughed out loud and stood up and hugged his wife. He Was only twenty-five years old and was finally going to have his own family with his beloved Katherine.
8 June 1557
Scotland
"I think it would be a good idea if we sent our ambassador to England to finalize the details of Mary's marriage to the Prince of Wales," Prince Arthur said to his mother, the Dowager Queen of Scotland and regent for their young queen. "England has dragged its feet concerning these plans long enough."
"I agree," Prince Victor chimed in. "It's high time they paid attention to the matter."
Dowager Queen Margaret looked at both of her sons. She knew that her beloved granddaughter was to be married the following year. She was also well aware that Mary's formal betrothal had yet to be announced by either nation. She couldn't help but wonder what her nephew, King Henry IX of England, was waiting for, as it should have been formally announced years ago per the original betrothal contract.
Her eyes moved from the princes to her granddaughter, who was sitting at the other end of the council table. Mary was nervous. That was obvious. She always got that way when they discussed her marriage to William, Prince of Wales. Margaret had no control over the women that her son, the late King James V, had married. His first wife was weak but had provided him a healthy son who had died years later. Mary's mother, Marie de Guise, was a strong woman who had to learn her place as queen the hard way. Margaret saw the woman as unfit to lead the Scottish people from the beginning, but she had provided Scotland with two sons before Mary was born. Unfortunately, both boys had died very young, leaving only Mary to succeed her father, and King James had not been the type to dwell on the future, so his will remained unchanged from the first time he was married. At the council's urging, Margaret became regent for the young queen instead of her mother, but Margaret had never had to deal with a nervous bride as a ruler before, even if Mary was still underage to lead the nation on her own.
Margaret thought about the situation for a few moments, then spoke. "Send the ambassador to England with the proposal that Queen Mary and Prince William wed on the twenty-first of June 1558 in England, then they return to Scotland for a period of four weeks, where a ceremony and reception will be repeated here for the couple," the older woman dictated to her clerk. "Include a joint announcement of their betrothal formally at each court during the Christmastide celebrations this year. Let's see if my nephew will commit to that at least."
With that, the council adjourned, leaving only Margaret, Mary, and Arthur in the room. Arthur clearly wanted to say something to his mother but held his tongue while his niece was present. "It's okay Arthur," Margaret said. "Although we are in charge, this is Mary's life we are discussing. She has the right to be here, and I do take her opinions into consideration, even if it is only to explain why something will happen regardless."
Arthur nodded. "Our young queen seems uncertain about the match with the Prince of Wales. It is obvious in her mannerisms," he said. "Is this going to be a problem?" He asked his mother.
Margaret looked at her son and smiled. "Why don't you ask your Queen that question? I think you will be pleasantly surprised."
Arthur bowed to Mary and waited to be acknowledged, testing how much she actually knew about court protocol.
Mary nodded to her uncle, "Prince Arthur."
"Your Majesty," he began, standing upright once more, "Is your marriage to the Prince of Wales going to be a problem?"
Mary took a deep breath. She knew how to handle this. "No, my Lord Prince," she said with a firm voice that was unwavering. "I am Mary, Queen of Scots. I have a duty to my people. My marriage to the Prince of Wales was carefully arranged when I was but a babe, and it will stand in accordance to the wishes of my regent and this council," she replied. She then softened her demeanor. "Between us, though uncle, I am nervous about the wedding as I have not yet met my future husband. I know he will respect me, but I do hope he likes me, at least a little."
Arthur chuckled softly. "Niece, he will grow to love you with time, of that I have no doubt. You are the kindest, most honorable Queen in all of Europe." He approached her and took her hand, kissing it softly.
"I hope so," Mary said. "You have nothing to worry about as far as my part in the marriage ceremony is concerned. I know my duty and I plan to honor that."
"Fair enough," Prince Arthur said. He bowed to both ladies and left the room.
Margaret walked to the door of the council chambers, then turned to her granddaughter. "Come," she commanded, "it's time for your history lesson."
Mary sighed. "Please let him like me," she whispered under her breath, then followed her grandmother to her schoolroom.
21 June 1557
Caccamo Castle
Caccamo, Sicily, Italy
Duke Lorenzo was pacing back and forth. He didn't know why he was nervous. His late wife, Princess Christina of England, had given birth five times and three of their children had survived. His new wife, Archduchess Eleanor of Austria, was twenty-three and was delivering their first child and had been in labor for about thirteen hours, but no one seemed concerned. He was in his early fifties now and didn't expect to be fathering another child. After he lost his beloved Christina six years ago, he had to rethink o years ago, he arranged his marriage to one of the nieces of the Holy Roman Emperor. This marriage was significant because it wasn't just because he wanted a young beautiful wife, but he wanted an ally, since King Alfonso of Naples had been wanting to invade and reconquer Sicily. Lorenzo's marriage to Eleanor was secure. It was a political match, but he also grew fond of his young wife. When she told him that she was expecting his child, he was overjoyed. He knew that Eleanor wanted her own child and he was happy that he was still virile to make her dream come true.
Suddenly, The door opened. It was the midwife.
Lorenzo stood still.
"Mio Signore, I am just giving you the hourly update you wanted. The Duchess is progressing and she is currently starting to push. The child will be here shortly." she said, before closing the door.
Lorenzo was going to inquire more, but he knew this was a woman's matter and he should stay in his place.
Suddenly, his two older children, Lady Bianca, Duchess of Mantua and Pietro,his son and heir, walked up.
Bianca kissed her father.
"How's our stepmother, Father?" she asked.
Lorenzo sighed.
"She's pushing. The child will be here soon." he said.
Bianca nodded.
"The first child always takes some time. Don't worry. She will get through it, Father." she said.
Suddenly, they all heard a loud, ear-piercing scream come from the bedroom. An infant's cry was heard several seconds later.
Lorenzo was anxious and was hoping to know what was going on. He knew very well the complications of childbirth, since his first wife nearly died giving birth to Bianca and they had two stillborn daughters as well.
Finally, the door opened and the midwife came out, holding a white bundle, which had finally quieted down.
"Mio Signore, the Duchess has delivered a healthy baby girl. Everything went well and the Duchess will recover." she said, s she handed the newborn to her father.
Lorenzo smiled at his newborn daughter. She was a beautiful child with very light brown hair. Her eyes were closed, since the child was almost certainly exhausted from her journey into the world.
The midwife spoke again.
"The Duchess has also asked if the name you and her decided on still being used." she asked.
Lorenzo smiled and nodded.
"Yes,it is. Our daughter will be Lady Gianna of Sicily." he announced.
24 June 1557
France
The ballroom of the French palace was decorated with splendor in honor of the first birthday of their youngest princesses, the twins, Victoria and Joan. Born the prior summer, the youngest members of the royal family were already the light of the court and a great credit to both of their parents. Both girls were already speaking in complete sentences, not just the typically baby talk that most children their age were using. There was no doubt by anyone who knew them that they were intelligent, although it had been mentioned before that with their intelligence it was a shame that they were not sons. However, not one guest had said any such thing this night. It would have been impolite, even by the strongest supporters of male primogeniture.
The children who were guests of the court had been served their dinner separately from the adults as custom demanded. Now, the younger members of the most dignified families in France were engaged in running around the ballroom, chasing one another while the twin princesses were opening their gifts. The Queen of France, Catherine de Medici, was so enthralled with her daughters that she barely noticed the other guests. She had a reputation for being harsh, especially to those she did not like, but no one could say that their Queen was not a good mother. She most definitely was, and she surely loved each and every one of her children, though admittedly, her eldest son, Francis, was her most treasured.
It came as quite a surprise to many of the French nobles when the Queen did not object to their Prince being betrothed to Princess Joanna of Portugal. Many wondered why she was not lobbying for her son to marry one of the Italian Princesses, as she had in the past, but some had simply forgotten the matter, preferring to think that the girl was a princess by blood and that had satisfied Queen Catherine for the moment. The Queen, however, did have other plans and was secretly in negotiations with King Alfonso of Naples regardless of what the King wanted. She would not have her eldest son married off to a descendant of Henry VIII of England. It was already too much that her daughter, Elisabeth, would marry into that line; she would not have her son also involved with that family.
Her thoughts were interrupted by a thunderous applause throughout the room, and Queen Catherine turned to her daughters to make sure they were safe before seeing what the commotion was about. Both of her girls were sitting in their governess' lap, each holding a wooden box that had been fashionably carved and encrusted with a variety of gemstones. The man kneeling before the princesses was the ambassador from Portugal. "A gift for her future sisters-in-law from her most elegant highness, the Princess Joanna of Portugal," the man said, before rising from his place on the floor.
Catherine walked towards him and clasped his hands. "Please send our most earnest thanks to our future daughter," Catherine told him. "My daughters will treasure them all their lives." The man bowed to Catherine, then turned and walked towards some of the other guests.
The second round of applause was interrupted by the doors of the ballroom opening and two large cakes were brought in. Each was frosted in white and held a single candle on top. After having the princesses blow out their candle, the guests were served and the party continued long into the night, even after the guests of honor were safely tucked into their beds by their mother, and each dreaming of the cake that had tasted so sweet.
1 July 1557
Hampton Court, England
Prince William of Wales' Bedchamber
William was pacing back and forth. He was waiting for Lady Elizabeth Fitzroy to come to his chamber. He had to tell her something very important and she was going to listen to him and not walk away.
Suddenly, there was a knock at his door and William walked over and opened the door.
It was Lady Elizabeth.
William smiled.
"Thank you for coming." he said.
Lady Elizabeth walked in.
"I didn't have much of a choice. But I will be leaving Court very soon. My father believe it's time I found a husband. " she said.
William frowned.
"What will you tell your husband when there's no blood on the bedsheets?" he asked bitterly
Lady Elizabeth sighed.
"I am not sure, but I'd rather have difficulty explaining then to be your whore forever." she said.
William glared at her.
"You were never my whore. I love you, Elizabeth. I want to marry you." he said.
Lady Elizabeth sighed.
"I love you as well, William. However, I can't marry you. You know that you have to marry the Queen of Scotland. I will not be the reason that England and Scotland will not have peace. You are a Prince and you must marry her." she said.
William shook his head.
"My great-great grandfather, Edward IV, married his wife, who was a commoner. He loved her." he said.
Elizabeth sighed.
"Many opposed that marriage and everyone knows that. England didn't gain any allies from that marriage. Also, my father is a bastard and everyone knows that. I do not wish to be Queen." she said.
William caressed her face.
"Then you shall be the Queen of my heart " he said.
Suddenly, William kissed her and Elizabeth kissed him back ferociously. William picked Elizabeth and carried her to his bed and soon their clothes were thrown on the floor and William was vigorously making love to his beloved Lady. Elizabeth was moaning and almost screaming in rhythm and passion.
Suddenly, a man's voice screamed:
"WHAT IN THE NAME OF GOD ARE YOU DOING?!"
William looked up from his naked, sweaty lover and found himself face to face with his father, King Henry IX.
William grabbing his sheet and looked at his father, in fear.
"Father, what brings you here? I am sorry that you had to see this." he said.
King Harry looked at his twenty-five year old son, in disappointment.
"Your mother and I did not bring you up like this. You are a disgrace to your mother's name. " he said.
William looked at his father, with unshed years in his eyes.
The King glared at The couple and walked out of the room.
9 July 1557
Hampton Court, England
Infanta Liliana of Spain's Bedchamber
Liliana was in her private Chambers, writing a letter to her father, Charles V. She had been residing in England for over a year now and she was wondering what her next step was:
Dear Father,
I hope this letter finds you well and in good health. I am sorry to hear that Aunt Eleanor is feeling ill, but I pray she recovers. The reason with my letter is because I have been residing in England for over a year and I love it here, but I just want to know what my future will be. I know you have always valued my opinion, so I think it's time for me to return home to Spain. I have been very grateful for King Henry's hospitality, however the entire Court had been very much changed since the death of poor Queen Anne. I would love to return home to Spain and join a nunnery. I am starting to realize that marriage and a family are not meant for me. I'll be perfectly content serving our Lord. Please let me know what your intentions are for me, Father.
Your faithful and obedient daughter,
Liliana
Liliana had just sat her letter down after signing it, when one of her ladies-in-waiting walked in frantically.
"Alteza, the King is here. " she said.
Liliana stood up and nodded.
King Henry stormed in, visibly upset.
"Liliana, I am so sorry to disturb you, but you are the only person in this Court with any common sense." he said.
Liliana looked at her cousin, in confusion.
"What's wrong, Your Majesty?" she asked.
Harry sighed.
"I have caught William and Lady Elizabeth Fitzroy in bed together. I can't believe he would do something this stupid! This is not how his mother and I brought him up to be." he said.
Liliana signed.
"Forgive me , Your Majesty, but the Prince's actions have nothing to do with you or the late Queen. This is his son to answer for, not you. You are one of the most virtuous Kings of Christendom. If he decides to not follow your footsteps, that is his path. " she said.
Harry tried to calm down, since he knows that the young Spanish Princess was right. He and Anne raised a good family. William's mistakes were on him.
"Liliana, thank you. I was going to have a walk in the gardens with the children. Would you like to join us? " he asked.
Liliana smiled.
"Of course, however I do have to take care of something first." she said.
Harry nodded and smiled and walked out of the chamber.
Liliana turned back towards her desk and picked up the letter she had addressed to her father. She walked over to the fireplace and looked over the letter one last time. With a deep sigh, she tore up the letter and threw the pieces in the fire.
10 July 1557
England
Though the English court was officially out of mourning for it's late Queen, the King was another matter. It had taken some heavy persuasion from his council for things to move forward, including the meetings taking place for the arrangement of the Prince of Wales' upcoming marriage to the Queen of Scots, due to take place the following summer. It was his Uncle, Prince Edmund, who had finally convinced the King that his wife would not want him to mourn her forever. Queen Anne would have wanted her husband to return to his court and his people, continuing to lead them forward until God called him home.
King Henry IX finally agreed to hold a small investiture ceremony to mark the end of the mourning period for the nation. He wanted to recognize his bastard half-sister, Lady Rose Fitzroy, for all of the help she had been to him during the past months. Lady Rose had taken the reigns of what should have been Queen Anne's responsibilities during the mourning period for their beloved Queen. Without her and his Uncle, Prince Edmund, English court would have fallen apart completely. It did not help that the Prince of Wales had been found by his father in bed with his cousin, Lady Elizabeth, despite the fact that Anne had raised all of their children to respect their future spouses by not sleeping with anyone else. Apparently, the prince had a mind of his own when it came to the Queen of Scots.
Henry sat on his throne and nodded to the court herald. The man tapped his staff three times on the ground and announced, "Lord George Howard, come into court and be recognized by your King."
The double doors of the throne room opened, and the young man walked into the room with his head held high. Prince Edmund, Duke of Somerset, smiled proudly at his son-in-law. King Henry, or Harry as he was known to his immediate family, had asked what he wanted as a reward for all the help he had been to the crown. Prince Edmund was content with his life the way it was, so instead he asked that his son-in-law be titled in his own right and given the position of Ambassador to Scotland so that their plans for the wedding of the Scottish Queen to the Prince of Wales would not go badly. Harry agreed.
George approached the throne and kneeled before his King and cousin. King Henry rose and stood before the young man.
"Lords and Ladies of the realm, it is the King's pleasure by this patent to confer on the gentleman George Howard, in his own right and on his legitimate offspring, the noble title Earl of Kenilworth, including the income from the town of Kenilworth. He is also hereby charge with the Ambassadorship to Scotland, overseeing the arrival of the Queen of Scotland to our realm for her upcoming marriage to the Prince of Wales," the King's page read from the decree.
Harry stepped towards Howard, who was kneeling, and placed the crown of nobility on his head. The Knights of the Garter stepped forward and placed his cape around his shoulders, and then the King handed him his patent. George kissed Harry's ring.
"Lord Howard," King Harry said, motioning for the man to rise and face his peers, which he did without hesitation, and those who had gathered for the celebrations applauded.
George rose and stood to the side with his new peers. Harry looked at him, then nodded to the herald once more.
"Lady Rose Fitzroy come into court and be recognized by your King," the herald announced.
Again, the double doors opened, and the young woman entered the throne room. She and Harry had gone over this several times, as she did not want to be titled. Her plans were to enter the church and live her life in service to God, but Harry had other plans for his half-sister. She had lived away from court for far too long and knew no other life. He promised her that if she accepted this title and recognition that should she still desire to enter the church after two years, he would allow it, but he wanted her to know court-life first. She reluctantly agreed to the Barony that Henry offered, after insisting that she did not want to become a Duchess or Countess.
"Lords and Ladies of the realm, it is by the King's pleasure that Lady Rose Fitzroy is granted by this patent, the title of Baroness of Windsor in her own right, for services rendered the Crown during the troubled time of mourning for our beloved Queen Anne. It has been determined by our most gracious King that without her undying loyalty to King and country, the realm would have greatly suffered, and through her selfless devotion, the nation, as a whole, has remained steadfast," the page read.
Henry again stepped forward to where Rose had knelt, placing the crown of nobility on her head and the robes of her station around her shoulders. He handed his sister a rose in gratitude and kissed both of her cheeks, after bidding her to rise. He then took her hand in his and presented her to the court himself, announcing, "Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the Baroness of Windsor."
The court applauded again, though many in the room resented the idea of a bastard daughter of the late King Henry VIII being titled. Many still held their late Queen, Katherine of Aragon, as having been tormented by her husband's last mistress and Lady Rose was a product of that affair, despite her innocence when it came to her parents' actions. Harry wished that the status of a person's birth wouldn't affect their life, but in the world they lived in, it did. Hopefully, with his help in the future, his sister would make a strong match and could be happy, if not better off for being a noblewoman, as she should have been from birth.
22 July 1557
Lisbon Palace, Lisbon, Portugal
Queen Maria of Portugal's Bedchamber
Queen Mary was sitting in her favorite chair, seeing prayer cloths. She was very happy with her life now. She was the mother of five children, had her loving husband and was a beloved wealthy Queen. Seven months ago, she had witnessed the marriage of her only son and now he was happy and soon hopefully Princess Maria would get pregnant and deliver a healthy baby. Now forty-one years old, Queen Mary was sure that little Infanta Isabel , who was now two years old, was going to be her last child. Mary had always had issues with her menses and now they were so sporadic that they were impossible to track. Mary was sure that she was entering the change of life.
Suddenly, King Carlos walked in and smiled at his wife of twenty-two years. He kissed her cheek.
"How are our children doing, my love? I've been dealing with the French." he said.
Mary smiled.
"Well, Isabel is saying new words. She has learned how to say that she loves you. Joanna is fluent in French now and Duarte is enjoying his wife." she said.
Carlos nodded.
"What about Cristina?" he asked, referring to their six year old daughter, who was prone to random fevers.
Mary sighed.
"She is doing well . " she said, in relief.
Carlos smiled.
"Excellent. Now, I have to talk to you. Joanna is now fourteen years old and the French King wants her in his Court, so that his son can marry her as soon as he's sixteen years old. Do you think that you can prepare her for the journey. She can take a small Entourage, but I want her to be recognized as the future Queen of France." he said.
Queen Mary sighed. She had to tell her husband something that wasn't pleasant.
"Carlos, there's something that I have to tell you. The French marriage cannot go through." she said.
Carlos sighed.
"Sweetheart, I know that you aren't happy with the marriage, but this marriage is good for her. Joanna will be Queen of France. " he said.
Mary shook her head.
"No, it's not that. I wouldn't question your decision for our children. It's about Joanna." she said.
Carlos looked at his wife in confusion. He had just asked about their third child and she said she was just fine.
Mary sighed, before continuing.
"Joanna hasn't bled yet. I mean not once. " she said.
King Carlos looked at his wife, in shock.
"How is that possible? She's fourteen years old. " he said.
Mary sighed.
"I'm sorry, sweetheart. However, it is true. The ladies in charge of her laundry have told me. There's not a spot of blood on her sheets or her nightgowns. I've talked to a midwife and she said that Joanna could have her menses later or..."
King Carlos nodded.
"Go on, my love." he said.
Mary sighed again.
"It is possible that Joanna could be unable to have children at all." she said sadly.
King Carlos stood up and walked a short distance.
"This is terrible. It's terrible for her and for the French Alliance." he said.
Mary nodded.
"Maybe we could offer Cristina to the French. She's a daughter of ours and we can still give the same dowry." she said.
Carlos shook his head.
"Sweetheart, that wouldn't work. There's no way they will accept a barren young woman of fourteen and they damn sure won't accept a frail six year old girl, who's prone to fevers." he said.
Mary lowered her head, in sadness.
"What will you do, sweetheart?" she asked.
Carlos sighed.
"I have to tell the truth. I will tell King Henri to keep the first portion of her dowry in good faith. We are very wealthy. We aren't struggling for money. Hopefully, he will keep silent on this matter." he said.
Mary nodded.
"What will become of Joanna?" she asked.
Carlos walked over and laid his hand on his wife.
"We will care for her. She won't go without out. I promise." he said.
A/N Thank you all so much for your patience and support. I hope you all are staying safe during these times and hopefully this story can bring a smile to your faces. I am currently working on Chapter 49, so it will be up soon. Please Read and Review! Chapter 49 will be up before you all know it!