Chapter 69
Chapter Sixty-Nine has finally arrived! Thank you all so much for your patience and understanding. I just have to say a few things before the Chapter continues. This story, again, is a work of Historical Fiction. There will be topics in future Chapters that are historically accurate and may be sensitive to young readers. There will be war, murder, scandal, young marriage etc. I will be giving warnings when certain storylines are coming in, so if you are sensitive, you can choose whether to read or not. With that said, Please Read and Review and enjoy Chapter Sixty-Nine!
12 January 1565
Madrid, Castile and Léon, Spain
Townhome of Lord Jaime de las Torres, Duke of Terra Nova
Lady Catalina de las Torres, Duchess of Terra Nova, sighed, as she shifted in her chair and rested her hand on her large belly. She had returned to the Madrid residence of her shepherd husband, so she could give birth to their first child, which was do any day now.
Her door opened and her mother, Isabella, Dowager Marquessa de Moya, walked in and smiled.
"How are you feeling?" she asked.
Lady Catalina looked at her mother.
"How am I feeling? I feel like a barrel of wine, I can no longer fit any of my gowns, I am sweating like a wild boar my back feels like I am being stabbed with a dagger." she said.
Isabella began to fan her daughter.
"Everything will be well. I carried many children. I know you will get through this." she said.
Lady Catalina nodded and begin to sew.
Isabella sighed.
"I wonder if your sister has made it to Brazil." she said.
Catalina rolled her eyes.
"I am sure she is fine. Many people have settled there from what I hear. It is a flourishing colony." she said.
Isabella nodded.
"I know.. I just hope she will be happy." she said.
Lady Catalina winced and grabbed her stomach.
"She reaped what she sowed." she said, while breathing heavily.
Isabella looked at her daughter.
"Catalina?" she said.
Before she could say anything, Catalina cried out.
Isabella instantly got up and helped her daughter to her bed and helped her her in.
"Your child is coming, sweet girl. I will tell your ladies-in-waiting to get the midwife. I need you to do exactly what I say." she said.
Lady Catalina nodded her head, as her contractions hit her.
Several Hours Later...
Lady Catalina took deep breaths, as her newborn baby was carried to the washing basin and was washed by Isabella. She was smiling, as she washed her newborn grandchild.
Lady Catalina tried to sit up, her dark auburn hair drenched in sweat and her ladies began to wash her and put her into a fresh nightgown and changed her bloody sheets.
Isabella brought the baby over to Lady Catalina.
"You have a beautiful daughter, sweetheart. She's healthy." she said.
Catalina smiled and took her newborn daughter. She was happy to be a mother.
"She is beautiful." she said.
Isabella went to the door and opened the door and let Lord Jaime in. The young Duke walked over to his wife and newborn daughter.
Lady Catalina smiled at her husband.
"We have a daughter." she said.
Lord Jaime smiled.
"I knew it." he said.
He took his daughter in his arms and kissed her forehead.
Lady Catalina looked at her husband.
"Can we still pick the name that we agreed on for a girl?" she asked.
Lord Jaime nodded.
"Yes. Our little Isabel." he said.
Isabella looked at her daughter.
"Isabel?" she asked.
Catalina smiled.
"Of course. Jaime and I said we would name our first daughter after you, Mama." she said.
Isabella teared up. She had lost her only grandchild five years ago and now she was finally a grandmother again and it was also her namesake. She had not been happy in a very long time.
15 January 1565
Stockholm Palace, Stockholm, Sweden
Queen Matilda of Sweden's Privy Chamber
"So, Poland has rejected the betrothal of Prince Joachim and my daughter, Princess Anna?" Queen Matilda asked.
Her brother-in-law, Prince John, Duke of Finland, nodded his head.
"Yes. The Polish King rejected it, because Anna is not being raised as a Catholic and he refuses to have a Lutheran for a daughter-in-law." he said.
Queen Matilda sighed.
"I knew this would happen. We have almost no choices for my daughters and their future marriages. The only one who has a future husband is Astrid. Her future lies in Russia." she said.
John nodded.
"I would suggest we look more into the Empire or among the nobility. You may be a Queen, who will not have to part with many of her daughters." he said.
Queen Matilda smiled.
"It would be nice, however I do not like the fact that they are limited in marriage prospects." she said.
She took a breath and put her hand on her swollen stomach. She was expecting her seventh child with her husband King Eric and was due to give birth in May.
John looked at his sister-in-law, in concern.
"Is the child well?" he asked.
Queen Matilda smiled.
"Yes, just very hard kicking. I am praying it is a boy this time. I have only given birth to one son. I thank God he is still very healthy." she said.
John nodded his head.
"Johan is a very intelligent boy and he should be getting married in several years." he said.
Queen Matilda smiled.
"He is my sweet boy." she said proudly, thinking about her thirteen year old son
Suddenly, there was a knock at Matilda's door.
"Come in." she said.
The door opened and Prince Johan and Princess Astrid walked in.
Queen Matilda smiled and stood up and hugged her two eldest children.
"How are you both doing?" she asked.
Prince Johan sighed.
"May we speak to you in private, Mother?" he said.
Queen Matilda nodded at her brother-in-law to leave her and he bowed to all three of them and he left her Chambers.
Princess Astrid took a seat, looking very pale.
Queen Matilda looked at her daughter.
"Astrid, are you well?" she asked, putting her hand on her daughter's forehead.
Princess Astrid nodded.
Prince Johan and put his hand on his older twin sister's shoulder.
"We were summoned to Father's Privy Chamber." he said.
Queen Matilda nodded.
"It is a good thing. I told your father to spend more time with you and your sisters." she said.
Prince Johan sighed.
"Mother... We were summoned to watch an execution in his Chambers." he said.
Queen Matilda looked at her son.
"Executions do not take place here at the Palace, sweetheart." she said.
Johan sighed.
"Mother... he executed a cat for hissing at him." he said.
Queen Matilda looked at her children, in horror.
"Please tell me this is a jest." she said.
Princess Astrid shook her head.
"No, Mother. The cat was hanged in his room, until it died. It was horrible." she said.
Queen Matilda sighed and hugged both her children.
"I am so sorry you two had to witness your father like that. I want you to go to your Chambers and stay away from him, until I say differently." she said.
The twins nodded and left their mother.
Queen Matilda sighed and rested her hand on her stomach. She could not believe what her children had to witness. She knew that Eric was getting worse as time went on. She had to think of a solution, before he did something that was going to be irreparable.
29 January 1565
Caserta Palace, Kingdom of Naples, Italy
Princess Eleanora, Duchess of Calabria's Bedchamber
"I am sorry, Your Highness. The babe has been lost." the midwife said.
Princesses Eleanor let the tears fall down her face. She had finally conceived another child with her husband, but now she had lost it. She was only six months gone with child when she went into labor.
"Was it a boy?" she asked, as she watched her ladies change her bloody sheets and her main lady came to wash her.
The midwife nodded.
"Yes, Your Highness. It was a Prince. You are still fertile. The Lord will grant you with more children." she said.
Princess Eleanor nodded.
The door opened and Princess Lucrezia, her sister-in-law twice over, walked in. She looked very sad, as she walked over to the twenty-two year old.
"Dear Eleanor, I am so sorry. It is not your fault." she said.
Eleanor looked at her.
"Is it not? We always get blamed for these losses. I did everything I could do. I wanted my son." she said.
Princess Lucrezia sighed, as she held Eleanor as she cried.
Suddenly, Prince Giovanni came in, looking furious.
"WHAT THE FUCK DID YOU DO TO LOSE MY SON?!" he said.
Lucrezia frowned at her brother.
"She did nothing wrong." she said.
Prince Giovanni frowned.
"Stay out of my marriage, little sister." he said.
Lucrezia stood up and came face to face with her insane sibling.
"If you want someone to blame for the death of your son, I suggest you look upon yourself. You use and abuse this woman, as if she were a common dog in the market. The blood of this child is on your soul, not her." she said, defiantly.
Giovanni yelled and lunged at his sister. Suddenly, Princess Lucrezia pulled large dagger and held it out, ready to defend herself.
"If you come closer, I will kill you." she said, hatred blazing in her brown eyes.
Giovanni looked at his sister and laughed.
"You are too pious to harm me, sister." he said, grabbing the blade.
Suddenly, Lucrezia thrust the blade forward, slicing her brother's hand, causing him to scream in pain and horror.
Lucrezia glared at her brother.
"Do not let yourself be fooled." she said.
Giovanni glared at his sister and then his wife.
"Next time, it be better be a living son." he said.
He left the room, slamming the door, behind him.
Princess Eleanor sighed and placed a hand on her belly.
"I hope I do not fail him or Naples again." she said.
Princess Lucrezia looked at her.
"You are not a failure. He is the failure. He is a disgrace to Naples, our family and all of Christendom." she said.
Eleanor turned on her side and quietly cried herself to sleep, as her sister-in-law rubbed her back. She could not believe that her husband had been injured by his sister, but she was happy that Lucrezia was there to defend her.
8 February 1565
The Cabral Chapel, Brazil, Portuguese Empire
The Sanctuary
Lady Maria sighed, as she walked down the aisle in the chapel. She had decided to wear a darker blue gown with her long hair down her back. Queen Catarina had ordered for her wedding to be small and to not take place in the Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro. Maria had received news from Portugal that Queen Catarina had removed her title of Infanta. She now just the legal daughter of the late King Diogo, not legitimate or illegitimate. She was in a precarious situation and now she truly had was removed from any chance of having her descendants on the Throne.
Maria sighed, as she made it to the altar and turned to face Pedro and took his hands. The Priest began the Wedding Rites. Pedro said his vows to Maria and placed a ring on her finger. Maria promised in her wedding vows to be a dutiful wife and to be bonny and buxom in bed and at board. The marriage was sealed with a kiss.
Pedro and Maria walked past the few guests that were in attendance and made their way to the Banquet Hall, to enjoy their wedding feast.
Maria looked at Pedro.
"I mean what I said. I will try to be a good wife." she said.
Pedro nodded.
"I will do my best, as your husband." he said.
Cabral Villa, Brazil, Portuguese Empire
The Banquet Hall
The celebrations continued into the night. Many of the guests were enjoying themselves with roasted meat, delicacies from the sea , fresh bread and sweets made from sugar cane.
Maria was drinking wine and looking around the room. She was now the Duchess of La Paz and had to know most of these people.
Suddenly, she saw her cousin, Lady Bianca. She was a daughter of her aunt, Infanta Isabel, Duchess of Coimbra and was part of the Lencastre Family. Maria was still in prison, when Bianca sailed for Brazil and married Lord Francisco de Sousa. She heard that their marriage was happy.
Lady Maria walked over to Bianca.
"Cousin Bianca?" she said.
Bianca turned and looked at Maria.
"Maria. I hope you find happiness in your marriage." she said.
Maria sighed.
"I was hoping we could talk. You are my only blood relative here. " she said.
Maria then noticed Bianca's swollen stomach.
"You are with child?" she asked.
Bianca nodded.
"Yes. I am due in May." she said.
Lady Maria smiled.
"Congratulations." she said.
Bianca nodded.
"Thank you." she said, turning to walk away.
Maria grabbed her gently.
"Cousin, you do not have to leave." she said.
Bianca glared at her.
"We are both in Brazil, however I do not want to talk to you. You are a treasonous wretch." she said, walking away.
Maria sighed and took another drink of her wine.
Doña Carlotta walked up to Maria.
"How are you, dear?" she asked
Maria smiled.
"I am well." she said.
Carlotta smiled.
"Pedro is ready to retire for the evening. Will you need help?" she asked.
Maria shook her head.
"I will manage. I will go to bed now." she said.
Maria placed her goblet on a table and made her way to her Chambers. She was ready to consummate her marriage to Pedro. She now knew that he was her only security. She hoped that in time she would be happy with her new husband. She knew that her husband was expecting her to provide him an heir and she was hoping that she would deliver on her promise. She made it to her room and let her ladies get her dress off. She decided to wait for her husband naked. She knew that her life was going to be different.
15 February 1565
Royal Palace of Olite, Olite, Navarre
King Luis of Spain's Privy Chamber
"Sweetheart, are you comfortable with moving the Court to Barcelona soon? I will have to deal with the rebellions in Catalonia and I do not want to leave you alone for too long." King Luis said.
Queen Elizabeth nodded and placed a hand on her slightly swollen stomach.
"Yes. I say we move the Court to Zaragoza in the new year. I do not want to leave the children here, especially the new baby." she said.
Luis nodded.
"Exactly. I want to be close as much as possible. I want the Court to reside at Aljafería Palace. I am going to make sure the arrival is anticipated." he said.
Queen Elizabeth nodded.
"I know we were supposed to head to Zaragoza, but I want to give birth here." she said.
Luis smiled and placed a hand on his wife's stomach.
"I already cannot wait until this child arrives." he said
Queen Elizabeth nodded and smiled.
Suddenly, the door opened and Infanta Juana, Dowager Princess of Anhalt-Zerbst, walked in. King Luis had asked her to return to Spain.
King Luis smiled and stood up and hugged his sister.
"Welcome home, sister." he said.
Juana smiled.
"It is wonderful to be here." she said.
Juana looked at Queen Elizabeth.
"Sweet Elizabeth, how are you?" she said.
Queen Elizabeth stood up and hugged her sister-in-law.
"It is wonderful to see you, dear Juana. What brings you to Spain?" she asked.
Juana looked at Luis.
"I am wondering that as well." she said.
Queen Elizabeth nodded.
"I will leave you two alone to talk." she said.
Luis shook his head.
"No, you can stay, sweetheart." he said.
Luis offered his sister a seat and Juana sat down.
He took a deep breath.
"As you know, when Grandfather died, he divided his territories with between me and our late great uncle. Ferdinand and his descendants ate the rulers of the Holy Roman Empire and I am ruler of Spain and the territories in the New World. However, I am also the ruler of the Netherlands." he said.
Juana nodded.
"I am aware." she said.
Luis continued.
"Well, Elizabeth and I handle Spain more. I summoned you to Court, because I would like to make you the Governor." she said.
Juana looked at her brother, in surprise.
"Governor? Why would you think that I am the right candidate for that?" she said.
Luis smiled.
"You are wise, you have been in charge of your daughter's lands , along with your brother-in-law. I see no one better." he said.
Juana stood up. She walked around and sighed. The twenty-eight year old Infanta looked at Luis.
"Brother, I am your loyal subject, however I do not wish to leave my darling child. Mary is my only child. I want to make sure she knows a mother's love." she said.
Luis sighed.
"You know that our duties sometime must come before our parental affection. I do not want to order you as King." he said.
Juana glared at him.
"If that is true, then send your daughter, Isabel, there." she said.
Luis glared back at her.
"She is only fourteen years old. She is wise, but young. You will do as I say." he said.
Queen Elizabeth stood up and held her hands up.
"Settle down, both of you. Luis, you need to understand that Juana is your sister and she wants to be a mother to her daughter and there is nothing wrong with that. Juana, Luis is King and you must do as he says. If a member of the Royal Family will not obey the Sovereign, how can we expect anyone else to do so? Your daughter is now nine years old and reports are that she's healthy. You can accept the role and establish a Council and return to Anhalt-Zerbst to visit the Court of your daughter." she said.
Both Luis and Juana looked at Elizabeth. They both knew that she was right.
Luis looked at his sister.
"Will you be able to take charge within two years?" he asked.
Juana nodded her head.
"Yes, Brother. May I leave Court to visit our mother? I have heard reports that our stepfather is ill and would like to comfort her." she said.
Luis nodded and kissed his sister on the cheek. Juana kissed Elisabeth's hand and bowed and left the room, to prepare for her journey.
23 February 1565
Sintra Palace, Lisbon, Portugal
Queen Catarina of Portugal's Privy Chamber
"Joanna, you need to rest. You do not have to help me with this." Queen Catarina said.
Infanta Joanna, Princess of Eboli and Duchess of Pastrana , sighed and walked over to her older sister. She was expected to give birth to her third child any day now.
"I will be fine. What are you looking over?" she asked.
Queen Catarina sighed and pulled out a map and several chess pieces.
"I need to arrange marriages for Isabella and Fernando. The question I have is who should I consider." she said.
Joanna nodded her head.
"Who are the candidates?" she asked.
Queen Catarina took a chess piece and placed it on Portugal.
"Sebastian is betrothed to Infanta Maria of Spain and my Maria is betrothed to Infante Eduardo of Spain. We have a double alliance with Spain and that will be secure for a further generation. However, Isabella is my second daughter and I know she needs a grand marriage as well." she said.
Joanna picked up a chess piece and placed it on France.
"Should Isabella marry the Dauphin or maybe a younger brother of the French King?" she asked.
Queen Catarina shook her head.
"The Dauphin is betrothed to Elizabeth of Wales." she said.
Joanna sighed and rested her hand on her swollen stomach.
"What about a marriage in the Empire?" she asked.
Queen Catarina nodded.
"That will most likely be the case. Juan is pushing for that at well." she said.
Joanna picked up the bishop piece.
"Why not let Fernando join the Church? Sebastian is healthy and will have heirs of his own." she said.
Queen Catarina shook her head.
"No. I need to have another son , before any child of mine is considered for the Church." she said.
Joanna looked at her older sister.
"Will you and Juan have more children?" she asked.
Queen Catarina nodded.
"Yes, he visits my bed very often. I may be with child now, as I am late, but I have not confirmed it yet." she said.
Joanna grabbed her stomach and felt liquid run down her legs.
She looked at her sister.
"It is time." she said.
Queen Catarina sat her sister down in a chair and rushed to get her ladies-in-waiting, who escorted the twenty-two year old Infanta to her Bedchamber for the birth.
Later that evening...
Queen Catarina stayed in her Chambers after her sister's pains of childbirth had started. She wanted to figure out the best path in life for her two younger children.
There was a knock at her door.
Queen Catarina looked up from her notes.
"Enter." she said.
The door opened and her sister's husband, Lord Manuel de Silva, Prince of Eboli and Duke of Pastrana, walked in the room.
He bowed to his Queen.
"Your Majesty." he said.
Queen Catarina nodded her head.
"Dear brother, I am assuming you are here bringing news about my sister." she said.
Lord Manuel nodded.
"Yes. Joanna has given birth to another daughter. We have decided to name her Joanna, after my wife and your aunt. They are both well." he said.
Queen Catarina nodded, with relief. She noticed tusr6her brother-in-law looked slightly said.
Queen Catarina looked at her sister's husband.
"Is something wrong?" she asked.
Lord Manuel de Silva sighed.
"I just thought it would be a son this time." he admitted.
Queen Catarina nodded her head.
"I understand that, however Joanna is still young. She is still giving birth to healthy children. I know that you will have son in due time. However, let us focus on the baptism of your new daughter." she said.
Lord Manuel bowed.
"Yes, Your Majesty." he said.
Queen Catarina sighed. She knew that men wanted to have the sons they envision, but she would not have sounded disappointed in the birth of a daughter. She knew God never made mistakes.
11 March 1565
Castle of La Mota, Valladolid, Spain
The Chapel
Lord Fernando de Cabrera sighed, as the priest recited his Wedding Rites, in Latin. Fernando was dressed in his finest and everyone was commenting on the handsome twenty year old Marquess.
His bride was twenty year old Lady Mary Grey, a daughter of his mother's English cousin. Lady Mary was the third of four daughters. She was not as remarkable as her two elder sisters, however she was well learned. She was somewhat attractive, with reddish-brown hair, fair skin, blue eyes and a decent height, but Fernando did not have a connection with her
Fernando's mother, Isabella, Dowager Marquessa de Moya, was smiling. She was able to see her eldest son marry a noble lady and she was proud to witness it. She was hoping it would become a love match and she would have many grandchildren.
The Priest prayed and blessed the union and Fernando and Lady Mary were officially married. Fernando took Lady Mary's hand and the couple walked out of the chapel and headed to the Banquet Hall to enjoy the magnificent feast.
Lady Maria de Cabrera, Marquessa de Moya's Bedchamber
"Is Fernando coming?" Lady Mary asked.
One of her ladies shook her head.
"No, my Lady. Not yet." she said.
Lady Mary sighed, as she was prepared for bed. At their wedding feast, Fernando had paid very little attention to her. Mary was a stranger here and she was hoping to find kindness in her new husband.
The door opened and Isabella, Dowager Marquessa de Moya, walked in.
"Fernando is on the way, dear daughter. Are you ready?" she asked.
Lady Mary sighed and nodded.
"I hope that everything will be well between us." she said.
Isabella smiled and put her hands on her daughter in-law's shoulders.
"Give my son time and I am sure that love will develop between you two." she reassured.
Lady Mary sighed.
"I hope you are right." she said.
The door opened again and Lord Fernando walked in.
"Everyone, please leave." he said.
All of the ladies left the Bedchamber and Isabella gave the young couple a smile and closed the door behind her.
Fernando sighed and finished his wine and he began to get naked. Lady Mary could tell that there would be no conversation between them. She began to undress and let her nightgown fall to her ankles. Fernando walked forward and kissed Mary's neck, arousing her. Fernando laid Mary down and consummated their marriage.
17 March 1565
Hampton Court, London, England
Queen Lillian of England's Privy Chamber
"I am hearing whispers of my half-brother and Lady Katherine Dudley." King Harry said to his wife and Queen.
Queen Lillian smiled.
"I can tell you that they are true. I have not seen her so happy, ever since Lord Robert died." she said.
King Harry nodded.
"Edward must be in love. I know that his wife, Lady Katherine Howard, died in childbirth thirteen years ago. He never entertained the idea of remarrying. However, he seems to be in love once more." he said.
Queen Lillian smiled.
"Would you allow them to marry? Edward is a high noble and Lady Katherine is descended from your aunt Elizabeth, Queen of France." she said.
King Harry nodded.
"I would let them marry, if I was asked. Edward has proved himself loyal to me. I would love to see him happy once more." he said.
Queen sighed, in relief.
"I am happy to hear you say that. I have already given Lady Katherine my blessing." she admitted.
King Harry looked at his Queen and laughed.
"She is your lady-in-waiting, so you do have that right, darling. Edward is illegitimate, but he is the only brother that I have, but I am happy that you are talking to me about it. What else is going on that I should know?" he asked.
Queen Lillian sighed.
"I have been considering having the Duchess of Clarence as one of my ladies-in-waiting and having the lady Anne as a companion to our daughter, Mary." she admitted.
King Harry developed an angry look on his face.
"I do not think that is a wise idea." he said.
Queen Lillian looked at her husband.
"It has been seven years since William died. Do you not think that enough time has passed to forgive Lady Elizabeth and have Lady Anne as well? She is your granddaughter, albeit illegitimate." she said.
King Harry sighed.
"I know she is my granddaughter, however I do not condone the actions of my late son. Lady Anne will have an advantageous marriage and a dowry. Lady Elizabeth is still my niece and I care for her, however I am not ready to receive her back at Court. However, I will allow Lady Anne to be a companion to our little Mary." he said.
Queen Lillian smiled.
"Thank you." she said.
Queen Lillian placed a hand on her stomach and took a deep breath.
King Harry looked at his wife, in concern.
"Lillian?"
Queen Lillian smiled again.
"There is something else I need to tell you. I am with child again." she said.
Harry looked at his wife, in surprise and smiled.
"Oh, Lillian." he said
Queen Lillian smiled and kissed Harry.
"I am due in September." she said.
King Harry smiled.
"We can settle at Richmond Palace." he said.
Queen Lillian nodded. She knew that they would be on the Summer Progress and she would be able to take the her Chamber after they return. This was her fifth pregnancy and she was looking forward to being a mother again.
25 March 1565
Palace of Fontainebleau, Paris, France
Chambers of King Francis II of France
King Francis smiled, as he held his sleeping naked wife, Queen Mary of Scotland and France. He loved how her auburn hair poured over her pillow, like a fiery halo. He loved her very much. She provided him with his healthy son, the Dauphin Robert, Duke of Rothesay and their darling daughter, Princess Marguerite, whom his wife called Megan
He kissed his wife's neck.
Queen Mary stirred.
"Francis, it is late. Go to sleep." she said.
Francis chuckled.
"You do not want to give Robert and Megan a little brother and sister?" he asked.
Queen Mary turned around and smiled.
"We have already tried twice tonight. It is time to sleep." she said.
Francis sighed.
"Very well. I do want to ask you something." he said.
Queen Mary sat up in bed, looking at her husband.
"What is wrong?" she asked.
Francis turned to face her.
"I have thought about this ever since I was a young boy and my tutors gave me my history lessons. How would you love to have another Crown on top of your lovely hair?" he asked.
Queen Mary looked at her husband, confused.
"What are you talking about?" she asked.
Francis's smile grew.
"I want to be King of Naples." he said.
Queen Mary looked at her husband, with shock.
"Francis, King Alfonso from the House of Trastamara is the King of Naples." she said.
Francis nodded.
"I know, however France fought for Naples sixty years ago." he said.
Queen Mary nodded.
"Yes and if I remember my history lessons correctly, France lost horribly. Why would you want to see such a defeat like that again?" she asked.
Francis looked at her.
"You do not think we would succeed?" he asked.
Mary sighed.
"The Neapolitan people hate the French. Also, King Luis and Queen Elizabeth of Spain fiercely defend Naples. We would have to defeat Naples and if 2e invade, Spain will retaliate and then behind Spain, we would have to defeat the Holy Roman Empire, since the Hapsburgs rule both of those dominions and are permanently allied. We also have to consider that the new Queen of Naples is a first cousin of Queen Catarina of Portugal and part of her dowry was a significant amount of soldiers. The future Queen of Naples is the daughter of King Henry IX of England. We run the risk of making several enemies" she said.
Francis nodded and stood up and walked around the room, naked.
"We could be careful. We could start with taking a major town in Naples. We can do it, Mary." he said.
Queen Mary sighed.. They had been at peace with Spain for a decade. She did not want to see that end mor have a generation of military debt that her son would have to inherit upon taking the Throne after her and Francis. She also did not want to go against her husband.
"Why not sleep on it and we can meet with the Royal Captain tomorrow?" she asked.
Francis nodded and got back into bed.
"Goodnight, my love. We will speak in the morning." he said, kissing her.
Mary smiled and nodded and began to drift off back to sleep. However, little did she know her husband stayed up long after she was asleep and despite the fact that he would give her the courtesy of meeting with the Captain of the Guard tomorrow, his mind was already made up.
2 April 1565
Ludlow Castle, Ludlow, Wales
Elisabeth of Valois, Princess of Wales' Bedchamber
Princess Elisabeth smiled to herself, as she continued her sewing. She was happy to be away from London, although she knew that her beloved Edward was busy with the Council of the Marches, so she kept herself busy with charity and household duties, especially the upbringing of her two children.
Suddenly the door opened and Prince Edward And their two young children, three year old Elizabeth, affectionately known as Lizzie and two year old Prince Henry, walked in holding flowers. The children's governess was also with them.
Princess Elisabeth smiled at them.
"What is this?" she asked.
Little Lizzie held her flowers up.
"Happy birthday, Mama." she said.
Princess Elisabeth developed tears in her eyes. She had been so busy that she had completely forgotten that today was her twentieth birthday.
"Thank you, my darling." she said, picking both her toddlers up and kissing their cheeks.
Prince Edward smiled.
"I want to give you your present in private." he said.
Princess Elisabeth nodded at the governess to take the children and she led the two toddlers out of the room.
Prince Edward held out a nice box.
"Happy birthday, my darling." he said.
Princess Elisabeth smiled and opened the box and was shocked to see a beautiful diamond necklace that glittered like stars.
She kissed her husband.
"I love it. Thank you so much." she said.
He smiled and kissed her hand.
"I am so sorry that I did not see you much today. The Council has kept me very busy." he said.
Princess Elisabeth looked at her husband, in concern.
"Are there rebellions? Should we return to London?" she asked.
Prince Edward shook his head.
"No, darling. We are well. I am also done for the day. What would you like to do today?" he asked.
Princess Elisabeth smirked.
"I talked to the physician today. He said I can resume my marital duties." she said.
Prince Edward held on to Elisabeth.
"He did?" he asked.
Princess Elisabeth nodded and the two began to passionately kiss. Princess Elisabeth nearly ripped Edward's shirt off and before they knew it, they both were naked and on top of her bed. They had not lain together, in nearly two years and she cried out, as Edward entered her. Edward kissed her neck and sucked her nipples. Elisabeth dug her nails into Edward's pale back, as he pounded her harder
"Oh, Edward!" she cried out.
Edward kissed her passionately, as he continued their lovemaking fiercely. The bed started to hit the stone wall and Elisabeth began to moan out very loud, before she and Edward both cried out together, reaching their climax.
Edward gasped for breath and laid his head on Elisabeth's breasts, which were now glistening with sweat.
Elisabeth kissed Edward's forehead.
"I have missed you. I hope that I conceive again." she said, out of breath.
Edward looked up and kissed her.
"Let us try again tonight. I have missed your touch." she said.
Princess Elisabeth smiled. She had missed the touch of her husband and was grateful that her husband had not taken a mistress. This was the best birthday that she could have asked for.
14 April 1565
Caserta Palace, Kingdom of Naples, Italy
Princess Eleanora , Duchess of Calabria's Bedchamber
Princess Eleanor sighed, as she looked at the form of her sleeping husband next to her. He had begun to visit her bed again, after her miscarriage three months ago. She dreaded these nights. She knew that things were not going to improve for her.
Eleanor quietly rose from her bed and winced, as her marital duties had been rather rough this particular night. She wrapped her robe around herself and quietly left her Chambers. She took a deep breath and made her way to another suite of rooms near hers.
She quietly opened the door and smiled, as she made her way to the sleeping form of her daughter, Princess Maria. Eleanor's only child was now five years old and was the only joy in Eleanor's life.
Eleanor gently traced her fingers in her daughter's long brown hair. Eleanor sighed, as she thought about the marriage that her precious daughter was born from. Her parents had a love that she now envied. She and her sister, Matilda, Queen of Sweden, seemed to be cursed in their marriages. Her brothers seemed to be in great love. Were the Tudor girls never meant to be happy? She hoped that her younger sister, Princess Margaret and half-sisters, Princesses Mary and Joanna would be happy in their future marriages.
She sighed and began to leave the nursery and closed the door. She made her way to another suite of rooms, hoping she would not disturb the occupants inside. She took a deep breath and gently knocked on the door.
The door opened and her older brother, Prince Owen, Duke of Buckingham, opened the door.
"Sister, is everything well?" he asked.
Eleanor sighed.
"I need to speak to you." she said.
Owen nodded and stepped aside and Eleanor walked in. She admired the apartments of her brother and sister-in-law.
Owen handed his sister a goblet of wine.
"What did you need to speak to me about?" he said.
Eleanor sighed.
"I cannot take it anymore. Giovanni is such a brute. I have decided to petition the Pope for an annulment." she said.
Owen looked at his sister, in shock.
"An annulment? Are you sure about this?" he asked.
Eleanor nodded.
"Yes. I cannot continue with his cruelty anymore. He is a monster. I know we do not marry for love, but it is not fair to have to deal with such brutality." she said.
A door opened and Princess Lucrezia came out in her nightgown.
Eleanor smiled at her beautiful sister-in-law.
"Lucrezia, how are you?" she asked.
Lucrezia smiled and placed her hand on her swollen stomach. She was expecting for the fourth time and was praying to give birth to her third living child in five month's time.
"I am quite well. Did I hear you are wanting to end your marriage to my brother?" she asked.
Owen nodded.
"Yes, however I know we can definitely persuade her that it is a bad idea, sweetheart." he said.
Lucrezia shook her head.
"No. We should help her." she said.
Owen and Eleanor looked at her, with surprise.
"You mean that you agree with this? It goes against the Church." Owen said.
Lucrezia nodded.
"Yes, I know. Owen, look at your sister. She has been married to my brother for six years. You know she lost her child because my brother brutalized her. Naples will never have an heir if he continues and we do not need an heir from his tainted line. There are talks that he will be disinherited. Eleanor could find a new marriage in time and maybe even happiness." she said.
Owen looked at his wife.
"What are you suggesting?" he asked.
Lucrezia walked forward.
"Eleanor and Maria will accompany us to our private villa in Capri. We will say she is helping me with my confinement. We will write to the Pope and give Eleanor shelter." she said.
Owen walked forward.
"You would go against the marriages our families arranged to protect my sister?" he asked.
Lucrezia nodded.
"Absolutely. No woman deserves to be married to a madman, including my brother." she said.
Lucrezia walked forward to Eleanor.
"Pack your bags. I will settle things with Father and Giovanni. I want you to bring your notary as well. This will be handled quietly." she said.
Eleanor nodded her head.
"I thank you, Sister. I humbly thank you. I will be discreet." she said.
Eleanor hugged and kissed Lucrezia and smiled at her brother and left their Chambers, feeling happy for the first time in years.
25 April 1565
Palace of Fontainebleau, Paris, France
Queen Mary of Scotland and France's Privy Chamber
Queen Mary sighed, as she paced back and forth in her Chambers. She had never been more nervous in her life. Her husband, King Francis II of France, was currently meeting with advisors and his general. He was determined to take Naples and become the King of Naples, like his ancestor, King Louis.
One of her ladies-in-waiting, Lady Mary Seton, walked over to Queen Mary.
"Your Majesty, are you well?" she asked.
Queen Mary sighed.
"I am weary about the this meeting. I do not think this is the time to be going to war. I love Francis, but I am wondering why he will not listen." she said.
Lady Mary Seton sighed.
"With all due respect, Your Majesty, men crave war. They are not like us, when it comes to being content. They love the battlefield." she said.
Queen Mary nodded her head and began to twiddle her thumbs, in worry.
Suddenly, the door opened and King Francis walked in. Queen Mary's ladies-in-waiting all stood up and bowed to their King.
King Francis smiled.
"Rise, Ladies." he said.
He walked up and kissed Queen Mary on her lips passionately.
He smiled at her.
"How is my love?" he asked.
Queen Mary grinned.
"I am well. How was the Council meeting?" she asked.
King Francis looked at her ladies-in-waiting and nodded his head. All of the ladies stood up and left the room.
King Francis smiled.
"We are going to take Naples. The funds are being gathered and the soldiers coming. They will set sail as soon as everything is prepared." he said.
Queen Mary sighed and nodded.
"Francis, I will support you in anything. However, I am worried. Naples is protected by Spain." she said.
King Francis nodded.
"I know you are worried, however the General says that if we travel by sea, we will have the advantage. We will lay siege to one of the towns and get Alfonso's attention. I pray that there will be little bloodshed. I want to appoint you as Regent. You will rule France in my absence." he said.
Queen Mary looked at her husband.
"You are leaving?" she asked.
King Francis nodded his head.
"Yes, however I will only be gone until the end of the year." he said.
Queen Mary developed tears in her eyes and grabbed her husband.
"Francis, please do not leave me. Robert is only three years old. My grandfather and father both died during war. Please don't leave me, especially in my condition." she begged.
King Francis looked at Mary.
"Condition? Are you ill, darling?" he asked.
Queen Mary shook her head and took a deep breath.
"I am with child again, Francis." she said, gently.
King Francis smiled and hugged Mary and kissed her.
"Our little Megan is only nine months old." he said.
Queen Mary smiled.
"Well, your visits to my Chamber have had their intended effect. I am three months along. I really do not want you to leave me alone in this time, especially with only one son and him being so young." she said.
King Francis smiled. He loved his wife very much and he knew that her being alone would stress her during her pregnancy and he did not want to risk losing another child, like they had five years earlier.
He caressed her face.
"I will not leave you, my love. I will command the army from here." he said.
Queen Mary smiled and hugged her husband. She knew that her husband was set on taking Naples, but at least she would not have to give birth to their new child without him.
6 May 1565
Royal Palace of Olite, Olite, Navarre
Queen Elizabeth of Spain's Privy Chamber
Queen Elizabeth sighed, as she read her letters. She was rested her hand on her swollen stomach, feeling her unborn child kicking inside her. She smiled, thinking about her new addition, that was she due to give birth to in just two more months.
Princess Giovanna, Duchess of the Infantado, walked in and bowed to her Queen, however not too low, as she was also big with child and was due within a month.
Queen Elizabeth smiled.
"Giovanna, you need to rest. You are with child, just like me. Sit with me. I want to continue our sewing, when I am done with my correspondence." she said.
Princess Giovanna nodded and picked up her sewing.
Queen Elizabeth sighed.
"This correspondence is taxing today. I am trying to find marriage find a marriage for Bianca." she said.
Princess Giovanna looked up.
"Do you want her to become a Queen?" she asked.
Queen Elizabeth nodded her head.
"Ideally, I would love to have all of my daughters be Queens." she said.
Princess Giovanna sighed.
Queen Elizabeth looked at her.
"Is something wrong?" sha asked.
Princess Giovanna shook her head.
"No, but may I speak freely?" she asked.
Queen Elizabeth nodded her head.
"Of course, you may speak freely." she said.
Princess Giovanna stood up.
"Your Majesty, my late father arranged my marriage when I was sixteen years old. It was not a foreign Prince. However, my two sisters married foreign princes. My youngest sister is the Queen of Cyprus. Also, forgive me, you are very fertile. Infanta Bianca may not be your last daughter or child. You may need to be prepared that some of the marriages may be within Spain. I am not Queen, but an alliance with some noble families would be a good thing." she said.
Queen Elizabeth was going to stay something, but her door opened and King Luis walked in, looking frustrated.
Queen Elizabeth stood up and looked at her husband.
"Luis, what is It?" she asked.
Princess Giovanna cleared her throat.
"Excuse me, Your Majesties. I will take my leave." she said.
King Luis held his hand up.
"No, Giovanna. I actually want you to stay and here this." he said.
Queen Elizabeth took a step forward.
"Luis, this sounds serious." she said.
King Luis nodded his head.
"It is. King Francis of France has decided to invade Naples." he said.
Both women gasped, in horror.
"King Francis? He has always been a peaceful King." Queen Elizabeth said.
King Luis sighed.
"Not so peaceful now. He is French, after all." he said.
Princess Giovanna held her hand to her chest and took several breaths.
"My brother...my mother... My whole family." she said.
Queen Elizabeth took her friend by the hand.
"Do not worry. Spain is a permanent ally of Naples. We will protect them." she said.
Queen Elizabeth turned towards her map and put her knuckle in her mouth.
"Luis, if I am right, France will definitely try to attack Naples by sea." she said.
King Luis nodded.
"You are right. I say we attack by land. I can raise an army of thirty-five thousand men and also get our Navy involved." he said.
Queen Elizabeth nodded her head.
"I would suggest raising a tax in Madrid, Barcelona, Segovia and Granada. That should be able to cover the expenses and make sure the mint creates more coins." she said.
King Luis nodded and kissed his wife.
He turned towards Princess Giovanna.
"I promise to defend your homeland, Giovanna." he said.
Princess Giovanna nodded and smiled.
"Thank you, Your Majesty." she said.
King Luis left the room.
Princess Giovanna looked towards Queen Elizabeth.
"Your Majesty, would you mind if I take my leave from Court? I am due soon and the shock of hearing about this war, I am afraid I will be brought to childbed early." she said.
Queen Elizabeth nodded her head.
"Of course, Giovanna. I completely understand. I pray that you have a safe birth of your child. Return to Court when you are ready." she said.
Princess Giovanna smiled.
"Thank you, Your Majesty." she said.
12 May 1565
Caserta Palace, Kingdom of Naples, Italy
Princess Lucrezia, Duchess of Buckingham's Apartments
Princess Lucrezia sighed, as she read her Bible. She rested her hand on her swollen stomach. She was due in three months and was making preparations for her birth. However, she was also helping her sister-in-law, Princess Eleanor, with the annulment from her brother.
Suddenly, the door opened and Prince Owen, her husband, walked in.
He kissed his wife.
"Hello, sweetheart." he said.
Lucrezia smiled.
"My darling. Is your sister settled into our villa?" she asked.
Owen nodded.
"Yes. She is being heavily guarded as well. I can not believe that France is invading us." he said.
Lucrezia sighed.
"All will be well. Spain is going to come to our aid." she said.
Owen nodded.
"I know. I hope we get to our home In time. How is the planning for the annulment?" he asked.
Lucrezia sighed.
"Well the family is not too happy, however it is up to the Pope. It is a complicated situation, since Eleanor is married to a madman. However, they are in favor of disinheriting Giovanni. It is not like it is a huge problem, since he never had a living son." she said.
Owen nodded.
"What do you think will become of my sister and her child, should the annulment be granted?" he asked.
Lucrezia sighed.
"It will depend on the Pope. Little Maria would be legitimate, as she was born into a marriage of Good Faith. I am assuming my father would give her a generous settlement and little Maria would be granted a grand marriage when she comes of age." she said.
Owen nodded.
"Could your younger brother, Alfonso, not marry Maria?" he asked.
Lucrezia shook her head.
"No. Alfonso is fifteen now and he has already repudiated the idea." she said.
Owen sighed.
"I hope my sister knows what she is doing." she said.
Lucrezia nodded.
"I know she does. She deserves happiness, like we do." she said.
Owen smiled.
"She does. I should tell you, that I have received a letter from my father and it is regarding our son." he said.
Lucrezia looked at her husband.
"What about Edward?" she asked.
Owen sighed.
"He is our eldest son and heir to my English Dukedom. My father said that in order to not have Edward feel out of place, he says that we should send Edward to England to reside in my English estates and take his place as the Duke of Buckingham, upon my death." he said.
Lucrezia looked at her husband, in shock.
"He is to leave us?" she asked.
Owen nodded his head.
"When he is fifteen years old." she said.
Lucrezia sighed.
"I understand. We will see him as often as we can." she said.
Owen smiled.
"Of course we will." he said.
Suddenly, there was a loud bang in the distance. Owen and Lucrezia walked over to the window and looked outside. They could see black smoke in the far distance. Owen wrapped an arm around Lucrezia. They knew that the smoke signaled one thing: France has landed on Neapolitan soil.
20 May 1565
Palace of the Infantado, Madrid, Spain
Lady Sancha de Mendoza, Viscountess of Narbonne's Chambers
Sancha winced, as she rose from her chair. She had decided to take her confinement in her husband's ancestral home, since she and her stepmother in-law were both expecting.
One of her ladies-in-waiting walked up and curtsied.
"Señora, do you need anything?" she asked.
Sancha shook her head.
"No, I am well. However, please bring the birthing stool. I have been having back pain and I am not sure that I want to lay on my back when my time comes." she said.
The lady-in-waiting nodded and left the room, passing by Lord Carlos de Mendoza, Sancha's husband.
Sancha smiled and kissed her husband.
"How are you, husband?" she asked.
Carlos smiled.
"I am well. Father and I went hunting and I have received letters on our son." he said.
Sancha smiled. Her and Carlos' eldest son, eleven year old son, Lord Enrique de Mendoza, was being educated alongside with Infante Eduardo and Carlos' younger half brother, Lord Alfonso de Mendoza. He was known to be very bright.
"How is our son?" she asked.
Carlos showed her the letter.
"He is very well. He is studying Greek right now and wrote his entire letter in Latin." he said.
Sancha smiled, with pride.
"Our boy is very talented. Is there any news on what is happening in Naples? My sister is the Queen and I am very worried." she said.
Carlos sighed.
"King Luis is sending aide. I am also hearing that the Holy Roman Emperor may send troops as well. France will be outdone, God willing." he said.
Sancha nodded.
"Do you have to leave as well?" she said, remembering the Spanish-French War.
Carlos sighed.
"Not as of yet." he said.
Sancha sighed, in relief.
"I do not want you to go to Naples." she said.
Suddenly, Sancha grabbed her stomach and began to breath hard.
"Carlos, the child." she said.
Carlos nodded.
"I will get the midwife." he said.
Sancha pushed harder, as she sat on her birthing stool. She screamed, as her contractions became more intense.
The midwife looked up at the twenty-eight year old Viscountess.
"You are doing well, my Lady." she said.
Sancha nodded and began to push more m, giving it all her strength. She could see her midwife's arms becoming bloody. She was warned that giving birth twice so soon would be risky, but she prayed the birth would be easier than her last birth, which resulted in a stillborn daughter.
The midwife looked up at Sancha again.
"The head is nearly out. Keep pushing, my Lady." she said.
Sancha pushed harder, screaming, until she felt the burning sensation of her child sliding from her body and letting out a loud scream.
The midwife cut the umbilical card and carried the crying infant to a silver basin, to wash the infant. Sancha took a few breaths, as her ladies changed her and dressed her into a clean nightgown and helped her into bed.
The midwife swaddled the infant and walked over to Sancha.
"It is a boy, my Lady." she said.
Sancha smiled and took her newborn baby son.
"He is perfect." she said.
The door opened and Carlos walked in and smiled.
"Another son." he said.
Sancha nodded her head.
"I want him to be named after you." she said.
Carlos smiled and kissed Sancha.
"Little Carlos it is. We can call him Carlito." he said.
Sancha nodded her head and kissed her baby son's forehead.
2 June 1565
Westminster Abbey, London, England
The Sanctuary
"You look beautiful, Kate." Lady Mary Brandon, Duchess of Suffolk said to her friend and cousin.
Lady Katherine Dudley née Grey sighed and smiled.
"Thank you, Mary. I can not believe that I am getting married again today." she said.
Lady Katherine was marrying the King's illegitimate half-brother, Lord Edward Fitzroy, Duke of Richmond. Although he was twenty years her senor, they had fallen in love over the last five years. They had become more acquainted when they were both visiting the graves of their late spouses. They frequently saw each other at Court and exchanged New Years gifts. She found herself falling in love with Edward. Finally, after five years, they were given permission to marry.
Mary continued to smooth Lady Katherine's silver gown that she decided to wear for her wedding day. She had her long hair cascading down her back and a beautiful diamond necklace that belonged to her late mother, Lady Catherine Stokes.
The door opened and her stepfather, Lord Adrian Stokes, walked in.
Lady Katherine walked over and hugged him.
"Thank you so much for coming." she said.
Adrian smiled.
"I know that your mother would have wanted us all to remain a family. Your sisters, Jane and Mary are in Scotland and Spain, you deserve to have family here and if you like, I can escort you down the aisle." he said.
Lady Katherine smiled.
"I would love that, Stepfather." she said.
She held out her arm out and Adrian escorted her from the room and into the sanctuary so she could wear her new love.
The Banquet Hall
The wedding feast was grand and very long. Lord Edward and Lady Katherine were relatives of the King and he and Queen Lillian actually attended the wedding themselves, to the surprise of the Court.
The newlywed couple was a beautiful sight to behold, despite their twenty year age gap. It was a beautiful blended family, as Lord Edward had four children ranging from thirteen year old Lady Katherine to twenty-six year old Lady Elizabeth, Duchess of Clarence.
King Harry, who was seated near the newlyweds, leaned over to his half-brother.
"Are you happy, brother?" he asked.
Lord Edward smiled.
"I am, Your Majesty. It has been many years since I have been a married man. I love Kate and I know she will be a wonderful wife to me." he said.
King Harry nodded.
"I definitely understand. I wish you all the happiness in the world." he said.
Lord Edward smiled and slightly teared up.
Lady Katherine Grey and her eldest stepdaughter, Lady Elizabeth Brandon, Duchess of Clarence, were dancing together. They were around the same age and despite Lady Katherine marrying her father, Lady Elizabeth was hoping to be good friends with her young stepmother.
"Stepmother, you are a graceful dancer." she said.
Lady Katherine smiled.
"Thank you, Bess. How are your children?" she asked.
Lady Elizabeth smiled.
"They are well. I will be returning to Clarence House soon." he said.
Lady Katherine nodded. Clarence House was the new residence of Lord Edmund Brandon, Duke of Clarence and Lady Elizabeth that was newly constructed in London. Despite their arrangement, Lord Edmund preferred to keep his wife and children near him and he cared about Lady Elizabeth, affectionately.
Lady Katherine sighed.
"I wish you would remain at Court. Your father loves seeing you." she said.
Lady Elizabeth shook her head.
"I do not have a place here at Court. I prefer to stay away from it all and be with my children." she said.
Before Lady Katherine could say anything, one of her ladies-in-waiting walked up and bowed.
"Your Grace, excuse, but the Duke of Richmond is ready to retire for the evening." she said.
Lady Katherine smiled and nodded and looked at her stepdaughter.
"We will visit Clarence House, before we leave for our home." she said.
Lady Elizabeth smiled.
"Of course, Stepmother. Please make Father happy." she said.
Lady Katherine nodded.
"I will love your father until my dying day." she said.
11 June 1565
Palace of the Infantado, Madrid, Spain
Princess Giovanna, Duchess of the Infantado's Bedchamber
"Have you heard any news about the war between France and Naples?" Princess Giovanna asked her lady-in-waiting, Ana de Guzman.
The younger Spanish lady shook her head.
"No, Your Highness. I beg of you to not worry about such matters." she said
Princess Giovanna sighed.
"That is simple to say when it is not your homeland being invaded, your brother and nephew fighting and the possiblity that your stepson has to leave and risk his life as well." she said.
Lady Guzman sighed.
"I apologize, Your Highness." she said.
Princess Giovanna sighed. She did not mean to snap at the young lady, evo had served her faithfully for eleven years.
"I am sorry. I am just worried about my hometown and family." she said.
The door opened and Lord Diego de Mendoza walked in. The fifty-nine year old Duke walked up to his wife and kissed her.
"How are you feeling, darling?" he asked.
Princess Giovanna sighed.
"I feel like a stuffed swan." she said.
Diego chuckled.
"Well, you are a beautiful one. You are as beautiful as the day we were married." he said.
Princess Giovanna smiled.
"I love your visit, however I do want to know what brings you here." she said.
Diego smiled.
"Your nephew, Prince Alfonso of Naples, will be be our guest here soon. Your brother, the King, is worried that his son is in danger. He was participating in battle and there has also been rumors that he is to be the new heir, since his elder brother is mad and his brother has made threats ." he said.
Princess Giovanna looked at her husband, in shock.
"Well, then we must protect him. I will ready an apartment for him." she said.
Suddenly, Giovanna groaned in pain and leaned forward. Diego grabbed her.
"Sweetheart?" he asked.
She looked up.
"I need my midwife." she said.
Diego looked at Ana.
"You heard the Duchess. Go." he said firmly.
Ana nodded and rushed from the room.
Several hours later...
Princess Giovanna smiled, as she heard her newborn baby crying. She could still not believe that she had a new child at forty years old.
The midwife came over and handed Princess Giovanna her newborn child, wrapped in a fresh blanket.
"It is a boy, Your Highness. He is very healthy." She said, proudly.
Princess Giovanna smiled and took her newborn son.
"Oh, he is beautiful." she said.
The door opened and Lord Diego walked in, smiling.
"A son, Giovanna?" he said.
Princess Giovanna smiled and nodded.
"Yes, darling." she said.
Diego kissed his newborn son on his forehead.
"Would you object to calling him Luis, after our King?" he asked.
Princess Giovanna shook her head.
"I was thinking the same thing." she said.
Diego sighed.
"I am sorry. We have a newborn son and now we will have a Prince in our home." he said.
Princess Giovanna shook her head.
"It will be fine. My nephew will come to Court with us. Luis will be here and we'll taken care of." she said.
Diego smiled. He was happy to have a wife that he loved and that was not argumentative. She was so much better at handling their home affairs and he knew that housing her Royal nephew would be simple.
23 June 1565
Ribiera Palace, Lisbon, Portugal
Queen Catarina of Portugal's Bedchamber
"Catarina, which gown do you want to wear tomorrow?" Infanta Joanna asked her elder sister.
Queen Catarina sighed.
"Not many of them fit right now. I believe my blue one will still fit me." she said.
Infanta Joanna nodded and pulled it out. Queen Catarina had been correct in her assumption that she was with child and was due to be brought to childbed in two months.
Queen Catarina smiled.
"You are such a big help you me, sister." she said.
Joanna smiled.
"It is my pleasure." she said.
Queen Catarina rose from her chair and made her way to her bed.
"Have you and Manuel started looking for marriages for your girls?" she asked.
Joanna shook her head.
"No. I want them to marry for love. I could not hear it they were just a pawn for heirs." she said.
Queen Catarina sighed.
"They are still of Royal blood, Joanna. I can not promise they won't be in arranged marriages, but I will do my best as their Queen and aunt to ensure some happiness." she said.
Joanna smiled.
"Thank you." she said.
The door opened and King Juan walked in. Joanna bowed, as he walked past her to kiss Catarina on her lips.
He put a hand on her swollen stomach.
"How are you, darling?" he asked.
She smiled.
"I am well. There is nothing wrong. This is my fifth time carrying a child." she said.
Joanna smiled.
"Goodnight, Your Majesties." she said.
Juan and Catarina nodded and both got into their bed. Catarina smiled at her husband of eleven years. They were in a good place. He has matured physically and was still muscular.
Catarina traced his chest, affectionately.
"Is something bothering you?" she asked.
Juan grabbed her hand and kissed it.
"The war with France. I am Spanish. I should be helping them protect Naples." he said.
Catarina sighed. She knew it bothered her husband that he was not involved with the War, but it was a risk that they couldn't weigh, especially while she was with child and their son was still young.
"I wish we could help Aunt Elizabeth, but it is not our fight. We have no holdings with the Mediterranean. You are Portugal's King and you have to put her first. If I were to due in childbirth... "
Juan sat up.
"Do not say it. You will live." he said.
Catarina continued.
"If I were to due in childbirth, while Sebastian is under his age of majority, I would want you to be his Regent. That would not happen, if you go to fight in a war that does not have anything to do with our people or finances." she said.
Juan nodded and sighed.
"Do you think it will affect our relationship with Spain?" he asked.
Catarina shook her head.
"Why should it? Naples is a jewel of Spain. You may be Spanish, but that is their fight. I love my aunt and I pray we stay close, but I will not get into matters that do not concern us or our people." she said.
Juan smiled and kissed her and they began to cuddle and settle down for the night. He knew she was right. He had to stay alive for their children. He had to listen to Catarina, as she was the sovereign and he the consort. He was titled King, but everyone knew that the power laid with his beautiful Catarina and he was fine with their arrangement.
A/N I apologize about the delay in getting this Chapter up. My siblings and I lost my godmother at the age of forty-nine two weeks ago and I needed to decompress and start to heal. I hope you all enjoy this Chapter and honor and love those close to you. Also, I will take this time to honor an incredible woman, who this world has lost. She was a Queen for seventy years, a wife for seventy-three years, a mother of four and grandmother of eight. I am a historical fiction writer in the US, but if any of my readers are residents of the UK or any of the Commonwealth realms, my heart, prayers and sincere condolences go out to you in this difficult time of transition. Please Read and Revioew and Chapter Seventy is currently in the works.
In Loving Memory of:
Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth
(21 April 1926-8 September 2022)
The Queen is dead, Long Live the King.