Chapter 70
Welcome to Chapter Seventy! It has been a long road and we are still pushing. I just wanted to let you all know that you can private message me about any of the characters or storylines. It is a large story and has many people so do not hesitate to ask. I hope you all feel free to ask about characters you have not seen in awhile, as well. You all have been supporting our stories for years and I hope you continue to enjoy them during these dark and sad moments in history. Again, if you are in the UK or the Commonwealth regions, you have my most sincere condolences. The Monarchy inspired my love of history and my drive to write historical fanfiction. I know you may seen destabilized, but you all will prosper and the Queen's memory will live on in her people. I also want to give a little footnote/edit of a major character. From this point on, Queen Elizabeth of Spain and Navarre's name will be spelled as Elisabeth, since Navarre was heavily influenced by France at this time and it is also the Catalan way of saying her name, which was a community in Spain that that the Crown was always in conflict with, but it will only be in the setting section. I will update the former Chapters as well soon. Please Read and Review and enjoy Chapter Seventy!
10 July 1565
Caserta Palace, Naples, Italy
The Throne Room
Eleanora of Portugal, the new Queen of Naples, was sitting on her Throne, feeling anxious. Her new homeland was at war and she was dealing with conflicts within the family. It had come out that her eldest stepson, Prince Giovanni, Duke of Calabria, was wreaking havoc and had threatened his younger brother, Prince Alfonso. Prince Alfonso had actually fought in battle, despite his young age and was victorious in the Battle of Capri. However, it was decided that Prince Alfonso, as second in line for the Throne, would be safe in Spain, so today he would be departing for the Mendoza Family estate, the new family of his aunt, Princess Giovanna, the Duchess of the Infantado.
A side door opened and the Queen Mother, Infanta Catalina of Austria, walked in and bowed to her twenty year old daughter in-law and Queen.
Queen Eleanora smiled.
"What can I do for you, my Lady Mother?" she asked.
Dowager Queen Catalina sighed.
"I just wanted to let you know that Prince Alfonso is nearly ready for his departure." she said.
Queen Eleanora nodded his head.
"I hate that we have to send him away like this. He knows nothing of Spain." she said.
The Queen Mother smiled.
"Do not worry. I am Spanish and his mother, the late Queen, was also Spanish. Our Court is modeled after Queen Elizabeth's Court. He will adjust. It is not perfect, however we need to protect him. Giovanni is dangerous and he is an heir with no heir of his own body. He hates his brother and with his madness, he will kill the boy." she said.
Queen Eleanora sighed.
"I hope I provide my husband with another son." she said.
The Queen Mother smiled.
"You will. You are young and very lovely. I am sure that when this war is over, my son will return, eager to be with his young wife." she said.
Queen Eleanora smiled.
"Do you think Prince Alfonso will thrive with your daughter?" she asked.
The Queen Mother nodded.
"Absolutely. Also, remember your sister is married to my daughter's stepson and both of them are prominent members of the Spanish Royal Court." she said.
Queen Eleanora smiled, remembering her sister Sancha, who she missed.
Suddenly the doors opened, and several guards walked in, followed by three of the eight Royal children: Princess Maria, Prince Alfonso and little Princess Joanna. King Alfonso had said that no one in the immediate Royal Family was to be left alone.
Queen Eleanora stood up to greet her stepchildren. They all bowed when they reached her Throne.
"Hello, you all." she said.
They all said hello to their stepmother.
Queen Eleanora picked up little six year old Princess Joanna and kissed her cheek and walked up to Princess Alfonso.
"Alfonso, how are you?" she asked.
Prince Alfonso smiled. The fifteen year old second-born son of the King of Naples was tall and good-looking. He had reddish-brown hair, hazel eyes and light olive skin and despite his young age, was showing great height. He had participated in battle with his father, but when his brother, Prince Giovanni, was showing irreparable signs of madness and since he had no son, he was pulled from battle and was made his brother's heir. However, there was serious talk that Giovanni would be disinherited and Alfonso would become the Duke of Calabria and his father's heir.
"I am actually excited for my journey. I thought only my sisters would see foreign Courts, but I get to as well. I can see the homeland of my late mother." he said.
Queen Eleanora smiled.
"We will make sure you are well taken care of. Your aunt, the Duchess of the Infantado, says you will still live the life of a Prince and will be a jewel at Court." she said.
Prince Alfonso smiled.
"I will be a testament to Father and to our Court." he said.
Princess Maria smiled at her younger brother.
"No one doubts that, little brother." she said.
The Queen Mother cleared her throat.
"Alfonso, you must leave for your journey. You will be safe in Spain. Your sister, Princess Isabella, will most likely join you soon, if the war persists. She is still betrothed to Prince Nicolai of Crete and she will need safe passage there , which King Luis and Queen Elisabeth have guaranteed." she said.
Prince Alfonso sighed and nodded. He kissed his sisters and grandmother and bowed to his stepmother. The guards accompanying him to his ship stepped forward and bowed to him. Prince Alfonso nodded and took a deep breath and walked away from his family, praying that he would see them again very soon. This war was tearing apart many families and he just hoped this division wouldn't last long.
17 July 1565
Royal Palace of Olite, Olite, Navarre
Queen Elizabeth of Navarre's Privy Chamber
"Sweetheart, I believe we should postpone this meeting with Alex. You are due any day now and should be in confinement." King Luis said.
Queen Elizabeth sighed and shook her head.
"No. A Queen's duty is to her people and I am being as careful as I can, however I do not want to be left in the dark about the war." she said, putting her hand on her swollen stomach.
Luis nodded.
"I understand, just please promise me you will not overdo it." he said.
Queen Elizabeth nodded her head.
"I will." she said.
The door opened and Lord Alex Dumane, Duke of Lautrec, walked in and bowed.
Luis nodded.
"Alex, thank you for coming under short notice. I assume you have news on Naples?" he asked.
Alex nodded.
"The French have officially been chased out of Salerno and Capri. They are not happy about that." he said.
Queen Elizabeth sighed.
"Has there been many casualties and damage?" she asked.
Alex nodded.
"The French have lost nearly thirty-two thousand men and we have only lost over ten thousand. The French have pillaged and hurt many villagers." he said.
Queen Elizabeth sighed.
"They will pay for the destruction. I swear upon it." she said.
King Luis nodded.
"Has King Francis decided to withdraw his troops?" he asked.
Alex shook his head.
King Luis chuckled.
"Well, of he wants to continue this war, we shall. I will write a letter to Cousin Ferdinand, the Emperor. He will definitely send troops to Naples." he said.
Alex looked at his King and best friend.
"The French will be decimated." he said, with a small smile.
King Luis nodded his head.
"Precisely." he said.
Suddenly, Queen Elizabeth grabbed her stomach and cried out. The two men had not noticed that she had turned away.
King Luis walked over to his wife.
"What is wrong, my love?" he asked.
Queen Elizabeth took deep breaths.
"Our child is coming." she said.
King Luis looked at Alex.
"Alex, fetch a midwife. Quickly!" he said.
Alex rushed out of the room.
Later that night...
"Push, Your Majesty. You are nearly there." the midwife said.
Queen Elizabeth pushed and yelled, bearing down as much as she could.
The midwife nodded her head.
"More, Your Majesty. The head is nearly out." she said.
Queen Elizabeth pushed more. She yelled, as she could feel her child moving towards her source of life.
Lady Jeanne Dumane, who was the principal lady-in-waiting until the Mendoza family returned from their estate, walked up and wiped Queen Elizabeth's sweaty forehead.
"You are doing well, Your Majesty. Keep pushing. The Infante is nearly here." she said.
Queen Elizabeth looked at her and nodded. She continued to push as hard, as she could. She could feel the blood pouring down her thighs.
Finally, a loud cry filled the room. Queen Elizabeth laid her head down and began to catch her breath. The midwife cut the cord yo separate the child from Queen Elizabeth and carried the child over to clamp the cord and to wash the crying child.
Lady Jeanne nodded at the junior ladies-in-waiting to begin to undress and wash Queen Elizabeth and put her in a clean nightgown. Finally, the midwife brought the newborn child to the Queen.
The midwife sighed.
"It is a girl, Your Majesty." she said.
Queen Elizabeth smiled and kissed her newborn daughter. The baby girl had light reddish-brown hair. She was a healthy and beautiful child.
"She is beautiful." she said.
The midwife nodded.
"It would have been better had she been an Infante." she said.
Queen Elizabeth glared at her.
"A healthy Infanta is just as important as ten Infantes." she said.
The midwife nodded and bowed. The ladies-in-waiting were tending to their Queen, as King Luis walked in. Everyone bowed deeply.
He walked over to his wife.
"Another beautiful girl, huh?" he asked.
Queen Elizabeth nodded her head.
"I am still bewildered that she is our eighth surviving child." she said.
King Luis kissed the now sleeping infant.
"She is not less loved than the others." he said.
Queen Elizabeth nodded.
"You are right. Christina is not less loved than her siblings." she said.
King Luis smiled.
"Christina?" he asked.
Queen Elizabeth nodded.
"Yes, if you do not mind. I wanted to name her after my late aunt." she said.
King Luis looked at his sleeping daughter.
"It does suit her." he said.
Queen Elizabeth looked at her husband.
"We need to finish the War Council. Please continue it in my absence. Let the men know that I will resume my duties when I am churched. Let the Emperor know we will need assistance." she said.
King Luis nodded his head.
"We will. However, I want you to get better and take care of our little Infanta." he said.
Queen Elizabeth nodded and kissed her husband and cuddled little Christina.
26 July 1565
Palace of Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
Queen Matilda of Sweden's Privy Chamber
Queen Matilda smiled, as she cradled her newborn son, Prince Gustav. The second son of the Swedish King and Queen had arrived on the fifth day of May without complications. Queen Matilda was delighted that she had given birth to a second son and the Succession was now secure.
She heard a knock at her door.
Queen Matilda looked up.
"Come in." she said.
The door opened and Princess Elisabeth, King Eric's sixteen year old half-sister, walked in and bowed.
Queen Matilda smiled.
"Elisabeth, what a surprise. I am so happy to see you." she said.
Princess Elisabeth smiled.
"Thank you for receiving me, Your Majesty." she said.
Queen Matilda handed baby Prince Gustav to one of her ladies-in-waiting.
"Of course. What can I do for you?" she asked.
Princess Elisabeth sighed.
"I want permission to dismiss one of my ladies-in-waiting from my service." she said.
Queen Matilda nodded.
"I can understand it. Who are you looking to dismiss from your service?" she asked.
Princess Elisabeth looked at her older sister in-law.
"Karin Mansdotter." she said.
Queen Matilda looked at her sister-in-law.
"Why do you want to dismiss her?" she asked.
Princess Elisabeth sighed and looked at her sister-in-law, with pity. Queen Matilda closed her eyes, knowing the answer.
"How long has my husband been visiting her bed?" she asked.
Princess Elisabeth glared.
"Three months. It started when you entered into confinement." she said.
Queen Matilda sighed.
"Men will fall to sin, but a madman will sin frequently. You may dismiss her. However, the King may not have her dismissed from Court. How old is this... lady?" she asked.
"She is around my age. I believe she is fifteen." she said.
Queen Matilda rolled her eyes.
"He will toy with her just like a cat toys with a field mouse. I am not concerned at all. I have given him two sons and they are legitimate. She is of no threat to me or my children." she said.
Princess Elisabeth smiled.
"I hope I have your strength in my marriage. Am I still betrothed to Lord Christopher?" she asked.
Queen Matilda nodded. Princess Elisabeth had been betrothed to Christopher, the third son of Albrecht VII, Duke of Mecklenburg. He was currently twenty-eight years old.
"Yes, however he is still being held captive by his brother's enemies. We will not break it yet, but we will have other offers. You are a beautiful girl and deserve a grand match." she said.
Princess Elisabeth smiled and hugged Queen Matilda. She had known Matilda since she was two years old and she was literally like an older sister to her. She knew that her eldest brother was not in his right mind and since both jet parents were dead, Matilda was definitely the main figure in her life and held her best interest at heart.
1 August 1565
Ribeira Palace, Lisbon, Portugal
Queen Catarina of Portugal's Bedchamber
Queen Catarina looked out at her window, rubbing her swollen stomach. She had suspected she was with child again, when her sister, Infanta Joanna, had gone into labor with her third child and she was correct. She was due any day now.
One of her ladies-in-waiting walked up and curtsied.
"Your Majesty, are you ready to retire for the night?" she asked.
Queen Catarina nodded her head.
"Yes, Teresa. Thank you so much." she said.
Teresa nodded.
"The King bids you goodnight and he misses you." she said.
Queen Catarina smiled. She was in confinement and could not see anyone, so Teresa acted as a messenger between the couple.
"Tell him that I miss him as well." she said.
The door opened and Infanta Joanna, Princess of Eboli, walked in. Teresa bowed to her.
"Your Highness." she said.
Infanta Joanna nodded at her and Teresa left the room.
Queen Catarina smiled at her sister.
"Thank you for sleeping in here with me. You know I hate sleeping alone." she said.
Infanta Joanna smiled.
"It is my pleasure. Manuel will survive one night without me. It will be just like it was when we were girls." she said.
Queen Catarina nodded.
"I have such fond memories. I remember when you were five years old and our governess caught you sneaking to the kitchen." she said.
Infanta Joanna laughed.
"I wanted to some more roasted goose. It is my favorite food." she said.
Queen Catarina chuckled.
"If you eat too much goose, you will end up looking like a cow." she said.
Infanta Joanna laughed.
"I will outlive you all, even if I eat goose every day." she said, getting into her bed.
Queen Catarina laughed and rubbed her large stomach.
"Sure you will, sister. How is your marriage?" she asked.
Infanta Joanna smiled.
"We are happy. Manuel does not take mistresses and he does not seem to disappointed that I have not given birth to a son yet." she said.
Queen Catarina nodded her head.
"Juan and I are happy mostly. I am fortunate that he does not being King in name only. Juan is lustful and if he has a mistress at some point, I do not think it will impede a happy marriage." she said.
Suddenly, Queen Catarina winced and felt her sheets become wet.
She sat up in bed.
"Joanna, I need a midwife." she said.
Infanta Joanna instantly sat up and grabbed her robe and left the room, as Queen Catarina felt her first contractions.
The labor had been quick and uneventful. Queen Catarina was sweaty and out of breath, as she listened to her newborn daughter cry, as she was being washed at the basin.
Infanta Joanna smiled and wiped her sister's sweaty forehead.
"You did wonderful, Catarina." she said.
Queen Catarina looked at her younger sister, exhausted.
"Is she well? Have you seen her?" she asked
Infanta Joanna walked over to the basin and took her newborn niece from the midwife. She walked back to her sister and handed Queen Catarina her baby girl.
"Here she is." she said.
Queen Catarina smiled and kissed her newborn forehead.
"She is beautiful." she said.
The newborn baby had reddish-brown and brown eyes.
Infanta Joanna smiled.
"You have five children, sister." she said.
Queen Catarina smiled and nodded. She was truly the mother of five children and she was twenty-eight years old. The Succession was now secure. She knew that her Council was happy that she was the mother of two healthy sons and she hoped that her three daughters would find grand marriages.
"Did we find a wet nurse?" she asked.
Infanta Joanna nodded her head.
"Yes. Doña Elvira de Guzman. She recently had her ninth child. She is very healthy and robust." she said.
Queen Catarina nodded her head.
"I am sure she will be excellent for little Bianca." she said.
Infanta Joanna smiled.
"Bianca?" she asked.
Queen Catarina nodded.
"Yes, after our cousin in Brazil and she will be godmother, but you will stand in for proxy at the baptism." she said.
Infanta Joanna smiled.
"I would be honored." she said.
Queen Catarina kissed little Bianca and handed her to Infanta Joanna.
"Should I assume that you want to be left alone with the baby?" she asked.
Queen Catarina nodded.
"Yes, please return to your husband. I have my angel here." she said.
Infanta Joanna bowed and put little Bianca in the cradle that was put in Queen Catarina's Chambers. She walked out the room and smiled, as she saw her sister settling down to sleep.
12 August 1565
Pitti Palace, Florence, Tuscany
Cosimo de Medici, Grand Duke of Tuscany's Bedchamber
A thunderstorm raged across the Italian city of Florence. A handsome man of forty-six years of age sat at his desk in his Bedchamber, reading correspondence. Cosimo de Medici was the Grand Duke of all of Tuscany and the head of the Medici Family.
Cosimo heard a knock on his door.
"Come in." he said.
The door opened and Cosimo's Portuguese wife, Rosaria de Guerra, walked in. The two had a very happy marriage. Rosaria was credited with saving the Medici Family. Cosimo did not have many relatives and with their marriage, Rosaria was able to give birth to nine children, three sons and six daughters. Rosaria also brought significant wealth to the Medici Family and purchased the Pitti Palace with her own personal fortune for her husband and growing family. She also raised her husband's illegitimate daughter. She was also an attractive woman, with dark Auburn hair and hazel eyes.
Cosimo smiled.
"Hello, darling." he said.
Rosaria walked up and kissed her husband.
"How are you, my love?" she asked.
Cosimo sighed.
"I was going to come find you actually." he said.
Rosaria sat down, after pouring herself a goblet of wine.
Cosimo looked at his wife.
"I have found a husband for our Maria." he said.
Rosaria smiled. Maria was their eldest child together.
"Who will be her betrothed?" she asked.
Cosimo sighed.
"The Duke of Guise." he said softly.
Rosaria looked at her husband, in horror.
"Cosimo! That man is forty-six years old and already has a son. Our Maria is so young." she said.
Cosimo nodded his head.
"That is true. However, his first wife, Sophie of Scotland, died last year in childbirth and he needs a younger wife, as he wants more legitimate sons. Maria has the dowry, breeding and the youth." he said.
Rosaria shook her head.
"I do not like this." she said.
Cosimo touched her hand.
"I am so sorry, darling, but it is a good match for her. She will also be tied to the French Royal Family. She will be well cared for." she said.
Rosaria sighed.
"I just do not have a good feeling about this, but I will respect your choice, sweetheart." she said.
Cosimo smiled and stood up and kissed Rosaria, passionately.
"Will you stay the night with me, Rosa?" he asked.
Rosaria smiled.
"Of course." she said, dropping her robe.
24 August 1565
St. Hilarion Castle, Kyrenia, Cyprus
Queen Christina of Cyprus' Bedchamber
Queen Christina of Cyprus smiled, as her five year old daughter, Princess Maria, was sewing.
"Your embroidery is wonderful, darling." she said.
Princess Maria smiled.
"Thank you, Mother." she said.
Queen Christina smiled, but she felt a wave of dizziness hit her. She had been feeling ill for a week. She suspected what it was, but she did not want to get her hopes up. It had been a few years since the birth of her last child, Prince Raul and she had not fallen pregnant. She was fertile, according to the physician and she had not missed her menses or had a miscarriage. She was praying she was finally with child.
She looked at her lady-in-waiting.
"Please take the Princess to the Nursery and summon the King and a physician." she said.
The Lady bowed and took Princess Maria by the hand and led her out. The physician walked in and examined the twenty-six year old Queen and confirmed her suspicions on being with child and she was due in February.
Several moments later, King Janius walked in and kissed his wife.
"Is everything well, sweetheart?" he asked.
Queen Christina sighed.
"I summoned you here because I have just found out I am with child." she said.
King Janius smiled and hugged his wife.
"That is wonderful news. Why do you look troubled?" he asked.
Queen Christina placed a hand on her stomach.
"I have not become with child since I gave birth to Raul. I thought I was barren and I was afraid I would lose your love." she said.
King Janius looked at his wife.
"Sweetheart, we have three children and now one on the way. You are far from barren. I will always love you and nothing and no one will ever change that." he said.
Queen Christina smiled and kissed her husband.
"I love you so much." she said.
King Janius touched her stomach.
"When are you due to ne brought to childbed?" he asked.
"The physician says that I am due in February." Queen Christina said.
King Janius smirked.
"It was the hunting trip. When we left the hunting party, when I took you on the forest floor." he said, coyly.
Queen Christina blushed.
"Janius." she said.
King Janius smiled.
"I am just being honest, darling." he said.
Queen Christina nodded her head.
"When will we announce it to the Court?" she asked.
King Janius paced a little.
"I believe we should wait until the babe quickens. I remember my mother would not announce her pregnancies untill the babe moved." he said.
Queen Christina nodded her head.
"I can agree." she said.
King Janius kissed her forehead.
"How about the children join us for dinner tonight? It has been ages since we have all been together." he said.
Queen Christina teared up.
"I would love that, darling. Thank you so much." she said.
King Janius caressed her face.
"Anything for the love of my life and my angel from the Lord." he said.
3 September 1565
Château de Fontainebleau, Paris, France
Queen Mary of Scotland and France's Bedchamber
Queen Mary sighed, as she read the updates from the battlefield. Her husband was still at Court, but she was in her confinement, awaiting the birth of their third child.
The door opened and her mother-in-law, Catherine de Medici, the Queen Mother, walked in and bowed.
Queen Mary smiled and nodded at her mother-in-law.
"How can I help you, Catherine?" she asked.
Dowager Queen Catherine sighed.
"I am assuming you know how things are going on the battlefield." she said.
Queen Mary nodded her head.
"I do. I warned Francis it would happen like this." she said.
Dowager Queen Catherine nodded.
"I did as well. However, what can we do now? Now, he is to fight with Spain and if it continues, it could even get the Empire involved. We will not stand a chance." she said.
Queen Mary nodded, as she rubbed her swollen stomach.
"There is nothing we can do. Women have no right in governing here." she said.
Dowager Queen Catherine sighed.
"You are the Queen and his wife. You can get him to listen to reason and show him that there is nothing good about this war. I would love for him have territories near the Italian States, but not like this." she said.
Queen Mary nodded her head.
"I know what you mean, Catherine. We were destroyed in Salerno, Capri was a disaster and Calabria we did not have a choice." she said.
Suddenly, Queen Mary gasped and grabbed her stomach. Dowager Queen Catherine rushed to her.
"Mary?" she asked.
Queen Mary looked at her mother-in-law.
"It is my time." she said.
Dowager Queen Catherine looked at Queen Mary's ladies-in-waiting.
"Do not sit there like dolts. Get the midwife." she ordered.
One of the ladies ran out of the room.
Dowager Queen Catherine paced back and forth. She was awaiting the birth of her next Royal grandchild. She was hoping it would be a boy. She knew that the line of succession was secure, but another male heir would not hurt.
Suddenly, King Francis ran up to his mother.
"Is the child here? How is my Mary?" he asked.
Dowager Queen Catherine shook her head.
"No, the child is not here. She is doing well, however the progression is the same." she said.
King Francis sighed.
"I was in a Council meeting when I heard. I rushed here." he said.
Dowager Queen Catherine nodded her head.
"Of course, son. How did the meeting go?" she asked.
King Francis sighed.
"I thought taking Calabria would help, but it has not. If we do not take other cities, there is little chance we could advance to the capital city. So many have died, Mother." she said.
Dowager Queen Catherine nodded.
"I know. It is the cost of war. I would suggest bringing the troops home, since it is nearly the end of the year." she said.
Before King Francis could say anything, they both heard a loud cry. They both looked at the closed door, with anticipation.
Finally, the midwife walked out, smiling.
"It is healthy Prince and the Queen will recover She has asked that he ne named Francis, after the King." she said proudly.
Dowager Queen Catherine smiled And King Francis jumped for joy and hugged his mother. God was surely smiling upon France and Scotland with the birth of the heir and spare.
16 September 1565
Castle of Rivoli, Turin, Savoy
Margaret, Duchess Consort of Savoy's Bedchamber
A woman of forty-two walked to a nearby window, rosary clutched in her hands. She was Margaret of France, Duchess of Savoy, the only surviving sibling of the late Henri II of France. She was awaiting the return of her husband. She had married Duke Emmanuel Philibert of Savoy in 1545 when she was twenty-two years old and he was seventeen. Their marriage was not a love match and was purely political, but they were faithful to each other and managed to have seven children.
Their first child, Lady Anne of Savoy, was eighteen years old and was pride to her parents. She was beautiful, gifted with instruments and was fluent in several languages. They knew they would miss her when she was betrothed to Lord Henry Tudor, the grandson of Prince Edmund, Duke of Somerset and had married him in the past June. Although they missed her presence at home, she wrote that she was happy with her new husband and enjoyed the court of the Prince of Wales
Their second child, Lady Catherine of Savoy, was sixteen years old and was their angel, despite their initial disappointment at her birth, since they were hoping for a son. However, she was a blessing to them. They were hoping for a good marriage for her, but they also loves having her at home, due to her sweet disposition.
Their son and heir, Lord Charles Emmanuel, Prince of Piedmont, was now thirteen years old and would inherit the Duchy of Savoy upon the death of his father. Despite his youth, Charles Emmanuel was a handsome young man and showed great intelligence.
Their fourth child was the one they seldom discussed. Little Marie of Savoy had been born two years after her older brother in 1555. However, she had been a weak and frail child. Margaret did her best to care and help her daughter thrive. Sadly, little Marie died from a fever when she was only four years old, devastating her family.
One year after little Marie's birth, Lady Bianca of Savoy arrived. She was another disappointment to her parents, as they wanted another son, especially after the birth of a weak daughter. She eventually grew on her parents and developed a close relationship with her older brother.
Finally, Lord Francis of Savoy, a second son and sixth child arrived three years after Bianca. He was cherished and loved and was very important, despite being a child of six. He had recently gained the title of the Prince of Carignano, a title that was usually reserved for the second-born son.
Finally, little Lady Isabella of Savoy completed the family. She was only an infant, being nearly a year old. She was the apple of everyone's eyes, as she was born when her mother had entered into her forties. She was currently
Suddenly, Margaret's door opened and her husband of twenty years walked in, still wearing his army attire.
Margaret looked at one of her maids that attended her.
"Adelaide, bring the Duke wine and hot food from the kitchen." she said.
The young lady nodded and left the room.
Duke Emmanuel Philibert nodded at his wife.
"Thank you, Margaret. How are you?" he asked.
Margaret sighed.
"I should ask you that question." she said.
Duke Emmanuel Philibert sighed.
"Your nephew is definitely ambitious. However, I feel that we are fighting a pointless war. I thought this was a good choice, however I see I have made a mistake." he said.
Margaret looked at her husband.
"What do you mean?" she asked.
Duke Emmanuel Philibert looked at his wife.
"Spain has always been a much better ally to me. I was able to regain Savoy from your brother when he invaded, with Spain's help." he said.
Margaret nodded her head.
"I understand that, but I do not see why you made a mistake. My nephew is a much better ally than my late brother." she said.
Duke Emmanuel Philibert sighed.
"I do not wish to discuss the war. The only thing you need to know is that it is not going well for France. How is our little Anne?" he said, looking at the cradle in Margaret's room.
Margaret walked over to look at her sleeping eleven month old infant daughter.
"She is well. She is healthy." she said.
Duke Emmanuel Philibert nodded.
"She should be in the Nursery." he said.
Margaret nodded.
"I know. I just love keeping her close." she said.
Duke Emmanuel Philibert nodded and cleared his throat.
"I think I will retire for the evening." he said, standing up.
Margaret nodded her head.
"Very well. I will tell them to send your food to your Chambers. Do you wish to have hot water as well?" she asked.
Duke Emmanuel Philibert nodded.
"Yes, thank you. Goodnight Margaret." he said, walking out of his wife's Chambers.
Margaret looked at her husband, as he left.
"Goodnight, husband." she said.
15 September 1565
Richmond Palace, Surrey, England
Queen Lillian of England's Bedchamber
"Lady Mary, it is wonderful to have you back at Court. How is little Edward?" Queen Lillian asked, with a smile.
Lady Mary Brandon, Duchess of Suffolk smiled. She had recently given birth to her fourth child and second son named Edward Brandon, after Prince Edward.
"He is well. He feeds well from his wet nurse and is a healthy boy. It was a complete surprise. I did not expect to have another son, since my Hal is already twelve years old." she said.
Queen Lillian smiled, resting her hand on her swollen midsection.
"That is good. Our children are getting older. It is hard to believe that my Mary has started her education and is already mastering her languages." she said.
Lady Katherine Grey-Fitzroy, the new Duchess of Richmond, smiled.
"She is a true testament to Your Majesty." she said.
Queen Lillian looked at Lady Katherine.
"How about you, Lady Katherine? How is your son, the little Earl? Your new marriage?" she asked.
Lady Katherine blushed.
"He is wonderful in all aspects of life. It is wonderful not to have to sleep in a cold empty bed." she said.
Lady Mary Brandon smiled.
"Do you think we will see any fruit from your marriage soon?" she asked.
Lady Katherine smiled.
"Yes. I actually am with child already. I will be brought to childbed in June. We believe I conceived shortly after our marriage." she said.
The ladies gasped and surrounded Lady Katherine, congratulating her on her new pregnancy. Queen Lillian walked over and placed a hand on Lady Katherine's shoulder.
"Congratulations, Lady Katherine." she said.
Before Lady Katherine could say anything, Queen Lillian grabbed her stomach and began to breath heavily. Her ladies quickly surrounded her.
Queen Lillian held her hand up.
"My time has come. Lady Mary, please fetch a midwife." she said.
Lady Mary Brandon left the room and the other ladies-in-waiting helped the thirty-two year old Queen to her bed.
Later that afternoon...
Queen Lillian pushed and screamed, as her contractions became more intense. She could see that she was bleeding more than before and she was becoming worried.
The midwife looked at the Queen.
"Your Majesty, please keep the progress. I beg of you, the babe is nearly delivered." she said.
Queen Lillian frowned at her.
"You said that an hour ago. Is the child coming or not?!" she asked, frustrated.
The midwife nodded her head.
"The child is coming. I see the head now. Push, Your Majesty." she insisted.
Queen Lillian bore down and screamed. She finally felt her child slide out and let out a loud cry. The midwife cut the umbilical cord and carried the crying newborn to the washing font, to be bathed.
Queen Lillian took deep breaths and began to feel relief.
Finally, the midwife handed the swaddled newborn to Lady Mary Brandon. She walked over to Queen Lillian, wearing a smile.
"It is a healthy Princess, Your Majesty." she said, handing the newborn to her mother.
Queen Lillian smiled and took her third daughter in her arms. The newborn looked just like her mother.
"Is the King here?" Queen Lillian asked.
Lady Mary Brandon nodded.
"Yes. He is outside. He wishes for the Princess to be named after you." she said.
Queen looked at her baby girl and smiled.
"Princess Lillian? Is he sure? It is unusual name for an English Princess." she said.
Lady Mary smiled and nodded.
"The King wishes it, Your Majesty." she said.
Queen Lillian looked at her newborn daughter, who was now sleeping.
"It does suit her." she said, handing her newborn daughter to Lady Mary.
Lady Mary laid little Princess Lillian in the cradle by Queen Lillian's bed and when she looked up, her Queen was fast asleep.
30 September 1565
Palace of Geguti, Kutaisi, Imereti
The Royal Chapel
The entire Court of King Bagrat III was present in the Chapel for the christening of his new granddaughter, Princess Elena. She was the second daughter and third child of his son and heir, Prince George and his second wife, Princess Amadea of Cyprus and was named after George's late mother, Queen Elena, who died over twenty-five years ago, giving birth to her youngest child, Prince Alexander.
Seventy year old King Bagrat III wore a stoic expression that showed his fifty-five tumultuous years on the Throne. He had issues with the Ottoman Empire, family issues and Succession. He was happy that his heir now had a son of his own in little Prince Michael, who was now two years old.
The Orthodox priest waited at the baptismal font, while Prince George and Princess Amadea walked down the aisle, carrying newborn Princess Elena. They handed her to Princess Tamar, Duchess of Ferrara, George's younger sister, who was their children's godmother and decided to visit her family and strend the baptism in person. The Priest said a prayer and took the Royal Infant out of her gown and and she was submerged three times under water and she was officially baptized. She was re dressed, as she cried and was handed back to her mother's arms.
King Bagrat stood up from his Throne and his son, daughter and daughter-in-law bowed before him. He placed a small kiss on his granddaughter's cheek and he departed the Chapel, followed by his children, daughter-in-law and their attendants.
The Royal Banquet Hall
Later that night...
King Bagrat III sat in the Banquet Hall, enjoying his wine and his eel caught fresh from The Black Sea. He was unbelievably tired, but he was enjoying the festivities.
Prince George walked up to his father. Princess Amadea was behind him, holding little Princess Elena.
George bowed to his father.
"Father, are you well?" he asked.
King Bagrat nodded.
"Yes, my boy. You need not worry about me. The only thing that afflicts me is age and wine. You should be retiring for the evening to conceive another son." he said.
Prince George sighed.
"Father, Amadea is still recovering from giving birth to Elena. In God's time, we will have another son." he said.
King Bagrat nodded.
"Good, we need another son in the cradle." he said.
Princess Amadea bowed.
"Your Majesty, I will give Imereti another son. I assure you." she said.
King Bagrat smiled, something he rarely ever did.
"I know you will, dear girl." he said.
Princess Amadea smiled and bowed.
King Bagrat winced and grabbed his left arm.
Prince George looked at his father, with a worried expression.
"Father?" he asked.
Suddenly, King Bagrat began to gasp for air and wheeze and collapsed, but Prince George caught him before he would hit the floor. The entire Court saw and cried out in fright and shock.
The elderly King looked at his son.
"I...can...not breath. My... arm." he wheezed out.
Prince George looked around.
"Someone fetch a physician now!" he yelled.
Princess Amadea looked at her Cypriot maid.
"You heard the Prince. Go!" she said.
The young lady ran out, as King Bagrat lost consciousness.
King Bagrat III's Bedchamber
Prince George sat by his father's bedside, as he struggled to breath. He had not regained consciousness and six physicians were examining the elderly King.
He looked at his motionless father.
"Wake up, father. I beg of you. Wake up." he said.
The door was opened and Prince George's sister, Princess Tamar and two brothers, Prince Simon, Duke of Garisi and Prince Alexander, Duke of Kutasi, walked in. Princess Tamar had tears in her brown eyes, but her older and younger brother both had somber expressions on their faces.
Prince Simon walked forward to his elder brother.
"How is he?" he asked.
Prince George shook his head.
"He is not getting better." he said.
Princess Tamar walked up to her eldest brother and touched his shoulder.
"How are you?" she asked.
Prince George sighed.
"I do not know what to feel." he admitted.
Prince Simon took a deep breath.
"You will be King soon, George. I pledge my loyalty to you." he said, bowing his head.
Princess Tamar frowned at her second eldest brother.
"Simon! Father will recover. Show him loyalty." she said.
Prince Alexander nodded.
"Tamar is right. Father is still alive." he said.
Prince Simon nodded.
"Yes, but he is also seventy years old and declining. We all know father has not cared about me or Katarina, my wife or our children." he said.
Prince George held his hand up, as the door opened and four women walked in: Princess Amadea, Princess Katarina of Sweden, the wife of Prince Simon, Grand Duchess Elisabeth of Prussia, the wife of Prince Alexander and Princess Maria, the thirteen year old daughter of Prince George.
Prince George walked over to his wife and daughter.
Princess Maria, with tears in her eyes, looked at her father.
"Will Grandfather live, Father?" she asked.
Prince George sighed.
"I do not know, Maria. we just have to pray to the Lord." he said.
Princess Amadea nodded her head.
"Your father is right. We will just pray and trust in the Lord." she said.
Suddenly, King Bagrat took a very deep breath, which was a deep And raspy gasp and his chest lowered again and he remained still.
Princess Tamar walked forward and sat near him.
"Father?" she asked.
The Royal Physician checked King Bagrat and began an examination.
Finally, he looked at the Royal Family and shook his head.
"The King is dead. Long live the King." he said, bowing to Prince George.
Princess Maria let a few tears fall down her face. Prince Simon grabbed Princess Katarina by the hand and walked up to his older brother.
"Your Majesty." he said, bowing to George.
Simon turned to Amadea.
"Your Majesty." he said, as he bowed.
Prince Simon and his wife departed the room. Prince George looked, as his father's body was covered up. He did not know how to feel. The loss of his father was a personal tragedy, but he was King and he knew he had to guide his people. He has been waiting for thirty-three years to be King and now was his chance to make life better for his people.
12 October 1565
Ludlow Castle, Ludlow, Wales
The Banquet Hall
The entire room was filled with laughter and joy, as they celebrated Prince Edward's twenty-eighth birthday. Prince Edward was very moderate and did not like overdoing celebrations in his principality seat. However, his wife, Princess Elisabeth of Valois, planned this celebration and she loved to have the entire Court enjoying themselves for special occasions.
Prince Edward, wearing a mask, leaned over to Princess Elisabeth.
"Sweetheart, did you have to plan this? It is really extravagant." he said.
Princess Elisabeth looked at her husband and nodded.
"Yes, it is nice to have grand festivities here and there. When is the last time we did something fun and let the Court have fun?" she asked.
Prince Edward looked at his wife.
"We hosted the wedding of my cousin, Lord Henry and your cousin, Lady Anne of Savoy., " he said.
Princess Elisabeth nodded.
"Yes. However, that was just a wedding and it was also because the King required us to host." she said.
Prince Edward sighed.
"I will enjoy this banquet, just please promise me that you will be careful." he said.
Princess Elisabeth nodded and placed a hand on her small, but slightly swollen stomach. She was currently expecting their third child and has recently found out.
"I will. Please do not worry." she said.
Suddenly, Lord Mark Tudor, Duke of Rutland, walked up and bowed.
"Your Highness, I wish you a happy birthday and many more. Please accept this beautiful sword as a gift." he said, as he gestured to one of his manservants.
Prince Edward took the sword and was amazed at the blade and the handle. He could tell that Mark spent a large sum. Of money on this gift.
Prince Edward stood up and hugged his first cousin-once removed.
"I love the gift, Mark." he said.
Lord Mark smiled.
"I am happy, Your Highness." he said.
Prince Edward looked behind him and smiled, as he saw his great-uncle, Prince Edmund, Duke of Somerset. The sixty-six year old Prince and only surviving uncle of the King. He had survived the rule of his father, older brother and now his nephew.
Prince Edmund bowed.
"Your Highness. Happy birthday." he said.
Prince Edward smiled.
"Thank you for your salutations. Are you here to represent my father, the King?" he asked.
Prince Edmund nodded his head.
"Yes. The King and Queen send their love and affection on your your birthday." he said.
Prince Edward nodded.
" Of course. I heard that my sister, Princess Joanna, had become ill and that they wanted to stay close to London." he said.
Prince Edmund nodded.
"Yes, but thankfully the little Princess is becoming well." he said.
Lord Mark looked at Prince Edward.
"Your Highness, may I borrow my father? I have not seen him in ages." he said.
Prince Edward nodded his head and Mark escorted his father to the side of the room and hugged him.
"Father, how are you? I have not seen you since Alice's funeral." he said.
Prince Edmund nodded.
"My dear boy, I could not bear to see you suffering so. How are you? The children?" he asked.
Mark smiled.
"Henry is now married. He has a wonderful marriage. I love seeing him so happy. It reminds me of Alice and I." he said.
Prince Edmund nodded.
"Of course. Lady Isabella of Savoy. It is a good marriage for him. Do you think she will make a good Duchess of Rutland?" he asked.
Mark nodded his head.
I know she will. She takes up many duties already. The duties that Alice would have been doing." he said.
Prince Edmund sighed and touched his son on his shoulder.
"I know you miss her, son." he said.
Lord Mark nodded his head.
"Do you not still miss Mother?" he asked.
Lord Edmund nodded his head.
"Of course I do. It has been twenty-seven years. I still miss her, but the hurt is not constant. I can promise that it will get better. I assure you." he said.
Lord Mark sighed.
"I hope you are right. I have thought about remarrying. Little Elizabeth is still in the nursery and she needs a mother. My Katherine is a woman now, but I still have to think about a mother for Elizabeth." he said.
Prince Edmund smiled.
"You do not need to make a big decision. Prince Edward and his court is able to have families. Let yourself grieve and mourn our beloved Alice and duty can't wait." he said.
Lord Mark smiled.
"Thank you, father." he said.
20 October 1565
Palacio de las Dueñas, Seville, Spain
Lord Cristoforo Madruzzo, Duke of Alba's Bedchamber
"Stepfather, please try to eat a bit more broth. You need your strength." Infanta Juana, Dowager Princess of Anhalt-Zerbst.
The sixty-one year old stepfather of King Luis of Spain and Navarre and his sister, held his hand up to his only stepdaughter.
"Dear Juana, the issue is not my stomach. It is my lungs." he said.
Infanta Juana sighed and sat the bowl down. She looked behind her at her mother, Lady Catalina Madruzzo, Duchess of Alba and Dowager Princess of Asturias and her younger half-sister, Lady Anneliese Madruzzo, the eldest child of her mother and stepfather.
Lady Catalina stepped forward.
"Husband, you must try to eat. I beg of you." she said, gently.
He weakly caressed his wife's face.
"I know it will not make a difference, as do you." he said.
Lady Catalina teared up. Her second husband had been diagnosed with consumption and he had grown weaker as time went on. He was now nearly bedridden and he was having confession every day.
She sighed.
"Is there anything we can do for you?" she asked.
He smiled.
"I want you and Juana to enjoy the beautiful weather outside. I will rest awhile. I want Anneliese to read to me." he said.
Lady Catalina sighed and nodded and kissed her husband and left the room, leaving her husband and third child alone.
Infanta Juana took a deep breath.
"Mother, I hope you are resting enough." she said.
Lady Catalina nodded her head.
"I am. I have accepted what has been said about my husband. My focus is on my children now." she said.
Suddenly, one of her maids ran up and bowed.
"My Lady, I am sorry to disturb you and speak out of turn, but the King is here." she said.
Lady Catalina looked shocked. Her son never showed up without notice.
"Prepare a suite of rooms near my Chambers immediately. Juana, let us go to your brother." she said.
The two women walked towards the Great Hall and they finally saw King Luis of Spain. He was wearing fine traveling clothes and standing with a few guards.
Lady Catalina curtsied, but King Luis grabbed his mother and hugged her.
"Mother, do not bow to me. I came as soon as I could. How is he?" he asked.
Lady Catalina sighed.
"He is in the Lord's hands now. The physicians can only make him comfortable at this point." she said.
King Luis sighed and looked at his sister, Juana and hugged her.
"I am sorry, Mother." he said.
Lady Catalina nodded, holding back tears.
Infanta Juana cleared her throat.
"I will go and see if the suite of rooms is ready for you, brother." she said, walking away.
Lady Catalina sighed and forced a smile.
"How are you, son? How is the Queen and your many children?" she asked.
King Luis smiled.
"They are well." he said.
Lady Catalina smiled.
"Eight children. I am proud of my grandchildren. Any new marriage prospects?" she asked
King Luis shook his head.
"No. Bianca is being considered for Prince Henry of Wales, the grandson of Elizabeth's brother, the King of England. Christina is still a newborn." he said.
Lady Catalina stopped her son.
"If I may, have you considered a domestic match for any of the children? It would look good to the nobility and the people if I one of the Infantes married into a prominent Spanish family." she said.
King Luis looked at his mother.
"We will have to look into that. Mother, how are my siblings?" he asked.
Lady Catalina smiled.
"They are dealing with their father's illness. However, I wanted to talk to you about your sister. Anneliese. She is nineteen years old now and I think that she should be at Court, to hopefully find a husband of substance." she said.
King Luis nodded his head.
"I can find a place for her. She can possibly join the household of my daughter, Isabel. They are close in age." she said.
Before Lady Catalina could respond, Lady Anneliese Madruzzo walked up, tears falling down her face. She instantly walked to her mother and hugged her and began to cry.
Lady Catalina let her own tears, as she knew what had happened. Her husband was gone and she was now a widow for the second time in her life. Her son, Juan-Carlos, was now the Duke of Alba.
29 October 1565
Cathedral of St. Januarius, Naples, Italy
The Bridal Room
Princess Lucrezia smiled, as she watched her younger sister, Princess Maria , being dressed for her wedding. At twenty years old, she was finally marrying Lord Pietro D'Aragona, the Duke of Taranto. Maria wanted her sisters with her, as she dressed. She was happy she did not have to bid them farewell.
Princess Maria was smiled.
"Do I look well?" she asked.
Princess Lucrezia smiled.
"You are beautiful. Absolutely beautiful." she said.
Princess Angela, their eighteen year old sister, nodded.
"I will need to go to Confession after this. You are so beautiful, I am jealous." she said, with a smile.
Princess Maria chuckled.
"Oh, sisters. You are too kind." she said.
The second to youngest sister, thirteen year old Princess Isabella, looked at her husband, in awe.
"Your gown is magnificent." she said, meekly.
Princess Maria smiled and caressed Isabella's face.
One of her ladies-in-waiting walked in and curtsied.
"It is time, Your Highness." she said.
Princess Maria smiled and her sisters left her alone, as her maids placed her light blue veil over her brown hair, that matched her blue dress that was lined with cloth of silver.
She sighed.
"I am ready." she said.
The ladies bowed, as she finally left the room and headed to the sanctuary.
The Sanctuary
The entire Cathedral was packed with commoners, nobility and even the Royal Family. Everyone was excited, as there had not been a Royal Wedding in awhile.
King Alfonso of Naples was seated in the Royal Pew with his wife, Queen Eleanora Guerra and his mother, Catalina of Austria, Queen Mother. The Royal children sat behind them, however his daughter-in-law, Princess Eleanor of England, the Duchess of Calabria and wife of his eldest son and heir, Prince Giovanni, was not in attendance.
The choir began to sing and everyone stood to their feet, as Princess Maria walked down the aisle to her groom. Pietro D'Aragona was over thirty and had been marked by smallpox that him somewhat scarred, but Maria was ecstatic for the match. She did not want to be a spinster in the Court.
Princess Maria made it to the altar and she stood next to her intended, The Archbishop began the Marriage Rites. The Royal Family were so happy, they did not notice Prince Giovanni move closer to the couple. He had a strange look on his face and was glaring at his sister and her intended.
As Princess Maria and Lord Pietro D'Aragona knelt down before the Archbishop, Prince Giovanni unsheathed his sword. He took a step forward.
"FUCKING DIE!" he screamed
He then grabbed his sword and the blade cut through, Pietro D'Aragona's neck, spurting blood on the Archbishop, the floor and Princess Maria.
She screamed, as reality hit her.
"NO!" she yelled.
The entire Church erupted in pandemonium and everyone began run out of the Cathedral in horror. Several women fainted and people were stepping on each other to leave.
The Royal Family looked on in horror, as Princess Maria held a dying Pierto D'Aragona in her arms, as Prince Giovanni laughed maniacally and uncontrollably.
King Alfonso stood up and looked at the guards.
"Arrest the Prince." he said.
The guards looked at him, in shock.
He looked at them, angrily.
"NOW!" he said.
The guards instantly grabbed Prince Giovanni and he began to resist, but he was instantly overpowered and was dragged out of the Cathedral, kicking and screaming and swearing.
Princess Lucrezia walked forward and knelt next to her younger sister, who was still holding Pietro D'Aragona, who had had now passed on, his brown eyes wide open, but seeing nothing.
"Maria, let him go. Let us go home." she said, gently.
Maria shook her head.
Dowager Queen Catalina walked forward and also knelt neat her granddaughter.
"Darling, there is nothing more you can do for him. The Lord has called him home." she said.
Maria, with tears falling down her face, closed his eyes and gently placed him on the altar floor. She took her sister's hand and Lucrezia wrapped her arm around her, surrounded by Maria's ladies. She was quietly led our of the Cathedral through a private entrance.
King Alfonso looked at the Archbishop and sighed.
"I am sorry, Father. The body and will be removed at no expense to the Church. The Royal Treasury will pay for fifty masses for his soul." he said.
The Archbishop nodded and bowed, as the King led Queen Eleanora out of the Cathedral.
Several Hours Later
Caserta Palace, Naples, Kingdom of Naples
The Throne Room
King Alfonso and Queen Eleanora were seated on their Thrones, still in complete shock as to what had happened.
King Alfonso touched his Queen's hand.
"Are you well?" he asked.
Queen Eleanora smiled and nodded.
"I am well, however I am worried about Maria." she said.
King Alfonso nodded.
"I can not believe this has happened. I remember when Giovanni was a boy. Now...he is a murderer." he said.
The side door opened and Dowager Queen Catalina and Princess Lucrezia and her husband, Prince Owen, walked in.
King Alfonso looked at Lucrezia.
"How is your, sister?" he asked.
Princess Lucrezia sighed.
"The physician gave her a tonic. She is finally asleep." she said.
King Alfonso nodded.
"Good." he said.
Dowager Queen Catalina cleared her throat.
"Alfonso, we have to talk about Giovanni and the Succession. It is clear he is not fit to rule. It was one thing when his madness was contained her in the Palace, but now the entire Kingdom will know. They will not tolerate a King, who is mad." she said.
Princess Lucrezia nodded her head.
"I agree with Grandmother. I have said for years that Giovanni should be disinherited." she said.
Owen scowled.
"The bruises on my sister say it all." he said bitterly.
King Alfonso held his hand up.
"I hear you all. I have already decided to disinherit Giovanni and proclaim Alfonso as my heir and the Duke of Calabria in the new year. I will have to figure out what to do with Giovanni." he said.
Catalina looked at her son.
"Where is he now?" she asked.
King Alfonso sighed.
"In the Dungeons. He is under heavy guard." he said.
He stood and held his hand to Queen Eleanora, who took it , but she stumbled, making King Alfonso catch her.
"Eleanora? Do you need a physician?" he asked.
The twenty year old Queen shook her head.
"No, husband. I have seen the physician and he said dizziness is expected in my condition." she said.
The King looked at his young wife, I'm curiosity.
She smiled.
"I was going to tell you tonight after the wedding, but I am with child." she said.
King Alfonso looked at her and smiled.
"This is most joyous news. I will see that you have everything you need." she said.
Queen Eleanora nodded.
Princess Lucrezia smiled.
"Congratulations father. Lady Stepmother, if you need anything, do not hesitate to ask me. I have borne thre children." she said, with a smile.
Queen Eleanora smiled.
"Thank you, Lucrezia." she said.
King Alfonso and Queen Eleanora held hands and walked out of the Throne Room to their respective Chambers. King Alfonso was happy about the birth of his unborn child, but was saddened that he had lost his eldest child in a way worse than death.
13 November 1565
Hofburg Palace, Vienna, Austria
Isabella, Holy Roman Empress' Bedchamber
"Ursula, please hand me the papers that I am to look over for my husband." Empress Isabella said.
Lady Ursula nodded and handed Empress Isabella the documents that she requested. The Empress was Regent, since her husband, Emperor Ferdinand II, was in Hungary, dealing with an issue with the Turks.
Empress Isabella sighed, as she went over the documents.
"I sure hope Andy returns soon." she said, aloud.
A small cry was heard next to her in a fancy cradle and Empress Isabella smiled, as she caressed the infant inside. Empress Isabella had given birth to Archduke Charles, her and Emperor Ferdinand's fourteenth child just five weeks earlier. She was currently still in confinement.
She smiled.
"I know, darling. I promise you that you will meet your Papa very soon." she said.
Lady Ursula walked up
"Is the Archduke hungry, Your Majesty?" she asked.
Empress Isabella nodded her head.
"Yes, you can feed him." she said.
Lady Ursula smiled and picked up little Archduke Charles and began to nurse him. She was a stout, but shapely woman, who had recently given birth to her eighth child.
Empress Isabella looked at Ursula, with curiosity.
"Does it not hurt?" she asked.
Lady Ursula shook her head.
"You get used to it after awhile." she said, with a smile.
Empress Isabella smiled, as her newborn son nursed hungrily. Despite the fact that she had given birth to fourteen babies, she was not allowed to breastfeed any of them.
She sighed.
"Some say that a baby becomes close to their mother with that." she asked.
Lady Ursula smiled.
"May I speak freely, Your Majesty?" she asked.
Empress Isabella nodded.
"Of course." she said.
Lady Ursula smiled.
"You are a wonderful mother. I have never seen or heard of a woman of your station who cares so much for her children, especially a large brood of them." she said.
Empress Isabella laughed softly.
"Well my cousin, the Queen of Spain, say different. She and my nephew, the King, have eight children and she cares for them deeply I heard. She has to have some of her children with her at all times, even when she is traveling throughout Spain." she said.
Lady Ursula laughed.
"Can you imagine taking your fourteen with you everywhere?" she asked.
Empress Isabella nodded her head.
"Yes, but I know that it would be difficult." she said.
Lady Ursula smiled.
"Pretty soon, your Philip will be married. Are you excited for it?" she asked.
Empress Isabella smiled and nodded, thinking about her seventeen year old son and eldest child.
"I am. I can not wait to meet Princess Margaret. I know she is a beautiful and quiet young woman. She's the daughter of my cousin, the King of England and her late mother was from the Duchy of Cleves and I heard her German is impressive." she said.
Lady Ursula nodded.
"That is wonderful." she said.
Empress smiled.
"Another impressive marriage is my Elisabeth marrying into the the Medici. I am not too keen on her getting married young, but I know that she will be cared for. The Medici are very wealthy and she is very good at mathematics and she is only seven years old." she said.
Lady Ursula chuckled.
"A true gift." she said.
Empress Isabella smiled. She and her beloved Andy were blessed with their large brood. She knew that her childbearing years were not going to be forever, as she was completing her thirty-seventh year, but she would take however many children the Lord would give her, if it was his will.
22 November 1565
Frangokastello Castle, Chania, Kingdom of Candia
King Giacomo of Candia's Privy Chamber
King Giacomo Kantanoleos sighed, as he took a sip of his wine. The thirty-four year old Greek-born monarch had to deal with many things in his sixteen year reign. He had many run ins with the Turks, but he was stable and had expanded his Kingdom and the Treasury was overflowing.
The door opened and he looked up and his wife, Queen Marina Cavalli, walked in and placed her hands gently on his shoulder.
"Are you well, darling?" she asked.
King Giacomo smiled and touched her gentle hands.
"I am well. I just enjoy quiet moments like this." he said.
Queen Marina smiled.
"From ruling or from the children?" she asked.
King Giacomo laughed. He and Marina now had six children, four sons and two daughters and Queen Marina had recently announced the impending birth of another child in six months.
"More from my duties. Our children mean so much to me. You have given me such a beautiful family, darling." he said.
Queen Marina smiled. When she married King Giacomo in 1550, when she was seventeen years old and he was nineteen, he was the only heir to the Throne of Candia. Giacomo's mother had died when he was born and his father never remarried, making him an only child. This was not an issue now. Queen Marina had earned the respect of the Court and her people, by adding stability.
"The Lord has blessed us immensely." she said.
There was a knock at the door.
King Giacomo cleared his throat.
"Enter." he said.
The door opened and Lord Alessandro Gristani, the Ambassador to the Court of Naples, walked in and bowed to the King and Queen.
"Your Majesties, you wanted to see me?" he asked.
King Giacomo nodded and stood up.
"Yes, Lord Ambassador. I have heard of the disturbing situation that occurred. I have summoned you to see if that affliction affects Princess Isabella. She is due to marry my son and heir in three years and my Queen and I have worked too hard to let madness destroy everything." he said.
Lord Gristani shook his head.
"No, Your Majesty. The Princess is thirteen years old and is healthy. She has a wonderful temperament and has never had an outburst like the Duke of Calabria." he said.
King Giacomo nodded his head.
"That is well. However, I will be sending a physician to Naples to confirm about the Princess. I mean no harm, however I will not take such a risk. You are dismissed." he said.
Lord Gristani nodded and bowed and left the room.
Queen Marina looked at her husband.
"You do not think that she is truly mad, do you?" she asked gently.
King Giacomo shook his head.
"In my heart, no I do not. However, we have come so far to secure our line and I just want to be sure that bad blood does not affect our grandchildren." he said.
Queen Marina smiled and kissed her husband.
"Do not worry. The Lord will guide us." she said.
King Giacomo smiled.
"Of course He will." he said.
30 November 1565
Royal Palace of Olite, Olite, Navarre
Queen Elizabeth of Spain's Privy Chamber
Queen Elizabeth was going over some letters, but smiled, as she had her eldest daughter, Infanta Isabel, was with her. She also had her eldest son, Infante Eduardo, who was playing with a ball with little Infanta Bianca. Queen Elizabeth was proud of her children.
Infanta Isabel was reading a book, but she was also seated with Prince Alfonso and they were discussing a book that they liked mutually together. Prince Alfonso was currently residing at Court with his aunt, Princess Giovanna, Duchess of the Infantado and normally Infanta Isabel would not be talking to a boy, but they were under supervision and they seemed to be becoming close friends.
Princess Giovanna, Duchess of the Infantado walked over to Queen Elizabeth.
"Your Majesty, is there anything I can do for you?" she asked.
Queen Elizabeth shook her head
"No, thank you, my friend." she said.
Suddenly, two year old Infanta Bianca toddled up and her mother.
"Up, Mama." she said.
Queen Elizabeth smiled and stood up.
"Come to Mama, my angel." she said, holding her arms out.
Little Bianca smiled and walked into her mother's arms and Queen Elizabeth picked her up and kissed her cheek.
Princess Giovanna smiled and walked over to her nephew and Infanta Isabel.
"Are you two well?" she asked.
Prince Alfonso nodded.
"Yes, Aunt Giovanna. Will the Court still be moving to Barcelona?" he asked.
Princess Giovanna nodded.
"Yes, we will." she said.
Infanta smiled at him.
"You will love it there." she said innocently.
He smiled back at her.
"I am sure I will, Infanta." he said.
Queen Elizabeth stood up, with little Bianca on her hip.
"Your Highness, you seem to be well suited for the Spanish Court." she said.
Prince Alfonso nodded.
"Yes. My mother, God rest her soul, was a Spanish Infanta. She was proud of where she came from." he said.
Queen Elizabeth smiled.
"You are a source of pride to your parents and to Naples, I assure you." she said.
Suddenly, Queen Elizabeth felt slightly dizzy and nearly lost her footing. Princess Giovanna immediately stood and caught the Queen.
"Your Majesty!" she said.
Queen Elizabeth shook her head.
"I am well. Take Bianca." she said, handing her two year old daughter to Princess Giovanna.
Infanta Isabel and Infante Eduardo stood to their feet, visibly worried.
"Mother, are you ill?" the ten year old Infante asked.
Queen Elizabeth smiled at her son.
"I am, my angel. I want you and your sisters to return to your Chambers. I will come to you all after I need to. I promise." she said.
Infanta Isabel and Infante Eduardo nodded and began to walk out, followed by Lady Ines carrying little Infanta Bianca.
Queen Elizabeth looked at Princess Giovanna and held her hand out.
"Giovanna, please put me in bed and summon the physician. I am feeling a bit ill. I did not want to worry the children." she said.
Princess Giovanna nodded and placed the Queen in bed and raced to find the Court Physician.
The physician gently pressed on Queen Elizabeth's stomach and looked at her reaction. He knew what afflicted her.
Your Majesty. You are definitely with child again." he said.
Queen Elizabeth sat up and gave a small smile.
"The Lord is most merciful." she said.
The physician sighed.
"Your Majesty, it has only been four months since the birth of Infanta Christina. You are already two months gone with child. Two births can take a toll on the body." he said.
Queen Elizabeth sighed.
"The Infantes Eduardo and Juana are fourteen months apart." she said.
The physician nodded.
"Yes, but you were younger, Your Majesty. This child will be born before the first year of Infanta Christina is complete." he said.
Queen Elizabeth nodded.
"I understand. I will take special care. I will give birth in Barcelona and we will be there until the child is strong enough to travel in to Madrid. I promise I will be careful." she said.
The Physician nodded.
"Your Majesty, take a litter when you travel. Do not do too much movement. You will need plenty of rest." he said.
Queen Elizabeth nodded.
"I will. Thank you, Doctor." she said.
The physician bowed and left and Princess Giovanna stepped forward and placed a blanket on the Queen.
"That rest begins now. I am so happy for you. The Lord is good." she said.
Queen Elizabeth smiled.
"My ninth child to live, God willing." she said, placing a hand on her belly.
Princess Giovanna smiled.
"The Lord commanded us all to be fruitful and multiply. I see you and the King are taking it quite literally." she said.
Queen Elizabeth laughed and looked at her friend.
"You are excused. I will take a small nap." she said.
Princess Giovanna nodded and bowed and left the Queen to her rest and within moments, Queen Elizabeth fell asleep, dreaming of her growing family with pride.
8 December 1565
Château de Fontainebleau, Paris, France
Queen Mary of Scotland and France's Bedchamber
Queen Mary opened her eyes, aa she felt the warmth of the sun hit her face. She could her the church bells ring and she knew it was the top of the hour. She took a look outside her window and could see snow falling against the bright sun.
She heard a knock at her door and sat up.
"Come in." she said.
The door opened and a little brown-haired boy ran in and jumped on Queen Mary's bed, along with his governess, Lady Blanche.
"Mama!" Prince Robert said.
Lady Blanche looked horrified.
"Prince Robert, no." she said.
Queen Mary smiled and held her hand up to silence Lady Blanche, as she hugged her three year old son and heir.
"How is my boy?" she asked.
Little Robert kissed his mother's cheek.
Suddenly, King Francis walked in smiling.
"Happy birthday, my love." he said.
Queen Mary smiled even harder, as she remembered it was her twenty-third birthday.
"Thank you so much. Where are Megan and little Francis?" she asked.
King Francis smiled and sat on his wife's bed.
"They are still asleep. Lady Barbara refused to have them woken up." he said.
Queen Mary nodded, as she held her son closer.
"Let the angels sleep. Actually, I think Robert should be dressed for the day." she said.
Lady Blanche nodded and took little Prince Robert by his hand led him out of his mother's bedroom.
King Francis sighed.
"My mother wanted me to inform you to prepare for tonight. She is holding a Banquet in your honor." he said.
Queen Mary sighed.
"I told your mother that I did not want banquet in my honor. We had a horrible year with the war." she said.
King Francis sighed and nodded.
"Yes, but she insisted. She said that the Court was going to celebrate its Queen." he said.
Queen Mary rolled her eyes.
"Very well. I will endure it tonight." she said.
King Francis smirked
"You will endure something else tonight as well, if you allow me to visit." he said.
Queen Mary blushed and caressed her husband's face.
"I could never say no to you." she said.
King Francis looked at her and placed a hand on her nightgown, lowering it slightly off her shoulder.
"How about now?" he asked.
Queen Mary smiled and kissed King Francis and he lowered her on to her bed, pulling off their nightclothes. He kissed Mary and they made love vigorously.
16 December 1565
Hampton Court, London, England
Queen Lillian of England's Privy Chamber
Queen Lillian smiled, as she completed her embroidery with her youngest stepdaughter, Princess Margaret. King Harry had decided to move the Court to Hampton Court for the Christmas festivities. Queen Lillian knew he loved Hampton Court and she had grown to love it.
She looked at her stepdaughter and smiled. Princess Margaret was nearly sixteen years old and had inherited her height from her mother. She was a truly beautiful young lady with dark auburn hair and brown eyes.
"Your embroidery is beautiful, Meg. What are you making?" she asked.
Princess Margaret smiled.
"I decided to embroider some shirts for the Archduke Philip." she said.
Queen Lillian looked at her stepdaughter, with curiosity.
"I am sure my nephew will love them, sweet girl." she said.
Princess Margaret sighed.
"I hope he does. I am hoping that I'll be happier than my sisters. It breaks my heart to hear what they have gone through I'm their marriages." she said.
Queen Lillian sighed.
"I have heard the same things, but you will be with my sister's family. I am sure she will look after you." she said.
Princess Margaret nodded.
"I am hoping so. I am relieved I will not have to depart for Vienna for three years." she said.
Queen Lillian nodded.
"That correct. Your beautiful face will be present at Court for awhile longer." she said.
The door to Queen Lillian's Chambers opened and King Harry walked in. Queen Lillian's ladies stood up and bowed.
Queen Lillian stood up and kissed her husband.
"Hello, sweetheart." she said.
King Harry kissed Queen Lillian and turned to Princess Margaret and hugged her.
"My sweet girl, how was your journey to Court?" he asked.
Princess Margaret smiled.
"It was easy, Father. There were no difficulties." she said.
King Harry nodded and kissed her forehead.
"I want you to continue your embroidery with your stepmother's ladies. Lillian, I want to speak to you." he said.
Queen Lillian nodded her head and took her husband's hand and he led them to a corner by the window.
She looked worried.
"Is something wrong?" she asked.
He shook his head.
"No, darling. I just wanted to inform you of some marriage plans I have for our children." he said.
Queen Lillian nodded her head.
"I am listening." she said.
King Harry cleared his throat.
"Well you know that since our children are lower in the Succession, they may not have to many foreign offers." he said.
Queen Lillian nodded her head.
"I am aware, sweetheart." she said.
King Harry took her hand.
"I have secured a wonderful match for our Mary." he said.
Queen Lillian smiled.
"Who?" she asked.
King Harry smiled.
"She will marry young Thomas Howard, Earl of Surrey." he said.
Queen Lillian looked at her husband, slightly impressed. The Earl of Surrey was the eldest son and heir to the current Duke of Norfolk. Her daughter would be married into a family, who's wealth rivaled that of the Crown and the Howards were close with Queen Lillian. She knew her daughter would be well provided for.
"That is a wonderful match. I am sure the people will love that one of their princesses will be staying in England. I am also happy that I will not have to say goodbye." she said.
King Harry shook his head.
"No. She will be the Duchess of Norfolk. For Charles, I am looking for for a French marriage and for little Lilly, I am looking towards the Empire as well." he said.
Queen Lillian looked at her husband.
"What about Joanna?" she asked.
King Harry sighed.
"I am happy her constitution is getting stronger. I am thinking a noble marriage or maybe she'll go into the Church. I do not want the pressures of being a Queen or Crown Princess to further damage her in her maturity." he said.
Queen Lillian nodded her head, in understanding.
"I know that our children will be well cared for. I trust you." she said.
King Harry kissed his wife.
"Out of anyone who I tell my decisions to, it is your opinion that matters the most to me." he said.
24 December 1565
Sintra Palace, Lisbon, Portugal
The Banquet Hall
"Sweetheart, this banquet is wonderful." King Juan said.
Queen Catarina smiled.
"Well thank you, husband. You know how much I adore Christmastide." she said.
King Juan nodded.
"I definitely do." he said.
Queen Catarina grabbed Juan's hand. The couple had now been married and were now very close. Queen Catarina had told her husband that she would overlook any affair he may have only when she was with child, but while in her last pregnancy, he had remained faithful.
"I am happy that we have our children here." she said.
King Juan looked at where their children were seated. Their oldest, Infante Sebastian, was now ten years old and was his parents' pride and joy. He was being highly educated and at his young age he was already fluent in Spanish, Latin,French, Italian, English, German and Greek.
Infanta Maria, the second child, was now eight years old. She was not academically gifted as her older brother, but she was gifted in music and showed her own quiet beauty, with her brown hair and light brown eyes.
Infanta Isabella, now four years old, was a true rose. Although young in years, she already mastered several instruments, just like her grandmother, the Dowager Queen of Portugal had at her age. She was also showing the early signs of beauty, with her long reddish hair and big blue eyes.
Infante Fernando was now three years old and just like his older brother, he was doted on. Queen Catarina did not have a second brother, so she was happy that the Succession was secure, should the unthinkable happen to Infante Sebastian. Fernando was a shy and quiet child, but has a cheerful disposition and was content to be with his mother and sisters.
The youngest child, Infanta Bianca of Portugal, was a small infant and was currently sitting on her mother's lap, which surprised many of the nobles at Court. She was a beautiful baby girl and was currently obsessed with a ring on her mother's finger.
King Juan caressed little Infanta Bianca's chubby cheek.
"They definitely are a joy. I know you miss Sebastian, but his education is wonderful." he said.
Queen Catarina sighed. In Portugal, as Queen, the Royal Children remained in the Queen's household. However, the boys were to leave their mother's household when they turned seven years old and went to start their formal education with clergymen and scholars. The girls would remain with their mother until they were married.
Infanta Joanna, the Duchess of Pastrana walked up and bowed.
"Dearest sister, may I please have a word?" she asked.
Queen Catarina nodded and stood from her seat, with Infanta Bianca on her hip and the two sisters walked to a private corner together.
Infanta Joanna sighed and unfolded a letter.
"I thought you should read this. It's from our cousin, Lady Bianca de Sousa, in Brazil." she said.
Queen Catarina nodded.
"I will read it. Please take the baby." she said.
The two sisters traded the baby and the letter. Queen Catarina began to read the letter. Her blue eyes were glued to the paper.
Finally, she looked up at her sister.
"Maria is with child." she said.
Infanta Joanna nodded her head.
"I am afraid so." she said.
Queen Catarina looked at the letter one more time, before folding it.
"Children are the consequence of intercourse. She is married and it is her duty to price Lord Cabral with an heir. Congratulations to them." she said.
Infanta Joanna looked at her older sister.
"You are nothing worried?" she asked.
Queen Catarina shook her head.
"No. I will not be a sovereign, who fears her subjects. I will not look over my shoulder at shadows for the rest of my life. I have secured the Succession and Sebastian will be King upon my death and, if God allows it, I shall bear my children. I will not worry anymore about that woman or her offspring. Now, we shall enjoy Christmas, since Mamãe will be here for New Years." she said, with a smile.
Infanta Joanna smiled and was admirable that Portugal's first Queen was her own sister and how fine of a Queen she was.
A/N Thank you all so much for you patience. This time of year is busy with my career, so please excuse the absence. I hope you all are having a safe and wonderful Holiday season. I am considering a time jump. Yell me what you all think. Please Read and Review! Chapter Seventy-One will be up in January!