A family crisis calls Owen back to Court.

2. Welcome back to Vaulting Ambition! Once again I am completely floored at the response to this. Thank you! I appreciate every reader and comment. Last time, Owen got married, finally, and brought in the next generation with his daughter Judith. Mari was sent to court while Branwen went to Rhodri’s family. So lets move on, shall we?

3. Owen walked up the stairs into the tower with two letters in his hands from two of his nieces. “Aurora?” he called out as he ascended the staircase. “Are you about? I have news.”

4. “I’m upstairs with your daughter,” Aurora replied. “The little one was hungry. So just wait in the solar and I will be right down.”

5. She lifted Judith to her shoulder. “Now give us a burp. That’s mummy’s good girl.”

6. “How much longer do you think you will be?” Owen called up a few minutes later. “Not too long. I can bring her down with me if you like. Although I should warn you, she gets a little fussy after she’s eaten.”

7. “I don’t mind if she gets fussy,” Owen commented as Aurora settled herself and Judith onto the bench. “She is my daughter, I would expect some whining out of her.” “So what is the news?” “I’ve two letters from my nieces, Mari and Branwen. Which one should I start with first?” “The one on top, I suppose.” “Then Branwen it is.”

8. Dear Uncle Owen, Grandmother asked I write you to appraise you of the goings on in your twin’s family, of which I am now a part. Much has happened since your wedding, but I shall endeavor to do my best to enlighten you and your bride.

9. “I am not sure that I will get on well with my mother-in-law. She is most cold, especially to me. Talking with her father, I have been informed that she used to be a warm, generous woman but since my Uncle’s death she has closed off that part of her. I am not quite sure that I can thaw her heart although it is my duty to try.

10. “Megan has left the manor to join her fiancé, Oswald Alington. From what I have gleaned, that last name is new. He joined our sovereign’s service with some unpronounceable foreign name like Legacina or Legaria or something of that type. However, at the urging of the captain of the guard he has had it changed. I am not sure that Megan is happy with her new lot in life. Still, I admit I was pleased to see her go. We need the room.

11. “Morgan and I were married and none too soon, if I may say.

12. Soon after the wedding, Andrew Turner died. However do not feel bad for him, he had lived a long time. My only regret was that he did not live to see his great-grandchildren. Mother Gwyneth, as she insists I call her, was most saddened by her father’s death. I fear another tragedy in her life will do her much harm.

13. “And as shocking as this may sound, I have heard her cursing the Creator. I pray that it is just her grief driving her temporarily mad, otherwise I feel her character will end up in the Shred.

14. “I find it strange that this woman, who was so warm and vibrant not so long ago has become so cold and hard. The woman who I can see was most optimistic for the future in her portrait I feel is so close to doing the unthinkable. Pray for me, Uncle. Please, pray for our family.

15. “I am convinced that the Creator does hear our pleas. I have the proof right in front of me with my and Morgan’s twin boys, Bryn and Corwyn. I am so lucky to have them and Morgan in my life. We may not have a love match, but he is a good husband.

16. “Give my love to Aunt Aurora. I look forward to hearing how things fare with you. Your Niece, Branwen Tudor”

17. “Poor Branwen, I am sure things are much worse than she is telling us with Gwyneth. I am guessing she was most upset at your twin’s death.” “She was,” Owen agreed. “She cried and wailed when she was told of it. Made herself sick with all of her carrying on.” “She loved him. It is hard to lose someone you love,” Aurora stated softly. Then she changed topics. “What does Mari’s letter hold?” Owen reached for it. “Let us see.”

18. “Uncle Owen, Please forgive the mess I will most certainly make of this letter. I was a poor student of penmanship and my hand is most crude I have been told. I admit I am not sure where to begin. From the present and move back? Or from older news and move forward. It is most difficult. And I am not sure I will ever get the right of it.

19. “Being in Princess Madeleine’s service is most interesting. The princess and I are of the same age so I feel she appreciates me and I enjoy most of my duties.

20. “The princess has taught me chess and I am improving at it. Although I fear I will never be as good as Madeleine at it.

21. “The Princess is most skilled. She plays the dulcimer most beautifully, I find I could listen to her playing for hours.

22. “However I find that there are other aspects of my duties I am not quite comfortable with. Having to dress the princess to escort her back to her bed chamber after the Prince and her have, well, renewed their intimacy is most shocking.

23. “The king and queen have been most kind. But I find I must be careful around the king, he is very charming and while I know there is no shame in being a king’s mistress it is not something I wish for myself. If I am asked, I know my duty. After all, one must not refuse a king. Still, it is an honor I would rather forego.

24. “I also apparently caught the eye of Master Roseland, one of the King’s economic advisors. I find him charming, but I have been most careful with him. I cannot compromise my reputation, to be labeled as a flirt could hurt my chances for an advantageous match. Still, he is most handsome. I would not mind if a match were arranged between us, despite our disparity in station. But it is not for me to say, though it is one thing I wish could be changed.

25. “As for the queen, she continues her good works. She has taken up gardening and takes pleasure in making the palace grounds look stunning.

26. “I am not sure of what else you would like to know about the goings on here at court. My duties keep me busy, which is really all you need know. Thank you for securing this place for me. Your niece, Mari”

27. “Oh dear,” Aurora said, rising to her feet. Owen looked up at her concerned. “What is wrong? Is our daughter okay?” “Our daughter is fine. It is your niece I am worried about.” Confusion crossed Owen’s face. “Why? She seems to have settled well at the court and is having a care for her reputation. I do not see the need for concern.” “Just one moment, I need to put Judith to bed.”

28. “Sleep well little one, Mother’s got adult things to discuss with your father.”

29. Returning to the solar, Aurora looked down at her husband. “Your niece has fallen in love, husband. But that is not the real issue, my brother has become attracted to her. So here is this poor girl, desperately in love with someone else facing the very real possibility that she will have to surrender her virginity to the king.” “She said she would do her duty, did she not?”

30. “She did. But she is also asking for your help.” Owen scanned the letter again. “I fail to see that request.” “That is because you are not a woman living in a man’s world and under a man’s thumb. Mari said she would be amenable to a match between herself and Master Roseland. She is as good as asking you to make that match possible.”

31. “But why me?” “Who else can she turn to? Her father is insane. The king is enamored of her. And all of her other male relatives are under the age of majority. You, husband, are the only man able to help her.” “So what should I do? She is correct, Master Roseland is a commoner. Despite my family’s meager holdings we are nobility. He is beneath her in rank.”

32. “So are we, husband,” Aurora pointed out, sitting down next to Owen. “I am a king’s daughter and you are just a third son of a minor lord. Even with the titles and lands my brother gave you, I still outrank you socially. And it is not as if their disparity in rank is as great as ours. Indeed they have one thing we did not, they have affection for each other.” Owen thought for a bit mulling it over. “I suppose, I need to concede that you are correct. The disparity is not that great and from what I know of his family they are wealthy but not noble. So maybe marriage between the third daughter of a minor lord will be acceptable to all parties.”

33. Aurora nodded. “It should be. But you will need to move quickly. If I know my brother, once he has set his eye upon something he does not swerve from the path easily.” “Aye, I know. I cannot leave tomorrow. The representative of the de Venture family has asked to speak to me about arranging a marriage between our daughter and their son.” Aurora’s head jerked up. “So soon? She is still but an infant.”

34. “It cannot hurt to hear their request. And indeed, it could be a good match. The de Venture lands border our own and if our daughter did marry their son, she would be close enough to visit regularly. I think you would like that, wife.” “I do. I am just not sure if we need to move with such haste.” Owen laughed. “It is not as if the marriage would be celebrated tomorrow! Why, even if the contract was drawn up we would wait until her 15th year until celebrating it. I would insist on it.”

35. “Fine. But I would like to speak to the man too. Find out what kind of family this de Venture clan is.” “I shall honor your request,” Owen promised.

36. The following evening, a wagon pulled up bearing a dark haired man. Owen turned away as he dismounted, as he felt a little frisson of dread go through him. He was deciding his daughter’s future and he wondered if that was right choice. The man glanced over and hailed him, “Hold for a moment, Sir Owen. I would speak to you outside where our words will be more private.”

37. Owen stopped and turned around to face the man. “And might I have the pleasure of knowing to whom I am speaking?” “My name is FitzHugh. The de Venture clan has hired me to negotiate this contract.” “Why would they not do it themselves?” Owen asked.

38. The man shrugged. “I am guessing you have not heard of the FitzHugh family, Sir Owen.” “No, should I have?” “My family, quite simply, is everywhere and involved with everything. While some of us are noble, others are in trade all over the world. There is not a place in any country where you cannot find some FitzHugh or one of our relatives. Therefore we are the perfect go-betweens and negotiators since we are everywhere and know everyone. In addition, we have the reputation of being shrewd but fair in our negotiations.”

39. Owen considered FitzHugh’s words. “I suppose that makes sense. Now I would suggest we retire into the keep for a light repast in addition to some serious negotiations. I know that my wife has many questions to ask you.” “You’re going to include your wife in your decision?” FitzHugh asked aghast. “I am. Is there a problem with that?” Owen asked mildly. “No, but it is unusual. Lead the way, Sir Owen.”

40. The cook served Ham and cheese on a slice of toasted bread, Aurora and the FitzHugh accepted the food, while Owen waved the food away. He planned on talking, not eating. “Aurora,” he started, “this is Master FitzHugh the de Venture representative. He is here to negotiate on their behalf in arranging a marriage to our daughter.” “A go-between, that does not improve my opinion on this match.” Aurora said scornfully. “Please, lady, Lord de Venture would have come himself but he had other business he needed to attend to so contracted my services. Do not hold that against him.” “So make your proposal,” Aurora commanded, a regal note clear in her voice.

41. Master Fitzhugh stared at the woman’s tone before starting. “My Lord Orson would like to contract a match between his eldest son and heir Larix Europea and your daughter Judith. The contract would be drawn up now but the marriage would not be celebrated until your daughter is of child-bearing age. He asks for a dowry of ten thousand simoleans or the equivalent in goods and chattel half to be paid upon the signing of this contract the other half upon the birth of Larch and Judith’s first child. What say you?” “That seems quite steep. Does Lord Orson value himself and his family so highly?” Owen asked. “Lord Orson is Viscount,” Master FitzHugh stated by way of an explanation.

42. Aurora smiled coldly. “Rank matters not. What my husband meant is what kind of family are the de Ventures that we would want to give our daughter to them. Neither I nor my husband have heard of them or seen them at court and we are well familiar with the families there.” “Ah, I think I see your concern. The de Venture clan is not interested in politics or in attaching themselves to a well-connected family. They are interested in only two things, maintaining their lands and producing healthy children. It is because of the latter they have contacted you.” “Our daughter is still an infant, I am not sure I understand their reasoning,” Aurora stated.

43. “She may be an infant, but Sir Owen comes from a fertile family who breeds up healthy sons and daughters. You, Lady, are also an asset. Your pregnancy was fairly easy and delivery smooth with no complications. It is our hope that Judith would have the same luck that you had.” “Still, you are asking far too much.” Master FitzHugh stared Aurora in the eye. “What would you feel is more reasonable?” “Five thousand in goods and chattel, half delivered upon signing the contract and half upon the birth of a healthy child,” Aurora countered quickly.

44. “I will accept this on one caveat, the marriage must be celebrated as soon as your daughter has her menses.” “That is too early!” Owen protested. “I would be remiss as a father if I allowed that. She will marry the lord’s son at the age of fifteen, no earlier.” “Is that your final stance?” “It is.” “Then I have no choice but to accept.”

45. Owen offered Master FitzHugh a place to stay, but the man declined stating it was not far to the de Venture lands and he wanted to inform Lord Orson about the new contract. So Owen shook the man’s hand and bid him good travels, hoping that as he did so he had made the right decision for his little girl.

46. Early the next day, a man rode up on horseback with another letter from Mari which contained only five words.

47. “Uncle, I need you! Mari.”

48. Owen walked upstairs to where Aurora was feeding their daughter. “I have to go to court, Mari has written again and this time she sounds frantic.” Aurora nodded, looking down at their daughter. “I am unsurprised. I am sure you know why she has written.” “No, but I can guess.”

49. “My brother,” she stated. “Yes. I imagine he has made his intentions clear to her and now she is writing to me to find her a way out.” Aurora turned to face him, cuddling Judith to her shoulder. “Be gentle with her. She will be scared, but do not let her fear force you into making rash decisions that could destroy your family.”

50. “I will not,” Owen said stepping closer to hold both of them. “Still, I dislike leaving you.” “Then why do we not retire below where I can show you just how much I wish you were staying here with me.”

51. “Is this what you had in mind,” Owen asked, pulling Aurora into his arms. “A bit, only with less clothes on.” “I can arrange that.”

52. A few moments later. “Better.” “Much!”

53. …

54. “Take care husband and return quickly, I am feeling the same twinges as when I was carrying your daughter.” He looked up at the messenger who was shifting on his mount anxiously. “I shall do my best,” Owen promised as he mounted his horse. “Take care, beloved.”

55. Owen arrived in Londonderry a few days later and went straight to the royal castle located on the city’s outskirts. No sooner had his foot crossed the threshold, than he heard his niece’s voice.

56. “Uncle Owen! You’ve come!” Mari cried, sprinting down the stairs in a very unladylike manner. “Aye, I did,” Owen responded blandly, cognizant that there were ears everywhere at the royal court.

57. His niece ignored convention and threw herself against his chest, clinging to him tightly. Owen could feel her tears soak through his tunic and he felt a twinge of pity for the girl. Court was not an easy place for an innocent as he well knew. “Is there someplace we can go where we can speak in private? As pleased as I am to see you, such displays are not seemly,” he said softly, looking down at her black curls.

58. Mari nodded, taking a step back. “My rooms-“ she started. Owen cut her off, “That would also not be seemly, niece. The gossips here at court have fertile imaginations and even crueler tongues.”

59. The girl grimaced looking down at her hands. “I am well aware of this, Uncle. I have become their favorite target of late.” “Then we must not give them any more ammunition,” Owen responded. He looked around, reacquainting himself with the layout of the castle. “Is the chapel on the north side of the palace still kept unlocked?”

60. Mari frowned in confusion. “Yes, but no one goes there. Father Mortimer is a sour old man with no sense of humor so most of the court avoids him.” “Then it is the perfect place to have our conversation,” Owen answered her unspoken question. “Father Mortimer for all of his acid demeanor is actually a fine cleric. He will keep any words he happens to overhear to himself.” Mari nodded, motioning for her Uncle to take the lead.

61. The chapel was as deserted as Owen had hoped. Not even Father Mortimer was present in the small confines. Owen and Mari took a seat in one of the pews near the front of the chapel, that way there was less chance of their conversation being overheard if someone else were to come in.

62. Once they were settled, Owen turned to his niece. “So what prompted you to write me so urgently.” The girl once again stared at her hands in her lap. “I mentioned that I may have caught the king’s eye…” she started. “You did.”

63. “There is no may about it. I have caught the king’s eye and he wants… he expects…” she trailed off unable to finish the sentence. So Owen finished it for her. “He wants you to be his mistress.” Mari blushed and nodded.

64. “You know what you must do,” Owen said gently. Her eyes flew to his. “But how can I? I would be ruined, no man would want me. Gregory would not want me.”

65. Understanding his niece’s fears now, Owen knew that Aurora had been correct. Mari had been asking him to arrange a match between her and Master Roseland and now she was asking for her uncle’s help to fix an unfixable situation. Feeling even more pity for the girl, Owen spoke the words she didn’t want to hear, “You do not have a choice, Mari. The king has commanded you to be his mistress, hasn’t he?” “I am to go to his bed this weekend,” she answered numbly. “Then you must do so and you must do so willingly. The king is not a man you wish to anger.”

66. “But Gregory!” Owen forestalled any more protests with a wave of his hand. “I will speak to him. If he truly holds an affection for you, your virginity or lack there of will be of no import to him and he will understand that as a loyal subject to the king as well as one beholden to him for title and position that you had as much choice as a fish has the choice to reject water. Which is to say none at all.”

67. “But will he still want me? I know that the king will tire of me in time,” she snorted indelicately. “I am not the first woman to sleep in his bed I doubt I will be the last. But I have seen what happens to those women, and I do not want that to happen to me!” Owen frowned, from his experience at court most of the king’s former mistresses were married off to courtiers or nobles the king wanted to gain favor with. A wealthy bride with a history of pleasing the king was in high demand, but perhaps things had changed. “What happens to them?” he asked.

68. “They are married off to whatever churl or cur has managed to gain the king’s attention without a thought for their wants or desires. Why one woman was even beaten because she was not a virgin on their wedding night, a fact that the husband well knew!” Mari exclaimed indignantly. “The fact that they are well dowered means nothing, since the women are reliant on their husbands for every scrap of food or article of clothing.” “That is true regardless if the bride was a former mistress to the king or not,” Owen pointed out.

69. “I know! And it is not right. It is not right that just because I had the appalling poor taste to be born a woman that I will never get to steer my own course or make my own decisions.” Owen looked at his niece, trying to read underneath her words to the meaning behind them. “You’re afraid that by becoming the king’s mistress that he will marry you off for his gain and pleasure and not consider your wants.” “Did I not just say that?”

70. “Forgive me, niece, I am a man and not adept at understanding women. Be grateful that I listen to you at all, for most men would have turned you over their knee by now at your unwomanly sentiments.” “I know. I am grateful to you, Uncle. I just wish that I could choose my own path or at least my own mate. I’d like the man I marry to be someone I hold affection for.” The words were so similar to Owen’s own so many years ago, he felt his heart give a little lurch. Mari, like him, was a romantic. And like him, she was facing a future that had very little in the way of romance in it.

71. “Would you like me to speak to the king?” he asked. “Yes. But I am not sure what about,” she answered honestly. “I cannot have you ask him to take this unwanted honor of being his mistress away from me. Nor, do I think he would be amenable to the suggestion that I want someone other than his royal person.” “You are correct on both counts, however I can make the request that when he does tire of you that I be allowed to arrange your match with his leave. But, you must never let him suspect that there is a man whom you favor more than our beloved monarch. Jealousy is an ugly emotion. It is even uglier when experienced by those who have power,” Owen cautioned.

72. Mari nodded. “I understand. I would be jeopardizing not only myself and our family but Gregory and his as well. Oh, but how I wish this honor had never settled on me,” she said with a catch in her voice. Owen put his arm around his niece to comfort her. “There is little I can do to comfort or counsel you. I am sure my father is spinning in his grave to know I didn’t beat you and order you to try to secure as much wealth, lands, and titles as you could for our family in the time that you are in the king’s eye. But honestly, I feel that honors should be earned not strewn about like gypsy trinkets at a fair.”

73. “Thank you for that much, Uncle,” she said into his shirt. “Will you stay here at court for a time? I think I would like a friendly face about me. The queen is tolerant of her husband’s lemans but the rest of the court peck at the women like a bunch of chickens in a pen. It is as if they know that the women are like a joint of meat: the tender bits to be chewed up and swallowed while the undesirable bone which remains is thrown to the dogs for good behavior.” “I will do my best to make sure you are not thrown to the dogs.” “Thank you, Uncle. Thank you.”

74. Once Mari had composed herself, Owen sent her to her room with a quick peck on the forehead. He then sat for a moment in the chapel thinking about how to explain his presence to the king while at the same time make a case that Mari’s future should be decided by him, Owen, instead of the king. Which led to the other concern, Master Roseland. He did not know the man at all and he only had Mari’s and the king’s letters to go by. He was the son of a wealthy merchant. He was personable and liked children. He was charming. All good traits, but it wasn’t the full measure of the man. He would talk to the man after he presented himself to the king.

75. His mind made up, Owen stretched out the kinks from the long ride and walked to the receiving room where he knew the king would be at this time of day.

76. “Owen!” Richard greeted standing from his throne and rushing over to greet the red-haired man. “This is a most pleasant surprise! You did not inform us you were coming!” he exclaimed enfolding the man in a quick embrace.

77. “I did not know I was coming myself, my king!” Owen admitted. “Oh?” the older man asked, curiosity evident in his voice. “Then why did you come?” “I received a letter from my niece detailing her time here in your court,” Owen stated honestly.

78. The king sat back down in his chair. “Indeed. What did our dear Mari have to say about our court?” Owen smiled, he now had the king where he wanted him. “That she enjoyed her duties and that she admired both you and your wife.” “Ah, she did did she?” “Yes, she mentioned she was grateful for all of your kindness.”

79. The king’s eyes narrowed. “Did she perhaps mention the other kindness I would bestow on her?” Owen gave his king a bland look. “That is not appropriate discussion for open court. The people who are so most anxiously listening in on our conversation might get jealous if I were to discuss it further.”

80. Richard laughed. “You speak the truth, Sir Owen. Indeed, I feel as if I cannot belch without inspiring some kind of gossip.” “It is the way of the court, my lord.” “Ah, Owen, I have missed you. Your honesty is refreshing amidst all of the politicking and self-serving toadying.”

81. “And I you, Majesty.” “So let us go someplace less crowded. I fancy a game of chess.” Owen smiled. “That would be lovely, Majesty.”

82. The king left orders with his guards that he was not to be disturbed unless it was a dire emergency. Much to the chagrin of the curious court.

83. As he sat down at the chess board, Richard looked over at Owen. “So what did you want to speak to me about.” “Mari. She did tell me of your desire for her.” “And?” “She has no objections but one.”

84. “And what might that be?” Richard said slowly, his eyes glinting dangerously. Owen stared straight into the man’s eyes and answered, “She worries that when your majesty tires of her that she will not be given much consideration.” “What do you mean by that?”

85. “I mean, she is worried that you will be so anxious to be rid of her that you will not consider her feelings when the time comes.” “And what are her feelings?” Owen smiled. “My niece is much like me, my lord. A romantic. She wants love and companionship and I believe that she might have that with you for a time. But your heart belongs to the queen and always has. Mari knows this and she would like what you have found with your queen for herself.”

86. The king groaned. “Why must you Tudors be so troublesome? Why can you not be greedy power and land grubbing like the rest of my court?” “You would not have us any other way,” Owen pointed out. “It is because we do not have an agenda that you value us Tudors so highly. We do not ask for your favor. We are merely grateful when and if we receive it.”

87. “You speak the truth, as you always have. I wish that you were here to speak it to me more often.” “I shall remain here for a time. To make sure my niece is well taken care of,” Owen stated a tone of warning in his voice. Richard’s eyes softened. “So the lion will protect its cubs. You always were devoted to your family.” “You are my family, Majesty. Through your sister,” Owen pointed out. “I merely wish to protect you and Mari both. However Mari is younger so needs more protection.”

88. “You are quite right!” Richard stated. The king paused considering the board for a moment. “I propose a compromise. Mari might be a romantic, but we all know how well that works out in the world. When the time comes for us to part ways, I will let you arrange a match for her. That way she does not flounder as you did but does not feel as if I am not considering her feelings. In return, you stay with me until that time comes. So that you can best choose who among our court will be Mari’s husband.” Owen grimaced but could not say anything. The king had given him what he wanted, the ability to pick Mari’s husband, but at a high cost – separation from his family for an unknown length of time. He sighed, knowing that Richard was awaiting his answer. “I think that is a good plan, Majesty.”

89. “Excellent! I shall have my majordomo find you appropriate quarters,” Richard answered, moving another chess piece. “And I do believe that is checkmate!” Owen bowed his head in defeat. “Well played, Majesty. Well played.” ~*~

90. Later that evening, Owen stood on the battlements looking out over the moat to the forest beyond. He shifted nervously from foot to foot as he waited for the person he had messaged to meet him there. This meeting could either go very good or very badly. There was no in between. Promptly at 6pm, Owen heard the sound of footsteps come up behind him. “Sir Owen, you wanted to speak with me?” the man asked.

91. Owen turned to face the younger man. “I did Master Roseland. Thank you for meeting with me.” “It is most unusual. Most people wish to speak in warmer locales and not at the dinner hour,” Gregory’s voice held a note of curiosity and suspicion in it. “What did you wish to discuss?”

92. Owen drew a breath and composed his thoughts. “I wanted to speak to you about my niece, Mari.” Gregory’s face lit up as he anticipated what the discussion would entail. “Sir Owen-” he started. The older man held up a hand, cutting him off. “Please, let me finish.”

93. The smile slipped away from Gregory’s face. In its place, an expression of worry darkened the man’s features. “As you wish.” “Thank you,” Owen said, composing his thoughts once more. “My niece wrote me of her experiences at court and the people she met there. She spoke highly of you and seemed to regard you fondly despite your lack of noble origin.”

94. Gregory nodded but didn’t say anything although his mouth quirked up briefly. Noting the man’s reaction, Owen continued, “She also wrote of the king. Which is why I am here.” He paused and drew a breath. “There is no easy way to say this so I must be blunt. The king wishes Mari to be his mistress and in less than a weeks time she will be.”

95. “But we must do something!” Gregory exclaimed. “We must stop this! Mari is special. She isn’t one of those common court trulls who’ve graced the king’s bed eager for the power and prestige the position affords them. She is innocent, an angel. She is…” he trailed off, sinking down against the battlements.

96. Owen crouched down next to the man and looked at him sympathetically. “Aye, Mari is special. And I see that you care about her deeply.” “I love her,” the man said woodenly. “I know.”

97. Gregory looked over at him. “Why are you telling me this? Do you take pleasure in other’s pain?” “On the contrary, I am speaking to you because of my niece,” Owen said with a shake of his head. “She cares about your regard and would not like you to find out about her situation from court gossips.” “Then why did she not tell me this herself. I would have married her right then, taken her away from this shame!”

98. “And that is exactly why she could not tell you. This is not some Earl or Duke whose bed she must grace, this is the King and there is no place in all of Yorkcaster where his power does not reach. Mari did not tell you in order to protect you from actions that as much as she would love to indulge in would destroy you both.”

99. “So what am I to do?” Gregory said with a catch in his voice. “Am I to stand here and watch the woman I love sleep with another man?” “If you love her, yes,” Owen answered. “I do not think you know what you are asking!” “I think I do. I think that my niece holds feelings for you and it would destroy her to know that you now hate her because of something she did not want and had no choice to avoid.”

100. Gregory shook his head. “I could never hate her. But the king…” “It would be wise if you never finished that sentence,” Owen cautioned. “We are all the king’s subjects and as such our fortune or folly can be subject to his whim. Mari knows this and though every fiber in her being wishes otherwise, she will do her duty. You must do yours.” Gregory nodded. “I will try.”

101. Owen laid a hand on the man’s shoulder. “I wish I could have met you under happier circumstances, you seem a most decent fellow.” The younger man barked out a short laugh. “I do as well. I am not quite sure how I can face the king knowing what I now know. I fear my feelings will show on my face.” “This is why I wished to talk with you out here. It is near impossible to overhear our conversation and to give you the opportunity to think things over.” Once again, Gregory nodded without saying anything.

102. They both stood up and turned to look toward the setting sun. For a few moments, neither said anything each lost in their thoughts. Then Gregory looked over at Owen, “You said Mari cares for me?” “I did,” Owen confirmed.

103. Turning away, Gregory stared into the setting sun, blinking back tears. “What I would have given to hear that from her lips. And now it can never be.” Owen debated for a few moments before deciding to give the man a little hope. “If you are willing to weather this storm, there may be a way for you two to be together.”

104. Gregory whirled to face him. “What do you mean?” he asked, his eyes searching. After first swearing the young man to silence, Owen told him. ~*~

105. “Dear Husband, I hope that things fare well with you at court and that you can complete your duties there quickly. I was most displeased but unsurprised when you wrote that the errand you went to take care of would take longer than expected. You are much needed here although we are managing without you.

106. “As I had suspected prior to your leaving, I am once again pregnant. Hopefully you will be home before your son is born. I am sure it is a boy this time, it is just a feeling but a certain one.

107. “Your daughter has grown like a weed and follows me around everywhere. I think she senses that there is someone missing and wants reassurance that I will not leave her alone as well. She dislikes the old woman I have appointed as nanny howling whenever the woman tries to feed or bathe her. I have a feeling this one will be a challenge as she ages. I hope that her intended husband appreciates her spirit else it will not be a happy marriage.

108. “Still, I find her antics endearing. She may be spirited but she is loving to those she likes, thankfully I appear to be on that list.

109. “I have been following your plans for the construction of an outer wall. It seems to be going well, although I had to have a stern talk with the foreman. The stone he initially brought was not of high enough quality. It might be good enough for a simple church wall but not for fortifications. Now, though, things seem to be on schedule. It is my hope that the gatehouse will be complete by the time you return.

110. “I count the days until I can be in your arms again. The tower is quite cold without you and I do not sleep as well without you near. Yours Eternally, Aurora”

111. Owen set down the letter from his wife and sighed. He had no idea when he would be able to return home. Not soon unless circumstances changed drastically, he thought.

112. Mari had indeed become the king’s mistress.

113. However, unlike previous mistresses, the king showed no waning interest in her after several months. The man seemed charmed by her innocence and kindness as well as her beauty.

114. He had offered her jewels, better quarters, and even lands which the girl had turned down. She stated that any outward show of affection toward her could cause displeasure from the queen whom she held in high regard and the princess whose employ she was technically in. Owen suspected that Mari’s demeanor and actions were part of the reason she had remained in the king’s affection for so long. Still, it was going on for almost six months and Owen was getting anxious to return home to his wife and family.

115. Owen was also very aware that he was not the only one waiting impatiently for Richard and Mari’s affair to end. Gregory too was starting to feel the strain more keenly.

116. At Owen’s advice, he distanced himself from Mari and focused on his court duties along with furthering his friendship with Lionel.

117. Still, the man was unable to keep his heart from his eyes when Mari entered the room.

118. Owen prayed nightly that the Creator would do something so that his and Gregory’s agony would end.

119. And as if she had heard his prayers, something did happen that forced the king’s hand.

120. Early one morning, Owen was summoned to the King’s chambers where he found the monarch slumped on the bed. “Your Majesty, what troubles you so early this morn?” Owen asked fidgeting nervously at the man’s state of undress.

121. The man looked up at him with a haggard expression on his face. “I can no longer keep Mari as my mistress,” he stated without any preamble. Owen blinked, shocked and tried to think of what could have happened to cause this rapid change in events. He could think of nothing so he asked, “Why?”

122. Instead of answering the king, placed his head in his hands. “I did not think this would happen. Why would it? It has been more than a dozen years since the last time.” “More than a dozen years since what, Majesty?” Owen asked, completely baffled at what the monarch was rambling about.

123. “Since I fathered a child.”

124. The statement gave Owen pause. He had never really thought about it, but he realized that the king was correct. In all of the years that had passed between Lionel’s birth and today, not one of the king’s many mistresses had ever borne him a child. Any children they did have were either very clearly their former husbands’ or their new ones. So as far as Owen was aware, there were no royal bastards out in the country. And now, if he was correct in his assumption, Mari was pregnant with the king’s child.

125. “So Mari is-” “Pregnant,” the king interrupted. “I do not know why I did not think it could happen. But I did not. Now I know not what I will do. Alais will never forgive me.” “The queen cares for you deeply Majesty, I think you underestimate her.”

126. “You underestimate her, Sir Owen. She has overlooked my lemans, this is true. But only because she is physically incapable of fulfilling her wifely duty to me. She knows that she has done the one thing that no other woman has – give me children. She is secure in her position. Feels no threat. That all will change, I fear. Aye, I fear it greatly.” Owen considered what the king said and could see that the man could be right, and if so his niece and indeed his whole family was in danger. “I see your point, Majesty. And this is why you have summoned me?”

127. “Yes. For now only you, Mari, my personal physician and myself know of her condition but that will change as her waistline starts to expand. Before that happens, she must be gone from court.” “I agree, Majesty. But not thrown away lightly, you promised me that,” Owen reminded. “Aye, that I did. So have you a man who will take Mari in this situation?” Owen sighed. “I do. But he needs to be told of this by you and asked by you to assume the responsibility of caring for and acknowledging your bastard. It is the honorable thing to do.”

128. “Then send for him, we shall talk now,” the king commanded. “That is not wise, Majesty. People may have seen my entry into your chambers, despite the hour, and servants talk. I will arrange a time and place where all four of us, Mari included, may discuss the future and what it entails.” ~*~

129. That night, long after the sun had set and most sane people had sought their beds, Richard, Mari, Owen and Gregory met at the base of the stairs that led up to the battlements. Mari looked at the three men solemnly, before proceeding the three up the stairs.

130. All three watched her go with varying expressions crossing their faces.

131. When they were sure she was out of earshot, Gregory was the first to break the silence. “Why have you summoned me out here at this Creator forsaken hour, Sir Owen?” Owen shook his head. “I was merely the facilitator of this meeting, it is the King whom you must speak with.”

132. Turning toward the monarch, Gregory’s jaw hardened. “What is it that you wish of me, Your Majesty?” he asked, trying and failing to keep the resentment out of his voice. If the king noticed, he chose not to acknowledge it. Instead, he shook his head. “Not here, Master Roseland. It is far too easy to be overheard here. And what I have to say is for your ears only.” “As you wish,” Gregory responded.

133. The king motioned for Gregory and Owen to follow him and the men did. They went up onto the battlements where Mari was standing looking out over the countryside. The three men stood a little ways off, the king watching both Mari and Gregory as he spoke. "Gregory, I have an important favor to ask you." "Yes, my liege." "My dear Mari is pregnant. The child is most assuredly mine and therein lies the rub. I care for Alais. Deeply. And by the same token I care for Mari deeply, these Tudors they get under your skin. Her uncle was like that too, you know,“ he said with a nod toward Owen.

134. "What are you asking of me?“ "Alais, cannot know I've fathered another child. I feel that so long as she has no physical proof that I love other women our marriage can survive and by that same token our country can survive. I have been lucky so far. But now, it seems, the Creator has a sense of humor.“ Gregory followed the king's thought to its logical conclusion. "And you want me to marry her and claim the child as my own?"

135. The king nodded and the younger man’s statement, his heart in his eyes. Owen held his breath. Everything was on Gregory now and he had no idea how the young man would react. Gregory ignored the monarch’s pain. “You know I care for her. I have wanted to make her my wife ever since I met her. Seeing her with another man for all of these months, even if he is my king, has stretched my sanity to the limit. And now, I can have what I most desire in all of this world but it comes with a catch. A most horrible catch.”

136. “I can ease the pain,” the monarch said, softly. “Provide you with monies and lands and a title. If you will just do this one thing. Alais cannot know about this child!” “Why?” Gregory asked bluntly. “Why can she not find out? It is not as if this was not an impossible outcome of your slaking your lust where you willed.” Owen grimaced at the man’s words but didn’t caution him. At this moment, everything came down to this young man.

137. The king for his part, had the decency to look ashamed. “I do not know how familiar you are with the laws of this land. But in case of dynastic crisis, royal bastards are considered eligible for the throne. The land must always have a child of royal blood to sit upon its throne. Alais knows this. As the succession stands, after myself and my two sons if this child were to be a boy they would inherit the throne before my granddaughter would. Alais would not stand for this. She would turn against me and poison my sons toward me. I cannot allow this to happen.” A thought occurred to Owen and he had to voice it. “Are my wife and children in the line of succession?”

138. Richard nodded. “They are, albeit very far down the list.” Owen’s mind reeled in shock, he’d known that the monarch had honored him by marrying him to Aurora but he’d never realized just how much. Until now. It was a sobering thought. Gregory regarded Richard solemnly. “It is a great thing you ask of me. If this child is a boy, I would have to claim him as my heir. That is not fair to my true children, if the Creator blesses me with them. I would need to be able to provide for them after I am gone. In addition, I do not know if Mari wishes to marry me.”

139. “Her wishes do not matter. What is best for the kingdom is of the greater import,” the king said. Gregory’s eyes narrowed. “That is where you are very wrong. I will not marry Mari or any woman if they do not wish it. I will not have a loveless marriage of convenience and since I am not noble I do not have to.”

140. Richard threw his hands up in annoyance. “Would the creator please save me from these romantics? I am surrounded by them. First, you Owen. Then my dear Mari. And now Master Roseland. What have I done to be infested with these illogical souls?” Seeing that Gregory was about to explode, Owen intervened. “You are surrounded by romantics because you yourself are one, Majesty. Your very actions this night prove it. You do not wish to hurt your wife but by the same token you wish do what is right by your mistress. I can see that. I am sure Master Roseland can as well,” he said pointedly.

141. Gregory glared at the monarch for a few moments before nodding brusquely. “I do see this. However I would like to lay down my own set of conditions for me doing this favor for you.” “Name them.” “One, Mari must give her consent. Two, I will accept your offer of lands, title and monies. However in the case of this bastard child being a boy, I want lands and title enough that I may split the inheritance between your son and mine. And finally, in your will I want this child acknowledged as your get. I will raise the babe as my own, however they deserve to know their true lineage.”

142. “Gregory-” Owen cautioned. But the man shook his head, his jaw set. “All three of these conditions must be met. Else I will refuse. I may love Mari but I will not be used to clean up a mess I did not make without some form of consideration.” Richard’s eyes narrowed briefly in anger. “You are skirting dangerously close to treason with each word you utter.”

143. Gregory lifted his chin defiantly. “Aye, that may be true. But at this point, I have little to lose. My family is not worth destroying and my life is not worth living in the agony I have endured for these last few months. So meet my conditions or find another patsy.” Several moments passed where the king regarded the young man solemnly. Owen could see his monarch weighing his pride against the needs of his kingdom. With a set of the older man’s shoulders, he could see that his king had come to a decision.

144. “I agree. If Mari gives her consent, you will be married in a weeks time. I can have Father Mortimer waive the banns. In the mean time, I will draw up papers to make you the Earl of Riverblossom, I will give you enough lands that your second son can be a viscount. Would that be acceptable?” “It will,” Gregory said with a nod. “And the third thing I asked?” Richard sighed. “It will be done. I will have the scribes amend my will once the child is born to acknowledge their paternity and if it is within my power I will acknowledge the child prior to my death. But only if Alais predeceases me.”

145. “That is fair,” Gregory agreed. “Now, if you will excuse me. There is a woman I must ask to marry me.”

146. Owen and Richard watched Gregory approach Mari, her nervousness and fear apparent in her stance. The man spoke softly to her, his words whipped away by the wind, and reached up to caress her cheek.

147. The girl gave a small nod and a smile crossed Gregory’s lips for the first time in months. Taking her head in his hands, he bent down to kiss her tenderly.

148. From next to him, Owen heard the king give a little choked sob. He looked to find the monarch turned away from the scene, tears streaming down the man’s face. Giving one last glance to the two young lovers, Owen focused his attention on Richard. “You have done what is best for your kingdom and your marriage,” Owen said sympathetically. “History will remember your sacrifice.”

149. “History may remember, but I do not wish to. I do not know how Gregory could bear to remain here at court knowing now of his feelings for my beloved Mari. I think it would have killed me.” “At least you can understand how he feels,” Owen pointed out. “Aye, I know. It tastes like bitterness and ashes. Come, my brother, my wine cellar calls and I do not wish to drink alone.”

150. “As you wish,” Owen said, looking behind him to Mari and Gregory, before going below with his heartbroken king. ~*~

151. Mari and Gregory’s wedding was a quiet affair. It was held in the palace chapel with Father Mortimer officiating.

152. Owen noted that there were very few people in attendance, although the king watched from the back. The lack of guests did not bother Owen. This was a wedding where the fewer people around to see it and remark on the haste meant that there was less chance that the real reason for the haste would become known.

153. After the ceremony, Owen bid the newlyweds good luck then made his way to where the king was sitting.

154. There, he reminded the king of his promise to release him to go home once his affair with Mari was over. The king’s resigned expression tugged at Owen’s heart but he had a reason to leave as soon as possible. He wanted to be home in time to see his second child born.

155. Riding hard, Owen made good time through the countryside and arrived home late one night.

156. Owen noted with pleasure that the exterior walls had been completed and that there were guards manning the towers. Apparently much had happened in his absence. Stabling his own horse, he hoped that he had made it home in time to see his child’s birth.

157. Tired from his ride, he walked up to the solar and saw Aurora sleeping in their bed. Hearing a sound from the nursery above, Owen bypassed his bed and instead continued on to the next floor.

158. There he found his daughter Judith playing in her cradle. He picked her up and cuddled her to his chest. When he felt the little hands tug at his hair he knew then that he was home.

159. Exhaustion overtook him and he set his daughter down to play to seek his own bed. He slipped in under the covers and cuddled his wife to him. As his hands slipped around her middle, he couldn’t keep the smile from his lips he’d made it home in time.

160. Aurora woke up early to the baby kicking and waddled upstairs to where she found Judith waiting for her at the edge of the landing. Reaching down to tickle the toddler, Aurora exclaimed, “Your Papa is home! Isn’t that exciting!” “Papa!” the little girl agreed. “What do you say to a bath in celebration?” “Bath!”

161. Aurora first bathed herself, scrubbing herself clean. Then in the still warm bathwater, she bathed Judith.

162. Feeling a familiar twinge in her back, she set the newly clean and dressed toddler on the ground.

163. Standing up, a wave of contractions hit. Aurora screamed for the midwife.

164. Her cries awaking Owen from his sleep.

165. Several hours later, Aurora was cleaned up and safely delivered of her child. Rising from the bed when Owen came into room she placed the baby into her husband’s arms. “My lord, I am pleased to present you with your son.” “A son! I have a son?” “Aye, my lord, you do,” she answered softly.

166. “A son! Arthur. We shall call him Arthur. Thank you, Aurora.” A smile spread across the woman’s lips, “It was my pleasure my lord.” ~*~

167. And like a bolt from the blue we have heir sign! Poor Owen really does not have any luck in my game, he’s been struck by lightning twice and demoted a few times. But we now have our heir so I am incredibly happy. We also have a Butler.

168. A butler who managed to get himself turned into a plantsim. There also isn’t a really easy way to fix him short of moving him in Mr. Plantsim and his ears are likely to be turned into another NPC at some point.

169. This is likely to be the last of Rhodri’s family we will see for a while. But one thing I did want to touch on is the whole cousins marrying thing. It happened quite a bit back then and is not considered illegal in most of the world now. In fact in 20 states, first cousin marriage is legal and can lead to procreation. And the U.S. is the only country which does prohibit cousins marrying in the Western world. Kind of interesting, huh?

170. Moving on to the main arc of this chapter, Mari was based in part on Mary Boleyn. Mary was the mistress of Henry VIII and it is very likely that her two children were Henry’s get. She is also more famously Anne Boleyn’s sister. After her first husband died, she married a man of a much lower rank for love. Much to the annoyance of her family. The arc is also based in part on Katherine Swynford the third wife of John of Gaunt. Prior to their marriage, Catherine was John’s mistress and they had four children together. An act of parliament and a papal bull legitimized them but they were barred from the line of succession. That did not stop them. One of their sons, John, was the great-grandfather of Henry VII and the father of Queen Joan of Scotland. Their daughter also a Joan, was the grandmother of Edward IV and Richard III.

171. So as you can see, bastardy didn’t stop people from becoming monarchs. In fact, England had a long history of it – most memorably with William the Conqueror aka William the Bastard. So rather than have to force you to figure out how succession works, I am going to spell it out here. Legitimate Males (Any) Illegitimate Males (Within one degree aka son, brother, uncle) Legitimate Females (Any) Illegitimate Females (within one degree aka daughter, sister, aunt) Illegitimate male (closest relation) Illegitimate female (closest relation)

172. One last thing, please feel free to tell me if the pictures are too dark. Most of the time it is deliberate, however sometimes what I see on my computer doesn’t match. I do have the Radiance Light Mod and The World Lit by Fire by the Almighty hat in and for this scene I literally had 5 lights around Greg and Mari to get the actual picture used, I had to add an overhead light. Not terribly realistic, but sometimes I have to sacrifice real for readable. I value all Construct Crit and do listen even if I don’t agree.

173. So any questions? I hope you all have enjoyed and here’s a better look of the keep that Owen built. Someone pegged it, the tower is 8x8 a la an apocalypse tower. I did it for the laughs. Thank you to Orikes for the cover, Dicreasy for proofreading, and Peasant007 for the late, late night smacks to the head. Until next time, Happy Simming!