Chapter Sixty Seven - 1501

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Now we are into the last part of Hope's story which is the first few episodes of The Spanish Princess.

1501- Spain is wealthy, but fear for it's political power. Queen Isabella overthrew a thousand years of Muslim rule and must have Catholic allies to maintain her sovereignty. England is on the brink of poverty. Henry VII and Queen Hope have in need of rich allies to save the home they love and deter invasion from France and Scotland. Both believe an alliance is vital to solve they problems and so a match has been made between their eldest son and heir to the Tudor throne, Prince Arthur, and the Spanish Princes Catherine of Aragon

This alliance will eventually make Catherine Queen of England. She has been promised this since she was a small child. The fortunes of both kingdoms and the security of Europe rest upon Catherine's young shoulder as she leaves her palace home  to make the Arduous journey across Spain to the ship that will carry her to England. But achieving her God Given destiny comes at a price. For Catherine may never see her beloved homeland again.

-Hope-

I walked through the halls of my home praying as I went, for some time now it as if I was a young girl again memories are forever re playing themselves. It is made more so by the fact that I am not well as I once was. Though I was with child once more, I think this would be my last.

I made my way to my husband and my love, Henry. Spain was supposed to be sending Catherine to us, finally. So that she and Arthur could be wed and the future of our countries more secure and powerful than ever. Upon reaching the cousin chambers the door was ajar, I peered in. Henry was sat alone by himself.

"Henry." I open the door further and step inside "Is there any news?" I question, he sighs and looks up to me

"First we're told her brother dies and her mother cannot spare her. Then the princess has a fever and again she is delayed, and now I hear some Moorish rebellion blocks her passage. Are you sure God isn't trying to keep her from us, Hope?" he rants standing to being his pacing when he is frustrated

"Like always our resolve is tested as will hers. At least now she is on her way which is further than our previous attempts. She will arrive Henry, our patience will be rewarded." I assure him

"My bride has sailed mother?" I hear Arthur and turn to face him

"She has my sweet. So you must leave for Dogmersfield House, where she will break her journey and the two of you can finally meet." I smile holding his cheek

"You are not coming with me?" he questioned

"Sadly, I cannot. Your new sibling will not be able to handle the journey. Sir Richard will ride with you as always and your Aunt Maggie will attend to you as well as your Cousins Jaqui and Eliza." i inform him. Jaqui and Eliza are two of Lizzie's daughters who love their cousin dearly. Arthur bowed and left the room, I made my way round to my husband .

"You have not slept again, my love." I whisper

"We are beset with enemies on every side. Until wedding bells ring our and Spain becomes our ally, we have neither the..the funds nor the...nor the men to save ourselves. All of Europe knows it. Until that girl arrives we are lost." he stressed

"Yes, but you will always have.." i trailed of and he let out a long breath

"Hope." he kissed my head. "I will always have hope."

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Arthur was preparing to leave when I decided to visit him. He was mostly dressed just his robes to be put on.

"Arthur, my own dear boy, you look handsome." I compliment

"Thank you, Lady Mother."  he gives me a soft smile. I walk over and just is collar to make sure it is as perfect as it can be.

"I must remind you like always, my son that should your Aunt act strangely or you hear anything from her about..." I say

"Mother you remind me of this every time I am away with her from you." he takes my hands and clutches them "She cares for me and that is all."

"Arthur, she is with you because I trust you to tell me if something is amiss. She has betrayed us once before and we must constantly remain vigilant. It is your duty as a Prince and future King that you must protect your wife, your family and your people from any threat. You may love her but never trust her. Do you understand?" I held his chin

"I understand mother." he nodded

"Good. Have a safe trip, my son." I kiss his cheek and take my leave

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