|
|
|
|
|
|
PART ONE Danielle ran as fast as she could from the masque. Running so blindly she tripped over a rock. She noticed Leonardo was calling her name but, she didn't want to talk to him now, she is so ashamed. Danielle got back up and kept on running. She was soaked by the time she got back home to the manor. She felt that she could not go inside. Louise and Paulette was waiting for her to come back to tell them what happened with the prince when she finally did tell him the truth. Danielle could not got through it all over again..... telling them of the horrible scene that just happened so, she just slumped down in the doorway of her father's manor and cried. After some time had past, she noticed that Paulette and Louise went to bed. So, she snuck up to her room to change and dry off. When Danielle got done attending to her self, She noticed the book on the table next to her bed, the one that she borrowed from the monastery that day her and Henry had visited. Danielle left it in the prince's carriage but, he gave it back to her at the ruins of Ambrose. Danielle realized that she would have to return the book " but how?" Suddenly she got an idea. Since the rain stopped, she bolted out of the manor and went to the stables. Danielle decided it would be better to ride her father's horse for her journey. After some time of riding she finally arrived at the base of the hill of Ambrose. Danielle tied her horse to a near by tree and left him there. She knew it would be easier to walk the rest of the way for it's hard to get a horse to follow a very narrow path. She thought, soon Henry would show up here because he was hurt and needed to get away to his private place so she would hurry to do what she came for, she didn't want to run into the prince at all. That was not her intentions. Before she left the manor she wrote a letter to put in the book that she brought with her. She than took the book and the letter inside. When Danielle entered, she looked around to make sure Henry was not there yet. She didn't see him so, she went to the window sill that Henry was sitting on the last time she was there and placed the book and letter on it. Danielle thought she took too much time here for Henry could arrive any moment. She could not bare to go through a scene like the one at the masque again, especially when he said," and your just like them." Oh, did that hurt her so much. She started to cry again. He was the one who wanted to be seen for who he was not what he was so, here Henry was treating her the same as he had wish for not to be treated as. She started to remember of a good memory that she has of him, at the Gypsy camp when they kissed. It felt so right kissing him. She knew that she did love him, for who he is, not what he is. And now he's gone from her life forever. Danielle was crying much harder now, but, this time she could not make any sounds of sadness but she did make her tears form and fall from her eyes. Just as she turned around to leave, Henry was standing right behind her. Danielle jumped three feet out of her skin, he scared her. Danielle was frightened and then she was able to make out who he was through her tears. she bowed as low to the ground as she did in the apple orchard when she threw apples at him. Henry was still not sure what to think of her now being a commoner. His face was full of pain, he did not want to see her yet. Danielle stood back up, looked at Henry with a tear stained face, she looked very sad. She was wondering what he would say to her, she stood there for a while staring at him. But, Henry said nothing. Danielle moved past him and walk towards the exit to leave, without saying a word to him. Before Danielle got to the exit, Finally Henry felt the need to speak, " What are you doing here?" Danielle turned back around with tears streaming down her face, She said," Your Highness, your answers are in that book over there on the window sill, good-bye." Then, she curtsied and walk out. Henry walked over to the book, he noticed that it's the book from the monastery, he pulled out the letter and read it: Your Highness, Danielle de Barbarac Henry sat in his favorite window sill, enjoying the full moon and all of the stars. Remembering what Danielle had said at the monastery," I could no sooner choose a favorite star in the heavens." Henry wondered for a commoner, she was very educated and does it with such passion. He got a vision in his mind of what she looked like before she left awhile ago... the spirit that she possessed was now gone, with tears streaming down her face. Danielle certainly was hurting too. A question came to him... if she was pretending to be a countess and after nothing more than my crown then why is she crying and so hurt? Henry certainly wanted to get to the bottom of that question, he decided to go after her, He knew she had just left him and he could catch up with her because he too was on his horse as well. Besides, It is not right for him to just leave her to herself to get back home, it was not safe for her. He set out for her... riding in the dark with only the moon light to see his way. Not far after he started to ride, he saw a vision of someone walking a horse. Henry got closer and was able to see it was Danielle and her father's horse. ~~~~~~~~ Danielle heard a noise from behind her. It sounded like a horse walking. She turned to see who it was and instantly felt scared for she did realizes that it was not good at this late hour to be out by herself. She saw Henry a few feet behind her, she let out a long soft sigh because she felt relieved that it was Henry even though she did not want to see him and start a fight with him again but, she knew she was safe for now. Henry looked at her face again and she did not have any more tears on her face. But at that moment a tear escaped down her face and he knew that with him being here now she felt sad again. They were not sure who spoke first but, as they both were saying something to one another they both started to laugh because they spoken in unison. Danielle curtsied and Said," You go first. Your Highness." Henry could not believe his ears, she was allowing him to speak to her and she was not mad at him at this point. Henry said again, " All I said, was that I will walk you back to the manor for you are not safe out here by yourself." Danielle was enraged, " You had said some horrible things to me tonight, You hurt my feelings and now you are worried about my well being Your Highness! I should think that you are selfish." Henry shot back, " so first I am arrogant then, I have no pride and now I am selfish. Well tell me Milady.. why did I care enough about you to make sure you get home safe if I was selfish? Danielle's tongue was unable to let her find an answer to that question for he did have a point! Henry was looking at her in the way he usually did, with love in his eyes and she saw a tear that formed in one of them. She finally was able to speak," I guess that selfish was not the word I was looking for." "I should say not, I have trusted you up until tonight and you didn't even have enough trust in me to tell me the truth about you. And you still have not told me the whole truth!" Henry was so upset, he let the tear in his eye fall and he knew that it did, but he did not care if Danielle saw it. He too was hurt as well. "I want to know the whole story Danielle. For I don't understand why you lied to me. I demand as the Crowned Prince of France that you start at the beginning!" Henry was yelling at her but it was to let her know that now is the time, not later. Danielle was sad that she had to say this," You want to be seen as who you are not what you are and now here you are trying to convince me that You are now to be seen for what you are, MAKE UP YOUR MIND, HEN-RY!" Milady I am sorry that I confused you but I had to say it that way because you are to scare too speak to me on this matter. I have known that you have been wanting to say something to me since yesterday at Ambrose. I still want to be seen as who I am although. Danielle calmed a bit, she decided that he deserved to know what he wanted to know so she walked her horse to the tree log that was fallen on the ground and sat down. Henry took this as she is wanting to talk now so he went over and sat next to her. Danielle felt a little tingle feeling going up her spine for he sat close to her and she liked that feeling of being next to him. She wanted him to hold her forever and never let her step family to hurt her again. Danielle did not know where to start. Henry told her that she should start with why she lied about being a countess. She said that Maurice as the servant she had him release and he was like a father to her in her home after her father had died, She told him that the Baroness could not pay her taxes so, she sold him to your father. Maurice also has a wife who was like a mother to her and she lived with them at the manor. Louise was so sad when she learned that he was to be shipped off to the Americas and so Danielle had decided with the francs he gave her that morning that if she dressed as a noble person she would have a better chance to buy Maurice back with the money. After you released him I than hurried to get away but you started to follow me and asked me who I was and you do remember after some time of constantly asking who I was that I could give you any name. So I said, my mother's name. Really I did not think that we would met again. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Danielle told Henry, "My mother died when she gave birth to me. After that I grew up with just my father and our servants that were working for us. The manor had lots more land than it does today and more servants too. Maurice and his wife, Louise had been working for my father since before I was born. Paulette arrived to help my father out with me, I was a new baby. When I was eight. My father decided to marry the Baroness so that I can have a mother. So, the Baroness and her daughters came to live with us. Soon after my father came home with the Baroness. My father had a stroke and died in front of me. She told Henry, "It was the most painful memory that I have of my childhood. When my father died the Baroness did not want to keep some of the help and land. So she sold some of the land off. Then there was just Maurice, Louise, and Paulette left to care for the manor. There was too much work for them. At that point, I started to help them out. The Baroness did not like me because I liked to play outside and get dirty like a boy. She almost literally kicked me out of my own room that I had since I was a baby. Never was I allowed to call the Baroness anything else but Milady. The baroness treated me, as just a commoner and nothing more. "Why did the Baroness say that you were engaged and now you are her servant?" Henry asked. Daniele told him, "For many years now, The Baroness wants Marguerite to become your wife and Queen. So when she found out that we were spending time together. She told the lie about me being engaged But than when that did not work. She said that I was only her servant but that still was not the whole truth, as you already know now. "Why does The Baroness think that I was going to choose Marguerite to be my bride?" "Well after your tennis match is when they were sure that you would choose her because you only spent time with her and no other courtier... that is except me of course. But during that time, they did not know I was spending time with you." "Danielle I was never going to choose her. She is dumb-witted in every way. I would get more pleasure out of being married to a wall. She has no feelings for herself... Throwing herself at me like she did, told me that she would not respect anything because she did not respect herself." Danielle started to laugh for the first time since the gypsy camp. She felt much better now that she heard him say that he was not going to ever choose Marguerite. Henry looked at her and wanted to tell her of his intentions were tonight at the ball. He started to say: "Look at me Milady, After you ran out on me at the ruins yesterday, My mother told me what she learned from the Baroness. That you were engaged and leaving on a boat yesterday afternoon. At that point, I believed her. Because you said that you were staying with a cousin and when I found out that the Baroness was your cousin from a painter gentleman that said he knew you. I believed that she was telling the truth. I than told my father that I would seal his treaty with Spain and marry the Spanish Princess. I am still bounded by my word. My father will not give me another chance to change my mind again for he gave me until midnight tonight to take a wife and I choose after that charade at the ball, to seal his treaty with Spain. But I will talk to my father in the morning about all that you just told me to see if he will change his mind and let me marry you. I seriously doubt it, for a commoner to be married to his son of royalty is not what he believes to be right for me. Forever remember this Danielle I love you and I always will love you." Danielle felt her heart stop. It hurt her to hear those words because she can never be with him again most likely after today, She will hardly see him again. She decided to change the subject, " When my step mother found out about us being together she was yelling at me... That was yesterday after I saw you at the ruins. I asked her what bothered her more the fact that I am a commoner or just competition? She did not answer me but I think it was both." Henry roared with laughter again but this time her was certain that she did not believe that it was important to be married to the crown prince of France. She wanted just Henry. Henry stated to Danielle,"When push come to shove, the Baroness will be at the end of the robe while dangling on a high cliff. I should love to have her executed for her treason ways, to think she treated you like you were not a person but, a rug to beat. Well it's just stupidity. If this is how she treats her husbands flesh and blood, I would not want think of how she would treat her own mother." Henry was so disgusted but, he has not heard the stories yet of her mistreating Danielle so much to go as far to beat her and treat her like a prisoner in her own home, just so that she and Marguerite can get their hands on Henry's home and Henry's crown and also his royal family legacy.
~~~~~~~~ It's Danielle's turn to speak her feelings, "Henry believe me when I say this. I fell in love with you, head over heels. I know that our love is not meant to be. I have known for quite some time that we could not marry. I have been in battle with my heart for days now that these feelings I have for you must never be. My heart hurts that we will never be able to express our love for one another. Never will I ever be allowed to make love to you the way my dreams at night do." "You have been having dreams at night like I do... For mine is the same, my Love." Henry was staring deep into her eyes at this point for it was the first time that they both really looked at each other with eye contact. He took both her hands in his and softly kissed them. He took his right hand and placed it behimd her head. He started to pull her face closer to his lips. They were so close. They wanted to taste each other. Henry put his tongue on her lips and licked them slowly and then, slightly touched the end of her toungue which he felt. She got excited for she felt like he was teasing her. She too took her right hand and put it behind Henry's head, then pulled him in evan closer. She wanted to kiss him long and hard. They kissed with such urgency and desire both were out of breath. He could tell that she wanted him as much as he wanted her. Was it right for them to just give into their intense burning feelings? He then put his hand on her back and drew in for more, Danielle felt her back burn with pain and yelled," OUCH!" Henry could not believe that this was happening again. He had to find out why she hurt so when he touched her back. He put his hands behind her back again but this time he pulled on the top button of her dress. Danielle immediately knew what Henry was up to and it was not to make love to her like she had hoped. She tried to push him away yelling,"Don't Henry!" He was able to get the dress buttons undone. Her dress opened up exposing her back. What he saw made him feel ashamely guilty for he knew who gave her those lashes and he felt partly responsible. " Danielle, Do you know that those are infected?" The wounds were quite red and yellow pus was inside of them. "Henry, I can not see them. I have never seen them. What do they look like?" Danielle felt scared because she did not feel comfortable going back to the castle. She also felt a little scared becasue she did not know how her lashes were healing. Henry grabbed her hand and led her to his horse. He decided to leave her father's horse tied to the tree and send someone from the castle to retrieve it. He knew what her father's horse meant to her. They both mounted the horse and rode back to Castle Hautefort. Danielle was quitefor most of the trip until Henry asked," Are you alright Danielle?" They finally arrived at the castle and dismounted the horse. SHe followed Henry to put the horse in the stables. "Come Danielle LEts get you feeling better." Henry picked her hand up and led her to the side door of the castle near the garden. Right inside the door, he found three pages and Laurent standing at the entrance. "Captain follow me!" HE then told a page to follow them with a tourch becuase there was little light for them. HEnry led all of them to his bed chamber. When Henry and Danielle entered into his bed chamber. They immediatley found his parents in there waiting for him to come home. Danielle curtised to them when she saw them but her head said run. She remembers what the King said when he found out she was a servant. Danielle felt better when she spotted Leonarno in the room sitting in the chair. "Father, Mother... What's the meaning of this?" "Henry we were waiting for your return. We need to speak with you." Replied the King. "Not now father. Danielle needs to see the doctor!" "My dear. Are you ill?" The Queen spoke with sympathy. Danielle opened her mouth to try to explain why she needed to see the doctor. All of the sudden her head was spinning and blackless came to her eyes. She fell right to the floor. Henry defiantly did not see that coming. "Danielle!" Henry yelled The Queen instructed the page to fetch the doctor. She told Henry and Laurent to pick her up and lay her on Henry's bed in the other part of the chamber. The King asked,"Henry, What's wrong with that girl?" Henry told his father, "She had deep lash wounds on her back that are infected. Don't ask me how they got there. I do not know." "Henry we already know most of what Danielle went through and everything that happened up until tonight but we did not know of the lashes either. Leonardo has told us some things about her." The Queen was able to make her son feel comfortable becuase she knew that he did not know most of her past yet and he is too worried to explain right now what he already heard from Danielle. Henry looked at leonardo, "Thank you my friend and I am so sorry for being rude to you tonight. Could you tell me how those wounds got there and anything else that you might know, that I do not?" "Yes Sire, I will as soon as the doctor arrives to examine her." Replied Leonardo. Henry went over to Danielle who was now waking up. He kissed her hand. "Your Highness,"... Is all Danielle could say before Henry cut her off. "It's Henry." "henry I am sorry but I do not know where I am>" "You, my love, are in my bed." Henry told her. Danielle's eyes grew wide. She sat up immediately and Siad,"WHAT?" very loud. Henry started to laugh becuase he knew she took his answer the wrong way. "No, milady, you fainted. We picked you up and out you in my bed." Queen Marie moved closer to the two of them and put her hand on Henry's back. "Sweetheart, What's so funny. Danielle just fainted and you are laughing at this?" "Oh no mother, It's a joke between Danielle and I to understand. I am not laughing at her fainting spell." Finally the doctor showed up and told the royal family to wait in the sitting room of Henry's bed Chamber. He had to examine her.
~~~~~~~~~~ The royal family, including Laurent and Leonardo moved into the sitting room of Henry's chamber to allow the doctor to examine Danielle. Henry was worried about Danielle. she has been through alot these past few days. The Queen sent a servant after tea and deserts. Leonardo started where Danielle left off with the mystery of her past. Speaking of her mother's dress and her father book. How Marguerite's bruised her eye, the whip lashes and Danielle being locked in the root cellar for a day. Henry was crying at this point. He could not imagine this kind of heartache and pain, that she endured. Danielle had gone through it alone and she even has done it with such strength up until now. Queen Marie was up now comforting Henry for she already knew most of her past life. Henry calmed finally but he was unable to speak. The King decided that now was the time to say what he wanted to say to Henry when he returned: "Henry the Spanish Embassy sent word to me tonight after the ball..." Henry immediately cringed because he is worried for Danielle's health and his father had to bring up his up and coming wedding to the Princess. " The wedding is off. The princess ran away with her long time love. The King and Queen of Spain don't want to force their daughter to marry you because it will make her miserable for the rest of her life. They are allowing her to marry her love who is not of noble blood. I will be stupid not to do the same for you, I do care for you Henry. I will give you my blessing if you still choose to marry Danielle. I can see that you love her and she loves you. I can not stand in front of your happiness. I think that Danielle will be excellent at being a royal. With all that she has been through she has proven to be well worthy for the throne. Before you marry her, I will bestow a title on her. I heard from Leonardo that she has saved you life from the gypsies, that is not to go unrewarded. Did she really carry you away with her bare hands in her UNDERGARMENTS?" The King was laughing rather like a hyena. "Yes, Father laugh it up all you want... Your son was just about to die and you think it was rather a funny at my expense at that, to be saved by a women. She is quite amazing, very liberal and a passion for life." Henry was now laughing with his father. The first in many years. He could not believe how Danielle can just be here for one hour and already changed his relationship with him and his father. "Father, I thank you for your blessing and I asked that we could be married as soon as she gets better. That is if she will marry me?" Henry realized that they have not discussed marriage yet. "Your wish is granted, only after one week of your wedding day are you require to start attending with court everyday, Agreed Henry?" "Agreed!" Henry was relieved that his father and him were able to compromise with out a fight, like always. The Doctor came out of Henry's bed room and announced that Danielle does have an infection in her wounds on her back. She fainted because she is dehydrated. She was locked in the cellar for more than a day and had no food or water. He cleaned out the lashes and then applied an ointment to cure the infection and help it heal. He told the royal family that she needs a warm bath, light foods and drink plenty of fluids and get some rest. In a day or two she should be back to herself. The Queen told the servant to get Danielle something to eat and get her bath ready. The Queen set off to find her something to wear after her bath. The doctor left Danielle a cup of sleeping medicine to take tonight when she is all settled in. Henry practically ran over the servant to see Danielle in his bed chamber. When Henry got into the room. Danielle was lying on her stomach all undressed but the blankets were covering her body except her back. Henry sat next to her on the bed. She reached her hand out to him. Henry happily took it and kissed it softly. "I love you, Danielle." Is all he could say. The servant came into the room and informed the Prince that the lady's bath is ready. Henry told Danielle that he will be back to see her later after her bath. Than the Prince left his bedroom. Danielle is now left alone with the servant to help her with her bath. She felt very nervous ... She is not used to being taken care of by someone else. The servant held her robe open for Danielle to put on. The robe is one of Henry's cousin's that she left at the palace over a year ago and she did not care to have it back. The robe was made of white silk, it also has a matching white night gown that Danielle will put on after her bath. Danielle slowly got out of Henry's bed so she would not hurt her wounds any more than they already did. She slipped her arms through the robe and the servant wrapped it around her and tied the bow in front. They both walked together into Henry's dress room. Danielle asked the servant, " Do you mind me asking, What is your name madam? The servant just gave her a warm smile and said, " My name is Ambre', Milady." "Well, Ambre' My name is Danielle and I would very much like it, If you would call me that." The servant nodded her head as to say that she understands. Danielle got into her warm bath and it felt good to just pamper herself for once in many years. She washed up than she took a few minutes just to rest and soak. Her aching bones of the past ten years were taking their toll on her everyday. While Danielle was enjoying her bath. Henry was in the sitting room of his bed chamber talking with his parents. Queen Marie went over to sit next to Henry on the couch. "Henry do you really love Danielle?" "Mother , I know the whole story of her past and the feelings that I had for her when she was known to me as Nicole are even stronger. I love her with all of my heart." "Well Henry, we now have a wedding to plan." The Queen was so excited to say those words. Danielle started to think her bath water was getting cool now so it must be time to get out. She got out, dried off and put on her night gown and robe. She crawled back into Henry's bed and covered up. Ambre' brought her something to eat. Danielle did not feel like eating right now. "Oh please Ambre', I am not very hungry right now." Just as she said those words. Henry had walked into the room because Ambre' had told him when she got Daniele's food that she was ready for him to come back into his room, but not Danielle nor the servant knew Henry had wandered into the room. Ambre' told Danielle that she needs to eat to get her strength back and they are doctor's orders. If she does not eat the prince will be in to help her with this task that she is to do. Danielle replied to Ambre', "What's the Prince going to do. Challenge me to a duel?' " My love, If a duel is what you want than a duel we shall have." Henry shot back with a firm commanding voice. Danielle was in shock because for one she did not know he was there and felt embarrassed and for two she knew this is one fight that she just cannot win. "Henry I am too tired to eat right now. I have not slept well this past week." "Danielle I will make a deal with you, I will let you go to sleep after I, myself ... feed you this soup. Besides the doctor left this cup of medicine for you to sleep better tonight and we will let you sleep all day tomorrow. I have some things to talk to you about right now and they cannot wait." Danielle finally agreed for she was curious to hear what the Prince wanted to talk to her about that could not wait til morning. Besides she wanted to be close to him as much as she can for she felt uneasy about being in this strange place. Henry started to feed her soup and started his conversation. "My love, My father just informed me that the wedding between I and the Spanish princess..." Danielle grew sad because she knew that Henry must be trying to tell her in a easy way that his father wants him to still marry the princess. "is off." A smile came to Danielle's lips. Henry stopped talking and asked her what was she smiling about. " Henry, you got what you wanted ... to not marry the princess.. I am so happy for you!" "Yes, I am happy about it." "Henry your parents know that I am a commoner turned servant don't they?" "Yes, Danielle.. Leonardo has informed all of us about you and your past. As well as all of the bad things that has happened to you by the Baroness, who is also known as your step mother." "Do you know how my wounds got there too?" Danielle was looking down at her hands in her lap. She was so ashamed. "My love, everything I know about, even how Marguerite got her eye bruised." Henry put his hand under her chin and pulled her head up to his eye level forcing her to look at him and kissed her softly. "Henry I must get some rest. We will talk more tomorrow." "Oh alright, It pains me to leave you now that we are together alone to get to know more of each other. You take this medicine and I will let you to get some sleep. I will be out in the sitting room sleeping on a rug that is in front of the fireplace. good night my love." Henry gave her a kiss on the cheek and walked out of the room. Henry's parents said good night to him and told him that his presence at breakfast was not needed in the morning. He is aloud to sleep in. Besides he might wake up Danielle earlier than she should with him getting dressed at 7 am. Laurent and Leonardo said their good nights too for it was well after 3 am and it was their bed time. Henry's attendant made him a bed on the rug with lots of thick blankets to lay on for padding. Henry moved into his dressing room and got dressed for bed himself with the help of his attendant. Henry put on satin pants and a satin robe to match, they were blue in color. He than laid on his bed and covered up and felt fast to sleep for he could not wait until Danielle and him got up in the morning.
~~~~~~~~~ Danielle was having trouble falling asleep. She was in a strange place and she felt sorry for Henry having to sleep on the floor. She thought how much his back will ache in the morning. Much like hers does now. She knew that if she does not go to check on him and make sure he is comfortable than she will never sleep. Danielle got out of her bed and she walked into the sitting room just wearing her see through night gown. She forgot that she was wearing white silk and it showed everything. She is not used to wearing robes to cover up and not to forget to mention that she has never wore something this revealing before. Danielle saw Henry sleeping peacefully like a baby. She knelt down to give him a kiss on his forehead. Henry woke up at her touch, he his very sensitive while he sleeps. He saw her kneeling in front of him in her beautiful night gown that just left nothing to his imagination. He rose up to her face, sitting on his knees. The blankets fell off of him and exposed him in his satin pants and no shirt on. He has a well placed dark tan on his chest that just made him look like a god. Danielle's stomach was just turning with butterflies. She felt nervous to be this close to him and they could do anything that was to come natural to them. Henry looked into Danielle's eyes, not even glancing down at her body. He knew if he did, there would be no hope for him to control himself and he did not want to do anything to frightened her away from him. He liked her being there in front of him. Henry just kissed her lips with such passion that he could not restrain. She responded with a hunger she had never felt before. Danielle thought of how it could be, being Henry's wife ... It seems not so bad at this moment. She has never seen a man half undressed either. She wished now that she was married to Henry so they could express their love to each other finally. Henry stopped the kiss. If he went on for more, he feared this night could end up with a regrettable ending. While Henry was on his knees, it reminded him that he should ask her to marry him the right way. "Danielle I kneel before you, not as a prince but as a man in love. But, I would feel like a king, if you Danielle De Barbarac, would be my wife?" Danielle started to cry.... she could not believe how wonderful he is. Henry knows that he hurt her at the ball, he was not sure that she would marry him. He even feared that she will not marry him because she is not sure about becoming his princess. "Henry, I love you with all of my heart and soul. I would love you the same if you were a farmer. I don't know much about being a princess ( Danielle giggled a little) But, I love you so much it hurts. I will marry you." Henry was so happy to hear her proclaim her love for him and she agreed to be his wife. Henry threw his arms around Danielle and kissed her with such desire to show her how happy she had made him. They slowed their kiss. He started to smell the rose scent left on her neck from her bath. He could not resist. He laid soft kisses up and down her neck, and she welcomed it. "My love, Why are you not a sleep?" "I could not sleep Henry, knowing that you are sleeping on this rug. You are going to have a sore back in the morning." Danielle looked at him with sincerity. "Danielle would you feel better if I slept on the couch?" "No, that couch looks too small for you to stretch out fully on it." A smile came across his face because this game was getting good to play. He was happy to know that she care about how well he sleeps. He even has a inkling that she wants him to share his bed with her. she may not feel comfortable to sleep alone in a strange place. " Where should I sleep then?" "Well there is plenty of room in your bed for us to share it." Henry was in shock. The women that he loves wants him to sleep in the same bed with her and he is not married to her. "Only if it will help you sleep." Henry was smiling at her with a soft smile that he knew best how to use. They both got up off the floor and walked into the bedroom. Danielle got into the bed first. Henry pick up her robe off the floor and placed it over the near by chair so she could find it in the dark. Henry thought that this night sleeping next to Danielle in that night gown was just to tease him for what is to come on their wedding night. Henry crawled into bed next to her and put his arm around her. He kissed her cheek. "Danielle you look beautiful in that night gown." She just smiled mischievously at him as if she could have her way with him, if she wanted too. Danielle's heart was pounding. She liked being close to him, but Danielle could still not get comfortable. Her back was stinging from the fabric rubbing against her wounds. Henry noticed that she still was restless. "My love, what's wrong?' "My back hurts." She rolled over so it would not hurt so much. "I can put some more medicine on them. The doctor left over there on the table for you." Henry was worried that she may feel uneasy about him seeing those wounds on her back again. But Danielle did not care. Anything to help her sleep, she welcomed. " That would help Henry." Henry got up to get the medicine from the table and told her to sit up. She needed to take off the night gown so he could get to all of them. Danielle rose up and grabbed the ends of her night gown. She started to pull up on it and got it half the way off her head. She had to stop. It hurt to raise her arms like that. Henry then took it the rest of the way off. Danielle felt a tingle shoot through her body. An innocent gesture turned into a desired emotion. Henry could not believe his eyes, seeing her in the nude made him feel so much love for her that he could not wait until their wedding night. "My love, I do believe that I will be taking lots of cold baths until we are married." "Just relax Danielle. I won't hurt you." Henry knew that she felt uncomfortable like this. But it won't do her any good if she is always worrying herself. Henry had to sit on her back just below the wounds to make sure he can get to them without hurting them. So he sat with his legs on each side of her but on his knees so he did not crush her. He started to put the medicine on her wounds softly. Danielle felt a desire stir inside of her that she felt only once when they were alone sitting on the log tonight, in the woods just talking. He tried hard not to kiss her exposed back and shoulders but he still could not restrain himself. He just had too. It was mother nature taking over their bodies, neither one of them had control. Danielle was in heaven. The touch of his soft kisses on her back calmed her in so many ways. Mind, body and soul. She thought if this man could do this in one night than he is the man she is meant to be with the rest of her life. She felt so lucky to have him love her. It was a love she has been in need of for ten years. She loves Henry so much. Danielle has always known that for a while now. She let whatever happen to just happen. She was too relaxed to fight this feeling that burns inside of her. Danielle rolled over onto her back now. With Henry still sitting on her. Henry was shocked again. She is in the nude and Henry was still wearing his satin pants. Danielle rose up to look Henry directly in the eyes. Those beautiful dark green eyes that are sparkling with the moon lite. Henry kissed her with the passion that was building up inside of him during these past moments. Henry wanted to taste her neck so he planted soft kisses all over her neck. Danielle could not take this teasingly passion anymore. She was grabbing the sheets up into her hand. Henry noticed what he was doing to her. He pulled back away and let her calm. He thought that he should not be doing this until their wedding night. Danielle was thinking about what affect Henry had on her. She thought that she does love Henry and she has every intentions to marry him. She was yawning now. Henry gave her a small smile. Neither one said a word. They just laid next to each other. Danielle rested her head on his chest. His arm was wrapped protectively around her shoulders. They held hands and kissed as if life depends on it. Sleep finally over came them.
~~~~~~~~~~~ It was now about eleven in the morning of a new day. Danielle awoke feeling refreshed as a new woman. She forgot where she was. Was last night just a dream? Danielle looked around the room and saw she was still in Henry's room. Danielle silently asked herself, "Then am I still dreaming?" She had to pinch herself to see if she was dreaming. "Ouch that hurt, no I am not defiantly dreaming." she thought. "No my dear love, you are not dreaming. Last night was very real and now this morning, you are in my bed still very real." Henry was awake and saw her pinch herself. "Henry shouldn't we go back to our own sleeping areas. What if someone sees us here in this bed together?" "Danielle, My parents do not expect us at all until we make it known that we are ready to emerge from this room. And no one else will bother us unless there is some kind of a dire emergency, like a war going on in France. We are alone for as long as we want to be." Danielle and Henry curled up next to each other and started to kiss. They discussed how their wedding is going to happen and how many children they each want. "Danielle are you hungry?" Henry was getting a little bit starved. "Yes, Henry I am a bit hungry." "Do you want breakfast or lunch?" "Lunch Henry." Henry got out of bed. He put on his robe than went into his dressing room and pulled on the servants rope. Henry's attendant came into the room and bowed before the Prince. "Your Highness." "Danielle and I need lunch to be sent up." "Yes, Your Highness, I shall return soon." the servant set off for lunch for the Prince. Henry walked back into his bedroom to tell Danielle what the plan is. Danielle was still lying in his bed, waiting for Henry to return. "How are those wounds on your back?" Danielle smiled remembering that was the very reason that led them to get very close to each other. She teased him to see if he will catch on. "Well I think that you should put more medicine on them, Henry." She had a big smile on her face When she said it. Henry knew what she was implying. "My love, we can do that later. I would love to do that all over again." Henry drew in for a passionate kiss but Danielle pulled away to tell him, "Henry we must be on our best behavior." Henry cleared him mind. "Danielle, Your attendant will be able to help you with your bath and getting dressed. I am going to get cleaned up too. You will be able to use the other dressing room this time because it's ready for you. My mother had the local dress maker send over this morning all the dresses he had already made that are in your size along with other stuff like shoes. Those things are in the other dressing room now. That is your dressing room now and this bed chamber is ours now." Both Danielle and Henry parted to get cleaned up. Henry was done first. He had bathed, shaved and was dressed. He was wearing tan pants and black boots and a maroon jacket. His hair was still wet and styled perfectly. The room was cleaned up and their lunch was waiting for them on the table in the sitting room. Henry decided to wait for Danielle by sitting in front of the fire place in the sitting room and read a book, he choose to start reading utopia again. Danielle finally came out in a gold and silver dress that hung down to her feet. Her hair had been French braided on the sides and then wrapped around her head like a halo, the rest of it hung down long down her back. She had some silver ribbons intertwined in her braid on her head. Light make up was applied to make her face a little bit not so white from her fainting spell the day before. Henry heard her come out of her dressing room and he turned around to get a look at what she looks like in her new way of dressing. Henry was speechless. She looked like a princess already. He could not believe how beautiful she looked and she's going to be his wife soon. "Well Danielle you really look like you could lead this country without me after we get married." Danielle cast her eyes to the ground and had a smile that was radiant. She was glowing. Henry went over to her and put his finger under her chin to raise her head up and kissed her inviting lips until he felt that would satisfy him until after they ate. He had plans to make her feel beautiful once again on the inside as well as she looked on the outside. Danielle felt like she was the most important person to him and she relished in that feeling. It was something that she has been wanting since her father died. The Baroness made her feel unwanted and ugly. They sat down to eat. They ate fruits, breads and cheese. They had wine with it. They talked and laughed enjoying each others company as well as getting to know each other better. Henry also spoke of his family and how the royal's days are at court, as well as behind the public eyes. He also gave some information on what is expected of her, once she is his princess. He explained to her about royal protocols. Danielle and Henry finished eating and they were gazing into each others eyes. They were holding hands across the table just studying the other's face. They were so in love. Henry broke their stare. He rose and went to door. It was now after 2 pm. Henry opened the door and told the guard to have a servant come to him as soon as possible. He then closed the door and went back over to Danielle. Henry kissed her on her cheek. "Danielle I can not wait until we wed. It seems like an eternity before you and I become husband and wife, Prince and Princess. I will have my mother meet us here. We will need to get our wedding plans started." just then the knock at the door. Henry went to answer it. The servant bowed and said," Your Highness, you sent for me. What can I do for you?" Henry told the servant to have his mother come to his chamber and to have some tea sent up for them. The servant was then on her way to the Queen's sitting room to deliver a message from her son, the Prince. Henry then took Danielle in his arms and kissed with such pent up emotion they both were out of breath. Desire surge through them both. They sat down on the couch in the sitting room. Danielle had burning questions in her mind that have been their since their kiss at the gypsy camp. She did not know much of the Prince only what she learned while she was pretending to be Nicole and what he told her at lunch today. "Henry I would like to ask you some personal questions and I want an honest answer." "What is the questions my love, I will answer them to the best of my knowledge." "Have you been intimate with other women, how many and did you love any of them?" Danielle said them like it was the game twenty questions. "Well, Danielle you get right to the point. That's what I mostly love about you. The first question's answer is yes, I have been with women. The second answer is I really can not answer that, there was lots though, it would take me a while to remember exactly how many. The third answer is No, not really. Well, maybe one of them. The others were mostly wanting my crown and a reputation. One of them, I grew very fond of and I am now in love with her and planning on marring her." He kissed her softly on her lips and she realized that he was talking about her. Danielle smiled than she thought she should let him know about her past. "Danielle I know. Henry smiled at her. He was thinking of how Danielle was going to be shy and very timid on their wedding night. "I feel very honored to be with you on your first time, just remember that I will show you a new meaning of love and we can take it slow, if you desire too." There was a knock at the door and Henry answered it. The Queen was now there. They sat down on the couch. ~~~~~~~~~~~ "Mother it is so good to see you after a good night rest. Danielle and I have been up for a while now." Henry was sitting next to his mother on the couch and Danielle sat across from them in the chair. "Danielle, my dear, I am glad to see that you are feeling better. I have been worried about you. I trust you slept well? " Queen Marie was smiling at her hoping that she won't feel nervous as she was last night when they met. "Yes, Your Majesty, I slept well with the medicine that the doctor gave me. I think that I would have not, being that I am in a strange place." Danielle had a sheepish grin on her face. She was also thinking that It also helped to have Henry sleeping next to her too. "My back still hurts a little.The servant put some more medicine on them a little while ago. It seems to be helping, Your Majesty." "Mother, Danielle and I wished to get married as soon as we can. She has agreed to be my wife. I think a small wedding and a reception with some friends and family. In a couple of weeks, we can have a big royal wedding for the public's benefit. I think that the royal wedding will be too much for Danielle right now. I want to get married immediately because if the Baroness can go to such great lengths to lie to you and to keep us apart than I believe that if they found out about the wedding before we wed, they will interfere again and cause more harm to Danielle. They will mostly think up some other lie to embarrass her and make sure the whole country of France knew about it. I won't let her step family have the satisfaction of doing it again. Danielle can not certainly take anymore of the Baroness mistreating her." Henry was not sure how his parents will handle a quick wedding this soon. He decided to talk to his mother first. "Henry that's a marvelous idea. I think that I have enough time to put together a not so lavish wedding. I shall run this idea over with the King. We need to get a wedding dress for Danielle." The Queen got very excited. She was glad that Henry had found love. "Your Majesty, My mother before she died had her wedding dress put aside for me to wear on my wedding day. I would like it very much to honor her by wearing it." "Yes, Danielle that is the right thing to do for your mother. It's the only gift she had to give to you other than your life. Where is your dress now and we will make preparations to retrieve it?" "It's at the manor, in my room. At least I hope it is. It's the same one I wore to the ball." Danielle was now sad because she did not know what was going on at the manor or with her friends. Whether or not her dress is still where she left it. Danielle also thanked the Queen." Thank You, your majesty." "My dear, Danielle, I would think that since you are engaged to my son and to marry him soon. It would be better if you get used to calling me, Mother." The Queen was smiling at the thought of getting a daughter. "Thank you mother, for making me feeling welcomed, I don't know what to say." "Don't worry Danielle, you deserve to be happy." The Queen left their chamber to discuss this with the King in the throne room. Danielle and Henry were left alone again in their chamber. Danielle went over to Henry who was standing by the door and kissed him tenderly. "Yes, I think that would help. I will tell the guard that were are on a tour of the castle and we will be back in one hour." Back at the Manor Paulette and Louise was quite worried about Danielle. She did not return home last night after the ball. They have not hear of anything that happened at the ball from the Baroness or Marguerite, not even from Jacqueline. Louise sent Maurice out to look for Danielle. They all fear that the baroness did something horrible to her. Maurice went to check with Gustave to see if she was with him or if he knew where she was. Gustave had not heard or seen of nothing that had happened to Danielle. He assumed that she either returned home last night after the ball or she did tell the prince the truth and he accepted her for who she really is. Gustave too became worried and a part of him felt enraged because it is not like Danielle to be gone this long without at least letting the servants or him know where she was. Gustave had a feeling that the Baroness was not exactly acting on her best behavior in front of the royal family. He feared the Danielle did get thrown into the stocks for parading around as a noble person. Maurice And Gustave went back to the manor to let Paulette and Louise know that he had not found out where Danielle is. Paulette, Louise and Maurice are in the kitchen waiting for some sign of Danielle to return The Baroness was still sure that the Prince is to have Marguerite for his bride. So, the servants knew that the Prince and Danielle did not end up together. Jacqueline bounded into the kitchen to find something to snack on for diner. The servants decided that since Jacqueline cared for Danielle as much as they did, then she might be able to tell them what had happened at the ball, to help them with their search for Danielle. Paulette asked Jacqueline,"Just exact what happened last night at that ball that caused Danielle to just disappear into thin air?" in a sweet tone of voice. Jacqueline had a surprised look on her face. "You mean Danielle did not come home last night!!?" In a very loud voice.... all the servants were quick to "SHH, shh", " We don't want the Baroness to hear us in here." Louise proclaimed. "Yes Jacqueline, Danielle did not come home and no one knows where she is." "Danielle showed up at the ball just as the King was about to announce who was to be engaged to the Prince. The Prince stopped his father in mist of his announcement, Prince Henry was blown away. There Danielle stood like an angel and he was at her mercy. The Prince then ran to her on the other side of the floor, he was excited! They exchanged some words which everyone could not hear. Prince Henry then grabbed Danielle's hand and they started to run back towards his father. At that point my mother stepped in the way and ripped off one of her wings. The prince said, "Madam,contain yourself!". My mother replied," She is an imposter sire. Her name is Danielle De Bararac and she has been a servant in my home for the past ten years." All this time Danielle was pleading NO to my mother." Paulette was already feeling sick to her stomach. "All the Baroness said, was that Danielle is a servant and not her step-daughter. Now my blood is boiling, the nerve of that lady to treat Danielle in public like that, it's one thing to treat her behind closed doors like a servant but to disown Danielle in public. It's disgraceful" Paulette could not believe she said this to Jacqueline. Maurice felt as though, Danielle may never show her face back at the manor. Why should she? Her step mother just made it clear to her that she is nothing to her. Louise had an idea. "Let us go up to her room to see if anything is different or out of place, if we find something out of place, than we know that she returned sometime in the night." They all went to her room and checked it for some sign of Danielle being there last night. They checked if her bed was slept in, they checked to see if anything was missing. What they did find was her mothers dress still wet piled into a corner of her room, along with one glass slipper. " Danielle was here after the ball! Where did she go then?" Louise pick up her mother's dress and decided to wash it and get it hidden before Margaurite put her grubby little hands on it. But they still had not found a clue as to where Danielle is. Gustave was brain storming all the Jacqueline had said that happened at the ball. He remembered Danielle telling him that The prince likes the ruins at Ambrose for a special get away. "Maybe Danielle came home and changed out of her wet dress and then headed off to the princes special place at the ruins to plead with him to listen to her story?" Gustave knew that was where she had to have gone. He just knows her so well. Like they are twins. Everyone was hoping that Gustave was right. At least it gave them some hope. ~~~~~~~~~~~ As the Queen walked down to the throne room to speak with King. Henry and Danielle made their way threw the condors of the Danielle's new home. Danielle was so excited to see such beautiful things like tapestries, and paintings from famous painters. She could hardly believe her eyes. "Oh Henry, it's wonderful. It is so good to see stuff like this again. It feels just like the manor." Danielle kissed him lightly on the cheek. "I am now going to show you a surprise now close your eyes." Danielle closed her eyes and excitement rose inside of her. Henry led her into a rather large room. "OK, open them." Henry was too excited to see her surprised look. Danielle opened her eyes to see she was standing in a library, with a large amount of books lining the wall. She was absolutely speechless. The most beautiful looking library to her eyes. There were all sorts of books. Science, philosophy, medical, fiction and history. "Henry, I am in heaven!" with a childlike enthusiasm. "I thought that you might like it. I know after we are married. I will find you in here alot." Henry was laughing richly at her enthusiasm. Danielle turned to Henry and planted a soft kiss on his check to thank him. "OH no, you don't milady. I want a real thank you." Danielle was not sure what exactly he meant by a real thank you until he put his arms around her waist and pulled her in for the most intense kiss that just let her drained of life. "You mean like this" "Well Prince Henry, you did not fully understand. I said, say so, not do so." Danielle was giggling at him because he just done exactly what he did before. "We should get back to the room, my mother may be back anytime now." Henry took her hand and walked her back to their chamber. As they got to the door, Henry turned to Danielle. "I want you to know that you are the love of my life, without you I would die inside. I love you." Henry had a tear in his eye as he said this to Danielle. "My love, I know how much you love me. I am glad to hear you say it too. I love you with all my heart." Danielle shed a tear that trickled down her cheek. They walked into the room to be surprised by the Queen, who had been waiting for them. "Hello mother, how long have you been waiting for our return?? Henry kissed her check. "I was giving Danielle a tour of the castle. She loved the library. Danielle loves to read all kinds of books." " Danielle, I have more beautiful places through out the castle yards to show you later after you and my son get married. Speaking of that... The king wants to speak with us at dinner. He decided that tomorrow after breakfast will be time for a ceremony to bestow the title of Countess for her extraordinary act to the crown, an appreciation token from the crown would be valuable." " It really was not that much, all I did is... distract the gypsies with the honor promised." Danielle had to admit that she was cleaver in her plan. " Danielle I still owe it to you for your gratefulness in saving MY BEHIND in that case." Henry was looking deeply in her eyes. His eyes told her that his payback to her will not end soon after they are married, especially their wedding night. Danielle blushed. Thinking of those thoughts in front of the queen, did not help her embarrassment. "Alright mother, we will meet you and father for dinner. I look forward to getting this wedding finalized... I am tried of women throwing themselves at me. Who knows the Baroness might try something stupidly again to keep us apart." The Queen kissed Henry good-bye and hugged Danielle. She told Henry not to be late and she was off to get ready for dinner. Leaving the two of them to finish what they started in the library. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Danielle and Henry emerged from their dressing rooms simultaneously, to go to dinner. Danielle was wearing a royal blue velvet dress with white lace embroidered on the ends of her sleeves and the neckline. Her hair was braided up off her back and shoulders. Royal blue ribbons were entwined into the braids. Henry was wearing tan pants with his black boots and a maroon jacket. "Well, shall I escort you to dinner, my love?" Henry drew in for a soft loving kiss before she could answer. "Let us be off my prince charming!" Danielle grabbed Henry's arm and together they walked to the royal family dinning room. Danielle and Henry arrived first for dinner. That was a first for the prince. They walked in and Danielle saw the beautiful looking china. On the walls are glass and oak cabinets. Tapestries and paintings hung the wall. Just then the King and Queen entered. Danielle immediately tensed up. She still curtsied to them but, it was an awkward thing for her to do while feeling a little bit inadequate. Henry noticed her feeling of uncertainly. He tightened his grip on her hands to be some reassurance. Danielle eased a bit. "Danielle, you look fabulous!" the queen was offering her a hug to help her feel comfortable with the King present. "Yes, I agree, she certainly looks more at peace." the King said with his strong over barring tone of voice. Danielle jumped when the King spoke. Now the Prince understood why she was so tensed. She has not been around the King much and his brutish personality. They sat down to eat... Henry sat closely to Danielle and held on to her hands like they were to disappear in to thin air. They discussed the titling ceremony. Then they moved on to the wedding. "Father, is it possible that we could be married right after the titling ceremony?" Henry had an uncertainty in his voice. "I should not see why not! I suppose that it would be better that we just go through a small ceremony and then reception afterwards." "Father thank you for agreeing to our wedding to be so soon and small. Danielle has been through alot and she should not have to fight for her own right to her own life." Henry had tears in his eyes. He felt such joy that this wedding really is becoming a real thing to him and he spoke about Danielle as she had not the right to her life, that angered him that she has not been able to decide for herself. Now it's her time and moment to take her place, where she so deserves to be... in his arms, in love and happy. Dinner was over and the royal family was parting for the night. "Meet us here for breakfast, you two and Henry there will not be any need to start on the heirs to the throne, believe me it's better to have waited for tomorrow night." King Francis had only thought of that when he heard his son speak from the heart about Danielle's right to start her own life. All Henry can think of, is why does Danielle feel so uneasy when she's around the King. The King and Queen retired for the evening. "My love, tonight we go to bed for the last time alone, for tomorrow we go to bed as husband and wife, soul mates bonded by god. Shall we retire to our chamber?" "Yes, Henry but, where will you sleep tonight....? We certainly can not be in the same bed as last night. We barely made it through the night without compromising my virtue. You know what the King said to wait til tomorrow." "Milady, mother had a bigger couch brought up from a sitting room for tonight I will sleep there, I told her that I did not want to be in a different room from you as she had suggested, I must discuss some things with you before we wed tomorrow." They arrived back at their chamber and they both decided to get in more comfortable clothes. So Danielle and Henry went to their dressing rooms to find some clothes to retire in but not too revealing as the night before. Luckily, The queen had new clothes brought in this morning for Danielle and now she has more sleeping wear to choose from. Danielle walked into her dressing chamber and Ambre` was there to help her bathe and dress and put more medicine on her back. She still was not use to this kind of help but, felt it was necessary to be a princess. Ambre` pick out a simple blue cotton night gown with matching robe and started on Danielle's hair. Washing it so it shined for her wedding day and night. When Danielle was cleaned up. She got out and dried off. Ambre` brushed out her hair. Then, Ambre` put medicine on her back. Danielle got into her night gown and robe and a pair of slippers to match. She was ready to talk to the prince like he had mentioned. Out in the chamber the Prince had his attendant get his bed made on the couch. Henry planned that they would sit on the smaller couch in front of the fireplace and talk. Henry was wearing his silk pants but, this time with a white cotton shirt and blue robe and slippers to match. He certainly did not want to upset Danielle by being half dressed. Danielle emerge and Henry was sitting on the couch in front of the fireplace. At first he did not hear her or see her. Then he heard footsteps. A well trained swordsman would be able to hear them anywhere. Henry turned to see behind him. Danielle said," What!" She thought she did something wrong by the look on his face something had caught his eye. "I don't know which night gown you look more beautiful in... the one from last night or this one?" "Sire" "Come....sit, We must talk." Henry led her to the couch. Danielle still felt weak in the knees. She wanted to loose her self in his eyes again but decided that she will have the rest of their lives together to do that. So trying hard to listen to Henry, looking into his eyes but not getting lost was a challenge. "I noticed that you felt uneasy when you were at dinner, was it my father that made you feel that way?" "Well, Yes, now that you mention it... he does make me feel like he's going to bite my head off. I have not been around him as much as I have been around you and the Queen. " "Danielle, my father is just my father, who happens to be the King of France. Yes, he seems a little rough and raw on the outside but, he just has not gotten to know you and you have not gotten to know him, a little time and you both with be best of friends. I believe that he is nicer on the inside, that is just an image that he wants everyone to believe. He is not really like that behind closed doors. He only does it in front of you because he does not know how to act yet towards you. You and him have some very same qualities that might compare together. You both are determined and forthright. My father has passion and so do you." "I understand Henry, I will try turn on my usual charm and charm the pants off of him.....I" "Oh, no you don't.... You will not charm the pants off of my father, only me! is that agreed?" Danielle was now giggling, "Henry, I did not mean it that way. AGREED!" They kissed each other good night and went to the beds for the last time apart. "Good night my beautiful love. I will be dreaming of you"
~~~~~~~~~ She felt his breath against her hand that was warm and gentle. It tingled through out her body. She did not want to come out of her dream. The dream was a loving passionate dream about her and Henry on their wedding night making love under the stars. There was music but, she did not know where it was coming from. Henry noticed this and stopped tickling her so she could catch her breath. "Are you ready to become my wife and princess? Today is the day!" "I am more than ready, Henry... I am sure of it." "Well, future Queen of France, we must get ready for breakfast." "Let's go... The soon we get this day started, the better it will be." Danielle drew in for a kiss and their lips met.. so soft and lightly at first... than more desired and feverishly it was. They part to their dressing rooms once again to get dressed for breakfast. This would be the first change of clothes Danielle was sure of for the day. Ambre` was ready with brush in hand to brush out Danielle's beautiful, long auburn hair. Ambre` brushed and brushed until Danielle's hair was soft and silky. The Prince had his attendant to shave his roughly hair covered face. His attendant picked out a black jacket with a beige color pants and brown boots. Henry was done cleaning himself up and was in the sitting room of their chamber waiting for his future wife to enter looking absolutely beautiful as she always did. Danielle came out of her dressing room. Her hair was just comb out and laid long down her back with a braid wrapped around her head. Her gown was a simple wine color. They went down for breakfast with the king and queen. It was a pleasant time. Danielle was not too tense at being around the king this time. The King told her how the titling ceremony would happen. Danielle thought it sounded easy because there would not be any noble people there. Just Henry and the King and Queen and a few pages. Queen Marie told her that the dress she was wearing will be fine for the titling ceremony. So Danielle felt relieved that she would not have to change yet. The King decided that the wedding will happen after lunch although, because he wanted time to talk with Henry. They had all decided that after the titling ceremony Danielle can have some time to take a nap or just read a book from the castle library. It was planned so she could rest up before all the major stuff will happen. After breakfast, they all walked to the throne room and The King and Queen took their places on the throne and the pages were there for witnesses. Henry stood with Danielle in front of the throne and waited for the ceremony to begin. Finally it was announce by a page that court is in session. "Danielle De Barbarac, please kneel.........as King of France, I here by bestow the title of countess to you..... Rise Countess De Barbarac." And that was it. Simple as Danielle had thought. "Thank you... Your Majesty." "Now Danielle, a page will escort you back to your room. If you want you can have him take you to the library to pick out a book to read. Henry will be back to escort you to lunch and after lunch it is time to get ready for your wedding. I had a page go over to the manor and get your mother's wedding dress from one of the servants there. It was quite easy since the Baroness was out shopping for some jewelry for Marguerite." King Francis was now instructing the page to escort her on her way. "Danielle I will see you when I come to get you for lunch. Enjoy your quiet time. I love you." Henry was now kissing her hand. "Bye my love, I think I will read a book. I will enjoy my time alone until we are reunited." The page escorted Danielle to the library and she was in awe with all of the wonderful books she could possibly choose from. She picked out a biography book on Sigmund Freud. She went back to her chamber and settled on the big couch that Henry slept on last night. She could smell him. Henry and the King went off to the conference room. Queen Marie went to make sure all of the preparations for the wedding and reception is being taken care correctly. Henry and King Francis started to discuss marriage and how it is to figure out a women (of course, King Francis did not know much on that subject.) and when Henry is to take on more responsibilities of the crown. especially when he becomes King of France. Earlier that morning Rodmilla and Marguerite was in town at a social gathering, hoping that the prince will appear and Marguerite can get a chance at throwing herself at the prince again. Now, that Danielle has disappeared after the ball (so they thought) the two thought that they now had a pretty good chance at Marguerite winning him and she will become his princess. Celeste and Isabella had already found out about the prince and the servant girl finding each other again and choosing to marry with the King's blessing and the Spanish Princess no longer was an issue. So gossiping as usual, Rodmilla heard of this news and instantly became enraged. She had to do something about this or she will have to suffer a life of no wealth. Marguerite certainly could not marry any other eligible noble that had wealth because none of the men was willing due to Marguerite's brattiest attitude. Rodmilla formulated a plan to get what she so deserved. She decided with this plan, she was killing two birds with one stone, as one might say. Back at the castle Danielle had fallen fast asleep while reading her book. The Prince was still talking with his father about everything and nothing. He is hoping to see Danielle soon but, it's not time yet for lunch. While Danielle is asleep someone had entered her room unnoticed. This person was in a hooded cloak that was dark in color and being as quiet as can be. The Dark hooded person went to Danielle while she was sleeping on the couch and hit her over the head with a large candle holder. The blow to Danielle's head knock her out cold. Lunch Time Henry walked into the room to see if he could find Danielle. He look around and she was not in the sitting room or bedroom. So he went over to Danielle's dressing room and knocked on the door. Waiting a few moments and no one answered. Henry entered her dressing room. Just as Ambre` was entering the dressing room from the other entrance that was the side hall entrance for the attendants. Ambre` have you seen Danielle? No, your highness.... I do not know where she is. I have not seen her since you and her left for breakfast. He went back out to the sitting room and looked around for some clue to see if she even came back to the chamber.... and there it was blood on the couch and a trail leading towards Henry's dressing room. Henry followed it into his dressing room but still could not find Danielle in there. Not only he could not find Danielle but the trail of blood no longer went on from the entrance of his dressing room door. "My God, someone has hurt Danielle!" ~~~~~~~~~~ Henry ran out into the hall of their bed chamber. He spotted a page walking by. "Hurry, go fetch the King and Queen and have them brought back here at once!" The page scurried off to get the King and Queen. Henry sat down into the chair in the sitting room of the bed chamber and started to cry. Danielle? Is she still out master? Yes and quiet for once. I will not have her being rude to me again like she was in the market last week. The Baroness made a deal with me at the ball and now she's going to make due with it since it back fired in our faces after the ball. I can not believe that she's been at the castle all this time. The Baroness swore she ran away. Now I have her and the Baroness can have all those expensive stuff she sold to me, back and get the prince to marry that horrible daughter of hers. Let's get back to the estate fast... I don't want to be out here while they start looking for her. I am not letting my new servant and possibly my new wife go back to the castle and marry that ridiculous arrogant prince. How absurd to think the next Queen of France would be a servant. Master that does sound crazy! Castle What is it Henry? Why are you crying? Is the wedding off? Tons of questions the Queen had but, could only give her son a big hug hoping and praying that he could calm for a minute and tell her what has got him upset. "Yes, Henry tell us! Did you make Danielle mad at you again and she decided to leave you?" The King was now agitated. "Someone came in here and must have hit Danielle with something and took her. I can not find her anywhere and there's blood on the couch leading into my dressing room. I should have known to put a guard on her! The Baroness had something to do with this. I just know it!" Henry was now yelling. Henry looked at his mother and her hand was covering her mouth and tears were forming in her eyes. She had not one thing to say... What could she say.. It was like her own child was kidnapped. Queen Marie looked at King Francis and all was said, "CALL OUT THE GUARDS!!!" " Yes, Henry take the guard that is second in command of the troops and a few pages and scour the castle. I will go see my advisors..." "At a time like this, instead of making your own decisions, you choose to ask the fools for advise on how to conduct a search." "Henry, it is necessary to have advisors in this situation because I need to make sure that everything will be conducted with in the laws. Now, If you had been involved with the court than you would have known this.... I know that as soon as we get Danielle back and we will get her back than after you are married to her, We got alot of things to do with getting you familiar with being the ruler of France. It is time Henry." "Oh, alright it is getting old, father.... Let's just worry about finding her before she may die." "We do not know who has her." Queen Marie had to remind the father and son duel. "Mother, I am sure the Baroness had something to do with this, I told you that we should have done all this wedding stuff yesterday. If we were married today.. there would have been someone guarding her." "Henry you can not blame yourself in this...." "I am not blaming anyone except the Baroness. Let's just look for her... it would be better to discuss this later." Henry grabbed the seconded in command guard and a few pages'. They went to the bottom floor before the dungeon and started their search there. The Captain and the rest of the guards went searching out side of the courtyard. Looking for anything unusual that they might be able to use as a trail. The Queen sat in Henry and Danielle's chamber and let her tears finally flow. Danielle? Danielle woke up in a room that had a window with bars on it. She could tell that she is in a room that was not exactly above ground. She was laying on an old blanket on the floor. Her head ache so much from the hit she took. She could tell it was still bleeding because the blood was drenching the cloth that was around her head. Her heart broke when she found out that she was kidnapped on her wedding day and possibly never to see the love of her life again. But, who took her.... She thought. She remembered laying on the couch that Henry slept on and reading a book, she must have fallen asleep. "I shall make them pay for this! Some one is always deciding my fate before I have a chance to figure out what my choices are." She could hear voices.... they are men. One voice stuck in her head. "I know that voice." Her head hurt so much to remember who's it was and than she heard a woman's voice... she knew exactly who that was.... That witch of a step mother of hers. She knew that she was not at the manor so, she thought hard about that man's voice again. "It Le Peiu! that discussing man, with rotted teeth and breath that smells like stale meat." She told herself. Their footsteps came closer to her door and the door opened. In walked Le Peiu, one of his henchmen and the Baroness. "Well, I can see that the hit on your head did not knock you out for long." Le Peiu stated. "You sir, are going to regret what you have done.... I am Countess De Barbarac.... the future Princess of France.... Engaged to the Crown Prince of France! You not only are going to regret it but, you will loose you head. Treachery, that's what you committed. Against me, the crown and France!" "Oh, Countess.... I am shaking." "Now that's enough of your imaginary games Danielle.... imagine that Mr. Le Peiu..... She now believes that she is Countess De Barbarac... First she was Countess De Lancret and now this. That's repulsive!" The Baroness was now choking over what Danielle had just said. "Why am I here?" Danielle look at the two like they were transparent or maybe it was the knock on the head. "Well, Mr. Le Peiu and I made a deal..... He scratched my back and I scratch his... He was just itching to get you.... and since I sold you father's things to him, I can't have you be with the prince when Marguerite is a far more better bride. A Prince to marry a servant, What were they thinking.... You don't know how to be of royalty. You are too boyish and masculine looking." "My father's books and paintings, you sold them to him!" "Yes, and since you are my servant and I own you. I traded you for his stuff back.... So when the King comes to get Marguerites hand in marriage, the manor will look elegant. Enjoy your time here, Danielle... I know that you will grow to love it. Good- bye." The Baroness left to get back to the manor, hoping she had not missed the King." "Well, Danielle I hope you like your new home." "Sir, If you had half a brain, than you would let me go!" Danielle was now yelling at him. Le Peiu Did not like her comment so He back handed her across the face. "You will obey or I shall have you hung for turning on your master!" "How can you have me hung? You need to go through the court and once they find out how you got me in the first place, besides the fact that I am not a peasant anymore but a Countess... a title given to me this morning for saving the Prince's life than you will be hung instead." "Oh, well than Countess... I shall hang you myself and no one will know." "That is murder, sir" "Yes, I know..... I shall be lenient, if you agree to be my wife.... you can have everything, except the Prince. You think about it and I will be back for your answer soon.... Oh, and you are going to start cleaning out the stables tomorrow." Le Peiu left her to think and he went on his way.
~~~~~~~~~~~ When Le Peiu left the room, Danielle burst into sobs. "Henry where are you when I need you the most!" She was screaming through her tears of sadness. Lashing out at her step mother for having the upper hand on her. "How could I had been so naive into believing that fairy tales do come true. That I will be allowed some kind of happiness. Why am I being punished? What did I do?" Jacqueline was walking to her room... She can hear her mother and Marguerite laugh uncontrollably in Marguerite's room. "Mother, Do you think that the Prince will be here soon?.. I just can not wait for him to come to marry me. Do you think that the King and Queen will love this dress?... this one is blue, The Prince's favorite color." Marguerite was shrieking in delight. "Precious Marguerite, They will be here in due time. I am sure that they will love that dress.. It looks so formal like a princess's dress." Rodmilla was admiring Marguerite in her dress from afar but still keeping her mind on the deal that she had made with Le Peiu to get Danielle out of the way and Marguerite will be Queen. "Mother, Do you think that they will find out about Cindersoot, not really leaving the prince because of second thoughts?" Marguerite was now picking out an assortment of jewelry to wear with her dress. "Marguerite, I am sure the arrogant prince will not find out. Men don't have brains! They just want to have sex and power. After the note is planted tonight, the prince's life will turn back into what it was before he and that Danielle got involved." "So, when do you think the page will plant it?" Marguerite was handing her mother a brush to fix and arrange her hair. "Sometime tonight I suppose." "Oh, I cannot wait! He will believe that cindersoot had second thought about marrying him and that she does not love him and only wanted him for his crown. Than he will now seek me out and marry me instead." "Yes, I am brilliant!... aren't I? No one will know that I sold Danielle to Le Peiu and he kidnapped her, the note was planted for the sake of the crown. We mustn't have a servant becoming a Queen of France. Now let's see how you look." Jacqueline was horrified to hear what her mother and sister was doing. To betray the crown is one thing but to kidnapped Danielle, who is engaged to the prince is treason. She had to tell someone but how and who for that matter. Henry and Captain Laurent entered into the throne room to relay to the King that they found nothing to the whereabouts of Danielle. "Henry, Did you find her or anything about where she is?" Francis was talking with his advisors when the prince and the captain entered. "No, father... It's like she disappeared into thin air. She was always good about that but I fear this time she had no will to disappear on her own." "Are you sure about that? Sometimes women get cold feet, especially when she was a servant. Are you sure the blood was not from her attendant hurting herself and Danielle decided to call off the wedding and disappear without word? "She was so happy about the wedding last night and this morning. I do not think that she would have backed out now." There was a knock at the door of the throne room and Captain Laurent answered it. "Sire, I think that you should read this, Danielle's attendant Ambre` found it in the Princess's dressing room under the table." Captain Laurent was displeased with the signs of a note address to Henry. It look like a good-bye note from Danielle because it had a lady's handwriting on it. Henry grabbed the note rudely out of the captain's hands and opened it. Your Highness, I hope that later on in your life, you can forgive me for what I had just done. Danielle After Henry read the letter, he placed it in his father's hands and walked out of the room furiously. The King and Captain Laurent could only wonder what was in the letter. So, the King read it. Henry arrived at his bed chamber with hope and fear in his heart. Hope for Danielle to be there and fear because she won't. Henry walked in slowly. Found no one to be there like he thought. He looked down at the blood stained couch and decided to go into Danielle's dressing room to talk with Ambre`. He pulled on the cord to summons Ambre`. After doing that he noticed Danielle hair pieces on her table and picked up a ribbon that was in her hair yesterday. Ambre` entered into the dressing room. She did not know why she was being summons to the room because Danielle was gone. To much of her surprise she saw the Prince. She bowed to him. "Your Highness, What can I do for you?" "Yes, Ambre`, I wanted to ask you, if the blood on the couch was from you?" "No, Your Highness.. It is not mine and I do not know how it got there." "Thank you for your time." "You miss her." "Yes, I do miss her and I love her so very much." "I miss her too... She was very nice. You will find her, Your Highness." Ambre` bowed and left the room. There was a knock at Henry's door. He opened the door and found his mother standing there crying. "Mother, come in." Marie entered into the room and sat down in front of the fireplace. "Henry, I just heard about the note Danielle left you. Are you alright sweetheart?" "For now, I am mother.... I have so many questions, this does not add up. And the note does not sound like Danielle's doing. She does not talk like that so cold and unfeeling. She has passion with everything she does." "Yes, but Henry How can you explain it?" "Mother, the blood... how can that be explained? I need to speak with the page that escorted Danielle this morning after the titling ceremony." "I will go get him Henry." "Thank you! Mother." Marie left to track down the page. Henry sat on the couch with the blood stain and started to cry. It seemed so unreal to him. Danielle is gone and he did not know what to believe. Henry laid back on the couch, and he smelled Danielle perfume left there, so he knows now that Danielle was here this morning, after the ceremony on this couch. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Le Peiu came back to see if Danielle was going to cooperate in becoming his wife. Danielle was laying on the ground. She eventually cried herself to sleep. When Le Peiu entered into Danielle's room. She immediately woke up. "Stay away from me." She moved back a couple of steps. "Do you agree to become my wife?" Le Peiu's bad breath could be smelled six feet away. Le Peiu moved Danielle to the kitchen and left her to do her work with the other ladies. Danielle felt eased with the company of other women in the castle. A serenity from Le Peiu was more than welcomed... He thoughts of safe comfort reminded of her love for Henry. She missed him, his smile .. his green eyes... his beautiful personality. Le Peiu was not even half the man her future husband was. Danielle made a vow at that moment.. what ever it takes to get back to Henry, she will do. An older servant came over to introduce herself.... she seemed a little intimidated. "Hullo, I am Claudine. What is yours?" The older servant was offering a shaky handshake. "Danielle" As she took the servant's hand to greet her, with a half smile forming. As Claudine showed her around the kitchen.... Danielle was trying to formulate a plan to escape. The more she knew about her new place, the more she can find out how to escape. Jacqueline waited until her mother went to bed to slip out the door and she started to walk towards the castle. "This is a long walk, but I am doing this for Danielle." She said to herself. Meanwhile, there's a knock at the door... Henry answered it and it was the page and his mother. "Sweetheart, this is the page that escorted Danielle this morning." "Yes, Can you please tell me what happened to Danielle after you and her left the throne room this morning?" "Sire, I escorted Danielle to the library and she picked out a book and then I escorted her back here. That was that last time I saw her." "When you escorted her here to our room, did you notice anyone standing around out here in the hall or some where down the hall?" "Well Sire, I noticed a couple of guards and some servants, one person who was wearing a cloak, a dark cloak. The person was familiar, it was a man.... He looked like Seigneur Le Peiu. The castle's armor merchant." "Le Peiu! what would he be here for? What was he doing here in these parts of the castle?" "I am not sure Henry, that sound quite unusual." The Queen spoke. "Not only that, Why would Danielle say in her note that she would like me to choose Marguerite? Danielle does not want me to be with Marguerite. I have told her that after the ball that I do not like her. I should say that there is a conspiracy going on and Marguerite, the Baroness and Le Peiu is in on it." "Henry, why would he be in a cloak inside the castle? Le Peiu never wears a cloak." "Mother, I am taking Laurent and going to go to the manor to talk with the servants. Yes, Maurice is one I know would talk about what is going on. Him and Danielle are very close... He is like a father to her." Henry walked out of the room and went to go find Laurent. He search everywhere except one place. Henry found Laurent in the kitchen, snacking on the cooks leftovers. "Oh, there you are!" "Yes, here I am Henry... I missed dinner." "Well, now we need to go the manor to talk with Maurice, the servant that Danielle save from being sent to the America." A big chipmunk grin crossed Laurent's face and Henry new what that meant. "OH NO! play later, now we need to find her step-sister, my fiance`." Laurent and Henry walked out of the castle. When they reached the start of the courtyard, they almost ran over Jacqueline. Henry was surprised to see her here without the rest of the family. He thought that she was there to speak with Laurent or perhaps she did not know of Danielle's disappearance and come to speak with Danielle. "Milady, I fear we almost ran over you." Henry grabbed for her hand to kiss it, in hopes to make Laurent jealous and hoping that Jacqueline will feel more comfortable while in his presence. He has always noticed an unsettling feeling coming from her. "Really Your Highness" while bowing to him. Jacqueline smiled a little affectionately to the captain, than turned her attention back to the Prince. "Your Highness, I need to speak with you. It is important." "I have sometime, I was actually on my way to your home." "Well, I have news about Danielle. I over heard my mother and sister Marguerite talking in there bedroom about Le Peiu kidnapping Danielle and my mother sold her to him after the ball. If she would have came home after the ball the very next day she would have been sold to Le Peiu. Than I heard mother and Marguerite talking about some note that supposedly she was to have written about having second thoughts about marring you." "SOLD, tell no one... for all shall be reveal in due course." Henry spoke with tears in his eyes. "Come Laurent, there's much to be done." Henry and Laurent left Jacqueline standing there. They went back into the castle for awhile and then running to get their horses with a couple other guards. "Henry what are you going to do when we get there?" "Kill him with my bare hands." Henry was ringing his hands and mocking Le Peiu's neck. It was now dusk and Danielle was told by Le Peiu to bring his swords in to his dinning room for polishing. Le Peiu had to put chains around her feet because the guard had stopped her earlier from escaping out the kitchen's back door. As Danielle was bring in the swords Le Peiu was waiting for her in the dinning room. "Oh I do so hate to see you in irons. I would removed them, if you would promise not to run away again." "I have no reason to stay." "You belong to me now" "I belong to no one, least of all you" "I do wish you'd reconsider" "I would rather rot", Danielle was walking away from him. "I had a horse like you once. Willful to a fault, It too just needed to be broken" Le Peiu is now standing behind her and touching her hair. "You will maintain your distance Sir." "Oh, but you didn't say please." Danielle grabbed his dagger from his belt and turned around in one motion... "PLEASE", in a slow tone. While pointing the dagger at him, Le Peiu was holding the key to her leg irons. "I can hang you for this" "Not if you are dead." I do love your spirit" Le Peiu grabbed her arm and tried to kiss her, but Danielle got the upper hand on him and slashed him in the face with the dagger. Leaving a cut across his face. He slumped down in the chair beside him and Danielle grabbed one of the swords of the table, now pointing it at him. "My father was an expert swordsman sir and he taught me well. Now hand me that key or I will slit you from naval to nose." Danielle was very convincing. "Your freedom...milady" Le Peiu handed her the key. ~~~~~~~~~~ Danielle grabbed the key from Le Peiu's shaking hand. She unlocked the chains from around her ankles and threw them across the room. Danielle took off running towards the entrance of the dinning room. She was afraid to put down at least the dagger for fear of Le Peiu going back on his word and coming after her. On her way towards the door to get outside, she dropped both the dagger and the sword on the floor. Slowing her walk while looking back at the hallway she just came from to make sure she is not being pursued. Smiling as she walked out side... she looked up and at first she thought it to be a mirage. Henry was hurrying toward her and she clasped at the very sight of him. She had many bruises and her head was still bandaged up from the hit she took when she was kidnapped from the castle. Henry reached her side and motioned for Laurent to help him get her out of there. Both Henry and Laurent picked her up and carried her to the beginning of the courtyard of Le Peiu's estate. Not a few moments later the castle carriage arrived carrying the Doctor and his nurse to tend to Danielle. As Henry was caring for Danielle, Laurent and the rest of the royal guards sieged the estate to arrest Le Peiu for his criminal acts against the crown. Laurent saw Le Peiu still sitting in the chair where Danielle had left him. Laurent and the guards saw the gash across his face and formed a newly found respect for their future princess. Le Peiu was horrified to see that he had been found so soon, he thought he would have enough time to pack and get out of the country before Danielle made it back to the castle. "Le Peiu, You are hear by arrested for the acts of treason against the country of France.... If I were you I would plead for mercy of the court to keep your head." Laurent had a feeling of adrenaline rush threw his veins when he said those words to this man. The guards surrounded Le Peiu and hulled him outside. In the mist of him crossing the threshold of the courtyard Le Peiu screamed, "It's all the Baroness's fault that witch wanted that slime of a daughter of hers to become the Prince's wife and Queen of France so she promised me that If I helped her, no harm will come to me!" "Well do not fret sir... for the Baroness will suffer the same punishment as you." Henry was just as angry as Le Peiu and he had a right to be. For his love looks like she has been worked hard with hardly no food and beaten. Danielle did not want to leave Henry so the doctor had him get in the carriage to ride back to the castle. The doctor was first cleaning out the wound on her head for it was the most serious. It had not been well taken care of. It even looked as if she had not had a bath. Luckily she was only gone since this morning. The doctor feared that had she been in Le Peiu's place anymore than just one day that she would have been hurt much worse. Henry was happy to see Danielle alive. He saw the gash on Le Peiu's face and wondered if it came from her or the guards while trying to obtain him. An uncontrollable urged swept threw his body like a horse taking off at full run. He instantly wanted this women to feel his soul like husbands and wives do. He bent again but this time to cure his passion surging threw him, just to taste her sweet lips if enough for now, for tonight the wedding is still planned to go on if Danielle is feeling better. Arriving at the castle all the courtiers and noblemen were staring at the carriage that entered into the courtyard. They were gossiping about two rumors. One of the Prince's servant running away from him this morning and The other about the Prince's servant being kidnapped from the castle this morning. Henry and Danielle exited out of the carriage and followed by the doctor and the nurse. Henry walked Danielle up to their bed chamber... He knew this time that the King and Queen would be in there waiting for him to bring Danielle home. The Queen had Ambre`, Danielle's attendant to draw a bath for her and to have a nice warm meal waiting. "Hello my dear I was so worried that man had been mean to you. To think that man had a right to come into my home and take whoever he wished, well it's unbearable... I am sure that you thought the same thing." The Queen was hugging Danielle immediately when she entered the room. "I am glad to be back here with you Your majesties." Danielle trailed off into a thought. "My look at you! He did not treat the future princess of France well. Off with his head and I mean it Henry. The King was petrified for this man to do such a thing with someone who he had grown found of in the past two days. He did not want to see Le Peiu back out in the community causing more pain to his people. "Father I am sure that Danielle would like to clean up and have something to eat and also get some rest. We will have the wedding later on when Danielle heals." Henry was now resting his forehead on Danielle's. "NO! NO WAY, we will have the wedding tonight before I get taken by someone else." Danielle was now scared that if she does not marry Henry now than she might loose him forever, if someone defies fate again. "Are you sure my love, you look exhausted." Henry had to be sure if this was what she wanted to do. "I am not that tired... I was sleeping when he took me and he gave me time to sleep off the slap across my face after I told him that he had half a brain. I only look exhausted now because as much as my head hurt I still fought with him to let me go." "Will you please tell me what happened to Le Peiu's face?" Henry was now looking at her with concern. "Do he try something with you?" "He did not get anywhere Henry. He touch my hair, I warned him to keep his distance from me... I than grabbed his dagger from his side and pointed it at him... he still seem to be not affected by it. He grabbed my hand with the dagger and tried to kiss me. I proceeded to slash his face. He went down to sit in the chair beside me and I grabbed a sword off the table. I told him that I would slit him from naval to nose if he did not let me go. Really I am fine... I just need a bath and to eat... We can still do this tonight!" "Alright! We can do this tonight but the reception will wait. I am sure that it could be a little bit too much for you. agreed?" "Agreed!" The King was quite pleased with their way of compromising like they were already married. "Well Henry, Your mother and I will go get the wedding preparation ready. Danielle can eat and have a bath than we will have the wedding. Meet us in the castle's chapel in two hours." "We will be there and on time." The King and Queen left the room so Danielle can get ready. Henry walked over to Danielle to rest his forehead on her shoulders. "I can not believe that we will finally be together. For now on there will be a guard on you at all times. I am sorry for not having one appointed to you the first day that you came here. Will you ever forgive me for my stupidity?" "Henry.. I am not used to having guards on me so I would have not blamed you for not having one on me at all. You don't always have one for your protection." "Believe me for now on we both will always have a guard every where we go. I do not want us to ever be split apart without it being our own decision." Henry and Danielle both went to their dressing rooms to get ready for their wedding. An hour and A half later. Henry went to the guard outside the door and told him to escort Danielle down to the chapel. He than knocked on Danielle's dressing room and told Ambre' that Danielle will be escorted to the chapel by the guard waiting outside the chamber door. Henry than walked down to the chapel to help get things ready for the wedding. It was to be quite simple and short, only Leonardo, Captain Laurent and The King and Queen was there. Danielle emerge from her dressing room. She was wearing her mother's wedding dress. Her hair was long down her back in a vail and they had attached to the dress a long train that had the same type of material as her mother's dress. She was wearing a pearl necklace the Queen gave to her yesterday for the wedding. She was so frantic because she only had one of the slippers and could not find the other... she lost the other one the night of the ball while running out of the castle. She was walking to the door when she spotted her slipper on the table in the sitting room. There was a note next to it. She opened the letter but not before she put on the other slipper. My love, Love you forever Danielle walked out of the room and the guard took her hand and walked her down to the chapel. She was met outside the doorway by Leonardo Di Vinci. "Milady, Countess De Barbarac.. It would be my honor today to give you away at your wedding." "I am so please Leonardo... I am just so happy to be able to marry the love of my life" The choir of boys started to sing a beautiful love song. While Leonardo led Danielle down the aisle. Henry saw her as a vision of beauty. As she got to his side the choir stopped their song and the priest said a prayer. "Who gives this woman today?" "Leonardo Di Vinci" Leonardo gave Danielle's hand to Henry and they stepped up on the step with the Priest. Danielle and Henry were lost in their own world, looking at each other with love. Soon the Priest asked, "Countess Danielle De Barbarac, Do you take The Crown Prince Henry De Volas to be your husband for as long as you both shall live?" "I Do" "And Prince Henry De Volas, Do you take Countess Danielle De Barbarac to be your wife as long as you both shall live?" "I Do" "May I have the rings please?" Captain Laurent took two rings out of his coat jacket and handed them to the priest. The Priest took the smallest one and handed it to Henry. Henry slipped the ring on her finger. She could not believe her eyes that it had one of the largest diamonds and small little ones on it. She had never had anything this expensive before. She knew that she would cherish this ring and care for it very well. The Priest then took Henry's ring and handed it to Danielle, she slipped it on Henry's finger. Henry's face lit up like a Christmas tree because it was a symbol of their undying love for each other. "I now pronounce you Husband and Wife. You may kiss your bride." Henry lifted her vail from her face and saw a smile to melt with. He then kissed her passionately. "Your Majesties, I give you...The Crown Prince and Princess of France" The Queen was openly crying and The King was clapping along with Laurent and Leonardo. The newlyweds were blushing at the crowds show of approval. "Henry Your Mother and I are going to retire and you are not needed at breakfast in the morning." The Queen and King hugged the newlyweds and congratulated them before they retired. Leonardo and Laurent gave Henry a pat on the back and kissed Danielle on the cheek, then made their excuses to escape the company of the newlyweds so they can retreat to the bed chamber.
~~~~~~~~~ The newly wedded couple gazed at each other with a new found love. Henry gave a lovesick smile to Danielle. Danielle return his gesture by putting her arms around his waist. Henry positioned his forehead on her's while glaring into her eyes. They took a moment to savor the wedding memories preceding to exit the chapel. "My wife shall we surrender to our bed chamber?" Henry held out his hand for her to take. "My husband it would make me happy to retire with you tonight." Danielle took his hand to be led to their room. She had butteries in her stomach. Danielle knew that this was normal. Walking down the corridor of the castle. They past many servants and guards, all bowing a paying their respects the couple. Word spread throughout the castle that the Prince married his servant almost immediately. The many that saw the Prince and Princess walking to their wedding bed were so please with his choice for a wife. Most of the men were envious of the Prince to have such a beautiful wife. The women were happy that he picked Danielle because she was one of them. Half way to their chamber. Henry stopped Danielle by one of the windows, they were alone at this time. No servants scurrying about. Danielle was nervous about being intimate with a man for the first time. Thinking to herself, what if I don't know how to love-making? Danielle observed at her husband who now was holding her around her waist. She saw his eyes smiling with a glimmer of gentleness. She knew than that this night would be a heavenly treasure. Henry flowed his hand leisurely and passionately down her right side of her waist to her thighs. Danielle can feel the love illuminating from his touch. She closed her eyes and exposed her mind, absorbing in the intimacy he rendered to her famished body. The wedding gown was a thin, sightly low cut gown. Easy for Henry to imagine what she looked like under it. Exquisitely delicate and perfumed fragrance skin. "You're so good to me." She whispered touching his cheek with the backside of her hand. "You like?" Henry breathed while kissing her ear. "I yearn" passionately skimming her smooth lips across his mouth. Fusing their desire through a kiss that either one wanted to end. Henry acquired her hand and deviously strolled down the final corridor to their wedding nirvana. He knew if they did not get there directly... they would consummate their marriage in the hall. He suddenly was reminded of his feelings at the ruins when they were there the day before his world almost ceased. He felt for her a longing urge to seduce to her and make passionate love there and then. So close he was... planning that since he declared to her that she is to be his bride that she would succumb to his enticements. They reached the door of their bed chamber. Henry paused at the guard posted outside the door. "The Princess and I are not to be disturbed until I say so." As Henry opened the door to their chamber, he picked up Danielle and carried her over the threshold. By this time Danielle started to giggle. "What's so funny?" "Hearing me being referred as a princess. It just sounds weird, that's all." "Are you happy?" "As long as you love me, I am happy." "I wanted to marry for love, that's why I married you." Their lips touched ...... passion between them radiated heat off their bodies like the sun. Henry raised his hand while kissing his wife and removed her vail off her head. Almost out of breath they closed their kiss. "I miss Jacqueline, I wish she could have been here for the wedding." "We will have a grand wedding later on. She can be there for that one." "Henry how did you know that I was at Le Peiu's?" "Jacqueline told me, she over heard the Baroness and Marguerite talking about being involved in kidnapping you and selling you to Le Peiu. Then even went as far as forging a note from you to me saying how you were only after my crown and felt guilty so you left me and I should marry Marguerite." "That's ludicrous. I would have never told you to marry Marguerite. You did not believe it did you?" "Initially, I did not know what to think... I saw the blood on the couch and I knew that you had been abducted from me. You really have not told me how you feel about Marguerite." "Marguerite and Le Peiu are a match made in heaven. They were made for each other. I would never wish you to be with her. That is cruel. I saw you with her after your tennis match in the market." "I thought I saw you there. You were standing with the other servants and you threw that chicken in my face." Danielle was laughing now that she had been caught. "Yes, I did... I was frightened and I ran. I just toss the chicken...when you startled me. I did not expect it to take off towards your face." "Well we should change out of these clothes so that we could start our new lives together." Danielle kissed him and walked towards her dressing room but before she entered, she turned towards him and blew him a kiss. When Danielle got into her dressing room. She decided that for tonight, she did not want her attendant assisting her. She picked up her hair brush and began to diligently brush her hair out. She than looked around in her wardrobe for a wedding night attire. She decided that she should just wear a robe because a night gown would not remain on for long. She picked out a silk sky blue robe and tied the bow in front. "I suppose I am ready" she thought. But than she caught sight a new bottle of perfume sitting on her dresser with a message attached. It was from the Queen, her wedding present to Danielle. Danielle opened the bottle and dabbed some on her neck. Now she was ready. Danielle opened the door and walked into the main sitting room. There he stood by the fireplace in a blue satin robe. The chamber was massed illuminated by candles. A bottle of red wine and wine glass sat on the mantle of the fireplace. Henry turned around to view her. She was enchanting as the moon. A smile crossed his lips and he extended out his hand to her. He drew her firmly against his body while flowing his fingers through her long strands of hair. They were fascinated into each other's eyes. Each scanning the other's soul. Heartbeats pulsating rapid. Henry grabbed a glass of red wine and gave it to Danielle than his took his glass. Henry absorb the essence of her perfume and bent to caress her neck with his lips. Danielle gasped for air. The spark was encouraged inside of her. Noticing how much she enjoyed his touch, he proceeded to kiss the other side of her neck. Danielle surrendered voluntarily. She was moving her fingers threw his charcoal hair as he discover her lips once again.... kissing her tenderly. She breathed into his mouth like a moan coming from within her, "Make love to me." Henry pulled back from his kiss as he heard her express what she desired. Gazing into her eyes.... reading all of her imprison hunger inside of her. Henry pulled on the bow of her robe and it exposed a women's body just aching to be loved. Her eyes closed to relish the feeling of his hands on her shoulders, slowly pushing off the robe to let it fall to the floor by her feet. His hands kept falling with the robe down to her butt and caressed each side with his fingers.... slightly fondling the skin. Even in her wildest dreams that she has experienced these past days since the kiss at the gypsy camp.... she could not have imaged such intimate acts he is performing on her virgin skin. Henry thought since it felt out of the world...so good to touch her like he had wanted to has just got to be illegal. So pure... so sensual. Luxuriating bits of fire surging through their bodies, water could not even put out. Danielle was addicted to his masculine presence. She pulled on his bow.... at the same time pressing her feverish body against his tender skin. Pushing his robe off the rest of his shoulders. The touch of Danielle's fingers on his shoulders made his eyes fill with tears. Tasting what she has been denied of all her life, tracing her tongue down his shoulders, across his chest... smelling the fragrance of his manly scent, arousing her within. Standing in each other's arms both exposed in their full nudity.... Henry exploring her virginity and Danielle exploring his experienced body. He picked her up and carried her to the bed. Danielle ran her hands down his back as he laid next to her nibbling on her ears and than her neck. She whispered..."You like my perfume?" He smiled and started to taste her fingers one by one as he whispered threw his breath...."Yessss." Danielle swore he sounded like the melody of the wind. It made her blush. Henry thought that she was undeniably breath taking when she blushed at his affection towards her. It made his hunger for her burned to extreme temperatures. Wanting to taste her passion... he sought out her lips to cure his starvation. Their mouths connected flawlessly stirring passionate sensations. Applying his searing body upon of hers so she could feel all of him was a feeling Danielle moaned to. Every time he moved to kiss her skin or lips Danielle exhaled all the breath within her lungs. He knew he was teasing her and she loved it. As long as he could last without penetrating.... she cherished it. Both knowing that they had all night and most of the morning to experienced the other's love. Probing her breast with an erotic touch. Flowing beyond abstinence. Henry provided Danielle his manhood. The wind blew at every breath they took..... escaping into paradise... As a husband showed his wife ecstasy. Sensations of her building climax escaping from her. She arches back, a subtle moan escapes her. Catching his eyes adoring their allure. As they reach their perfect paradise. As the birth of the new sun for their first day as husband and wife shined into their bed chamber, their legs were tangled and Danielle's hand still held his. Henry's awake lying on his side marveling at Danielle while she slept so tranquilly. He was reminded of how his life was before she came into it. Before she came into his life, his life was full of sadness and loneliness. Now Danielle's love had made him happy. She completed him as much as he completed her. He started to softly whisper words of how he felt at this moment and before she came into his life, to her while she slept. "One thing I'm sure of is that we will always be. Even though the road seems to get a little rough, It's for you.. I live. I can do anything and it will never be too much. In my darkest hour you are there to light the way and when I'm down,You always lift me up again...You know me better than I know myself. You comfort me and let me know with you... I'm gonna win. Walk with me hand in hand. We will help each other understand how to go through, there will never be a day that we will grow apart so we'll forever be together hand in hand. Sometimes I'm wrong and even in that case you didn't go away you stayed right next to me. As time goes on I realize that you're for me and I will love you for eternity, walking hand and hand." Danielle heard every word that Henry just said to her while she was sound asleep. There was something about his voice that could not let her sleep any longer. She revealed her eyes and a smile graced her lips, to see this man's eyes casting into hers. She always dream of a love that is so pure like the waters in the oceans. Tears formed and fell as he kissed her lips spontaneously. The sight of the dawned sun gleaming on her face made him kiss the angel before him. "What would you like to do now my love?" Henry sincerely asked. His hand skimming her cheek softly. "I want to lay in bed with my husband for a while longer." Danielle moved over closer to him as if she could not ever be anymore apart from him. They laid there curled up to each other's body heat for it seemed like an eternity. Breathing softly, enjoying time alone and becoming accustom to their new marriage. Neither one felt like they had to make love again, what they expressed last night was prosperous for them. Henry got up and put on his robe, walking to his dressing room and pulling on the cord to ring his attendant. Danielle was confused. She did not want this day to end yet. A few minutes later Henry joined Danielle in their bed. "What did you do?" Danielle did not understand what he needed to do in his dressing room. "Nosey! Are we my love?" He kissed her forehead tenderly. "I did not want you to leave me yet." "Well, time will tell what I am up to. Meanwhile, I will not leave your side." Henry and Danielle curled up once again to each other talking more about Danielle's childhood and what happened to her while she was at Le Peiu's, explaining to Henry about how her step mother was there soon after she was brought to his estate. A little while later... Henry's attendant knock on the door of Henry's dressing room. It was a sign for Henry. "Well are you not going to see what your attendant wants?" Danielle was worried that he might come in the main bed chamber, it would embarrass her if he did. "Actually, he does not want anything... Come follow me...!" Henry got out of bed and put on his own robe again. Than he opened up Danielle's robe for her to put on... they both walked into his dressing room... Danielle felt uncomfortable going into a man's dressing room for the first time. She looked around the room and was surprised to see the room was neatly clean. Not like her dressing room which is cluttered with clothes and jewelry, as well as an assortment of shoes. Than she saw a enormous brass tub filled with warm water. Henry observed her as she surveyed his dressing room, he knew this was a first time experience for her. He went to checked the water to make sure it was the right temperature then he walked over to Danielle and untied her robe for the second time since their wedding. Danielle was still unsure what he was up to... Henry removed the rest of her robe completely. "I thought you might want to relax a bit in a warm bath and I will pamper you this time." Henry formed a mischievous grin on his lips. He escorted her safely into the tub. As she settled he pick up a pitcher and started to pour water over her body, cleansing her skin gently. She relished his touch. Fully bathing her from head to toe. Washing her hair and rinsing the soap out. Danielle stood up in the tub with soap suds blanketing her body and in one tender motion she influenced him to remove his robe. Henry was astonished. He did not think she would be this stimulated and commanding. Danielle upraise his arm and pulled him towards her. Henry stepped into the tub to join her like she wanted. Kissing him desirably pulling him down into the warm water with her. She pick up the same pitcher and poured water over his body and started to purify his body head to toe.
Danielle and Henry finished getting dressed and had the attendant bring in some lunch for them... they sat in the sitting room next to each other playfully feeding each other a croissant. "After lunch, are you ready to be crowned Princess of France?" "Henry, If it is as easy as the titling ceremony yesterday than yes! Just as long as a guard will be with me, when you cannot, than I will be fine." TBC Part 18 Henry escorted Danielle down to the throne room after lunch, walking hand in hand into the room as if their have all the time in the world togethere, but King Francis would not be so pleased if they acted assuch. "Henry, I said that you are not to be at breakfast... not also lunch!" all along while King Francis was yelling at Henry he had a blushed grin on his face, hoping that this conversation would not tread to thin on their wedding night activities. King Francis was not really mad at Henry he just felt like poking fun at his son's first day as a married man. "Father, since I knew that we were to be here after lunch... I thought it would be better if I spend lunch alone with Danielle, it is our time now... Is it not?" Henry could not believe his ears had heard his father, to think he was upset for not showing up at lunch the day after his wedding was ludicrous. "I am just jesting with you my son... I am glad that you and your bride decided to come out for a moment to be here for her coronation to be crowned Princess of France." Laughing momentarily. The royal family moved into another room to wait for court to begin. Queen Marie filled Danielle in on how to act and how the proceeding was going to advance. There would be courtiers in attendance. Danielle felt nauseous. Court was announce in session by the royal page. All in the room became silent... most wanted to see the new princess believed to be a servant. The announcement of the King and Queen of France as they entered and took their seats on the throne, everyone bowing respectively. Practically straining their necks, the courtiers were trying to see into the room which the King and Queen just came from to get a glimpse of maybe the Princess. Prince Henry and his new bride Danielle entered and curtsied to Henry's parents. The Courtiers were very much jealous because Danielle was very beautiful. Danielle and Henry stood together in front of the King and Queen on the throne. Danielle felt very uneasy and a little less self confident of herself but that soon passed when Henry took her hand in his to hold it lovingly. The royal page made an announcement instructed by the King. "Their Majesties, King Francis the first and Queen Marie announces that their son His Royal Highness, Crown Prince of France... Henry De Valois was married yesterday evening to Comtess Danielle De Barbarac. The Official wedding takes place in one week from today. The Royal Family invites you to witness the new Princess of France to be crowned today." King Francis rose to speak. "Comtess Danielle De Valois kneel before the court." Danielle picks up the bottom half of her dress slightly and lowers herself on the marble floor awaiting the King. "Comtess Danielle De Valois, You will know be known as Her Royal Highness, Crown Princess of France Danielle De Valois. Please rise Princess and receive your royal crown." King Francis did not look very friendly when he's conducting court but Danielle can tell that he was happy for her. Danielle stood up and a royal page walked over to her and Henry, he was carrying a purple small pillow and on top rested a small gold crown. Henry took the crown and placed it on top of Danielle's head. Henry had a smile that the courtiers could only perceived as romantic happiness. Henry kissed her naturally on her lips. Most royals do not show emotion in front of their people but Henry was not the normal royal that all would be. The courtiers were so delightful for the show of affection by Prince Henry, all wanted to be Danielle at this moment. Court was recessed and to be continue in one hour, the royal family exited back into the room they came from. Henry immediately kissed Danielle passionately, catching her off guard. "Henry stop that her crown is going to fall off." Queen Marie scolded her son like he was still a child. "I cannot help it mother we have only been married less than a day." "Now Danielle, We must let you know that His Majesty has been told of a treason act by a certain page of the castle and your step mother Rodmilla and step sister Marguerite... and we were informed by another page that is very loyal to the crown. This page told us that The Baroness has been paying a page of the castle for information on Henry and they even stole one of my most precious necklaces. Not to forget to mention that the Baroness actually lied to me about you being engaged to a someone else. Further more telling everyone at the ball that you were her servant and nothing more. Also the kidnapping of you from the palace. So, They must be punished. In one hour they will be brought before us for their sentencing. The punishment is DEATH!" Danielle was totally horrified. Tears fell and she openly cried. The royal family did not understand why she was upset about them being put to death, they thought she did not care for them since they put her through alot of misery. "Danielle, what's wrong my love?" Henry was now holding her tightly against his body to give her some comfort. "I don't want them be put to death. When my father died, he loved the Baroness very much and he believed that she would be a kind person to be a mother to me. I know that they have to be punished, I think they need to be. But, can it just be something else other than death?" "Danielle for you we can bend the rules and give them a lesser punishment!" The King was so torn by her courage to forgive the Baroness and Marguerite for their cruelty.
Court was back in session all that was in court earlier came back for this so they could see the new Princess again. The King and Queen along with Henry entered and took their places on the throne waiting for their guest to arrive. Everyone was not sure why the Princess did not come out with them or where she even was. The announcement by the page came: "Your Royal Majesties and his Highness, The Baroness Rodmilla De Ghent and her daughters Marguerite and Jacqueline." The Baroness comes in. She acts so conceited... she does not know that Danielle has been rescued from Le Peiu's and still believes that the Prince will marry Marguerite. Jacqueline knows that Danielle has been saved and she is married to Henry. Rodmilla does a bow that is only assumed by all as over doing it to much. Before Rodmilla is done with her mockery of respect, the King bellows, "Baroness, did you or did you not lie to her majesty the Queen of France?" "Choose your words wisely madame for they may be your last" " A women would do practically anything for a love of a daughter, your majesties.... perhaps, I did get a little carried away." almost sounding like a mouse squeaking. "Mother what have you done!" Marguerite is trying to make it look like everyone else fault except hers so she still can have a chance to be married to the Prince. "Your Majesty, like you I am just a victim here... she has lied to both of us and I am ASHAMED to call her family!" "How dare you turn on me you little ingrate." Rodmilla is now pushing Marguerite around. The King thinks it's going to turn into a massive brawl. "You see, You see... What I have to put up with?" Marguerite is still pleading with the King for mercy. "SILENCE, both of you!" The king now looking for answers from Jacqueline. "Good Lord, Are they always like this?" "Worse your majesty." Jacqueline replies with as must courage as she can muster up. "Jacqueline darling, I hate to think you had anything to do with this!" Rodmilla trying hard to bring down Jacqueline for she always hated the plumply girl. "Of Course not mother, I am only here for the food." Boy Laurent sure liked that answer. With a grin for satisfaction as if he said it him self. Henry standing behind his father got amused as well at the fight between Rodmilla and Marguerite and the comment Jacqueline made. "Baroness De Ghent!.. you are forth with striped of your title and you and your horrible daughter are to be shipped off to the America's on the first available boat, unless someone here can speak for you?" The Queen had a monotone voice. Rodmilla backs up and looks around the room for a face that seemed kind to her predicament. Marguerite is in a speechless daze. Isabella and Celeste would not even look Rodmilla in the eye, their noses went so high into the ceiling, Rodmilla thought that they could smell rain before it came. "There seems to be quite a few people out of town...." The king looking as if he's going to be sick by her much a do lies. "I will speak for her!" A new voice but familiar one behind Rodmilla spoke, all on the floor bowed except Rodmilla of course being stubborn as she refuses to believe that yes, indeed the voice was Danielle's but also to bow for her is still ludicrous. "She is after all my step mother." Danielle said staring down Rodmilla with her eyes as Rodmilla turned around to face her. Danielle walked slow but commandingly to her step mother would still would not bow in respect. Finally Rodmilla sank to the floor in defeat mumbling,"Your Highness." "Marguerite, I don't think you've met my wife!" Henry made sure that she had not understood the message from this action she was witnessing. "I want you to know, that I will forget you after this moment and never think of you again. But you I am quite certain will thin of me for the rest of your life." Danielle made her message as clear as can be. "And how long might that be?" Rodmilla now at her step daughter's mercy. Danielle looks up to her new loving family and makes her request on behalf of Rodmilla and her step sister, "All I ask your majesties, is that you show her that same courtesy that she has bestowed on me." TBC Part 19 A Fairy Tale Wedding or What? Henry woke up to the sun exactly one week after their first wedding night together. He leaned over to see that Danielle was still sleeping like an angel. He knew today is the day that they will pledge their love once more in front of all of France. Henry graced her lips with a soft kiss. All week long they have been responsible for gracing every party that the France and other diplomatic allies throw for them. It was a tiring week, on top of all things; trying to plan the official wedding for Danielle was just as nerve racking as can be... with her step mother and step sister forced by her own request to become servants, not just servants but they were also split up to work for Isabella and Celeste. Danielle thought that should be degrading enough for the two. Danielle awoke at the feeling of Henry's kiss. Henry did not want her to wake up just yet. He wanted to enjoy their time together. Putting his arm around her shoulders and cuddling close so close to feel her every breath, they laid there in serenity waiting until their attendants made them part to get ready for their wedding. A short time later, Danielle's attendant Ambre` knocked on Danielle's dressing room door from the inside. Danielle kissed her husband one last kiss not sure if they will be allowed to see each other before the wedding began. Danielle started out her day with a warm bath with her hair pinned up so it won't get wet. Henry retreated to his dressing room to get ready also.. he thought the sooner they get this wedding going to sooner it will be all over with and life can go back to as normal as it can. Danielle got out and dried off, Ambre` helped her get into the silk white garments that were picked out for her to wear underneath her wedding dress. Ambre` and another attendant went to work on Danielle's hair. They arranged it in lots of big cascading curls in on top if her head, with the lower half of her hair hanging down in big spiral curls. A small tiara made in silver and diamonds was made for her head. Tiny silver and diamond oval shaped necklace and earrings to match. Danielle insisted that she wear the same glass slippers that her mother wore at her wedding and she wore at the first wedding to Henry. Ambre` applied natural looking make up to bring out her eyes and lips. Next came the wedding dress. Ivory satin gown that extends past her feet. Henry took his bath and shaved his five o'clock shadow off his face. His attendant helped him into his wedding attire. It was a royal blue jacket with gold jewels attached and beige colored pants, royal cloak of crimson red. Henry walked out of the servants entrance for his mother's sake. She did not want the two to see each other before the wedding and she even told Henry last night that they should not be sleeping in the same room together and getting dressed in the same rooms. Henry told her that they did not need to follow tradition that their love can hold together with out the annoying rules besides they are already married. What's the point? If their love was not meant to be than they would not be married today with all the odds that they had against them. Henry was escorted by his guard and Captain Laurent and Henry's cousin Antoine who is in for the wedding. The royal grooms wedding party descended the grand stairway, seemed to Henry they were his stairway to heaven. Exiting out the main door to the courtyard, Henry greeted his mother with a lovingly kiss on her cheek and than a pat on the Kings back for reassurance that he will not run away for this event. The King and Queen sporting the same royal blue and crimson red wedding colors, rode over to the massive chapel in the own royal carriage, with the royal guards on horseback. The guards wore their official royal colors but their horses were draped in clothes that matched the wedding parties colors. The grooms wedding party parted in a very similar looking carriage with royal guards also. Henry and the rest of the royal groom's wedding party arrived at the chapel, he could not believe how many spectators of Frances people who were not invited to the wedding were lined up outside the church. All were yelling so much at one time, Henry could not make out what they all were saying to him when he exited the carriage. One phase that he was able to make out was "Your Highness, I love you!" another was, "Congratulations, Your Highness!" The King and Queen took their places on the groom side of the church in a special throne seat. Danielle's family took their spots sitting on her side of the church on a special throne seat, her family consist of Jacqueline who was wearing a gown that was a satin ruby color and it was made by one of France's famous designers. Her hair was curled and the front was pinned back on top of her head. Paulette and Louise was also part of Danielle's family wearing matching courtier type gowns. Since Danielle had not real living blood relatives, the royal family saw it fit to have Paulette, Louise, Jacqueline, Gustve and Maurice as her family join in the wedding. It was now time for Danielle and her wedding party to part from the castle and get to the church. Danielle and Ambre` along with three royal guards, six courtiers and Maurice and Gustve hopped into two separate carriages to travel to the church. The six courtiers were dressed in the wedding colors, three wore royal blue gowns and the other three wore crimson red, each dress was made with silk and lace material. Danielle felt so nervous as they rode to the Cathedral. She had not realize that all eyes would be on her and Henry all day. Danielle gave thanks that after the wedding instead of having a reception, her and Henry are going to take a much needed honeymoon. The King set up a trip to Paris, since the crown owns a chateau there. Danielle has never been to Paris. As the carriage rounded the last corner of the cathedral, Danielle had an overwhelming experience.... to see so many people littering the sides of the rode in front of the church. "Breathe... just breathe!" was all she could say. She was not prepared of how big this event had turned out. Of course she expected a lot of people, but she thought just noble people would be there. The carriage rolled to a stop and the driver opened the door, Maurice and Gustve exited the carriage and then helped Danielle out. They picked up the ends of her long train so it won't get dirty. Danielle heard the crowd cheer in an uproar as she was spotted by them. She even, like Henry heard them saying stuff to her...."Look there's the Princess, she's so beautiful!" one person said, "Your Highness, Congratulations!" She smiled and waved to them all before entering the church. The wedding party took their places as the choir began to sing. The second doors leading into the chapel opened. Everyone stood for the brides walk down the aisle. Henry was standing at the alter as the music flowed, he boar tears of joy... gleaming at his bride as beautiful as she was gave him goose bumps. The very same goose bumps that he experience on their first wedding night. The Queen was excited to see that Henry has found love, and what a perfect mate she was. Maurice and Gustve both walked Danielle slow down the aisle along with her six brides maids that carried the train. The flowers were red and white to signify purity and love. The aisle was covered in rose petals. Danielle reached Henry with a smile boosting her beauty. He held his hand to her, she took his finger tips and curled her hands in them. Before they turned towards the alter, Henry bent down to kiss Danielle on her lips... while Danielle and Henry enjoyed their kiss; Laurent spoke up," Your Highness, we have not yet come to that part." Standing before the Priest, even though the Priest did not mind this show of affection by the Prince and Princess, he had a very business like face. "Dearly beloved friends, we are gathered together here in the sight of God, and in the face of his congregation, to join together this man and this woman in holy matrimony, which is an honorable unity, instituted of god in Paradise, signifying unto us the mystical union that is between Christ and his Church. Therefore if any man can show any just cause, why they may not lawfully be joined together: let him now speak, or else hereafter for ever hold his peace." Danielle and Henry are gazing into each others eyes with love and contentment. Out of no where this voice from the back of the church carries through like a knife being stuck into Henry's back. "I will speak!" came a ladies voice. The priest was astonished... who could possible have an objection to their marriage when they are already married? "Come closer, milady." The Italian woman slowly walked towards the alter so all could see her. Everyone in the Cathedral was straining their necks to see who this person was to go up against the crown. It was plain audacity by this person's straight forwardness. "Is this a joke? Who Are you?" King Francis shouted while standing up to see this woman. Painfully recognizing her after he stated his demand. "My word, Catherine de' Medici!" "Yes Sire, may I present my cousin Alessandro.... Duke of Florence" The King knew exactly who these two were. Danielle was confused. Henry completely was taken by surprise. In all these years, he did not know what she looked like but he was told certainly about her, of course he had.... there was a marriage contract between her father and his years back when they were kids. He thought she had disappeared no one could find the de' Medici's. The contract was declared dead. Than his father arranged his contract with the Spanish princess. "Sire, you have defied the contract by marring your son to another person. Catherine is here and she claims her right for the contract to be enforced. His highness must annul his marriage to the servant girl and marry my cousin, he was betrothed to Catherine." The End This story will continue in a different story and I will continue it soon, I hope. |