Chapter Two - Part Two

A light creak of the door soon turned their attention to a startled Beatrice. Wearing a softer hair style of a simple bun with hair down to fall to her neck and her riding clothes in a dark blue, she was startled to see her crying.

            “My lady, is everything alright? Has something offended you?” she asked concern evident in her voice.

            “No, no everything is alright. I don’t mean to offend your family by saying this, but, I miss my home. I miss my family,” Arabella answered sitting up to wipe the tears away.

Beatrice couldn’t fathom what it would be like to have to move thousands of miles from somewhere you once called your home, she’d always been grateful her father married her to an English lord instead. She could imagine though how homesick she would be in the girl’s position though.

“Oh majesty, you shouldn’t be ashamed to say that you are homesick. My very mother once told me that when she first came here from Cleves was that all she wanted to do was go home. I only hope you allow us to help you through this time though so that you will become more comfortable here.”

Arabella smiled through her tears and nodded as her ladies began to appear to help her prepare for riding.

           

She wore a riding gown of a silvery blue, simply adorned with pears around the neckline. Her little white hat pinned to her head as the small veil trailed down through her hair. She shielded her eyes against the sunlight though as she hurried out towards the stables.

            “My lady! Come; tell me what you think of her,” Ronan greeted with a grin as he motioned to the black horse they had picked for her. He had worn her colors of purple and gold, they would represent each other.

            “You are very kind majesty, she’s a beautiful creature,” she answered stroking the mare’s graceful neck. “She has a wise look to her eye, I shall call her Athena.”

            “A lovely name, come, let us ride!” Ronan announced helping her into the saddle.

            Riding through the fields of lavender Arabella grinned as they finally stopped by a sweeping willow where Ronan reached up and gently took her waist before helping her out of her saddle again. Walking into the branches they both sat amongst the flowers and grass and watched the sun play in and out of the branches.

            “Are you excited to see your brother tomorrow?” he asked, hearing from his father’s chancellors that the French prince and her dowery would be arriving tomorrow.

Nodding she smiled at him and sighed thoughtfully. “Indeed, I am. It’s not just that though, I am excited to see a piece of my home again. I worry about my sister though, Elizabeth, she is so young and doesn’t understand any of this.”

            “Your Elizabeth, she’s but three years old if I remember correctly?” Ronan asked turning to her with a smile.

            “Indeed majesty, she’s a beautiful child really,” Arabella answered with a smile, “she’ll be a handful for a man when she marries though. She’s a burst of fire.”

            “And what of you dear lady? Where do you play out into all of this?” Ronan asked as her expression turned thoughtful.

            “Me, your majesty? Je suis une femme humble des étoiles, un gardien d'histoires,” she answered with a smile. “A pawn on the great chessboard we call Europe, to be played as the players see fit. That, majesty, is where I fit into all of this.”

            “In the end though, isn’t that where we all fit in?” Ronan asked her as she turned her eyes on him.

            “As monarchs, yes. But look at the life of a peasant my grace; they can go about as they please. Marry as they please; never to worry about alliances or corrupted politics. They’re free,” Arabella murmured as she turned her attention to a bird in flight.

            “And do you, Princess Arabella, do you wish to be free as they are?” he questioned as he too watched the bird.

Laughing she turned to him and placed a hand over his. “Not as long as people need me here.”

Wrapping his arm around her shoulders he rested his head atop of her own as they watched the bird fly further away from them.

           

It was nearing midnight by the time they finally reached the docks where her ship had once sat in the harbor. Looking out she watched the men struggle to pull the massive vessel into the small harbor. Her silver mist dress sparkled as the starlight caught the diamonds embroidered in it and her sheer veil fell over her shoulders with matching diamonds so that her hair seemed to sparkle. Her smile is what shone brightest of all when finally the ramp was drawn down to allow her brother and the fortune that came with him to finally leave the ship.

            “Arabella!” Louis shouted in joy as he ran down to greet his sister.

Dipping into a deep curtsy she soon rose out of it into her brother’s waiting arms. “Frère, I’ve missed you so!”

            “It’s only been a week and already the palace seems so empty,” Louis answered as they walked forward together and both kneeled before the English royal family. “Majesties, it is a great honor to be here amongst you for such a joyous occasion.”

            “We welcome you, Prince Louis, into our kingdom with open arms,” Arthur announced embracing the young man.

Arriving back at the palace, the siblings were left to speak of their country privately. Louis tucked her arm gently within the fold of his as they walked through the gardens.

            “We worry for Elizabeth,” he murmured as they walked.

            “Why? What’s wrong with her? Is she sick?” Arabella asked, panic evident in her voice.

            “She is sick with grief we are afraid. She won’t eat much, and doesn’t want to play like she used to. She misses her big sister,” Louis answered looking down at her.

Putting a hand to her mouth, Arabella stopped walking as tears ran down her cheeks. “Ma petite, please, no it can’t be. Louis please tell me she’ll be okay.”

            “I know not sister, I just know she needs to be back here, with you. I’m to speak with the king tomorrow about it, after the wedding,” Louis explained as he pulled her to a bench. “There are other matters too though; Spain has been banging on our doors as of late, I’m afraid that there will be war soon.”

            “And it cannot be avoided?” she asked, thinking of the people who would die because of it.

Shaking his head he sighed and looked at her. “I’m afraid not, we tried to find a way out but it is of no use. Your soon to be father-in-law is ready to hand the throne to your future husband. I’m sorry to say sister that you too will have to be dragged into this war.”

            “For the sake of both of my countries brother, anything that I can give to help will be at your disposal,” She answered with a small frown, “what does the king our father say about all of this?”

            “He worries for his people, his family. He worries for the money that will have to be put out for this. You come to rule in a, difficult time dear sister,” Louis said sadly as she gave him a small smile.

            “Remember brother, father used to always say everything happens for a reason, we must believe that if we are to survive,” she reminded him before patting his knee.

Standing before her, he bent down and gently kissed the top of her head. “You are wise beyond your years, dear sister.”

            “No brother, simply hopeful for a time where I will not have to worry about my family all of which will be abroad now,” she murmured sadly.

            “Not all of them, soon if his majesty agrees, you will have Elizabeth,” Louis reminded her gently.

Grinning at him she stood and nodded. “She will be a welcomed face here amongst the court.”

Motioning for them to continue their walk, Louis looked at her with a brotherly fondness. “Do they treat you well here? The other courtiers I mean?”

            “Well enough, most of them are very kind to me and have welcomed me graciously. Others though I fear, are not so open to the idea of a foreign princess as their future queen,” she answered as she looked around them.

            “You must not let them bother you dear sister, you were chosen above all others for the prince. Remember that,” he told her as they reached one of the many great entrances. “Ah, Lady Katherine you’ve come to steal my sister away have you?”

            “I am afraid so, majesty,” she answered with a curtsy, “she must spend the rest of the night preparing for her wedding tomorrow.”

            “Of course madam, until tomorrow then dear sister,” he answered embracing her as she hurried away to ready herself for the next morning.

Chapter Two - Part One

Chapter Two

            Ronan sat impatiently in the gardens as he waited for word about the boat. It had just been over a week and he didn’t know if he could wait much longer. Getting up to pace again, he looked down at the small bouquet that he had collected for her. Roses and buttercups. He could only hope that she would take it as an offering of more, not just friendship. Letting out a puff of air, the sound of running shoes on gravel soon caught his attention. At the sight of honey blonde hair and green eyes, he smiled at his cousin.

            “Eleanor! Why are you running dear cousin?” he asked walking over to her.

Having been considered for one of the new princess’s ladies, Eleanor was one of the first to hear of the arrival of the ship in the harbor. Holding up a hand, she placed a small hand to her small frame to catch her breath.         

            “My lady, the Princess Arabella, she’s on her way here. Through the countryside they’re taking her so they won’t be mobbed by the people.” She explained finally heaving a great breath.

Grinning, he kissed her forehead before grabbing the flowers and running back inside. “Ladies! Your new mistress in on her way!” he announced.

Soon three other women appeared, all of them family or friends of family already married. He wanted her to know that he wasn’t going to try and set up single women for him to go after like his father had. Their marriage would be better than that. His older sister, Beatrice, would be one to keep her company. With her dark red hair and bright gray eyes, their love of books would keep them talking for hours. Julianna, daughter to his mother’s best friend, would be in charge of her wardrobe. Eleanor would be another lady-in-waiting; he was hoping their kindred souls would reach out to one another. Phillipa was his father’s oldest advisor’s granddaughter, and would attending to her as someone who could give advice, and who would help her with her studies. They would be the ones that were constantly there for her, alongside the Mistress Katherine to be her constant companions.

            “I chose all of you because I feel that you will all make good friends for Princess Arabella, I only hope I chose right,” he announced looking at all of them.

            “Don’t worry your highness; we’ve already fallen in love with her. You see, she wrote us letters thanking each of us for becoming one of her ladies a few months ago after you wrote to her and told her,” Julianna announced with a nod.

            “She’s charming brother, I see good things for you two,” Beatrice smiled and hugged him.

            “I hope you’re right,” he answered as he kept waiting for the announcement that she had arrived.

            It took almost four more hours before that announcement came. When it did he was going through making sure all of the preparations were in order. The news was brought to him by a grinning James who gave him a friendly smack on the back with the news.

            “Your waiting has paid off, she’s waiting out in the courtyard for you!” he announced as Ronan went running past him.

Taking the bouquet from Beatrice, he went over himself one more time before walking down the steps to greet her. Once he was at the bottom, they opened the carriage door, and he stopped breathing. The woman who exited the carriage was stunning. She wore a silver kirtle under a midnight blue gown, she wore his colors. Her hair was only half up, with the rest falling down around her exposed shoulders, and the smile she wore was soft and warm.

            “Your majesty I present to you, the Princess of France, Arabella,” someone announced as she fell into a curtsy.

            “It is an honor to see you again your highness,” she murmured her head bent down in respect.

Summoning the will to move, he strode towards her and raised her up from her curtsy. She noticed right away the boy that she knew was no longer there. Here was a man with strong features, a straight nose, the most beautiful silver eyes and the blackest of hair she’d seen; and she could only hope he didn’t hear her heart race in her throat.

            “Princess, I’m glad you made it safe! I brought you these,” he announced handing her the bouquet, tied with a purple ribbon.

            “These are my favorites…how did you know I liked them?” she asked, looking up at him.

            “A friend told me, if I knew what your favorite color was I would’ve had the ribbon be that color…” he answered, feeling bad for not finding out sooner.

Laughing, she threw her arms around him and grinned up at him, “But you got it right! I love purple!”

            “Well then there’s no more need to worry!” he announced leading her towards the castle.

            “Your hair’s grown longer since the last time I saw you,” Arabella commented, noticing it was tied back with a piece of leather.

            “Well, as I got older I thought I might try it out,” He explained offering her his arm.

Taking it, she smiled at him, “I like it; it’s something new for all of us to experience.”

            “I wish you’d tell my mother that, she can’t stand it,” he answered with a laugh as they walked into the palace.

Laughing with him, she leaned on his arm and followed him through the many hallways. “But that’s her just being a mother, of course she doesn’t want to see her precious boy looking like a man, but, I suppose I should prepare myself to meet the queen and king now.”

            “Aye, yes they’ll be waiting for us,” he nodded as she pulled away from him.

            “Until then,” she murmured and turned to follow her ladies to her quarters.

            She arrived on the west side of the palace and entered through warmly colored outer chambers into a beautifully decorated golden and purple chamber. The light oak furniture caught her eye while she wandered towards the window. Glancing down, she noticed that her window allowed her a view of the garden and it made her smile.

            “I had a view similar to this back in France…at the summer palace actually,” she murmured, her thin fingers resting against the glass.

            “It must have been lovely, your majesty,” Eleanor answered coming to stand behind her.

            “Majestic…beautiful yes…oh my, I’m sorry. I’m afraid I don’t know who you are exactly,” Arabella apologized, raising her hand to her throat.

Smiling, Eleanor motioned everyone forward to be introduced. “I’m Lady Eleanor, the king’s cousin. That is Beatrice, the king’s sister, over there is Julianna whose mother is the queen’s dearest friend, and Phillipa who is the oldest daughter to the king’s advisor.”

            “It’s an honor to be serving you, majesty,” Phillipa said curtsying to her.

            “It’s an honor to have you, but Beatrice; you are a princess of the country. You shouldn’t have to by my lady-in-waiting,” Arabella pointed out rather confused.

Beatrice nodded and shrugged her shoulders as she touched her braided bun. “I know, but honestly I’ve never had an interest in running this country, I don’t have the stomach to handle it actually.”

Nodding, she could understand where the older princess was coming from. “Well, I’m glad you’re here anyway.”

            “I’m sorry to break up the sweet greetings, but majesty we really should start getting you ready to meet his and her majesty,” Julianna pointed out, her bright blonde head bowed in respect.

            “Yes you’re right; I’ll follow you for now.” She answered in agreement as she followed her towards the wardrobe.

           

Ronan waited alongside his parents in the great hall for Arabella to make her appearance; they didn’t have to wait long though. Not a moment later she appeared to the sounds of fanfare and cheers as people crowded around to get a look at the new foreign princess. She had chosen a wine colored gown and gold jewelry that night. The dark red set off the green in her eyes, allowing the blue to become lighter. Her ladies had released her hair down from its restraints from earlier and it now hung in soft curls around her exposed shoulders, her newly modified French hood, now without the veil, stood as her sign of nobility and was encrusted with rubies and pearls. Everyone watched as she gracefully glided up towards the king and queen and fell to her knees in a curtsy.

            “Welcome Princess Arabella to Whitehall palace and England itself! We are pleased you have arrived here safely and are continuing to show your loyalty to your fiancé and your new country itself,” the king, Arthur, announced in his booming voice. His black hair cropped short as his bright green eyes joyfully looked upon her.

            “Yes my dear, we are indeed most happy to see that you are here with us safe and sound, and hope that your journey here was pleasant as well,” the queen, Emeline, agreed, her own auburn hair swept up into two soft buns at the nape of her neck while her warm gray eyes looked fondly on the girl

            “Your majesties provided only the best vessel to bring me here; I am deeply honored that you would provide such a magnificent ship to bring me to your great nation,” Arabella answered as she was raised to stand back on her feet.

            “Nothing is too good for our future queen of England my dear girl! Now let the festivities begin!” Arthur announced as the troubadours emerged from their corners and began to play on their lutes and fiddles.

Standing off to the side Arabella chose for the moment to stand back and watch the dancers out on the floor. She’d heard a bit of the music that would be played here, but it was so different from what she was used to that it made her heart ache. Lowering her eyes towards the floor she wished at that moment to be anywhere but there.

            “You should be dancing, enjoying yourself,” Ronan murmured coming to stand by her.

            “As should you majesty, I must still be tired from my journey,” she answered fidgeting with the ruby pendant that hung at the top of her bodice.

Looking at her skeptically, he gently took her hand and led her away from their and out into the gardens. “It’s okay to be homesick you know,” he said as if reading her mind.

            “That would be ungrateful of me though, your family has already shown me much kindness,” Arabella answered him softly walking towards the fountain.

            “They would understand though; you’ve been taken from somewhere familiar and brought somewhere new with only one familiar face.” Ronan soothed as he made his way towards her.

            “More than one I’m afraid. They sent that crapaud laid here as well,” answered she, her voice turning cold at the mention of the fool that had tried to call off the engagement. “That horrid Gustave Laroche is here as well.”

Ronan remembered the name and the man as well and was astonished that they would send him here as well. He supposed though that it would be so that they could keep an eye on him, so that if anything went amiss they would know who was behind it. Sighing, he gently took her shoulders and looked down into her eyes. “You mustn’t let him get to you like this ma cher, he only wins if you do.”

            “I don’t trust him Ronan, he feeds of the power of others to try and get ahead of all until it is he who is running the country through the king himself!” she exclaimed, her fury building towards the man.

            “Bella, I swear that I won’t let that happen. You have to trust me though, I’m not going to go back on a promise, and you know that,” he reminded her, pacifying her temper as she nodded and leaned her forehead on his chest.

Their moment however was short lived when none other than Gustave appeared from behind the bushes. His long nose protruding out from much too close together, dull brown eyes while thin mouse brown hair lay flat against his head. “My most respected majesty; you must not be seen so lovingly with your future wife.”

            “Did I say I wanted your advice Monsieur Laroche? I will show any amount of affection to her as I please,” Ronan snapped as he shielded Arabella from his gaze.

            “Aw, but my majesty it would not be seen as proper for such a young man to commit himself to just one woman yet! You should be out flirting with the other women as well!” Gustave commented, the princess had been his own match for himself, but the king had thrown his idea out and spat in his face at the very idea.

            “You will not speak in such a way with a lady present! I am much content with the princess’s company and you my good sir will leave us and the court immediately until you can learn to show some respect to my future wife!” Ronan yelled as he waved forward two guards to escort him out.

Hearing the commotion, Arthur hurried to his son’s side and witnessed the French man being dragged away yelling ugly names at them. “My son, what has happened here?!”

            “Your highness, that man was dishonoring the very presence of the princess! Insisting I needed to court other women and that being by her side was not appropriate for a man my age!” Ronan raged at his father as Arabella was attended to by Katherine and Beatrice.

Arthur was shocked for a moment, but had no room to talk. When he had been his son’s age he had courted many women on the side even while married. Even when Emeline had been pregnant he had continued on, but after his young five year old son asked why he didn’t love his mother, he soon realized his mistake and ended his ways. Sighing, he nodded and gave the signal for the guards to continue on with removing him. “I’m sorry you had to be witness to that Arabella, he will be removed from the country as a diplomat. Since his own country won’t welcome him, I shall send him to Scotland where my trusted men will keep an eye on him for us,” he announced before returning to his wife who waited in the light of the doors to explain what was going on.

            Ronan soon banished his anger and turned back to where Arabella stood cradled in the embrace of Katherine and soothing words of his sister. Smiling at her, he held his arms out to her, in an offering of comfort of his own. Knowing she had the choice to either accept his embrace or to hide from it, Arabella knew it would be her duty to accept it after the way he stood up for her. However, every fiber of her being screamed for it, and she rushed into his warm embrace.

            “I’m sorry, I’m so sorry that you had to witness that scene. I wish that you didn’t have to,” Ronan whispered to her as she buried her face in his neck. Soon noticing how well she fit there, with her being only as tall as his chin.

            “I’m not; you calmed my fears about whether or not you really do care for me. I’m just sorry that we didn’t have more time to just speak,” she answered taking in his scent that was both spiced with a hint of sandalwood.

            “We will though. Come riding with me tomorrow morning, we have much to learn about each other in the next two days before we are officially married. I wish to know my wife before I marry her,” He announced holding her at arm’s length.

            “Of course, your wish is mine,” she answered with a smirk as he tickled her sides.

            “None of this court speech nonsense! We are not strangers or in the public’s eye, here we are just us,” Ronan instructed as he ran his fingers through her silky hair.

Feeling his hand rest on her cheek, she raised her own to cover it and smiled. “Of course, bon nuit Ronan, sleep well.”

           

            As the pearly gray dawn began to show threw her sheer gold drapes, Arabella’s eyes opened and she soon realized that she wasn’t in her own quarters that she was so used to. Rolling over to face the window, tears escaped her eyes as she bit the corner of her pillow to hide her sob. She missed France. She missed her family, all the familiar faces that she had come to love so dearly. Wiping at her eyes, she soon recognized Katherine’s riding boot heels as she came to check on her.

            “Princess, why are you awake so early? I would think that you would still be asleep,” Katherine whispered, dropping the formality, her blue riding dress skirt draping to the floor.

            “I couldn’t sleep, each time I close my eyes I see home. Mama, papa, Louis, Elizabeth…all their faces appear to me,” Arabella wept as Katherine moved to sit on the side of the bed, “knowing I will never see them again…oh Kitty, I miss them so!”

            “I know; I know my little one. I miss home as well, but it will be alright, you’ll see. We still have each other; I’m not going anywhere anytime soon,” Katherine answered running her hand over the girl’s hair, “I promise that this will get easier, you will always miss them I’m afraid, but soon it will be easier to deal with.”

Love among the Stars ~Chapter One Part 2

Prince Ronan wondered what she would be like after these ten years of being apart. He himself had changed dramatically; it would only be natural for her to do that as well. Knowing today was the day she was boarding the ship to come to England, and to him, made him even more impatient to see her. Gazing at her portrait, he couldn’t help but marvel at her beauty. Her hair had gone from ringlets to soft curls, in the portrait though they were piled on the top of her head with only two small strands falling to frame her face. Intelligent turquoise eyes stuck out from her ivory skin, she was truly lovely.

            “Your majesty, we have news from France that the Princess Arabella’s ship has left the harbor and should be here in a couple of weeks.” A member of his father’s parliament, Lord Cromwell announced bowing to him.

Nodding in response, he hurried out to the courtyard and looked around for the French diplomats that were there still. Running into one of them, he motioned him over and began to walk with him.

            “I would like to speak with you about the princess.” Ronan announced as they walked through the fields just beyond the gardens.

            “Oui majesty, what can I tell you?” he asked, clasping his hands behind his back.

            “What is she like? Does she like to dance? What’s her favorite color, or her favorite flower?” he asked trying to piece it all together.

Smiling to himself, the old French man nodded and with a small laugh before turning to him again. “Her majesté is a gentle soul. She’s a great intellectual for her age, and enjoys learning from others. She loves to dance, with a good partner. Her favorite flowers are red roses and buttercups. Other than that, Mistress Katherine Bessette, the head of her ladies, will be able to tell you more once she arrives in a few days.”

As the old man walked away, he greeted his good friend James Addison as he ran over to him.

            “Your wife is on her way then? Are you excited?” James asked, his brown eyes grinning at him.

            “I’m nervous, I’m afraid I don’t know as much about her as I thought I did.” He answered rubbing the back of his head.

James nodded and smirked at his friend. “You’ve never been nervous about women before, what makes her so special then?”

            “Well you’ve seen her portrait, I mean; she’s not like the women here. She doesn’t flaunt herself to anyone. She carries this air of elegance about her, from her letters to her portrait.” Ronan answered thoughtfully.

            “Sounds like you’ve fallen in love with a portrait, and her handwriting.” James teased with a loud laugh.

Ronan shook his head at his friend and pushed him towards the tree before taking off back towards the castle.

            As the evening progressed, Ronan found himself in his bedchamber after dismissing all his valets for the night. Walking towards a small oak box, he lifted its lid and looked at the letters he had received from her over the years. Picking up the latest one from the box, he looked over it before walking back to his bed. Lying down on the bed, he opened the letter to the smell of lavender and rose and grinned as it wafted up towards him. Smiling gently he looked down at the words,

            My dearest majesty,

Even as I write this my women are preparing me for my voyage to England. I was just thinking about the last time you here, we were both nine; can you believe it’s been that long? I remember riding the horses along the sea shore, you sneaking me out of my studies, so many good times while you were here. I’m afraid this is going to be my last letter before I arrive there, and it’s going to have to be short. There’s a banquet that I must attend to, but I felt first that I should write to you. I’m so excited to see you, yet my heart grows heavy at the thought of leaving my family. I beg you don’t think ill of me for thinking as such, since you and your family will become mine; I worry of my youngest sister Elizabeth. You would love her; she’s very spirited for her age, sound familiar? I’m afraid I must leave you now, the hairdresser will be here soon and as we all know it’s going to take two hours there before I can even get dressed.

Your faithful servant,

Arabella

Sighing, he closed the letter and set it on his pillow. Getting under the blankets he gently touched it one more time before looking to the window. “Good night princess…”

            Arabella stood at the helm of the ship and gazed up at the sun. All she could see for miles was the dark water; she’d never been so bored in her life. She’d played cards with Katherine for a few hours before taking her leave for fresh air. Leaning over the rail she couldn’t help but let her thoughts catch up with her. Leaning into the sea spray, she was soon brought out of her reverie though by a gentle hand on her shoulder.

            “What are you thinking about?” Katherine asked coming to rest next to her.

Smiling down at her crossed hands she shook her head before lifting it to watch the dolphins jump along the ship. “A million things Kitty. I’m so excited to see him but at the same time I’m so nervous about it. But it’s not just that though. It’s the people there, what if they don’t accept me? What if they don’t want a foreign princess for their future queen?”

            “Then they need a history lesson. Some of our finest queens were taken from their home and brought somewhere. Eleanor of Aquitaine for example was from France and brought to England. You’re going to do fine.” Katherine told her gently.

            “You always know what to say Kitty; I suppose this is a normal feeling.” Arabella answered looking over at her. “I just wish that this ship would go faster so these nerves will finally go away!”

Laughing, Katherine nodded and leaned into her. “You and I both dear one, though for different reasons I’m guessing.”

            “Why’s that?” she asked.

            “Well…I honestly just don’t like the boat. It smells horrid.” Katherine answered shriveling up her nose at the smell of sweat and alcohol.

            “You do have a point there, but they’re good people. After all, they’re dealing with us until we get there.” Arabella pointed out with a nod.

Nodding, Katherine had to agree with a smile. “It’ll just be nice just to have my feet on dry land again.”

            “Me too Kitty, me too.”

"Love among the Stars" ~Chapter One, Part One

Chapter One

          Princess Arabella was never one to question the authority of her father the king of all France; she was the faithful middle child after all. The third to be precise, of the children her mother had. Her sister had been married off to Sweden while the oldest, her brother the prince, remained of course to learn how to govern their great nation. Now all that was left was herself and her very young sister.

She had been betrothed to Prince Ronan of the far off isle England for as long as she could remember. Oh they’d met a few times, they were young then and he would come to visit, and they wrote back and forth and had a steadfast friendship, but marriage was another matter entirely. Looking up from her book, she managed to put a smile on her face when her beloved governess Katherine entered her chamber.

            “Good afternoon Kitty.” Arabella greeted setting the book aside.

Making her curtsy, Katherine crossed the room and sat down next to her charge. “Good afternoon princess, whatever is the matter my dear? I would think that you would be excited to leave tomorrow.”

            “I am I’m just nervous I suppose. What if he doesn’t like me as a wife? What if I’m sent back here in disgrace? I can’t let my people; or my father down.” She asked, her fears spilling out.

 Gently running her hand over the girl’s chestnut brown hair she placed a gentle kiss to the top of her head and smiled at her. “Where’s all of this coming from? I’ve practically raised you myself, no offense to the queen of course, but I’ve never seen you this insecure about the match. He’s going to love you! Every man who sets his eyes on you falls in love with you!”

            “But what if he doesn’t…what if he turns to other women instead?” Arabella asked in a whisper, hiding her tears.

Katherine tilted the young girl’s head up and wiped the tears from her turquoise eyes. “He won’t, he’s a good boy. You shouldn’t worry like this, you’re only nineteen, and you two have the rest of your lives to fall in love.”

Nodding, she looked up at her governess and couldn’t help but smile. The woman’s black hair was pulled back in a hood, but her kind gray eyes had always soothed her. Taking her hands in her own, she rested her forehead against them.

            “I’m glad you’re coming with me Kitty, I don’t know what I’d do without you.” Arabella murmured standing.

            “My dear, it would kill me to see my own little one go on her own. Now, let’s get you ready for supper. You don’t want to be late after all.” Katherine announced walking towards the dressing chamber.

            King Francis loved all of his children, but Arabella had always stuck out to him. Even from a young age she was able to captivate all with her intelligence, and warm personality. She was the opposite of her mother, Isabel. Not that she didn’t like her children, he was just glad Katherine had come into his daughter’s life and was able to fill that void. Now she would be crossing the ocean to help settle the alliance he had drawn up. He didn’t particularly like her going so far, and her siblings hated the idea, but he knew that she would be the perfect match for the young prince. His decision was soon solidified when she was announced to dinner.

            Her kirtle was of the purest white silks while her gown showed her royal status by gleaming in the darkest of purples, which was her favorite color, while the bodice allowed for maiden modesty. Amethysts and pearls hung from her neck, and matched the pearls they stuck up in the twist of her hair. Making her deepest curtsy to her brother and father, she again bowed when her mother entered the room.

            “Good evening father, mother, brother.” Arabella greeted warmly as she took her seat.

Soon the doors burst open, and a flash of blonde hair was seen running towards her big sister.

“Bella!” the young girl cried throwing her green dressed self into her sister’s arms.

“There’s my Elizabeth! Have you been a good girl for Lady Eleanor?” Arabella asked holding the child in her lap.

“Yes sister! I tend to my studies when she tells me to, and then she lets me play outside when I’m done!” Elizabeth answered before hopping down and bowing to the rest of her family.

“I’m terribly sorry for that your majesties, she was just so excited to see the princess here…” Eleanor explained bowing her head.

“It’s no trouble Lady Eleanor! It’s good to see them show affection as they do!” Francis answered dismissing her.

Sneaking a wink to Elizabeth, she soon turned her attentions to her brother Louis and smiled at him. “So brother, is there any news on a betrothal yet for you?”

            “We try sister, but I’m afraid your big brother is just too handsome for the ladies of the world.” Louis teased going along with her game.

            “Dear brother, you will find a woman who worships the ground you walk upon. You deserve nothing less.” She answered sincerely as the first course was served.

            “As do you, Arabella.” He said, seriously.

Isabel watched the interaction among her children and wondered why she never felt that maternal swell. She supposed it was just because she’d never had that figure in her life, not that she didn’t love her children; the very opposite actually. She just never quite knew how to express it, and now with another of her daughters leaving, she would try her best to connect with her.

            “What are you studying right now, Arabella?” she asked gently.

            “Well, Master Girard has me studying Latin, Spanish, Greek, Italian, along with my English studies. He also has me studying astronomy, history, literature, politics, and philosophy.” She answered fiddling with her food.

            “The good master keeps you quite busy then.” Isabel murmured, not knowing quite what to say.

            “Yes, and then Lady Katherine and I like to go out walking with my other ladies, or I go riding with Louis if time and weather permit.” Arabella explained, trying to let her mother into her inner circle.

            “That’s very nice of them.” Answered Isabel shortly, ending their conversation. 

            After the supper banquet was over, Arabella found herself walking with her brother and sister through the gardens with their people behind them. She would desperately miss the company that her siblings had provided over the years. She still missed her older sister Gabrielle who had left for Sweden over four years ago now, though they wrote to each other as often as they could. The tug of her sister’s hand on her own was what finally brought her out of her thoughts though.

            “Bella, must you go away?” Elizabeth asked looking up at her.

Kneeling down to her height, Arabella looked at her sadly and nodded. “Oui ma petite, I must. I can’t disappoint our father, or our kingdom.”

            “But I don’t want you to! Who will play with me? Or tell me stories? Who will love me like you do?” Elizabeth cried throwing her arms around her sister’s slender neck.

            “You will have Louis here; he will take good care of you I promise. And I will write to you all the time, and when you’re old enough perhaps they will find you someone in England and we’ll be reunited.” She tried to sooth, tearing up herself at the prospect of leaving her behind.

            “Don’t worry Bess, if by then I can decide who you shall marry I will send you to England.” Louis reassured her gently bending down next to her.

Sobbing now, Elizabeth clung to Arabella as her nurse rushed forward to take her. When she shook her head no and picked her up, she led the entourage back to the nursery. Sitting down in one of the great chairs, she gently rocked the three year old back in forth in her arms, singing softly to her. Finally when the tears had stopped, Elizabeth looked up and tried to memorize every feature of her sister.

            “Bella, will you tell me a story?” she asked, tired from crying now.

Smiling down at her, she nodded and made herself comfortable. “Which shall it be tonight? Belle et la Bête again?”

            “No…tell the one where the star falls in love with the sailor.” Elizabeth answered with a yawn. Watching her smile down at her, she too tried to memorize the story as her young body fell into a deep sleep.

            Once her sister was asleep, she handed her to Eleanor before going to her brother for their own private goodbye. Knocking on the door to his outer chambers, she was greeted by him and motioned inside.

            “I wanted a chance to say good bye to you, since I can’t accompany you to your boat tomorrow.” Louis explained offering her a chair.

            “Thank you, I hoped that you would.” She answered politely.

Examining her, he walked towards the fireplace and couldn’t help but laugh to himself. “I remember, when we were younger, we promised each other we’d always be together, friends to the end.”

            “We took a solemn oath at the summer palace, by the pond.” She murmured with a smile.

Looking sadly upon her he nodded. “Indeed, looks like the oath couldn’t withstand politics though.”

            “No, but not very many things do.” She answered standing and walked to him. “It won’t kill my fondness of you though brother, you are still my future king and I hope our countries never have to see dark times while we are around.”

            “Know sister that if there is any friction towards England it’s towards your future husband and parliament, not you.” He announced kissing her forehead. “I guess then…this is good bye.”

            “Yes.” She whispered before giving him a deep curtsy and left the room.

It was just as she and her ladies had made it to her own chambers that her father caught up to them. Curtsying to him, he soon raised her up and smiled fondly at her. “Ladies, give us a moment if you would.”

Once her women had dispersed, he led her to her greeting chambers and sat in front of the fire and observed her for a moment before speaking.

            “When you were born, I knew you would do great things Arabella. I don’t know why I knew this, but something inside me told me this. Now, you are a talented woman of language, politics, and music. You will do France proud.” Francis announced proudly.

            “You do me great honor, majesty.” She murmured bowing her head. “I can only hope to shine light on what you have given me and make you proud.”

            “I have no doubt that you will. I have taken care to write to Ronan, to say what a jewel you are to me and your country. That you deserve the best treatment and that if I hear otherwise I will send some of my own people to fix this, in hopes that you will be most happy there.” He continued on rising to pace a bit.

            “I don’t deserve the kindness you have bestowed on me father, but I accept with the greatest gratitude.” Arabella answered, tears starting to burn in the back of her throat.

Walking to her, he raised her head up and wiped the tears away. “Never forget Arabella, you were born to do great things. I try not only to be your king, but your father as well and I hope that over the years I was able to separate those two enough.”

            “Of course majesty, no other man could have been greater.” The protocol answer rolled off her lips, and it made him sigh gently.

            “Before you leave, I ask you to address me not as your sovereign, but as your father.” He announced as she looked up.

            “I’m going to miss you papa, you, momma and my siblings will be in my prayers. I only hope you don’t forget me, and know that I always love you.” Arabella whispered, tears running down her cheeks.

            “We will never forget you, and we will miss you as you miss us. Je t'aime, ma petite renoncule.” He answered and left the room.

Soon feeling Katherine’s arms around her, she turned into them, and cried homesick tears into her neck.

It was dawn when Arabella was awoken from her slumber. Dressing in a light blue, she insisted her hair stay down in its loose curls for traveling. Watching her possessions leave ahead of her, she was grateful that it was still too early for many to be up, especially Elizabeth. Moving about her chambers one last time, she was surprised to find her mother awaiting her, unannounced.

            “Mother…I’m sorry I didn’t know you were here.” She stumbled as she fell into a curtsy.

            “I wanted to surprise you this morning. Arabella my sweet child, I haven’t been much of a mother to you over your past nineteen years. I never had a mother, or someone like Lady Katherine to show me what that kind of love was like. My biggest regret is not being more affectionate with all of you. Now that you’re leaving, I hope you will think fondly of me.” Isabel explained rising.

            “Of course, you are my queen and mother.” She answered bowing her head.

Isabel walked to her daughter and ran a hand through her hair and over her face. Swallowing the lump in her throat, she pulled her child to her and held her there for a moment. “Know that I have always loved you, Arabella. I don’t want us to leave this in a protocol state …please allow me to be a mother to you now, even though you leave.”

            “You always have been mama…” Arabella whispered as her mother pulled back.

Nodding, she knew that Katherine would always hold that place of honor in her heart; she gladly took whatever space she could for the love of her daughter. With one last kiss to her cheek, she hurried out of the room in a bustle of skirts.

            “My lady?” Katherine asked gently.

            “Yes Kitty, I’m sorry.” Arabella answered, trying to wipe the astonishment from her features.

            “They’re ready for us. The other ladies have been excused and send you luck on your voyage. Come, we don’t want to keep England waiting.” Katherine announced handing her, her cloak. Taking it, she pulled the black fabric around her and pulled the hood up over her face. Walking through the silent palace, she made her way out to where her carriage waited for her and stepped inside. With a reassuring smile from Katherine, she took one last look before they left for the boat, and it went out of site.

She was grateful that the harbor wasn’t far from the palace. Watching the country side role past her, she wondered solemnly if she would ever see her home again, knowing deep down that this would probably be the last time. Waving at the people as they passed them, Arabella was relieved when they finally reached the boat. Exiting the carriage, she grabbed Katherine’s arm for support as she boarded the ship and took one last look over her people. Waving to them all one last time she watched as the crew made ready and finally began to pull away from the harbor.