Empire of Dreams

*23*

Absolutely elated that the Dowager of Cleves had agreed to accompany me on this trip, I returned to the Greenwich palace. King Edward had allowed me to settle in Westenhanger for now so I ordered my maids to pack up my belongings. Sia laid out all the gowns she had designed for me to choose from.

I wanted to be presented in the most regal dress possible. So I chose an emerald gown with gold crows embroidered on it. I wanted people to be intimidated by me, to give me the respect I deserved and so that would be the first impression I made. For the lakeside ball I chose a dress of pale blue satin which had a dreamy look around it, completely contradicting my first dress. For the main ball I chose a pink velvet gown which looked royal and whimsical at the same time.

I wanted them to know what kind of queen I was going to become. I was one who would not tolerate wrongdoings and disrespect but would love deeply and bring out a dream-like England.

After approving the dresses to be made, I went to join my mother for breakfast.

"Tell me the news my dear" she smiled but I could see the paleness of her sickness.

"I'll tell you all the news, but first you must tell me, how are you?"

"I am fine, Jane. It was nothing too major. Kathyrn and Lady Libitina took good care of me. What you should care about is about Edward's health. It is declining everyday, though he does his best not to pretend so. To save England, you must step up dear"

"Mother, please. You know that the rightful heirs are Mary and Elizabeth. I would never even dare to take away what is their birthright. Don't you think they have suffered enough? They both lost their mothers and have always had their legitimacy questioned. How do you think that feels?!"

"It feels wretched of course, but I too have lost my mother, my dear. I know tough it is but think. You are the only one whose legitimacy hasn't yet been questioned. You are the one who has the power to make a new impression. Men are always amused with the new and you are new, my dear. Mary is full of thrist for revenge and Elizabeth's eage knows no bounds. You can be the middle ground. You can hold the golden crown"

"Can we just not discuss this, Mother? I feel like we would never reach an agreement so there is really no point. However, let me tell you the recent news. Archduke Conway has sent me a letter asking me to join him for festivities at his residence. He also allowed me to bring a guest"

"That is brilliant my dear! You have been amazing! I think you should take-" she was going to suggest when I interrupted her.

"I have already decided who will accompany me" I said and her excitement visibly dulled.

"Very well then, who is it?"

"Dowager Anne of Cleves"

"You.... actually made the right choice. My wisdom rubbed over you after all" she gave a satisfied smile and then left the room.

I sat alone on the dining table, turning around food on my plate and thoughts in my mind. I was then summoned to the king's office. I remained busy until late in the night. I had skipped dinner to work on various petitions and orders.

"You are very diligent and sincere" said Edward after returning from supper.

"Thank you, brother" I replied, keeping down the quill to look at him.

"I heard you want to move to Westenhanger for some time. May I ask why?"

"I want a break from the court. I wish to settle there before I am betrothed to anyone and enjoy its sprawling grounds and rustic rooms. I intend to take my mother and father with me."

"Betrothal? To whom"

"Archduke Leonard's nephew: Archduke Conway"

"So you're thinking about marrying Conway! That is not half bad! I mean, you can score more advantageous matches if you try, I am sure, but marrying an Archduke is almost acceptable for your position. But I have some concerns which I want to share with you" he looked glum as he said this.

"What are your concerns? I am sure I can amend my plans if they displease you"

"I know you will never do anything to displease me Jane, but what I'm talking about right now is not displeasure. Mary and Elizabeth have both joined court again. They are gaining allies and influence as my health deteriorates. If Mary becomes the Queen, she would turn back the whole reformation wasting all of my efforts. If Elizabeth becomes the Queen her reign will be challenged by Mary of Scots, our cousin who had always been waiting to take a go at her. I am to make sure our dynasty remains on the throne. You are a safe choice."

"Are you trying to-" I began to say but he ignored me, continuing,

"You have been in the line of succession since my father's times. He loved your grandmother deeply and then he centred his adoration on your mother. You too were always precious to him. You are wise but not scheming. You are strong but not revengeful. You are kind but not naive. I want you to be the Queen of England after me. You shall be the first Queen. I will try to arrange your coronation before something happens to me but in case fate doesn't comply, you will still become the queen.

Now if you are to reign, you will need proper preparation. You will need to gain friends and supporters both inside the court and outside. Build up your image, engage more. That is why I am hesitant to let you go to Westenhanger now.  I am satisfied with your betrothal though. Archduke Conway has maintained a low profile but I am sure he will become a proper regent in time. Tell me of your plans now"

I suddenly had a lot to think about. While I had been preparing how to speak and walk, now I had to think about becoming a queen. All those times people had told me I would become a queen flashed through my mind. I had taken them lightly at the moment but if Edward got what he wanted, I would soon be the Queen.

I was dealing with a lot of lives now. If chose to join hands with Edward, that would mean taking away what was rightfully Mary and Elizabeth's. But I knew in my heart that I would be the Queen England needed. I could give the people both peace and pride. I could rule England.