The Hunt is On, tag. Everyone at Court

He was the first to arrive and immediately set to prepare the day ahead. Henry loved to plan and set things in motion and even more so as he have not had a good hunt in a while. Granted, he was not always successful in achieving what he was set out to do... like with the whole Mary/Cromwell deal and damn them both! But nevertheless he loved tactics and logistics and what to do and not to do. So it was no surprise that he was the first to arrive so early in the morning and he was talking to his huntsman about the game they would be hunting on that day. The huntsman told him there were excellent deer all around the King's private forest outside Hampton and that it promised to be a very entertaining hunt.

Usually, the King liked to hunt with a close knit of friends, nothing too grand but on this occasion it was different. Everyone at Court was invited – which in a way, was not an invitation but rather a command – and hence he expected dozens of nobles, pages, servants, and huntsmen in attendance.

He was especially eager to see some of the ladies of the court. Now that his accursed marriage – and curse Cromwell for that! – with Lady Cleves was over, the King was in another sort of hunt. Of course, Parliament was pressuring to remarry, but the King wanted a little freedom before he set himself again with a new bride. Especially, he wanted to see Duchess Neville, her friend Lady Parr, that hell raiser Lady Howard and well, to be honest, all the other beautiful women of the Court.

Henry went to the servants who were preparing everything for the assembly. There was a table full of food and wine so the gathering would enjoy a good and hardy breakfast, some conversation and then be ready to go into the woods. He patted one of the hunting dog and served himself some wine as he supervised the proceedings.

His mind wandered to the celebratory feast and the events that transpired. It was a success, at least he thought so, with the exception of the French crashing the Ball and the problems that brought to the King. But he also enjoyed playing the game and enjoyed the look on Mary and Cromwell's faces when he announced their betrothal. That in itself was positively delicious. Say anything about Mary, but she had her father's temper. He loved her so much for that. Now, if she only stop being a nuisance and a stubborn mule like her mother was, it would be perfect. He thought as he walked alongside the forest.

The day was beautiful, an unusually clear spring day. He could smell in the air the starting of summer and he grinned. He loved nature. One of the few things few people knew about him. If he could have, he would have spend all his time outdoors. But alas, the burdens of the King did not allow him for those little pleasures... As he walked alone, his curiosity began to peak. He was very curious about the new additions to the Court. But mostly, he was really curious to see Mary and Cromwell in their first public apperance as a couple – damn them both again!

He saw the servants preparing the weapons for the hunt: bows and arrows, lances, and swords. As it was going to go down, the women would use spears and also play a part of spotters. They would spot for game and ride with the nobles to hunt it. The Ladies of the Court would also be part of it, following the lead. It was going to be grand.

The King sat down on the ground, cup in hand and reclined against a tree, not noticing the arrival of the first of his party...

A hunt. Not bad he had to admit but still something in his guts made him feel unease. Thomas felt like that since he knew his relation to the King was not as good as before since this marriage debacle with Anne of Cleves. Although it wasn't Thomas fault that Anne didn't look like the portrait that was painted, it was understandable that the King would blame him instead of his ambassadors or even Hans Holbein. Someone had to be the culprit and if not him who else? He could explain it that way: He was the one who brought Anne of Cleves in consideration and that's it and enough for the King to blame him. Oh it wasn't something new that he was the bogeyman who was to be blame for everything that happened, like once with the Pilgrimage of Grace - damn them! As if he wanted this to happen! They were just foolish and reasonless and didn't understand a tiny thing why those changes were necessary! But he had survived them; he had even survived that setback named Six Article and so he will survive even this crisis.

The only thing he had to watch now were his enemies who could easily use this new situation and tension between the King and his Chief Minister to destroy Thomas. And they would try it, that much was obvious to Thomas but nothing to worry about since Thomas trusted his Master that much and as long as Henry VIII considered him his minister and advisor nothing could harm him and no one could touch a hair of him.

He stood before the window and looked out in the blue sky of the world, waiting for his son to arrive. Yes, he has called for his son to accompany him to the hunt. Not just because Gregory was his son and with that was allowed to be there as well but because he needed him to maybe get him involved in some court affairs. Maybe - just maybe it will work and he got also a post at court from the King. Thomas had worked hard to give his son the needed education and it was never wrong to have members of your family in offices at court. However, he won't press the matter. Either it will work or it won't.

The door opened without knocking and Thomas, already knowing who it was, smiled before he turned around. Gregory. In time. It seems you finally learned it. He joked and embraced his son fatherly. Everything prepared and ready? He was referring to his falcons with whom his son and nephew, Richard would hunt today. Gregory nodded grinning. Of course, everything is ready - like you've wished it. Now, down to the hunting grounds? He asked curious and Thomas could see that his son has kept his youthful excitement although he was now a growing up man. Not yet... We have to pick Princess Mary up and accompany her to the hunt. Thomas had arranged his face as he told his son the news so even he could find any sign of a light smile. Then he patted his son's shoulder and both went out the room and walked down the corridor to fetch Mary.

After half an hour in which they waited for Mary to get ready and to get over with the court etiquette - and it was really hard for Thomas to keep his face in place or to not have a slip of his tongue - all three went to the hunting grounds were everything was already prepared. Large tables with all kind of food and drinks, the hunting dogs barking in excitement and a lot of servants and other persons. But for all of this they had time later, now they had to find the King in this mess to greet him properly. Thomas led Mary through the crowd and has offered her his arm while Gregory walked on the other side of his father. And finally Thomas' eyes spotted the King aside from the spectacle they found Henry reclined against a tree, a goblet in his hands. Good day for a hunt, Your Majesty. Thomas said and made an elegant bow before he raised again. You can remember my son, Gregory. He introduced him and Gregory also made a bow like a gentleman should do. Your Majesty. I am most delighted to be part of this superb event.



[[This post was meant for starting it for both my characters If I should have godmodded Mary in some way, Ash then please tell me. Should be anything else wrong or confused, tell me too. ]]

Jane couldn't express how pleased she was that her lady had been given her rightful title back. She was Princess Mary now as she ought to be. The Hunt planned for all those at court seemed...well Jane had never been a fan of such things as hunts. Jane loved animals most especially the beautiful spaniel she had been given by her father for her late birthday present. Jasper was a good companion to Jane and he was indeed an incredibly well behaved young dog. Jane adored her Jasper and she would take him for walks happily throughout the beautiful grounds.

Her dark hair was neatly arranged and Jane was perfectly ready as she assisted her lady with whatever she needed. But soon enough though, Jane was down at the hunting grounds , it was a beautiful spring day and the grounds looked beautiful. Jasper was up in her chamber, Jane didn't want to risk even the slightest chance that Jasper would get hit by even a stray arrow. So in her room Jasper would stay for now just in case something were to happen to him and Jane couldn't even bear the thought of something like that even remotely happening.

It was a good thing that Jane was much better at riding than she was say at dancing, she had been taught before she had come to court some time ago to serve her lady. Dancing and Jane did not mix terribly well, she tended to make people laugh whilst she danced since she did not have the aptitude for it like some of the ladies of court much to the chagrin of her stepmother the Lady Dorothy. At least things were progressing well in her pregnancy. God had willed it so, for Jane prayed nightly for the safe delivery for her stepmother and the unborn child she carried.

Henry almost didn't come to this hunting party. He knew that this event was really an excuse for Henry to show off Mary's engagement to Cromwell. Henry rather be tortured at the Tower of London than to show up to this event and act happy for Mary and Cromwell. It was a unsuitable match. How could Henry think that was a good match? Not only was there a big age difference, but there was the whole social status difference. Despite the King granting Cromwell an earldom to elevate him, it was not really enough for him to marry a princess. This was ridiculous. What was the king thinking? Perhaps he was going senile in his old age.

However, Henry's father reminded him how important it was for him to attend this party. Besides, it wasn't really a request than an order from the King to show up. Heny could only assume Henry did this so that he could get the approval of all the nobility of this marriage. He may have no choice but to attend this hunting party, but there was no way he was going to accept the union between Mary and Cromwell. The only person who would benefit from this match was Cromwell. Perhaps there was a hint of jealousy, but Henry was not about to admit to that. But, it wasn't jealousy of the new social elevation Cromwell would get that Henry was feeling. It was jealousy that Cromwell would be married to the lovely princess. Henry was a married man with children. He really shouldn't be thinking about the princess in that manner. He had his chance with Mary when his cousin Anne was married to the Kinjg. But, the match was never affirmed and Henry's father grew restless.

The duke of Norfolk eventually arranged Henry to marry Frances de Vere, the earl of Oxford's daughter. It was a politically and socially advantageous marriage. His wife was beautiful enough, and she was a good wife and mother. They have plenty of children, but he wasn't completely satisfied. Whenever he had the chance, he would actually be away from his wife. It wasn't that she was intolerable to be with, but he didn't want to be reminded of his duty to care for his wife. His father never cared for his mother, and would often have pulic affairs that would embarras her in public. If his own father treated his marriage in such a horrid condition, who was to say that Henry should have a more successful marriage.

Henry arrived and looked around for his father. He had expected the duke of Norfolk to be one of the first people here. Henry unmounted his horse and handed the reins to his horse to a groomsman. The banquet table was not too far away and Henry helped himself to some ale, cheese, and bread. After a few minutes, he spotted the king with Cromwell and Princess Mary. They didn't look like a handsome couple. They looked ill-matched. What was Henry thinking? Mary finally had the proper title of a princess returned to her. She probably had to agree to the match with Cromwell in order for her to get it back. That was the only way, Henry figured, Mary would agree to marry such a horrible man.

It was proper for Henry to greet the King and the princess, but he didn't want to do it with Cromwell around. It didn't really seem like he had a choice, though. With his best polite smile, Henry approached the King, Mary, and Cromwell and bowed deeply for his majesty. "Your highness," he greeted the King. "I must say, I'm very excited about the hunt today," he said. Of course, he lied about that bit. Henry enjoyed hunting as much as the other nobles, but he wasn't not as excited to be here as he was letting on. Then, he turned to the reason why he wasn't completely thrilled about this event and slightly lowered his head to greet the earl with an indifferent, "Cromwell." There really was no need for him to say anything more to the man. Well, there were a few choice words Henry would like to say in front of Cromwell, but he was pretty sure it wasn't a good idea to do that in front of the King.

Henry stood straight up again before he greeted the Princess. "Princess Mary," he said with a genuine smile. It was nice to greet her with her proper title. "I'm glad to see that you look well today. Will her majesty be joining with us on the hunt? I thought I remember of you talking fondly of the sport." Henry was able to get to know the princess better as he was growing up with the duke of Richmond. But, after Richmond's death, Mary being disowned, and Henry becoming busy with his own family, it had been a while since he had seen the princess. Even now, with the Princess back in society, he was only able to see her briefly and was not given the opportunity to know the princess as well as he did in their childhood.

Curse this horse! Was all that went inside Norfolk's head as he rode – or tried to! – towards the hunting grounds. The horse was not cooperating. Norfolk, in his youth, was the consummated rider, but for God's sake, he was an old man now! He should not be asked to ride, much less in a hunt when almost the whole thing was been on top of an accursed, unruly horse. The horse was behaving like Cromwell! Contrary, evil, heretic, and damn him! Stay still, you infernal beast! He shouted to the horse, but of course, the animal ignored him. It reminded Norfolk of been married. His wife always ignored his commands too!

Once again, Norfolk was not having a good day. He could not remember when was the last time he had a good day. Even the carefully planned dinner for Mary Tudor went to hell in a handbasket! Damn that Kathryn, she was more a liability than actual help! Then his daughter did not show up and his son Henry had a look of constipation the whole time they were at the table. Norfolk could not do everything himself! It was much to ask that his family help him a little? Apparently it was, and curse them all.

He managed to reach the first group of attendees. Oh God... Cromwell and that ugly son of him! But a lady of the Princess (yes, for him she was a Princess still!) Mary was there, as so was his boy Henry and of course his Majesty. To be honest, Norfolk was happy for this hunt. It has been a while, but he hoped he could convince his majesty to leave him behind with the food and beverage. Norfolk had no intention of riding that damn horse again! But on the other hand, that would leave the King alone with the others and who knew what they would say about Norfolk! What to do?

The good news were that Duke Neville, that bastard, was not going to be at the hunt. He was away and good riddance to bad rubbish. Oh how much he hated the philandering piece of manure! And his wife, that foreign whore, was not better. But Norfolk has to be civil with them, seeing they were allies... or something like that. That bastard rubbed Norfolk the wrong way and he prayed every night that the man suffered from the sweating sickness and drop dead!

He dismounted – painfully – and walked towards the group. Lady Dormer, always a pleasure. My boy Henry! Always gallant. Your Majesty, it is an honor to be before you. Lord Cromwell... eh... whatever. He said and grabbed a cup of wine as fast as you can say go!

Sir Francis Bryan got the invite well in advance and decided early on to join the crowd later than most. What better place could he gather information? He would take any venue to please his King… and to hell with all else. Of course, he would keep the Duke of Suffolk close as well…

The night before, he had met with his new pleasures of the evening, and as usual, spent the night rolling in her sheets and drinking until they both passed out from exhaustion and alcohol. And upon the cock’s crow, he left her wrapped in damp sheets and made his way back to his own quarters. Within the hours of mid-morn, he was ready to meet the day’s events… and luckily, was able to rid himself of the scents of alcohol and sex…

Though not unlike his usual attire, Francis arrived at the King's private forest rendezvous just outside Hampton, dressed in his hunting attire, his plumed hat and decorative chains… On one side of the saddle hung the new handgonne he had bought from the King’s arsenal… upon the other side was the personal crossbow he had made, of his own money. Easily loaded, and used bolts of hardwood and iron tips…

Sitting erect upon the tall gray horse, the rhythmic padding of the saddle as he rode up to the servants who held reins as the owners dismounted. Taking notice of those that had arrived before him, he sought the King… and simply smiled to those who looked upon him.

Walking slowly toward the King’s entourage, enjoying the scenery of nature and those of the women gathered to watch, he neared his King and bowed deeply, his hat removed and cradled to his chest… “My Gracious King… Allow thy humble servant to join the festivities of the hunt…” He would not move until his King and Master allowed his leave…

Fifty-six years old and Charles’ mind had him at only 25… yet his body ached as if he was over the centennial mark. He truly hated leaving Catherine so close to the time of giving birth, but what good would he be anyways… all he could do is stand outside the room listening to her scream.

Instead, he rode the big bay stallion out to the rendezvous point… his own entourage riding close behind him. As he rode into the clearing and around the bend in the road, he saw the extravagant Sir Francis, and found it difficult not to laugh. Ah yes, the man was always above all else in fashion, word, and deed…

As he rode to the horse-handlers, he halted the big bay stallion, and with a grunt, dismounted, his boots thudding into the dust. In his usual charming demeanor, he bowed to the ladies, smiling with near perfect teeth to the more beautiful ones, the young mind within desiring them… the older mind doing battle with the younger… As he walked past the men, whether he liked them or not, he smiled and bowed in respect… As he neared the King, a hand going to Francis’ back, making a silent welcome to both men…

Charles bows to his King… “Looks like a Grand Day, Your Majesty… clear skies seem to be the order of the day…” he chuckles… “I guess His Majesty is in concert with God Almighty regarding the weather…” he would chuckle when the King and Francis would…

His blue eyes caught sight of the beautiful Lady Mary… and not far away Cromwell… and he quickly looked back to the King. Soon the manly discussions of King and subjects would be interrupted by the yelping of eager hounds ready for the hunt… Charles looked at them then quickly back to the King… ”Fine set of hounds Your Majesty… May this hunt grant thee good tidings…” Once more blue eyes gave Henry silent blessings…

Mary frowned for a moment looking at her reflection in the mirror, and contemplating whether she really had made the right decision with this green velvet gown. The colour was very becoming on her, it was one of her two favourite colours, and honestly she loved the gown, she had it in both blue and green. However, she was having those doubts that she seemed to be having recently; would Thomas like her outfit? It wasn't like she had time to change now though. She still had to fix her hair, and get her hat on, and Thomas was already here waiting for in the antechamber. Sitting at her dressing table she allowed Susan to pull some of the locks of curls from the sides of her head to the back and clip them so they flowed freely down her back. The hat was more easily done, it sat simply on her head with one large hat pin holding it in place, though one of the feathers kept flopping into her face. Jane had to find one of Mary's emerald broaches to pin the pesky feather back in place with the rest, at least temporarily until it could be fixed properly.

All in all, she had left poor Thomas and his son waiting for half an hour. Mary was sure she had offered a million apologies after greeting them, even after Thomas assured her it was all right. Honestly, she felt quite embarrassed as she had hoped to make a good first impression on Gregory as she was going to be his step-mother. Oh, what a terrifying thought...step-mother, and he was in reality older than she was. He likely wouldn't care about her entering his family one way or another, and if she took a moment to stop and think, she would realize she had likely made her first impression long ago. Surely he had seen her at court many times and formulated a previous opinion. Yet, she was not thinking along that line so she started the day feeling rather defeated already. A defeated feeling that would only grow exponentially when she found out that Gregory and one of his cousins would be hunting with Thomas' falcons. Now her wedding present was ruined, completely, utterly, ruined! Not only did she have to find something new to give Thomas for their wedding, she had to figure out what to do with the two young falcons that were schedule to arrive the morning after their wedding at Canonbury Tower. By now it should have been no surprise, her best laid plans always got ruined one way or another. All she could do was pick up, and carry on.

With the help of one of the grooms, she mounted her mare--the one Thomas had given her a few Christmastides ago--choosing to ride in her typical manner, side saddle. Yes, it was dangerous to ride side saddle for a hunt if you were not ridding behind a man holding onto him, but Mary refused to ride like a man with both of her thighs straddling the great beast. She was a lady, and intended to present herself as such. Of course, she also intended to participate in the hunt in the same manner that a man would. She had no intention to play the part of spotter or use spears in a comical attempt to kill something. Her upper body strength was by no means great, and she always found she hadn't the ability to throw a spear with enough power, or even direction. Instead, Mary had brought her long bow, and an ample supply of arrows. She would have loved to have the goshawk her father had given her as a child join her on today's hunt, but the poor thing had died a few years back and she never had the heart to replace it. Too many memories she supposed, and not all of them good unfortunately. She would think on it no longer though for they had arrived and dismounted and she wasn't going to let sad thoughts overshadow her day. Surely something good could happen even if she wasn't able to be as close to Thomas as she would have liked.

Not surprisingly, they were among the first to arrive though more would come after. She dipped a small curtsy to her father, but she had nothing to say to him. Let him think she was bitter and he would have to work for forgiveness...again. The next to arrive after her ladies, was a face she recognized well, Henry her old childhood friend, and not long after his father. For a moment, the dinner she had joined them flashed in her mind, and quite frankly she didn't want to remember it. Mary had left that evening with the worst migraine imaginable, that damn Kathryn had never shut up! "Thank you your grace," she spoke softly to Henry Howard as his father made his way towards the group. "You remember correctly, and I am joining the hunt, with full intent to claim the greatest prize of the day." That sparkle in her eyes as she spoke was unmistakable, and why it was there was left to interpretation. As for her prize, she hadn't decided if it would be the kill she intend to make, or the man who's arm she currently hung on.

Lord Charles Brandon, Duke of Suffolk

Charles moved toward the King… and he bowed and spoke tidings of the day as he passed the Lady Mary… Before the King, Charles bowed to his Royal Majesty… and then looked behind the King to nod to Sir Bryan… the reins to Charles’ horse still in his hand. The big bay snorted and yanked his head knowing the hunt would soon start; but Charles had the strength to prevent being taking off balance by the yank…

“With thy Majesty’s permission, I shall stand there, by the Hunt Master… and upon the King’s nod, I shall start the Hunt… The Hunt Master will blow his horn, announcing the starting point where the dogs will be released. According to him, the biggest Bucks and large harts have roamed to the east of the Covington Ridge…”

Watching the King, he simply grit his teeth when Francis spoke in the Henry's ear...

Then the handsome and athletic man of 56 looked around the crowd… then back to his King… “Appears to be a grand day Your Majesty… I shall miss they skill upon the field…”

Sir Francis Bryan

Francis stood behind the King… and when the Duke of Suffolk approached, he returned the man’s bow, with a removal of his plumed hat and a bend at the waist. Francis’ own steed, a large grey stud, stood pawing at the ground behind him.

Without permission, Francis neared the King’s ear… “By your leave Your Majesty… time to bring home the finest buck… and the finest f…” he chuckled softly. “Well, you know what rhymes with that your Majesty…” and with a wicked laugh, he would finally leave the King’s side.