#rafesadler

"Ser Sadler," a messenger whispered as he came through the door,

Rafe turned away from the king, who made a noise in protest but quickly lost interest, Rafe turning his attention to the messenger. "Yes?"

"There is a -"

But the king interrupted, "Speak up, damnned man!"

"... Your... Your wife is here to see you, ser Sadler"

Rafe barely contained his smile at the mention of his sweet wife,

"Ah, right, of course, she is." Rafe nodded. Every evening, just as the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a warm golden glow across the cobblestone pathways, Y/n would arrive ready to stroll home together. These moments felt like stolen treasures to him. On the nights when duty called and he had to send her away with a reluctant goodbye, he felt a profound ache in his heart, as though a piece of him was missing. "Thank you," he nodded to the messenger, who scurried away. "May I be excused?"

"...no," Henry said,

"No?" Rafe said, slightly caught off guard,

"Bring her here. Been too long since I saw that young rabbit of yours."

Rafe could feel his cheeks going slightly red at the king's teasing, he gave a small nod before replying, "Of course, your Majesty.” He bowed slightly before he headed out of the suite and found them waiting outside in the small hall for him.

Y/n stood in her usual green dress, so often wearing it when she came to court to match with Rafe's own flavoured doublet. Her bump was swollen and plump, ready to pop any day now. On her hip, their youngest son, Mark. Behind her dress, their son William, daughters Rose and Daisy stood playing with their adorable little dresses, and the two eldest boys Thomas and Henry running around playing,

Rafe had to swallow a laugh when he saw his hoard of children. He approached, quickly ruffling the hair of his sons before lifting up Mark into his arms.

The little toddler squealed and grabbed at Raffe's hair and clothes.

"How long have you been waiting?" Rafe asked as he stepped closer, his fingers gently touching Y/n's belly,

"Not too long." She smiled, stroking her bump too and petting young William’s hair as the boy was too shy to come out from behind her,

"How are you feeling?" He asked,

"I am well." She smiled, "Can you come home?"

Rafe gave a sigh, "Not yet, my sweet," he responded, moving his hand from the bump and resting it on Thomas's shoulder instead. "The king wants to see you all"

"Us? Why?" She asked,

"I'm guessing he just wants to see the children, he hasn't seen them in a while."

Y/n nodded and quickly organized the children, fixing their clothes and hair before she nodded and allowed Rafe to usher them towards the suite.

Rafe let one hand rest on the small of his lover's back, keeping them all together. William was once again hiding behind his mother, Mark was chewing on Rafe's fingers, the little girls were walking alongside Y/n, and the two eldest boys were making sure to stand tall and proper. As they approached the king, Rafe could see the king smiling already, enjoying the chaos

The king saw them, and for a brief moment, life returned to him. "My god... I swear the last time I saw you not pregnant Y/n, was your damned wedding!" Helaughed, "My, my you’ve been... Productive Sadler." The king laughed, a small twinge of jealousy in his tone, given his many failures to have a son and heir.

Rafe felt a little surge of pride at the king's words, he gave a small smirk. "Very productive, your Majesty. I am very lucky indeed," He said, his hand rubbing lightly on Y/n's back.

"Enlighten me, their names?" he asked.

Rafe nodded, looking to the children, who were all suddenly shy under the king's gaze. "This is our youngest, Mark," He said, nodding to the little boy in his arms, "And this is William. The girls are Rose and Daisy.” He smiled, patting each one’s head as he said their names, "And our eldest, Thomas, and Henry."

"AHh! A good names! A strong names!" The king laughed at how Rafe's second child was named after the king, mostly because... For the politics of court, he has to be. And of course, that did help bury the lead on their eldest being named after Thomas Cromwell, as politicly naming your child after an executed traitor… is not the best idea. "And the babe? A name yet, or shall you wait till the birth?"

"We're waiting till the birth to name them, your Majesty, though we have a few options in mind already."

"Midwife says it shall be a girl. Your grace." Y/n spoke up,

"Good, good, fantastic! More beautiful rabbits to add to the burrow. May I?" he asked, offering his arms to wake young mark,

Rafe glanced to Y/n, and she softly smiled and nodded, "Of course, your Majesty.” he gently handed Mark over and allowed Henry to give the young boy a cuddle.

“Marvelous… utterly Marvelous.” He smiled, “All of you, come.” He called,

Y/n gently ushered the children to the rug at the foot of the king’s chair,

That night, Henry radiated more vitality than he had in months, animatedly regaling the children with tales that painted whimsical worlds and jokes that elicited peals of laughter from the gathered group. Hours slipped by like fleeting moments, and as the time came for the children to leave, Y/n gently took the toddler and cradled Mark in her arms as he had long succumbed to the soft embrace of sleep, his head resting snugly against her shoulder.

William, a mere shadow of his usual shyness, offered the king a timid wave, his cheeks pink with bashfulness. The girls, bursting with affection, wrapped their arms around Henry in large, heartfelt hugs, their laughter intertwining with his gleeful chuckles. His eyes sparked with delight as he returned their embraces, cherishing the warmth these small gestures brought.

When his attention finally turned to Thomas and Henry, the atmosphere shifted to one of sincerity. He took his time, kneeling to meet their gazes, warmly bidding each boy goodbye. With a reassuring smile, he promised them that once they were older, their adventures would be welcomed at his grand court. Each boy received a firm handshake, a symbol of mutual respect, followed by a gentle pat on their tousled blonde heads, a gesture that seemed to bestow a bit of royal bravery upon them.

As the children were ushered out, their laughter faded into the halls, Henry turned to Y/n. He lifted her hand to his lips, planting a soft kiss on her palm, his gaze filled with warmth and hope as he wished her luck for the babe yet to come, an unspoken promise of his support.

Finally, after so many days of sitting in contemplation, he mustered the strength to rise from his chair. He approached Rafe, extending his arms for a farewell embrace, “Take care of them, treasure them,” he told him as he took his chair once more,

“I will, your Majesty.” He nodded, “... They are worth more to me than all else in this world.” he smiled, looking to the door where his family awaited him,

“Go on now, you shouldn’t be parted from them any longer.”

The moment the carriage came to a stop, the atmosphere exploded with excitement. A sudden rush of five chaotic children spilt out of the carriage, laughter echoing in the cold air as they tumbled onto the ground. With joyful squeals, they launched themselves toward Gregory and Elizabeth’s children, enveloping them in bursts of exuberant hugs and shouts of delight, their breath visible in the frosty air as they celebrated their reunion amid the enchanting backdrop of a snow-covered paradise.

“Alright, alright, calm yourselves.” Rafe Sadler chuckled warmly as he stepped down from the ornate carriage, attempting to wrangle the lively brood of children as he gestured for them to line up properly. He extended a hand to his wife, Y/n, assisting her carefully down from the carriage steps. With her baby bump swelling noticeably, it was clear that each movement required a bit more effort. In her arms, their youngest child, a cherubic little boy with tousled blonde curls, nestled close.

“Rafe, good to see you.” Gregory smiled as he threw his arms around him,

“It has been too long,” Rafe smiled, “Elizabeth, as beautiful as ever.” He greeted her, kissing her hand,

“A Pleasure as always,” she smiled back,

“Y/n! My goodness, you are so big… again,” Gregory smiled,

“I know,” Y/n laughed softly, “Midwife says it’s another set of twins.”

“Oh my-” Elizabeth gasped,

“Busy as usual,” Gregory laughed,

“You know I like to keep myself busy,” Rafe smirked a little, “How have you been, Gregory?”

“Well, as we can be.” He nodded, “Yourselves?”

“Being careful, of course,” Rafe chuckled, putting his arm around Y/n.

“Come along then, everyone, we have roast goose and a warm fire.” Gregory enthusiastically smiled,

The children all cheered and ran inside the house excitedly.

As the snow flurries thickened, the sky deepened into a charcoal grey. Shadows danced across the wooden walls, flickering from the fire that crackled energetically in the stone hearth, sending warmth surging through the air. The inviting scent of chestnuts roasting mingled with the aroma of savoury meats arranged on the table, where remnants of the feast lay.

Gregory and Rafe’s children sprawled contentedly on the plush, woven rug by the fire, their bellies round and satisfied after a long day filled with laughter and adventure. Little faces were softened in sleep, some clutching cherished wooden toys and others nestled into cosy blankets. In a nearby chair, Elizabeth had dozed off, her delicate fingers still holding her embroidery hoop, colourful threads draped lazily across her lap.

Y/n, likewise lulled into slumber, rested her head gently against Rafe's shoulder, her hands cradling her bump protectively.

Across the room, Gregory lifted a bottle of rich, spiced mulled wine. Rafe nodded appreciatively, and Gregory poured two generous glasses, the deep crimson liquid shimmering in the firelight.

With care, Rafe shifted, placing a soft pillow under Y/n’s head, before scooping up their youngest child to rest on his hip, feeling the small body relax against him and staving off the impending whines and gentle tears he sensed were brewing. The two men clinked their glasses together, sharing a moment of camaraderie as the warmth of the wine seeped into their bones, drawing them deeper into the comforting embrace of winter’s twilight.

“Another year.” Gregory sighed,

“Hardly seems real…” Rafe nodded,

“I suppose it becomes easy for you; you can just count your children.” Gregory joked,

Rafe laughed, “I suppose so,”

“…times like this, I miss him,”

“I know, I do too.”

“He’d have made such a fuss of them,”

“They’d have been spoilt beyond measure.”

“We all would be; the feasts would take a whole village.”

“If not more.”

“He’d be proud of you… I know that,”

Rafe smiled and set a hand on Gregory’s shoulder, “Second only to how proud he’d be of you.”

“…I feel he’s around this time of year, something about the candle flicker on a midwinter night.”

“I do too, at least we’ll always have the memories of him, of those days… and of these days together,”

“How so? What has his majesty asked from you now?”

Cromwell stood to pace. "I don't suppose you'd know her… You were only a young boy in my service at the time. But does the lady Y/n of Folking mean anything to you?"

He thought hard, but nothing came to his mind, “No, my lord. Who was Lady Y/n of Folking?”

"One of… The king's many bastards."

Rafe cringed. “I suppose a bastard child, especially an unacknowledged one, wouldn’t get much recognition,” he murmured under his breath.

"She's been forwarded an allowance, as the king has for many of his bastards. But… What he asks of me now."

“What does he ask, my lord?”

"He claims a dream. That takes him nightly. Says he sees Queen Anne beside Lady Y/n, says she curses him through her." Cromwell explained, "his majesty the King is convinced his bastard daughter is a witch."

Rafe's eyes widened, “He thinks his bastard daughter is a… is doing witchcraft against him?”

"He thinks the departed former Queen Anne Boleyn has found kinship with her, beyond this mortal veil. He believes that Anne speaks through Y/n, as the lord speaks through the pope. He is convinced she is wed to satanic powers, to end his line and his throne. Believes she is the reason for Queen Jane's death,"

“How… how does a dream lead him to that conclusion?!”

"Even I cannot answer that.”

“He … he wants this woman killed, doesn't he?” Rafe said nervously.

"Not yet… He wants us to bring her to the capital. Without fanfare. He wants her not dragged in chains but brought willingly; he fears a hex if she were to be taken prisoner. So he demands we go to her, convince her to come of her own free will. And when here he shall…"

“And he is to do what to her when she is here?”

"Give her… A fair and just trial." Cromwell sighed, but they both knew what that meant, having sat at the trials of Walsy, Queen Katherine and Thomas Moore. It would be a show, an act. That would end in her death regardless of the facts.

Rafe nodded. He'd seen more executions than he cared to admit. “And who has he chosen for this… delicate task?”

Cromwell sighed and looked only at Rafe as his answer,

His eyes went wide. “he… he wants me to do it?”

"You are her age. You are in the king's direct service. The king believes that if you go to her, she will not fear you, she will not suspect the horror that awaits her."

“I …. I'll do it.” Rafe sighed, knowing he didn’t have much choice anyway.

Cromwell nodded grimly, handing over the paperwork of the little information they had of her, "Then Godspeed, lord Sadler. And may he have mercy on us for what we do."

Rafe nodded his farewell. He went and gathered all he could and took only enough supplies for the journey, no carts, no carriages, no royal guards. He knew that to truly ensure she would come, he had to go alone.

It was a long ride, but it gave him time to think it all over. He understood how such dreams could make the king fearful of Y/n and knew this was the best approach. Not to scare the lamb, as to not risk spoiling the meat, but still… He didn't like it.

He'd be at her village by morning, but stopped at an inn nearby for the night. It was only a short walk from the inn over to the Cathedral, where Queen Katherine of Aragon had been laid to rest. He felt he had to pay his respects to the woman, still feeling guilty for the part he played in removing her from her title as queen. Rafe stepped through the doors of the quiet cathedral, his head bowed as he made his way over to Katherine's tomb. The place was pretty much empty, but for himself, he was the only living soul in the cold building; the only sign of life was from the flickering candles, which fought against the dark that threatened to creep in.

"I know why you're here." A voice began to speak.

Rafe was caught off guard; he froze for a moment, almost convinced Queen Katherine’s ghost was speaking to him. As he looked up, he saw a figure behind him, clad in a thick black velvet cloak. Unsure if they were man or spirit. “I… uh…” he said, stumbling over his words. “Yes… Yes, I was…I was paying my respects.”

"Does it still burn you, knowing you helped your master to lead her to her grave?"

He straightened up slightly. “Yes… Yes, it does,” he admitted softly

"Humm…" The figure moved closer, almost silent steps and an ethereal way of moving, "Katherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour… And all those in their realms. How much blood coats your hands, lord Sadler?"

Rafe bristled, his jaw tensed. “More blood than I like to admit, “ he said sharply, his nerves on edge.

"And you wish to add my own." She said, slowly lowering her hood, revealing the features he knew to look for in Y/n of Folking.

Rafe looked at her, taking in the woman he'd been sent to retrieve… who he was meant to bring to her almost certain death. And yet, she was… pretty. But not in a delicate way. She was fierce, with a sharpness to her voice and a fire in her eyes. “…Yes,” he admitted,

"Do you wish to? Or are you doing it merely because your master says so?"

“What difference does it make?” he said, feeling a little defensive,

"It tells me if you are a man, or simply a dog fetching as his master commands."

“You do not have the luxury to disrespect the king,” he argued back.

"Don't I?" She asked, stepping closer. "Why? What shall happen? Will he hear me? All the way to Hampton Court? Will the lord strike me down for such words against the king?"

Rafe scoffed, “Don't tempt fate, my lady,” he said coldly. “The lord may not hear you, but his dogs do,” he murmured

She chuckled. "Then you best run along back to him, so he can hear your barking." She said, turning to walk away. "Or, you can make your mind up for yourself? But that's a choice I can't make for you. I can only offer tea, however."

Rafe froze for a moment, torn between duty and this strange, fiery woman. “I'll take the tea,” he said.

She chuckled, leading him from the cathedral. She mounted a horse as black as night and offered for him to follow her.

Rafe climbed up onto his own horse and followed the lady Y/n's lead.

She led him away from the more populated town out into the country, surrounded by vast fields. Truly, this was miles from court; the people here would live their whole lives never even seeing their king. She climbed down once reaching a little thatched cottage beside a river, a garden full of beautiful blooms, and smoke rising from the chimney. As she opened the gate, a black cat came to meet her dress, which she scooped up in her arms. "Yes, yes, I'm here, sweet boy."

Rafe's eyes widened at the cottage, it was small and cosy. He already felt more at ease, he dismounted from his own horse. “This is… this is where you live?”

"I suppose you expected a hallowed tree?"

Rafe chuckled softly,

“I… I suppose so. I assumed you were an unholy sort of witch that lived in the forest.”

Y/n chuckled and led Rafe inside, setting her cat on the counter. The place was equally as beautiful, cosy and warm with a fire burning, almost everything was wooden, most hand-carved. Herbs, flowers and mason jars littered the place with a beautiful lavender scent coming from a pot on the stove.

Rafe followed her, completely taken aback by the cosy, floral little cottage he now found himself in. He almost felt compelled to take off his shoes, worried he was dirtying the place. He couldn't help admiring the cottage, or the woman he'd been sent to bring back. He had expected a wicked witch in the forest, but this … this was just a woman, a sweet woman who lived with her cat in the middle of nowhere, no harm to court at all. “You…. you live here alone?” he asked,

"Me, myself and I." She nodded, removing her velvet cloak, revealing her blue dress, a very common sort of dress typical of those who weren't born noble. "And the cat, of course"

Rafe noticed the dress and again felt at odds. He was dressed finely in all his court clothing, while she was wearing something a common girl would wear. He couldn't help but notice her curves and the way the fabric clung to them. His cheeks took on a pink tint as he quickly averted his face, scolding himself internally.

She went to the stove, preparing tea for two in the teapot.

The black cat sat and glared at him with its big blue eyes.

“Does your cat usually stare at every guest you have?” he asked.

"If he thinks you're hiding something." She giggled, pouring the tea,

“This… this tea smells lovely,” he said, trying to change the subject,

"lavender and lemongrass, plucked the lavender buds this morning myself. Down by the river."

The pair sat awkwardly for a moment. Rafe was still on guard, and clearly, Y/n was as well, though he couldn't tell if that was due to the situation or just her being closed off by nature. Either way, the silence was a little too much for Rafe, so he tried again for conversation. “I've never known someone to have a garden and… live alone. How does the garden stay so well-maintained? You must have many hours of hard work on them.”

"You're stalling." She scoffed,

Rafe flinched slightly. It was true, of course, but he was shocked by her bluntness in calling him out on it. He was far too used to court, where every insult was wrapped in layers of pomp and proper language. “I'm… I'm not!” he blurted out. defensive

"Say the words you wish to say; you need not dance around the topic."

“Alright. Very well,” he straightened up, becoming stern. “His majesty, King Henry the Eighth has issued a summons for you to join him in Hampton. Under his orders, I am to escort you there…. by force if necessary.”

"Why?" She asked. "My father has given me no thought all these years, not a word, not so much as a written letter. And now he calls me to his court? Why?"

Rafe shifted uncomfortably, “…he believes you are a warlock. A daughter of Satan. He wishes to try you for witchcraft,” he said simply.

She scoffed and sipped her tea.

Rafe shifted awkwardly again. He hadn't been expecting her, so a cool response, “…That's all you have to say?”

"What is there to say?" She asked. "In his mind, he as made such a decree. No evidence, truth or falsehood would sway him. The king has called me a witch. But the laws of the land, I'm already dead."

“Why… why do you have no interest in saving yourself? Why no fear?” he asked.

"There is no point to it." She shrugged,

“…No point?” he sat back in disbelief, “You're going to be burnt at the stake, for crimes you never committed and have no plan to save yourself?”

She raised an eyebrow mid-sip. "Who says I never committed them?"

Rafe froze; that hadn't been what he was expecting her to say. “.. you admit you are a witch?” he asked slowly.

"I am a healer. Many in this world claim the work of medicine, of herbs and tonics are act of god. And when they can't explain something, they always turn to magic. Am I a witch? I like to think so, I find the name exciting. In reality, I mix sage into lotion and lavender in my tea, helping those who would never even know a court physician."

Rafe relaxed slightly, “You don't… don't use satanic powers to heal others?” he asked, feeling silly even saying the words.

"If I had satanic powers? Don't you think I'd been queen by now?" She smirked,

“Then what makes the king believe you to be of demonic means?” he asked.

"Aged madness. Misunderstanding. Guilt over the crimes he has committed. He needed to blame someone else for his chaos. Who's to say?" She shrugged

“Aren't you… I don't know. Scared? At all?” he asked, his tone a little sharp.

She shrugged again. "If the king wants me dead, little I can do about it. Outside of simply putting on a different dress, moving to a new cottage and going by a new name." She half-joked.

Rafe bristled again. He couldn't help finding her relaxed and smug attitude about this infuriating. “I cannot believe you can be so… so….nonchalant with this.” He scoffed. “You could die, and you don't seem like you even care!”

"Why stress over what I can't control?"

Rafe sighed, “Because it's your life at stake! You might be burnt to death in the weeks to come!!”

"Whether or not I burn is not a decision of mine. The king has made up his mind; we both know that already. A trial is merely a sham to amuse his childish whims for a week; my fate is already decided. Why would I waste what precious time I may have stressing and crying over something I cannot fight, I cannot run from? No… I will spend my time enjoying my tea, my flowers, and my cat. Until I am dragged from this world."

Rafe stared at her, still a little shocked by her relaxed and nonchalant attitude, but her words… they made sense. There was nothing she could do; it was out of her hands. He found himself feeling …. sorry for her. “I suppose you're right,” he murmured, sipping his tea.

"You could just go home. Tell the king you couldn't find me. But I suppose that's up to you, whether you can handle my blood in your hands in addition to all the others you have."

He stared into his tea, his jaw set. her words…. they cut deep. He felt guilty just sitting in her home. But… he had orders. From the king. orders he could not disobey. “I cannot do that.” He said with an unsteady tone.

"Why?"

Rafe looked at her, meeting her eyes. “Because I have an order. And as much as I agree with you that it is a foolish order, I have sworn an oath to obey, and I shall do.” He shifted uncomfortably in his chair. “So I am sorry. But I cannot disobey the king.”

She sighed. "Very well, I'll leave in the morning."

Rafe perked up slightly, “You will? Just like that?” he asked in disbelief.

“No point fighting it,” she shrugged, “You’re welcome to stay the night, or return to the Inn. It matters not to me,” She said, picking up her cat and heading towards her bedroom,

“I uh thank you,” He nodded,

“Goodnight, Master Sadler,”

“Goodnight, Lady Y/n.”

The morning was grey and grim, and both Y/n and Rafe were silent. Their horses were bound together with a rope, so she could not ride off elsewhere without him, but she didn’t try. In fact, she didn’t even try to lead her own horse. Instead, she merely sat on her horse and held her cat in her arms.

The further the rode, the more uneasy Rafe felt about all this. She wasn’t some hellish woman out to cause the king pain, she was just a young woman trying to help people. She had no want for the crown, she just wanted to sit at home with her cat.

He could let her go… the king would never know. He could claim be couldn’t find her, claim he had to kill her when she resisted, claim she ran away on the journey. No one would ever know.

How many people would die… if she died. The blood on his hands would not just be her own, but… all the people in her village, all those she travelled to help. How many lives would she save if she lived, lives that would die if her own life ended here.

Rafe perked up a little, unable to help freezing up. As he heard Y/n singing softly, to comfort her beloved cat. He couldn’t help but listen and find his heart aching.

And finally he snapped, and made up his mind.

Rafe stopped their horses and ebgan untieing them,

“What are you doing?” She asked,

“Go.”

“Humm?” she asked clearly confused, moving her horse closer,

“I said, go. Go home Y/n,” he told her, “I have enough blood on my hands, go home. I’ll deal with things.”

“You’re sure?”

“I’m sure.”

She smiled and leant over to give him a kiss, “You’re always welcome to come visit Rafe,”

“Thank you,” He blushed, “I uhh I might,”

Rafe said his goodbyes the day before and now couldn't bring himself to attend the execution. Instead he hauled himself up in his offices where no one would see him.

And he wept.

He leant against the window and wept.

Rafe never cried. But today… He did.

He cried against the cold glass and felt like he was drowning in his own sorrows and in the endless tears he had no hope to conceal. He knew he shouldn't be like this.

After all he was a man. An important man, one with standing and a future. But no, he could not. Rafe could not even imagine a life without his master, he never imagined he would need to know such a thing. But now it was all true and he felt so heavy with the weight of all the world he was left with and it’s cripplingly empty silence.

But a single voice broke through this sadness, "… Ooh… Rafe.."

When Rafe looked up, his vision fuzzy with his tears, Rafe saw his wife.

Y/n lingered at the door, her eyes red from the tears of her own that she held back, she did not come closer, unsure if Rafe would send her away to be alone.

Rafe tried to wipe the tears from his face, tried to compose himself for her but he couldn't, he could not pretend, not with her. He nodded softly to allow her inside his office.

She shut the door behind her and slowly closed the gap between them, she sniffled back a tear and offered her embrace.

Without hesitation he fell into her, his face against her shoulder as he continued to cry, his arms wrapped around her as tightly as they could and he held onto her like she was the only thing kept him on this earth.

"I'm so sorry my love…" She cooed as her hand came to rub his back,

In his heart a part of him knew he should pull away, he should compose himself and he should act like the man he knows he is… but the greater part of himself desperately needed her, needed the comfort she was. He continued to cry but the sobs that wracked his body slowly quieted. His tears had slowed, and he now just held her, rested his weight against her and listened to her heart beat and her tender words.

"It is not your fault, my love. You did everything you could. I don't even think god himself could have prevented this." She cooed, her hand came up to remove his hat to stroke his blonde hair, "You know, more so then I, that the lords have plotted Cromwell's fall since the day he entered court. We should be thankful he rose as high for as long as he did."

"I could have done more. I should have done more," he said, his voice was quiet and rough,

"You did everything you could. You followed your master's orders. You know if you had done all you desire you'd have kicked the great lords from the hall and slapped the king into sense. And you'd be losing your head too for the pleasure of it." She explained, "Cromwell told you to hold back because you must, because he couldn't bear to lose you, or Richard or Gregory. He knows and I have no doubt is comforted, that he has saved you and the lives he had built for you all,"

He took another breath before he leant back from her and looked into her eyes, they still made his heart skip a beat at the sight of them. He reached with his hands and gently cupped her face, his thumb rubbing against her soft skin. "You are probably right…" he admitted, "I just… I just wish…"

"I know, I know. And whatever you need, I will be here my love. If you need me. Need time alone. Time to cry. Whatever it is you need to mourn I will support it.”

Rafe wrapped his arms around her tightly once more, held her body against his, "Can you just hold me… for now?" he said, he was almost embarrassed by the request. He was a grown man asking his wife to hold him like a child, but he needed it more than he could put into words.

"Of course, my love." She cooed, "Shall I lock the door? In case the children come?"

"Yes…" he said softly, "Please lock the door. I don't want the… I don't want the children to see me like this."

Y/n nodded and pressed a tender kiss to Rafes forehead before she went and locked the door. She slowly returned and took his hand, she led him to the fire to his favourite chair. And she sat herself on his knee as she always had when they were first courting.

For a moment he just wrapped her in his arms, he reveled in the familiar feeling of having her on his thigh like they always had. But instead of the joy and excitement he used to feel, now he felt the comfort of her presence. He buried his face in her hair, breathing in the flowery scent of it, feeling the softness against his skin and knowing that it helped soothe his rattled mind.

"Do you want to talk, or just to sit?"

"Just sit for now…" he said quietly, "Can… can I ask something of you….?"

Y/n nodded softly,

He let out a small breath of nerves, he felt almost stupid asking her this. But still, the request escaped his lips in a low voice. "please… don't let go. don't let go of me… just hold me."

"I promise. I won't let go." Y/n reassured,

Rafe closed his eyes and buried his head deeper against her neck, he held her as tight as he could, as if letting her go would be equivalent to letting her fall. He desperately needed her to ground him. He simply sat there for what felt like hours, though in reality it couldn't have been more than a few minutes. With Y/n on his lap, her arms around him. He didn't say anything, just held her tight against his chest, feeling her against him and breathing in the scent of her. His face still buried in her hair, his eyes closed as he simply clung to her presence, trying to soothe his mind and make it stop thinking, if only for a little while.

Y/n sat without a word she held Rafe close, and ran her hands through his hair,

His fingers tracing slow and gentle patterns across her back as he listened to the sound of her breaths and felt the feel of her hair on his face. He finally found the strength to speak after a while, his voice low and quiet but a little more firm than it had been before. "Can I ask you… a foolish question…?"

"Of course, you can ask me anything about my love."

He was quiet for another moment, "Do… Do you think… I am foolish? For how I feel? Do you hate me… for all this."

"Of course I don't think that." She said, "Why would I hate you? Rafe you where his ward your whole life. He introduced the two of us. Without him you’d never have come and asked to dance with me. He was there the day our children were born. He's like a father to you, why would I ever be angry at you for grieving such a loss?"

Rafe let his eyes close tight again as he listened to her words, he could hear the love in her voice, he let out a shaky breath as his hands once again began to trace slow patterns against her back. "I just… I just didn't want you to think I cared more about him than you and the family…"

"Of course I don't think that. I know you love me. And I know you adore our children. It's alright for you to have such care and love for the man who raised you too." She nodded,

He felt a wave of overwhelming gratitude at her kind and understanding words. He knew he didn't deserve her, he didn't deserve her love and gentle nature but still here she was, being the most perfect wife that he could ask for. "You are the most perfect wife in this entire world you know… I don't deserve you…"

"Of course you do, you deserve all the love and happiness in the world Rafe. That's why Cromwell asked you to step back, step away from all this madness. So you would not need risk this wonderful life and happiness you have."

He closed his eyes once again, he still had a deep sadness in his heart, a deep sorrow that the man who raised and loved him. But with Y/n there, with her in his arms and her words of comfort he felt like it would be okay, he felt like he could get through this without falling apart. "I don't know what I would do without you…"

"You never need know." She smiled kissing his forehead,

"please… never leave me…" the words slipped out of his lips before he could stop them, but he didn't care.

"I promise. Never." She cooed,

"I love you…"

"I love you too." She cooed,

Silence reigned once more, each giving the other a soft and gentle comfort after all that had happened,

"… Rafe? May I ask you to do something for me?"

He pulled his head back enough to look in to her eyes, "Whatever you ask of me I will do."

"…when you return to the king. Please… Be careful." She pleaded, "Cromwell rose so high and none of us could save him. Please… Be careful around the king these next few days, weeks, months… Forever if you must." She begged, "You have a household, a family, beautiful children who couldn't bear this pain if you were to fall too." Her plea was one of pure worry and love, concern for him and the life they had together.

He didn't want to upset her, he didn't want to scare her, he didn't want to cause her any pain so he nodded his head. "I will. I promise. I will be careful. I have no plans to go the same way as Cromwell and you and the children are the most important things I have." he pulled her closer against him, hugged her against his body and made the promise he knew he would keep. he leant forward and placed a kiss on her forehead and then her neck and then her shoulder, needing to feel her skin and her presence against him, "I will be careful…"

"Thank you my love." She softly smiled kissing his nose,

Rafe smiled, feeling the familiar and comforting movement of her lips on his skin. He buried his head back in her hair, inhaling the familiar scent of it, letting it fill his nose and calm his soul. He couldn't help but wish that he could simply stay here with her in his arms and just forget about the real world. But he had duties and he had to go back to work soon. But he wasn't ready to let her go yet,

Y/n cooed and stroked his hair giving him all the comfort she could, "If you're strong enough, I know the children would love to hug you goodbye today before you leave for work. Th-They are scared, and I know they want to see you."

He smiled at the thought of the children, But he also felt a pang of sadness, they shouldn't have to say goodbye to him every day, they shouldn't have to ask for hugs in case it was the last one they'd ever get. "I want to see them. Can you go bring them here please…" he said quietly, barely above a whisper.

"Of course." She nodded, giving him a soft kiss on the cheek before she stood and slowly made her way through the house.

Rafe stood up as well, slowly readjusting his doublet and his collar before he sat back down in the chair. He took a few deep breaths, trying to mentally prepare himself to see the children. The last thing he wanted was for them to see him all sad and broken, but he desperately needed to see them. The thought of their little faces and their smiles was both uplifting and paining in equal measure.

After a few moments, Y/n returned. Their four children with her. Their oldest, Mark, stood sad but putting on a brave face, old enough to know what had happened, old enough to understand he'd lost the man he thought of as a grandfather, and that his father now could be in danger. But he saved face for the younger children and for his father.

The twins Ariana and Alison stood in their little dresses, Ariana with her bunny and Alison with her bear, they knew something was wrong but didn't know enough to understand what it was or why. But both could see their father was upset.

And young Peter on Y/n's hip smiling unaware of the turmoil and just happy to see his father,

Rafe looked at the four of them as they entered the room, a wave of emotions filling his heart.

"Girls, go hug your father." Y/n cooed,

The girls ran over without a word and happily latched onto each of Rafe's legs,

He couldn't help but let out a small laugh, his heart felt lighter for a moment, seeing their eagerness and happiness as they clung to his legs. He smiled and reached down and gently lifted them up, one in each arm as he held them against his chest. "Hello my little angels…" he said in a quiet voice, wrapping his arms around them and pulling them close.

The girls hugged him tight, sharing a hug for both him and their stuffies.

Mark made his way slowly over standing beside the chair like the proper young gentleman he was growing to be,

Rafe looked up at Mark, he reached out with one hand and ruffled his son's hair. "Come here and join the hug with your sisters…"

Mark needed no other word jumping into Rafe's arms between the girls.

He held all three of them close, feeling their weight on his lap and the feel of their bodies against his chest. He closed his eyes for a moment and just held on to them, letting the sensation of them in his arms soothe his sad heart and his rattled mind.

Y/n smiled as she came over leaning on the back of the chair and setting Peter on Rafe's shoulder, the young boy giggling and crawling into the cuddle.

He laughed again at the gleeful giggling of little Peter as he clambered down his body and tried to find a place in between his siblings. He held his four children in his arms, his entire little world all there with him. He felt an incredible sense of love and protectiveness fill his heart.

Y/n softly smiled and wrapped her arms around Rafe's neck from behind the chair,

When he felt the gentle touch of her arms around his neck from behind him and leaned his head back against her.

"Do you have to go to work today daddy?" Ariana pleaded,

"Can't you stay home and play with us?" Alison begged,

"Father has to go. The king needs him." Mark said a sad tone to his voice,

Rafe felt a pang deep in his heart as his daughters pleaded with him, He sighed and looked down at his children, all looking up at him, innocent eyes and sweet voices begging him to stay. "I'm sorry my darlings… I have to go to work today…"

"…when is the next time you can stay home with us?" Alison asked,

"Yeah when? Tomorrow? The next day?" Ariana begged,

He hated that he had to disappoint his little girls. Ae took a moment to think of what to say to them, wondering what answer they would be able to accept. He tried to think of a day in the future where he wouldn't have work and he could spend an entire day with them, but he knew he was a busy man and it would be hard to get a day off anytime soon. "I… don't know… I'll have to talk to the king and… and see if I can get a day off…"

"And then you'll stay? And play with us? All day?" Ariana asked,

"Play horsey? And tea? And play in the pretty garden?" Alison begged,

He felt his heart tug painfully again at their sweet pleading voices and their requests. They sounded so innocent and they wanted nothing more than to spend a day playing with him, in the garden or in the house somewhere. he wanted to give them what they wanted but again he didn't know when he'd be able to get a full day away from the king. "Yes my darlings… when I get a day free I'll spend the whole day playing with you… we'll do all you want…"

"you will?" Mark asked rather hopeful himself but not wanting to admit it,

He smiled at Mark, knowing deep down that his oldest son wanted to be included in the promises as well. He nodded his head at his son, reassuring him of his promise. "Of course I will. I promise. I'll spend the whole day playing and having fun with all of you…"

"Could - could we go to the River?" Mark asked,

"Can we daddy can we!" The twins begged excitedly too,

Peter just giggled having no clue was they were talking about given the last time they went to the River he was still settled inside Y/n's belly,

"Yes. We can go to the River. I promise."

"Alright, give your father one more big hug and let him go." Y/n cooed,

Immediately the girls whined but slowly climbed down, Peter happily got scooped back up into Y/n’s arms, and Mark climbed off straightening up.

He stood up and smoothed out his doublet, "I'll see you all later my darlings, I will be home as soon as I can…"

Peter was first to give Rafe the biggest hug his little arms could manage, Then the twins squeezed him as tight as they could, And then even mark snapped and hugged Rafe doing his best to be brave.

he reached down and hugged them all tight in return, one last time before he had to leave.

Y/n made sure to pull the children away knowing he has to go,

He gave them a final smile, his heart full of love and affection for his children but also sadness having to leave them all. He leaned forward and gave a final soft kiss to each of them and one for his wife before he turned and headed for the door. "I'll see you all later my darlings. I promise, I love you all, always…"

The children all happily yelled and waved their affectionate cries of their love in return, Y/n blowing a tender but love filled kiss,

“The firewood is damp.”

“Such is the weather these few weeks,”

Once they both heard the staff that had led Rafe up to the office were far from listening distance their true conversations could begin,

“How are our friends in Parliament?”

“Aggravating, as ever.” he nodded, “The king?”

“You see him more than I,”

“To read his letters, and listen to his complaints. Doesn’t mean he entrusts me with anything,”

“You are at his side day and night, he entrusts you with everything Rafe,”

“And believe me I wish he didn’t,”

Cromwell laughed,

“I should not complain,”

“No one has a better right to,” He nodded, “Sit.”

Rafe nodded and took a seat across the desk, “So? What did the king need that was so important,”

“At the loss of his wife, he feels… Melancholy.” Cromwell began, “Physicians have… apprehensions about the prince.”

“So? I assume the king wants a new wife.”

“He does.” He nodded, “But… that will take time. And he wishes for something more… Immediate.”

“Right…” Rafe slowly nodded, “Am I looking for a new mistress for him?”

“Not quite.” Cromwell sighed, “We know the king has had his share of court ladies and… common folk. We know of several children of his outside the bounds of his marriages. Many of which he has been financially supporting,” he explained, “And he wants the eldest of them to join the court.”

“Joi- Join the court?” Rafe choked,

“He wants them brought to the castle and presented to the court.” Cromwell nodded, “I am sending you off to collect one and bring them here to be presented to the king.”

Rafe took a moment to clear his mind, “So… Because of the loss of the queen and the weakness of the young prince, the king wants us to go and collect his illegitimate children and bring them to court to be presented to him alongside the true princess’ Mary and Elizabeth,”

“That is what he wants,” He nodded,

“Okay,” Rafe sighed, “And I assume you need me to go?”

“The oldest is far away, and may… give you some trouble. So You need to be the one to go.”

“If they are so much trouble, why bring them at all?” Rafe asked, “Surely there are many others that would rejoice at being brought to court.”

“Because we both know they’re the one the king will like having around,”

As horrific as her fate sounded, Rafe grappled with the grim truth that the stability of the realm depended on this information. The delicate balance of power, the intricate dance of politics, and the very foundations of Europe rested precariously on these developments.

The sounds only grew louder, more frustrated. The scent in the air of the king’s rotting flesh even though the heavy wooden doors that stood between them.

The corridor was utterly dark, A sliver of pale moonlight seeped through the lead-lined window at the end of the long hallway, casting ghostly shadows that danced across the cold stone walls.

But Rafe was not alone.

Beside him stood Lady Y/n, equally enshrouded in the dimness, both of them lingering on the threshold of the chamber. While he awaited the summons that might never come, she too remained a captive of the night, straining to hear any indication that the new queen required her presence.

Rafe stood with the heavy wooden door behind him, The Lady Y/n beside him. Occasionally, he found his gaze drifting toward her. The occasional glimmer of moonlight caught her features.

The Lady Y/n was a solid few inches shorter than Rafe himself, a French hood as was once again the court style, with only a single loose strand that peaked out from the band. Her chest covered by a white cotton partlet that cradled a silver locket. The Shoulder straps around the square neckline of her conical, thick and heavy against her, a soft light green with some gentle textures. The Farthingale skirt barely visible but it too a similar green. She briefly met his eyes,

So he forced a smile to his lips.

Y/n forced a similar smile back to him,

Just then the King let out a loud and gutteral groan beyond the door,

Y/n put her hand infront of her mouth to hide her giggle,

Rafe tried to give her a glare but couldn’t help but agree it was funny, “You should not giggle at the king like that, My lady.”

“Of course, Forgive me Lord Sadler.”

“It is alright, frankly I’d prefer not to listen to the king’s… nightly exercises at all.”

“Nor would I,” she nodded, “But. It is out duty.”

“Unfortuantly so.”

“…Perhaps we could discuss something more pleasing?”

“Yes.” he nodded, “that would be very appreciated.”

“Should we… Discuss Polotics?” She suggested,

“Ughh.” he cursed, “Do not get me started. One day the king demands I send a representative to Spain or the Holy Roman Empire and the next he demands I burn the library of all its books. It is exhausting.”

“Seems impossible,”

“Very impossible to satisfy.”

“He certainly does sound impossible to satisfy.” her eyes met the door,

They both shared a brief laugh,

“I do not envy you, My Lord Sadler.”

“Nor I you.” he nodded, “But, I think we can both agree we should count out blessings, that we get to be not to be envious of Katherine Howard. I weep for any woman forced to ensure the kings bedroom whims.”

Y/n nodded in agreement, “Yes, however, we will be the ones dealing with them after this.”

“…True.” He sighed,

“I do pity Katherine. She is a mouse, caught by the tail by a vicious cat unable to see her utter doom.”

“It’s unfortunate but it’s true.”

“You worked for Cromwell?”

“I did.” he nodded still feeling empty since Cromwell’s execution,

“While the battles with Queen Anne raged?”

“I was,” He nodded, “Witnessed more of their drama than I’d have wished to.”

“Did… he ever treat her with kindness?”

Rafe pondered for a moment, “Before they were wed.” He nodded,

She nodded, “You joined the king’s service when he wed Queen Jane didn’t you?”

“I did. Regrettably.”

“Was he… this way?”

“No, He loved her, endlessly.” he nodded, “I wonder sometimes if perhaps his cruelty was why she was taken from him…”

“Perhaps, a payment for all he’s done.” she agreed, “At least Anne of Cleeves escaped his wrath.”

“She was lucky.” he nodded,

Before they could say another word the king moaned long and sound finally the work was over.

Y/n began to softly clap,

Rafe laughed softly and joined her in the small applause,

“Well done, your highness.” she laughed,

“Splendid work.” He laughed, “Our work is done.”

“Finally.” she nodded,

“May I walk you to your chambers my lady?” he offered his hand to her,

"The queen... she is blessed with a child!" The king rejoiced, "It is a son. An heir I am sure of it this time. I know it beyond doubt. England is blessed!" The king said the tears now clearly joy, "Send word to the court and the kingdom. All must know of this news!"

Rafe's eyes widened, tears welling up in his eyes after hearing the news. "This is wonderful news, Your Highness." He managed to choke out. Not knowing what else he could say at such a time.

The king for a moment saw through his own joy, "Forgive my joy... I mean not to deepen this wound for you." The king said, "How is Y/n?"

"Your joy is justified," Rafe said, looking down, fiddling with his fingers. "Y/n.. She's well, your majesty." He murmured. He was happy, he really was. But his loss was still so recent it still stung when the subject of children even arose in his presence.

The king nodded "I know of this pain master sadler. I have seen many of my own babies fail to join this world. But I know... sometimes it is a price to pay for those who shall be great. My own brothers failed to grace this world so I might, My own sons have failed before so now this son now shall be king. And I am sure... soon Y/n will be blessed with your child that shall in turn be great."

Rafe felt his chest tighten. Not just at his own pain. But the King's. He knew it well. It hurt. It was painful. It felt impossible to think about children right now. But it was something he and Y/n were desperate for. That one blessing, and it just hadn't happened yet. "That would be a true blessing, your majesty." He said as he let his eyes meet the Kings in a moment of vulnerability.

"Let us now dwell on sadness. Send your letters to those who must know. and take the afternoon to spend with Y/n."

"Thank you, your grace." Rafe murmured softly. He was grateful the King understood his pain. Grateful he would allow him to spend the rest of the day with Y/n.

After sending off the letters, Rafe headed back to their chambers. To his wife. His angel. The light of his life. He needed her. When he returned he found Y/n sitting by the fire in her usual blue and silver gown, her hair pinned back with a headband of blue velvet to match her dress. Yawn in her hand knitting yet another blanket as she sings to herself wiggling her toes to warm them in the fire's light, He found her so cute. So beautiful. His angel. His love. He could barely choke out her name as he walked into the room. "Y/n.."

"Hello Rafe." she cooed back "What did the king desire? Did he need you to get a spider?" she joked,

"Y/n.. Oh Y/n. He didn't summon me for spider business. Good news." He said as he dropped down onto the floor next to her by the fire. He pulled her into a tight embrace, his arms wrapping around her, hands pulling at her back to pull her even closer. He didn't know what he was holding her so tight. He was desperate to feel her, to have her in his arms. He was so overwhelmed with all the emotions running through. Joy for the King and Queen, sadness for his own pain. But he needed her. More than anything. He held her there in his strong arms for what felt like hours. His lips to her hair, breathing in her scent. Letting her fill his senses. Feeling whole again. With the love of his life in his arms. He pulled away after a while so he could look at her. Taking in every detail. Her skin. Her soft eyes are like a puppy's. Her lips. God, so soft. He longed to kiss them. So he did. Leaning in and letting their lips brush together gently.

she giggled and pushed him back before he fully kissed her "What did he want? aren't you going to tell me?"

He paused. His lips so close to hers before being pushed away. He blinked, the question taking a moment to register before smiling softly. "Good news, love. The Queen. She is expecting a baby, a son. A Prince."

"Oh..." Y/n said the words he said taking her back a moment, she looked down at the blanket she was knitting, and she felt so sad, but she forced a smile, "That's nice. Very nice for them. for the kingdom and all." she nodded putting on her bravest face as she knits and watched the fires flames

He noticed her sadness. Her false enthusiasm. Oh how well he knew it. He saw his own emotions reflected back at him. He reached forward and gently put his hand on her hand, stilling her knitting. He moved to cradle her face, bring it up so her eyes would meet his. "Oh sweetheart.." He murmured as his thumb stroked her cheek. "I know." He whispered. He knew her sadness and her pain. He felt it too. He felt all of it. The king's news had reminded him all over again of their own failures. He pulled her close, so her head rested against his shoulder. "But we'll have our own someday, my sweet." He murmured.

"And if we don't?" she asked her voice hollow and distant,

He swallowed hard, his own throat dry. His heart clenched. He didn't have an answer to that question. No answer other than he wanted so desperately to tell her that they would. "Oh my angel..." He murmured, holding her close. He couldn't guarantee they would. He wished more than anything he could.

Rafe looked at Rosanna standing next to him. She looked so tired, so broken. In a few weeks she had aged beyond her years... all her innocence gone, replaced with sorrow and dread for her mother's execution. it was a scene that Rafe couldn't get out of his head no matter how hard he tried. He looked out of a window at the crowd gathered for the beheading. they all seemed so excited, as if it were some kind of spectacle to be enjoyed.

"... Is he the one?" Rosanna whispered looking as a man began preparing the scaffold where the execution would be. She had asked that every time an important looking man stepped up there,

Rafe looked out at the man preparing the scaffold and the blade. He gave a little shrug. He knew almost as much as she did, but his heart ached for her and he decided to at least give some attempt at comfort. "I don't know for sure who it is, but I promise you, it won't be a brutal, gruesome death... the king will ensure that your mother has a somewhat merciful, dignified beheading..."

"Seems an oxymoron."

It was a harsh truth but he supposed that it was still the truth nonetheless. "well... I suppose that's the best we can hope for when you're condemned to death..." He glanced up as the door to the king's bed chamber suddenly opened. King Henry stood there, wrapped in a silk bathrobe.

the king was jovial and joyful excited for his new bride. His court men helped him dress into his fine gold clothes, and jewellery preparing him for the wedding. Rafe helped where ordered of course. Rosanna unable to look from the window. "Sweet daughter. Come from the window. And smile for me." Henry ordered,

Rosanna sniffled but obeyed walking to his hand and forcing a smile, she did as she was told and gave a pitiful little smile to her father that just made her look like a kicked puppy.

Rafe watched from the sidelines. He desperately wanted to go to her and at least give her some comfort as she suffered such emotional torment. he forced himself to stay still and continue helping King Henry get ready.

once the king was prepared they all walked to the chapel, where the lady Jane was waiting.

She didn't seem thrilled about all this either but... She had little choice.

Rosanna stood trying not to cry, as her father was married to yet another bride.

Rafe stood beside Rosanna and watched her, he knew that she was holding back her tears and it broke his heart to see her like that. forced to watch her father marry someone else within the day of her mother's execution... something was wrong with the king. He gave a discreet look around to see if anyone was watching and gently reached out to squeeze her hand to try and give her any sort of comfort.

Rosanna squeezed back on his hand her eyes only on her father. Fighting back her sadness as the king and his new queen shared a kiss.

Rafe desperately resisted the urge to put his arm around her and pull her to him in an embrace. he could feel his protective instincts flaring and the need to shield her from the pain she was feeling. but there was nothing he could do. She had to endure this misery as best she could.

The king and his queen celebrated with their court and the king very quickly ushered her away so they could begin their time together,

Rafe and Rosanna were done for the day as the king would no doubt be busy. So they walked slowly from the chapel still hand in hand in secret,

Rafe's grip on her hand tightened instinctively as they walked through the door and came to the courtyard. the scene of the people all gathered and the barge that brought the soon-to-be executed woman to her final destination. he let out a breath and looked down at Rosanna standing beside him. "don't look..." he whispered

but she dug her heels into the floor, standing her ground and refusing to move, "I want to stay." She answered,

Rafe knew she was going to put herself through hell by staying here and watching this... but he knew deep down, she wouldn't be moved. he let out a sigh of resignation and looked back out to the sight in front of them. "Are you sure?"

Rosanna's eyes were on her mother watching as she walked from the boat to the scaffolding, she nodded.

Anne gave out coins to onlookers and took the scaffolding with pride. She read some verses against the wind and got to her knees. The maids removed her hood and she looked up to see the birds one final time.

Rosanna stood like a statue, unmoving and stoic, not crying, not even a tear.

Rafe stood beside her, watching the display with an aching heart. the only sign of her inner turmoil was the fact that she was still holding onto his hand like a lifeline. the grip on his hand was nearly painful and it made him hope that she wouldn't collapse later from the stress and emotional pain as she held it together on the outside,

As the axe swung and the crows cawed Rafe could take no more and shielded Rosanna's eyes with his hand turning her face and pulling her head into his neck making she there was no way she would see, As Anne dropped down dead. Her head severed. The head and body were picked up by her weeping maidens and carried away. He pulled her into his chest and away from the gory scene, making sure that she wouldn't be able to see what was left of her poor mother. "shh.... don't look..." he whispered softly,

"T-thank you, Rafe..." She whispered proving she had been so paralysed by fear she was unable to look away,

He closed his eyes and held her tighter against him, feeling guilty and relieved at the same time for preventing her from seeing the horrible final moment. he pressed his lips gently against the top of her head and gave an exhale. "I'm sorry... I'm so sorry, Princess..."

"I... I wish to go back to my room now." She begged, her voice was so quiet, so fragile and broken. the only response she seemed capable of making was a whisper.

Rafe nodded in understanding. it wasn’t a surprise, considering that she had just watched her mother’s beheading. he kept his arm around her while they walked,

When they crossed the courtyard a commoner came and rushed to them.

"Princess! Princess!" The young woman called out,

Rafe stopped in shock as the young common woman rushed up to them and shouted to the princess. He immediately stepped slightly in front of Rosanna, trying to block her path as his free hand immediately went to his hip, poised to snatch a dagger as he saw the woman pull a shining coin from her pocket.

"Please princess, you should have it." The woman offered one of the coins Anne had handed to the crowd, wanting to give it to Rosanna.

"...Thank you." Rosanna forced a smile taking the coin from the woman, "Thank you very much." She nodded before she continued to walk with Rafe,

He still kept his hand on his hip until they were past the woman. he turned his head and looked down at the princess with a concerned and curious expression. "What are you going to do with that?" he asked, gesturing to the coin clutched tightly in her hand.