Once Upon A Time (Historical Romance)

by Constance O'Banyon

  "Am I not in danger since I have no heir?"

  "You will be safe in England. Especially if you succeed in snatching the Golden Falcon from the talons of death. First, however, you must be crowned queen of Talshamar. And this must be done swiftly, and in secret."

  Jilliana felt overwhelming gratitude. "I begin to understand why my mother commended me to your care. How can I ever thank you, Your Majesty?"

  A smile eased the tired lines about Eleanor's mouth. "My thanks will be when you are crowned queen and stand before Henry. Your cause will be a double blow to him. If my plan is successful, he will lose Talshamar, as well as the Isle of Falcon Bruine. I have waited long for this moment."

  "How can I save Prince Ruyen and his sister?" Jilliana asked worriedly.

  "I will instruct you on precisely what to do and say— but heed me well. Trust no one, especially not Henry."

  "When do I leave?"

  Eleanor looked at Jilliana as if she'd come out of a dense fog somewhere in the dark recesses of her mind. "Soon—very soon."

  Eleanor then laughed. "At last I have you, Henry. How sweet will be the victory!"

  4

  What should have taken months to achieve, Queen Eleanor accomplished in three weeks. Jilliana was fitted with gowns of the finest tissue silk from Sicily and wool from Flemish weavers that was coveted by the English nobility.

  Nimble fingers sewed elegant creations, working long days and well into the night. Rich, costly fur was sewn beneath a layer of crimson velvet to create a warm hooded cloak. Jilliana's headdress was made of the finest Belgian linen, which would be draped about her neck and shoulder to be fastened by a fillet of wrought gold.

  Eleanor presented Jilliana with jewels that were so magnificent she could only suppose they came from the queen's own treasure trove.

  She was puzzled by Eleanor's insistence that most of her gowns be white in color. When she questioned this, she was merely told that all would be clear in good time.

  Eleanor now took Jilliana's teaching onto herself, instructing her for hours about the coronation ceremony that would take place before she reached London. They also rehearsed what to do and say when Jilliana stood before Henry. Jilliana listened carefully to each word—she must not fail!

  At last the day came when Eleanor decided her charge was ready, except for the last and most important guidance, which she would see to herself.

  Jilliana had been summoned and Eleanor waited for her appearance. Oh, if only she had wings so she could fly over the walls of her prison, Eleanor thought. How she would love to watch Henry's face when he learned Jilliana's identity. No matter. She knew Henry well enough to imagine his reaction—and she did have her spies at court.

  When Jilliana entered, Eleanor faced her, her eyes hard like glowing coals. "You will recall that I mentioned the Rondache family to you, and told you that Henry would most likely pass a death sentence on them?"

  "I do, Your Majesty. Tis sad."

  "There will be a public announcement of their execution two weeks hence. I have carefully estimated the time it will take you to reach London. I want you to enter the city the very day that Henry passes sentence on the Golden Falcon and his sister. You must insist on being taken directly to Henry, and this is what you will say to him."

  Although there were only the two of them in the room, the queen leaned close to Jilliana and whispered in her ear. The words she spoke brought a blush to the young woman's cheeks.

  "But how can I profess such a lie, Your Majesty?" Jilliana asked in a shocked voice. "To do so would be publicly to disgrace myself and dishonor my mother's name."

  Eleanor's eyes became cunning. "Oh, there will be gossip for a time, but no permanent damage. You have my word that when my son Richard comes to the throne all will be rectified, and the truth can then be revealed. You must say exactly what I have told you, or the Rondache family will perish. And lastly, I must warn you about Prince Ruyen's mother, Queen Melesant. My informant did not know if she has come to London, but if you should encounter her be wary. She is devious. Do not trust her. Remember she has aspirations to wear the crown of Falcon Bruine."

  Jilliana frowned. "Why was she not taken prisoner with her son and daughter?"

  "You may well ask," Eleanor replied dryly. "Melesant has always supported Henry, I suspect even against her own husband and son. She was once Henry's lover, in fact; until she lured him to her bed, he had been faithful to me. I hope she has grown fat and pockmarked."

  Jilliana could not hide her shock at Eleanor's revelation, but she made no reply.

  "Your mother would want you to follow my guidance in this and you have already promised that you would do so," Eleanor reminded her.

  Jilliana nodded reluctantly in agreement. Surely Eleanor knew what was best. "I will do as you say, although it goes against my teaching to confess to a falsehood."

  "Sometimes expediency must be implemented to serve justice. When you are queen, you will learn this, my dear." Eleanor smiled, showing white, even teeth and attempting to bring levity to their conversation. "I have heard it said that the Golden Falcon is practiced in bewitching and seducing the ladies. Beware also of him, and do not fall prey to his charms, lest you lose your heart."

  "What shall I do in the event that Prince Ruyen denies my claim before everyone?"

  "Then he would be a fool and deserve to die. But I have taken every precaution to ensure that does not happen. One who is loyal to me has managed to smuggle a message to Prince Ruyen. I only hope he understands the importance of what was relayed to him."

  "I will do what I can." Jilliana's eyes were troubled as she gazed at Eleanor. "If King Henry believes my lie, then will I be forced to marry Prince Ruyen?"

  Eleanor covered the girl's hand with her own. "Jilliana, you must understand that you were born to the purple, and that means you can marry only those of your rank. Think of this: Henry may very well want you for our son John. I do not believe you would like being John's wife."

  Jilliana remembered seeing Prince John a year ago when he had visited his mother. Although she had not been presented to him at the time, she had observed him with the queen. His words had been oily, his eyes lusterless, small, and cunning, while his lips had been thick and pouting. She shuddered—no, she would not marry John! Even the unknown prince of Falcon Bruine was preferable to him. She lowered her head, resigned to her fate.

  "I am most grateful to you for the lovely gowns and jewels. I will see that the jewels are returned to you as soon as I am able."

  "I cannot take credit for providing the wardrobe or the jewels, my dear. They are donations from the people of your own country."

  "But how?"

  "You spoke to me of your friend, Humphrey, from the convent. In actuality, he is Sir Humphrey, one of your knights who pledged to stay near you. Loyal heart that he has, he bore his duties without complaint, and never broke the pledge he gave your mother. Even after you came to me, he remained in the nearby village, ever vigilant."

  Jilliana found it painful to breathe when she thought what Humphrey—or, Sir Humphrey—had endured for her sake. "He spent years in menial servitude at the convent just so he could watch over me?"

  "That is so. He also went secretly among your nobles to acquire what you needed to enter London in splendor. As you see, your subjects were extremely generous with their queen. You must know that you are well loved."

  Jilliana glanced at the ruby ring on her hand. "I cannot imagine why anyone would be so generous with someone they did not know."

  "It is the loyalty people feel for their rightful ruler. I can assure you that you are important to all of Talshamar." Eleanor rose and moved to the door. "You must sleep now. Tomorrow you begin your long journey."

  "Your Majesty, thank you for all your kindnesses. I shall miss you sorely."

  Eleanor looked sad for a moment. "You have been a joy to me, child. I shall miss you and hope the day will come when we will meet again."

  "I am frightened of what l
ies ahead."

  Eleanor suddenly wondered if the girl was capable of the task that had been set for her. She was such a gentle spirit, perhaps Henry would destroy her.

  "There is no need to be frightened, Jilliana. You have only to remember that your family name is older than that of the Plantagenets. Your family was ruling Talshamar when Henry's was yet heathen. Comport yourself with dignity at all times and you will not fail. Remember that you are a queen!"

  Jilliana stood straight and tall, her eyes sparking fire. "I shall not forget."

  Eleanor clamped the girl's arm, her tone suddenly hard and cold. "I must warn you not to underestimate Henry. He's sly and cunning and will try to thwart you at every turn. Do not allow him to humble you. Henry does not respect those he can manipulate."

  "I shall never submit to his domination," Jilliana promised, raising her chin and straightening her spine. "When I stand before him, I shall remember that I am my mother's daughter—this I swear!"

  Eleanor was pleased by the passion Jilliana displayed. This once meek girl had become consumed with the burning fires of revenge. Perhaps she would be a worthy opponent for Henry after all.

  "Each step you have taken until now, Jilliana. has led you to the moment when you face my husband. You have been honed, schooled, and instructed since you first came under my care." Eleanor's face softened and she turned away. "Go now to your bed, child. You leave before sunrise tomorrow."

  "I wish—I wish you were coming with me."

  "Foolish girl, you know I cannot leave my prison. But you will be my ears and eyes and you will give voice to my words. In that I shall be with you."

  Wishing she could say more, but knowing she had been dismissed, Jilliana left and slowly climbed the stairs to her chamber. She had realized tonight that while the queen was fond of her, the force that guided her life was her constant battle with her husband.

  Eleanor loved no one as much as she hated Henry.

  It was still dark when Jilliana was awakened by Eleanor's maid pulling her bed curtains aside.

  " Tis time to rise. My queen has sent me to help you dress so you can be on your way."

  Jilliana quickly got out of bed. Too excited to eat, she allowed the silent servants to aid her in dressing. The gown that Eleanor had chosen for her to wear today was a white silk, trimmed with golden embroidery. Her dark hair was braided and covered with a white wimple and veil. Sparkling jewels were slid onto her fingers, and bracelets adorned her wrists. Her trunks had been packed the night before and were now being carried below by several strong-backed men.

  Jilliana watched the door, hoping Eleanor would come to say good-bye, but when it was time for her to leave, the queen still had not appeared.

  She slipped a hooded cape about her to cover her finery, so that Henry's guards would not become suspicious. When she reached the door, the men posted there paid little heed to her departure. They had been instructed to detain anyone who would enter the castle without permission; they had no orders to keep the queen's ladies from leaving.

  As her trunks were being loaded onto a cart, Sir Humphrey appeared, leading a magnificent white horse. She clasped his hands in hers, her eyes shining with happy tears. "How I have missed you."

  He nodded, his gaze lingering on her face, noting that she was a grown woman now. "Aye, and I missed you also, Your Highness."

  Then he reached forward, his hands circling Jilliana's waist as he placed her onto her palfrey, then mounted a white horse himself.

  "Shall we go, Your Highness?" he whispered, not wanting to be overheard by the two men who stood guard at the gate.

  She smiled at him with great affection. "Yes, my dear friend, I am ready."

  Jilliana turned to gaze up at Eleanor's window, her heart heavy. Apparently she was not to be allowed to say a final good-bye to the queen.

  With her head high, atop a gold-trimmed saddle, and looking every bit a queen, she rode across the drawbridge. Down the winding road they went past the village and into the unfamiliar.

  Eleanor stood at her window, watching Jilliana depart. Her heart was heavy, for she would miss the girl's cheerful presence.

  "Go with God, my dear," she whispered, turning away. She suddenly felt cold and moved to stand before the fireplace, but the fire lent no warmth to the emptiness in her heart.

  5

  Neither Princess Jilliana nor Sir Humphrey spoke until they were well past the village. At last Sir Humphrey halted his mount so they could talk.

  She reached out and laid her gloved hand on his. "I now know all about your loyalty. How can I ever thank you for the sacrifices you made, Sir Humphrey?"

  He was speechless for a moment, knowing she was unaware how much she meant to him and the other people of Talshamar.

  "Your well being is my reward, Your Highness. I can see you have thrived since last we met."

  She suddenly felt like crying because they were no longer just Humphrey and Jilly. Their close relationship had been replaced by one of sovereign and subject—she almost wished herself back at the convent where he had been her friend. None of this could she say to him.

  "Should we not ride on?" she said at last.

  "Your Highness, first I must inform you that by nightfall we will join other Talshamarians, who will accompany you to London. Shall I explain what is to transpire tonight?"

  Jilliana merely nodded, waiting for him to continue. In truth, events were moving swiftly. A few weeks ago she had thought herself one of Queen Eleanor's companions, now she found that she herself was also a queen. Although she was not yet comfortable in her new role, she schooled her face not to reflect her uncertainty.

  "Tell me what I must do," she said at last.

  "Your loyal subjects have been gathering for days in a secret place we will reach by nightfall. Since timing is so important, as soon as we arrive at that place, you are to be crowned. Queen Eleanor thought it best if you entered London as queen of Talshamar."

  "How will this be done?"

  "Cardinal Failsham has arrived from Talshamar to act as Pope Lucius's emissary."

  "I know the cardinal. Do you recall he often visited the convent?"

  "Yes, he came to see you so he could be assured you were doing well. By your mother's request, he has been acting as royal bailiff of Talshamar until such time as you return."

  "I am certain that his has not been an easy task," Jilliana observed.

  "We must hurry now," Sir Humphrey urged. "If you will allow it, I am told that His Eminence has everything you will require for the coronation. Will you agree to be crowned in this fashion?"

  She was silent for a moment as she pondered his words. "The plan has merit—I see no other way it can be accomplished with such speed."

  Jilliana could see happiness in Sir Humphrey's eyes just before he looked away.

  "You cannot know what this day means to your subjects, Your Highness. Long have we waited for you to take your place as our sovereign."

  She took notice of his silver armor and smiled. "You look very different from when last I saw you. How could I ever have mistaken you for a humble gardener?"

  "Please forgive the deception, Your Highness. It was the only way I could fulfill my vow to your mother and remain near you."

  Her eyes showed her concern. "Stay near me now, Sir Humphrey, for I fear I shall make many mistakes. I go into a future that I know little about. I must pledge my honor to men I do not know. I admit only to you that I am frightened because I may fail in my mission."

  There was soft reverence in the old knight's eyes. "You will not fail, Your Highness. You are your mother's daughter, and she would have been proud."

  He glanced to the east, where the sky had turned a rosy hue with the rising sun. "We should resume our journey, Your Highness. I would see the crown of Talshamar safely on your head before dawn tomorrow."

  She heard the urgency in his voice and although many questions filled her mind, she did not give them voice. Instead she nodded.

  "Then let
us ride on, Sir Humphrey."

  They rode silently all day, sometimes slowing to rest the horses, and sometimes going at a full gallop. Only once did they stop to eat, and at that time Sir Humphrey was watchful and tense, looking for any trouble that might arise.

  It was almost dark when he led her off the road and down a narrow twisting trail. On they rode, until at last Sir Humphrey halted.

  She tried to see his face, but he was no more than a dark outline. "Why do we stop here?" she inquired.

  He dismounted and directed her gaze to a distant light. "That will be where your loyal subjects have gathered to welcome you. They have waited long for this moment, as have I."

  She stared at the distant lights, now able to discern that they were campfires. She could see many figures gathered about the dancing flames.

  "Are they not risking danger of discovery by King Henry? Is it wise for so many to gather in one place?"

  "It is the only way we could think of, Your Highness. Queen Eleanor herself was instrumental in the planning of your crowning. And have no fear, for we are now on the land of a lord who is loyal to the queen. Shall we proceed?"

  She nudged her mount forward and Sir Humphrey fell in behind her as they continued down the narrow path. At last they reached the circle of light and Princess Jilliana was immediately surrounded by knights and solemn-faced barons who dropped to their knees and lowered their heads in homage.

  Sir Humphrey helped Jilliana from her horse and she walked among her subjects, urging them to rise. She was not prepared for the love and adoration they poured out to her. She was further startled when she saw tears in the eyes of some of the men, or was it merely a trick played by the flickering light of the campfires?