l'amante d'un roi

Anne de Pisseleu d'Heilly.  Duchess of Étampes.  Maîtresse-en-titre of Francis I.  "the most beautiful among the learned and the most learned among the beautiful"

[annedheilly]

@cfboleyn

Genuine friendships were a rare commodity in life at any court, no matter where one was. England or France - there were always going to be people who wanted something in exchange for their companionship, Anne had learned long ago. But she had at least found herself lucky in a close few, and she certainly numbered Anne Boleyn among them. The English lady had become part of the princess’s retinue before the return to France, but it hadn’t taken the Duchess long to envelope her in her circle. The Lady Anne was witty and intelligent - and wonderfully candid, in a way very few dared to be with her while still maintaining her favor. That in itself was a feat.

Of course the impulse to see the woman was only natural, and she extended the invitation at once when she was settled into the English court once again - familiar now that she had already made the trip. The Lady Anne’s arrival had the Duchess moving to her feet, never minding her condition as she came straight to greet her. “Madame, I was beginning to abandon hope of gaining your company again. It is so very wonderful to see you. You look very well indeed. Independence suits you.” She could not resist, reaching to cup one cheek in her hand, her own flushed with the warmth of the afternoon. “I trust all is very well with you?”

[annedheilly]

francoisdeguis‌:

Francois wandered through court entranced by the festivities. He knew not what to think of it all. He knew he was a Frenchman but he also knew that the church had much sway on his country and with the Protestants becoming a possible threat, it was a bit confusing deciding between his country and his King. The talk and gossip of the possible threat of Denmark’s sway of his country did frighten him a bit but he knew better to show his fear in the ravenous life of court. He knew of one way only to protect himself and his country, to protect his family. He had to place himself in a position of power, power enough to protect his country if things swayed in the wrong direction. Though he knew he needed to fight against the threat he also knew he needed to look like he was but a young rising Duke, loyal to his king. 

Francois was knocked out of his thoughts when a voice came through his thoughts, someone attempting to get his attention. Francois looked to the voice, snapping out of his thoughts. “I’m sorry, I was with my thoughts for a moment”. Francois smiled bleakly in an attempt to show friendliness. 

“I dare say you must have been, Monsieur d’Aumale.” Anne affirmed, taking the Duke in with a raised brow. She knew him well enough from Francis’s court, one of the many who were always nipping at the King’s heels to jockey for favor. It pleased Anne very much to know that she had won the favor many sought, and moreover, that she had done so twice. 

Stepping aside to allow some other courtiers to pass by, Anne looked up at the young man with curious blue eyes. “What is it that you were so fiercely pondering? You seemed so focus that I might have thought you a philosopher.”

[annedheilly]

gildedstewart‌:

      Birds dropped near her feet to nibble at the sweet pastry which she’d spitefully crumbled in her grasp, the moment the lady who had gifted it to her turned away. The russet-haired maid had observed the flatness of Arabella’s stomach and suggested the dessert as a way to increase her chances of pregnancy. Although, it was likely only to give her a round waist from enjoying too many sweet treats.  Hot fury had burned behind her polite mask, and she had taken the pastry with a small smile. But as she stood with her hands sticky from the residue to the crumbled pastry, she could not help the irritation which washed its way through her body. It only made her want to delay even longer. People ceased to respect her until she delivered a child, and she refused to do such a thing until she had their respect. She was more than just a broodmare for her husband’s bloodline. 

The sound of footsteps caused her to turn, a relaxed expression painted on her petite features as she offered an apology, “ I had the misfortune of dropping a pastry I was gifted,” she explained, glancing down at the stone floor. She ought not to owe an explanation, but people had a terrible habit of judging, something which she herself was not opposed to doing. “ I do believe it may have been a sample for one of the wedding desserts, ”  she added, hoping to divert attention back to the most riveting gossip at court, her cousin’s marriage. 

“Quite the shame.” Anne commented, more out of politeness than anything else. It did not take much time or thought to recognize that the woman before her was one of high status, although who precisely she was evaded Anne’s knowledge at the moment. In truth, Anne had almost not noticed until she heard the birds cooing at her feet.

The Duchess tilted her head down and made a small sound, almost thoughtful. “I do hope that such a thing would not be considered an ill omen on the King’s marriage. It seems that the way the talk around court is going, the young couple will need all the well wishes they can get. It seems there is vitriol whispered in these halls, and the young Princess has scarcely arrived.” In an almost unconscious motion, Anne found her hand falling to her growing belly - an odd habit ever since the condition had become obvious, which unknowingly highlighted exactly what the woman in front of her most dreaded. “Perhaps there are more of them. We could find out.”

[annedheilly]

TUDORS TASK | TWO YEARS

Anne feels as if she is at the top of her game. Following Henry’s coronation and other celebrations, she left England feeling triumphant - returned to her spot of glory as Francis’s maitresse-en-titre. She wields great power in Francis’s ( @hrhkingfrancis ) court once again, and although she has rivals both for Francis’s affection and in general, she feels secure in her place as mistress to one of the most powerful men in Europe. She has a full household of ladies to attend to her, and has frequently continued to act as a patron for artists and hold salons and parties in her own right.

Anne has also had a continued relationship with Clement Stafford, the Duke of Buckingham ( @clemcntstafford ). While Anne would hesitate to call it love, she feels an attachment to the Duke, and they two are certainly lovers in the physical sense. Whenever he has come to France on royal business, the two have rekindled their relationship, taking comfort in each other’s company - a fact which has luckily not yet been discovered by Francis or anyone else at court, as far as Anne knows.

Which is a good thing now more than ever, because in recent months, Anne has found herself with child. It is unexpected, to be certain, but not unwelcome news - although there is some uncertainty in her mind regarding the child’s true paternity. Nonetheless, she is certain that Francis thinks the child to be his, and though her condition is now obvious (some might even say she flaunts it, though she would deny that), she is early enough in her pregnancy that she has still been able to travel to England to observe Henry’s marriage. 

As for the future Queen of England, Anne is essentially indifferent. Wrapped up in her own personal life, the religious matters, particularly in England, worry her little, and she knows very little of Christina of Denmark, so her mind may be swayed either way.

[annedheilly]

barbedduchess‌:

     The French court was many wondrous things, but the jealousy and contempt it inspired were unrivalled. Those fortunate to shine under the light of the Bourgoise held resentment for other beautiful people around them, for true power came from fair faces and the good graces of royalty. As a widower, it was important that Diane retain a good position at court, which was why she had gained so many enemies despite her young age. The Duchess of Étampes was one of the most powerful women at court, so naturally, she loathed her. “  The king’s sister was a formidable rider who encouraged her ladies to gallop as those they are one with the horse, I learned many lessons from her. Alas, I think it is something to be learned in one’s youth, for fear and ailments halt any progression in later life, ” the young Duchess remarked, brushing a moonlit strand of hair from her features. 

“Yes - I should think you’re right.” Anne had to relent to the woman’s words, taking her in as she reined her horse in to full into step beside Diane’s - watching her. She was young and beautiful, even as a widow, and some part of Anne envied her deeply, for she had drawn much attention from many at court, to be certain. “Do you find yourself taken by fears as of late, Madame?” This time, the question was less pointed, and more genuinely curious. “I should hardly think there is anything to cause such fright in this place, but I surely cannot speak for you.”

[annedheilly]

blessedcharlesv‌:

 Her figure resisted their coalition, but her mind could not deny itself the suggestion of intrigue Charles’ line of questioning had conjured. Anne possessed great proximity to his confidence, and in turn knew his favoritism towards alighting rumors of unrest against Francis. Allies - that was the name aptly applied to their newfound relationship, yet Charles would not deny himself the delights of childish ribbing. These motivations however, did not move his hand that night; in favor of gossip, he turned to the melancholic, and the ferociously serious. “Scottish indeed - never would I have imagined myself uttering the name with interest.” 

  Yet he could not deny their commanding presence at the court - the delegation of sweeping ladies and their King, all of which sought to jockey for power in a fashion that undermined the Emperor’s preconceived notions. “Francis too seeks to ally with the Scottish? It pains me, the times I am forced to align his name with wit and finesse. If England does not quicken her pace, she shall be entirely left in the cold.” Charles could not deny the alliance between his son and the English princess, though he heavily favored Mary as his own; rather then further spawn of the late Henry. “One may loom near as we speak - my brother, to the Princess; only after abandoning hopes of wedding his hand to yours, of course.” Anne would take no man as her husband, he felt certain of this; and although he spoke in jest, the scenario did not seem disagreeable to him in the least. “Yet I grow tired of marriage plans - it is as if Spanish flies have replaced all monarchy. I seek these alliances, naturally. But the dreams of justice I crossed an ocean for, have yet to come to fruition.” 

Anne sipped slowly and urged herself to ease her mind toward calm. She knew there was little reason for worry - she was nothing if not careful, when she needed to be, and if any word was breathed to Francis, she had the tools in her mind to quickly defend herself from whatever sorts of accusations might be leveled against her. She had played at the game long enough to know many of its tricks.

“I do not know enough of the alliance to speak plainly - only that it was planned some time ago, that the Princess’s marriage to the Scottish King seems - well. As certain as any such things can be.” She studied Charles quietly, then smiled, just faintly as she looked upon him, eventually prevailing herself to sit quietly as his words made her laugh. “You flatter me. And at any rate, I think his Majesty would balk to see me married to any man not of French blood.” She wished that Francis would balk to see her married at all, but felt this was quite uncertain. Anne fell quiet, though, interest piqued. “What sort of justice is it that you seek?” She asked, soft - unwilling to make any assumption. “Has the young King done you some wrong? I should think he has scarcely been astride the throne long enough to do wrong to a fly, but I confess his past and yours are more mysteries to me than I should likely admit.”

[fleabog]

Ksenia Solo as Peggy Shippen Arnold on Turn: Washington’s Spies.

[annedheilly]

demelzi‌:

    “ Do I appear as a man fond of art, Madonna? ” His voice held a tone of jest, an arched brow nudging his question forward before it came to a halt with a polite smile. Even for a man in possession of a talent as great as his Giovanni remained humbled by the shadow in which he continued to live, dedicating his life to preserving the legacy of another whilst his own was brushed aside and often hidden in plain sight. Yet he didn’t mind. It was grounding and yet liberating, being able to fly upon the wings of another, yet when an opportunity was presented such as the one Anne placed before him it was often startling. 

“ I am afraid you have caught me by surprise, what sort of commission do you have in mind? ” The Milanese man stood firm under her gaze whilst watching her with almost intense curiosity. In truth, it didn’t really matter what the object of her desire was for he already had his answer in mind but he was still willing to hear her request, if only to further his knowledge of one of the most enchanting women he had the pleasure of coming across. “ I pride myself in being an honest man, Madonna, and in a bid to be so with you I must confess that I am hesitant. Many spoke of the power you hold over any whom dare glance your way and my poor heart and soul do not possess the strength to refrain from falling victim to your gaze. ”

“Oh, not at all.” She could not resist the impulse to tease him, at least in the slightest bit, mirroring his jest. He seemed almost to default immediately to charm, something Anne couldn’t help but appreciate. At the same time, though, it was hard not to tell that the man before her was self-effacing, especially as he attempted to protest.

“Monsieur Giovanni, I have always found your work breathtaking, whenever I have seen it, and it would bring me great delight to see what you might do when acting independently.” She paused a moment, unashamed as she let her flattery set in. “You express your hesitation, but there are few others that I would trust with a task so important as this - for I should like to present his Majesty, King Francis, with a portrait in my own likeness. To express my gratitude to him for the kindnesses he has always shown me. And in the same respect, I should like to bring his attention to your wonderful work.” She looked at Giovanni a moment, eyes soft. “I will not force you, of course, and if you should like to ponder the matter I will of course allow you - but I assure you as well that your work would be handsome rewarded, if you should agree.”

[annedheilly]

hrhkingfrancis‌:

It wasn’t surprising to him, how naturally she fit in his arms, for they had fallen into this position several times before, but the way that her being so close to him made it feel like they had never separated, to begin with, made him smile against her lips, resting his hand against her waist as he returned her kiss. “You bring me more happiness than I can express,” he whispered, kissing her again before he rested his forehead against hers and simply looked at her. “Tell me what I have missed in your life. And be done with all the formalities that we have spoken with as of late. Your place is here and I do not wish to deal with the distance that formalities place between us.” 

Anne smiled up at him, this position familiar - a fact which brought her immense satisfaction. It was what had led her here before - knowing that she could possess the heart of the most powerful man in France with a touch of her hand was nearly intoxicating. “Mon coeur - I shall tell you everything.” She gazed up at him, expression soft, smaller hand still warm on his sleeve. “But not now. Now I wish only for you to hold me and kiss me, for I have missed being in your arms more than anything.”

[annedheilly]

barbedduchess‌:

      The cool air of the fresh spring morning rippled through the silken strands of her moonstruck hair, allowing it to flow behind her like an endless river. The chestnut toned steed that she sat astride was a deep contrast to the young duchess, who laughed infectiously as she spurred the mammal to go faster. She tore away from the riding party with the elegance and sharpness of a whip, her petite stature shifting so she could ever so slightly glance behind her at the cluster of horses and courtiers. “ Do try to keep up! Or do I ride too fast for you? ” she called out, goading the rider closest to her. It was the first piece of excitement that she’d felt since she’d arrived in dreary England, the French woman inside of her desperate for her homeland. 

“You really are too much, Madame.” As Anne caught up to the other woman’s speed, the words she called had an unusual edge. Anne’s return to her status as Francis’s chief mistress had made her slightly more bold in all manner of things - her opinions and her activities among them. It was the only explanation for why she had chosen to go out riding while the King of England lay in a sickbed, struck with some sort of invalidity, as well as why she had chosen to go riding among a party which included Diane de Poitiers. The two women had clashed, and that was no secret - Anne could not speak for the other Duchess, but from her perspective, jealousy most certainly played a part, among other things, manifesting itself like a double-edged sword. “Lady Diane, you must tell me how you learned to ride in such a fashion. Are you running away from something?”

[annedheilly]

blessedcharlesv‌:

   “How much it has pained me to be without your fervent wit and easily spewed adages; indeed, few many claim to be without enemy at the Court. I find more dissent in the English courtiers, then with any other grouping of underlings across Europe.” Charles found amusement in his own words for a brief moment, before self-elation was stolen by the look of distress which pained Anne’s features for a flash. Quickly composing her countenance, Anne breached easy conversation, attempting to remain subdued as the figure of another, seemed to approach. “Do you wish to evade my company, dear Lady? Your entire figure recoils from me.” Anxiety flooded the Emperor as his eyes moved in tandem with hers, seeking out whatever presence made brazen steps across the stoned path. No secrets had been bared to the English air, yet the mere whiff of coalition was enough for many to threaten retribution for conspiracy. “My quarters are pleasant enough for whatever venture we shall undertake - it is with grace few come to visit me unannounced, though it contributes fully to the grizzly personality I have undertaken.”

   Anne declared the scene to be somewhat spared from interlopers, but Charles remained resigned to move them elsewhere. A burning proposition had begun to make its ways from his throat to his lips; and he would not tolerate unkind ears being privy to such matters.  —-

  Seated now in a throne of cushions far more pleasing the the tepid stone seated amongst greenery, Charles turned his attentions once more to Anne. “My lady, how favorable are your relations Scottish?” 

Her nerves were still alight as she followed the man to his room, not unlike a cat whose ears were perked to pick up on any sign of danger. This was even more of a risk than their meeting outdoors, for she knew how rumors could spiral, and yet for now it was the safer of their options, Anne lingering near the doorway even as Charles had seated himself, nursing a glass of wine - naturally she had enjoyed better, but it was something which helped to calm the quaking of her figure.

“Scottish?” She repeated, curious at the question as she studied the Emperor for a moment. “I fear I have not made a number of Scottish friends, although I have spoken to the King of Scots since my arrival. He found himself curious, I think, about the life of French ladies - preparing himself for a betrothal to King Francis’s daughter. It was very formal” She paused, coming closer to seat herself nearer the Emperor. “Do you hope to kindle some Scottish connection, Your Majesty?”

[annedheilly]

hrhkingfrancis‌:

“Hm, is that so?” Francis asked, smirking at Anne with arms folded against his chest. He could not stop his brow from lifting quizzically at his mistress, amused at her show of propriety when it came to respecting the woman that he was married to, given the role that she had in Francis’s life that he was hoping she would return to. “And that is one of the many things that I admire about you. Your beauty has never faded, but your will and strength never ceases to amaze me.” he complimented, slightly distracted by the placement of her hand on his arm. “I am glad to hear that your fondness has not faltered, mon Coeur. Your position as Maitresse en titre, is yours to take.”  

It was a fortunate turn in what Anne had feared would be a difficult conversation, and so easily won it was almost suspect. But Anne was not one to question fate when it was laid at her feet - if Francis would have her again, she would use it to her advantage, most assuredly, and the advantage of those she favored, mind already turning with the possibilities even as they spoke. “Then I shall take it, my love. My only wish for as long as I have known you is to bring you happiness. I cannot thank you enough.” The hand on his arm slipped up to his shoulder and she scarcely hesitated before she kissed him, reveling in the indulgence.

[annedheilly]

henriofvalois‌:

    Henri was perhaps only slightly to ashamed to admit he’d been surprised to hear French from her tongue. She hadn’t been away from court all that long, and there were enough companions with knowledge of the language to practice, but he’d been growing more used to the harsh cadence of English in his ears. It served as a wise choice for the Duchess, as it soothed his temper just slightly. “I have not heard rumor of the hunt at St. Valentine’s tide.” He confessed, having been still in France at the time. “Mayhaps you will enlighten me with sordid tales of how the palace was so that I might accompany you in comparison’s sake.” He insisted, not really making it a request despite his use of mayhaps. 

     An invitation to ride with her was unexpected, and the prospect of a friendship even more so. Curiosity piqued, and given that he could not in good conscience make up a reason to decline given that he too intended to ride, he offered her a curt nod. “It will make suitable time for you to regal me with tales of your experience at English court. It will serve me well to know more details of this foreign palace.” He agreed, pretending it was for duty’s sake. 

Anne sensed a slight lightening of his humor and it buoyed her spirit, the woman nodding as she looked up at the Prince, studying his expression as if she were sizing him up and it were not exactly the other way around. “It was wonderful. The court was in true high spirit. There was the hunt, but a joust, too, and dancing and feasting and masques. It nearly could have rivaled what one might see in France. Nearly. And the hunt was a grand success. I spent much of it alongside Madame de Lorraine - do you know her? She is delightful company.”

She nodded in return to his own curt expression, tilting her head as she started a slow pace toward the horses - patient alongside him. “I find the court a curiosity.” She mused, offering her opinion as kindly as she could muster - yet not too kindly, ever a line to walk. “It is a unique energy that fills the air. Many, I think, are still recovering from mourning, while others look ahead. There is uncertainty yet as to what the King shall prove himself to be. The people of the court are as varied as one could possibly expect. Some very kindly, some very... brusque.” She glanced up at him. “There are many faces here. Unexpected ones.”

[annedheilly]

demelzi‌:

    -    “ Madonna, the pleasure is all mine, I assure you. ” The Milanese artista turned Lord bowed in the presence of the Duchess; a woman whose path he had crossed more than a hand full of times in the past and yet she appeared unchanged by the years. Wisely, during his time in France, Giovanni had been certain to keep a distance from the women in the King’s circle so to avoid scandal but he was not blind nor was be oblivious to the beauty of the French King’s former mistress. She was entirely captivating and he, along with other mere mortals, was rather powerless against her stare. 

“ I fear whatever stories I have to tell are not as entertaining as you desire. ” With one arm remaining behind his back, he complied and returned the favour of pressing a kiss to the back of her hand. “ Not as well as yourself, Duchess, you are unchanged by time - complimented by it if anything. Though I admit I am surprised by your invitation; can I be of service in some way? ”

“Nonsense, I am certain you must have at least one or two amusing tales to share from your travels. I won’t hear you say otherwise.” Her tone was chiding, but in a light, clearly teasing sense - toeing the line of flirtation, as always. From their few scattered meetings, Anne knew that she liked Giovanni very well - intrigued by the man who had grown out of such a fascinating shadow. Taking her hand back, she smiled, studying him as he straightened again.

“Your words are too kind.” She demurred, though she enjoyed the praises as anyone might, her lashes nearly fluttering as she nodded. “Yes - I was hoping you and I might discuss art, if you would be so inclined. Specifically your own. The works you have helped to complete are so beautiful and I simply wondered if you had any inclination toward creating your own works.” She looked at him expectantly for a few moments, then turned to get a goblet of wine from one of her ladies. “I should so very much like to commission something from you, if you will allow me.”

[annedheilly]

vxdelaurent‌:

          With her arm linked with Anne’s, they made quite the golden pair. Though she would never think of herself as worldly, graceful, or beautiful as her elder. Her attention drifted from the extravagance of their surroundings and primarily focused on the companion whose arm was leading her. Violette did not expect this line of questioning, yet it did not faze her. She was known to a very select number of French courtiers, having been sheltered away for most of her education and upbringing while moving between numerous extended family throughout France. How exciting it was to be talking about the King, and with someone so important and who knew him well! “The title belonged to my father. His Majesty has been most generous, as you have so clearly dictated, in allowing me to hold onto this small piece of my mother and father.” Her voice was quiet, but her tone clearly exhibiting the pride she felt in being able to be the sole representative of Montpensier. 

“That is very fortunate, indeed. I fear I have not heard much of anything of my own family in a long while. It is strange to be so far from them all, with no news of how things are in France. I confess I miss it sometimes - desperately. The England court is fascinating but I long for my own chambers at Fontainebleau. But c’est la vie..” She smiled as if to brush it aside, eyes crinkling at their corners, the two of them walking, their soft voices as they spoke almost like two conspiratorial girls as they approached her chambers - ladies trailing after them like ducklings. “What sorts of people have you encountered so far? Court has all kinds, of course. I can scarcely remember all the names and faces. It is dizzying.”

[annedheilly]

hrhkingfrancis‌:

He smirked as she purposefully included the word chief into her title, obviously standing her ground as above the other mistresses that he had at court. “Eleanor is my wife, but that does not mean that I am unable to be with others, you know that. I ended our relationship to help her more easily come into her role as Queen, without feeling threatened, and now that she has, I don’t see a reason why I should deny myself.” he said, knowing that Eleanor would understand, because of the fact that there was no one contesting her own rights as the Queen of France, and his wife. Mistresses occupied another level, and were Francis’s right as king. “Anne, when have you ever been concerned of what others say?” he asked, smirking as he knew her far too well. She was negotiating, and he appreciated the energy that she brought forward, “If you become maitresse-en-titre again, technically I do not know if you’d have the time to be a married woman… but I will think about it because I had thought that the match that I had in mind for you would have been one that would be mutually beneficial.” 

“I should only hate to cause Her Majesty any distress.” Of course that was a bold and clear lie, and she was certain that they both knew it, but also that it was simply the thing that was said. She paused, looking at Francis with eyes that softened to amusement. “You know me too well. I care little for it. People will say what they will, but it should never stop me making up my own mind.” His words were indulgent and she was mildly placated by him, tilting his head as he her hand came to rest on his arm, stroking over his sleeve. “Well. I hope you consider it wisely.” She paused, gentle. “But if you truly desire me at your side once again, it would be my delight, you must know this. My fondness for you has not abated in the slightest since last we were together.”

[annedheilly]

blessedcharlesv‌:

 “Your heart is truly won by Francis? I must find him admirable then, for performing such a feat. It does not surprise me he has made our differences so known to you; it is a act of restraint for him to cease speaking. The frustration however, is lessened - it is only now I may callous and albeit, childish, jabs on his behalf. Formerly, all notions would have been gravely serious declarations of how I wish him dead.” He mourned the apathy he was once allowed to revel in by design; in lieu of venomous hatred, an uneasy friendliness now ruled their relationship.”Although no man shall ever lay claim to you as his, I am full of confidence when I state that I have faith in you.”

  Henry’s time will come - at the cost of his and Francis’ glory days, no less. Whatever he spite he reserved for the King on behalf of Katherine, had to be measured against the jealousy of a rule coming to fruition. Every king, every emperor, enjoyed the time of unease, but great excitement, which was brought by ascension. “I wish him well, in the end. He is my kin, no matter how much I deny it; and we are bettered by the success of England.” Or, he momentarily longed for civility between the nations; war was draining,tiring. “I find myself sympathizing with Francis on that front - it would take a great deal for a man not incur such notions of jealousy, while his former lady conversed with his former enemy.” It brought him a great sense of delight, despite his civil statement, that he could provoke, and irk, the French King. He sought to further gloat, but the darkening of Anne’s countenance bade his own senses to heighten in alarm. “Always.” His heard turned, desperately seeking the figure which had moved in the shadows. “I can name twelve people who would be delighted by eavesdropping on our conversation - however polite it has been thus far. Do you court enemies in England, Anne?” 

Anne fell into silence for a few moments - both as a way of escaping attention and simply through contemplation of the Emperor’s question, all other pieces of their conversation all escaping her memory. “Not on purpose, certainly, Your Majesty. Does anyone in such a place have any short of enemies, though? People grow to hate very easily in a royal court.” Anne’s words were soft, but no less true for it as she stopped again to listen, to see if the footsteps would come closer or retreat. She held her breath for what seemed an eternity, trying to decide what she might do if they were caught, what she might say. It certainly looked bad, and the reality was undoubtedly worse. “Perhaps this should be the end of our evening together, monsieur. I am certain you have other things to attend to. Though - if there is more you might like to discuss -” She stood, as quiet as possible with the rustling of her skirts. “I think we must find a different place to speak. Lesser chance of listen ears, even from unknowing visitors.”

She took the opportunity to move to peek around the edge of the hedgegrow - hopefully without being seen. “I think perhaps it is one of the guards of the Palace. I cannot see the face.”