The Private Chambers of Elizabeth... admittance only by her Majesty's Wish

*When the Couier leaves Nicholas turns to Elizabeth*

I fear I have kept thee from more pressing matters far too long. If you have no need of me I shall offer you mine thanks once again and then retire to my apartments. I trust the private passage between here and there is still usable?


If you recieve any words from Scottland ....

*Nicholas bows and turns to go*

All is as before my lord, tis kept as thine place within my palace as long as you have need of it.

I do but request my lord that thee apply thine mind to the safety of Marie's young son James. She wilt not have him here while my young lord of York doth bounce about the place yelling of death and plots as though 'twere a game. As Marie wilt not leave Scotland I can but apply mineself to the safe care of James as the current heir to both our thrones.

*looking across at Nicholas, Elizabeth smiles warmly*

Tis a fine thing to have thee back here my lord. And in time for the formal announcement of my betrothal to Don Juan too. Despite the usual matter of espionage, state and danger I find myself full pleased and contented in many ways.

*Elizbeth Queenly and properly offers her hand afore bidding Sir Nicholas take his leave*

I wuldst give mine life for James *he replies genuinely and with out a moments hesitation* So long as I live and breathe no harm shall come to him. It wuldst please me to have him here, as much for his company as for his own protection but that is for Marie to decide. If she wishes it, I culdst see him saftely here and see to his safety.


It pleases me to be here as well though I have come to know Scotland as my home and wuldst be with my wife. My return wuldst bring me greater joy if it were brought on by diffrent circumstance.

And It pleases me that thou hath found happiness, Don Juan seems to be a suitable match
*A slight pang of jealousy tugs at his heart but he does well to both hide it and push the emoition away* I am glad to be able to attend the celebrations.


*Nicholas softly kisses the offered hand then bows before sliping out of the room.*

*There is a knock on the door*

My dearest Darling Elizabeth?
I wish not to disturb you at such a pressing time; but I have some grave news, about Lord Robert

*He looks down at his feet and takes a few deeps breaths to compose himself, just in case Elizabeth attacks him in anger* His Lordship has been found, gravely injured

Robyn injured?

*Elizabeth begins to tremble*

What happened? How is he? Where is he?

The forest on the outskirts; hurry though, he probably hasn't got long left