Hunting, Jousting, Bullfighting, Etc.

*James is lingering by the door, sobbing quietly, waiting for the reply that he knows will be "No"*

*Leans in*

I like the idea, he could benefit from some guidance, having so many youths around me makes me feel so young again.

James stood outside the door stands on a small twig, which snaps.He curses himself for being so heavy and takes a deep breath as he knows that Isabella is likeyl to call him in and tell him that she does not want him. He wipes his eyes and prepares for her to call

... James

You can come in, I know you've been trying to listen in.

Your Grace *James bows to Isabella*

I am sorry if I have offended you in anyway

You hath not offended me.

*Isabella looks over to Charles and puts her hand on his*

I, we, have decided that it would be in the best interests of this court for you to come under my supervision, and for me to act as a sort or mother.

By taking you under my wing I will be seeing to your needs, in every way.

Does this please you?

*James is startled, this is not the answer he was expecting, having his mother executed when he was five months old and being declared a bastard made him think that everything in life was bad*

Y-Yes, your grace. Very much. T-Thank you!

What would I be required to do, Your Grace?

Look after Ferdinandito?
Become a slave to you and the Emperor, like I was to my father?
Be forced to work in the household of one of your other children?

I am sure none of those things will come to pass, my child.
Listen.

I know what it is to grow up without a father or mother. My father died when I was six and my mother was, well, loca. Fortunately, I was blessed with a most excellent aunt. Your life has been devoid of such a lady until now.

You will not abuse this opportunity, I am sure.

yes, I, I thank you, Your graces

*smiles slightly once more impressed by the kindness and genorosity of the Emperor and the Empress*

James smiles as he embraces Isabella

I thank you, Your Grace, it is nice to be loved, once in a while...

Now now James, don't think so pessimistically. The Lord has blessed thee in many ways, and your life could be a lot worse.

Be thankful for what you have, now run along child and we shall see you again when we dine.

Thank you, Your Grace...

May I ask? When is it that we dine? I always used food for a comfort while under my Father's "Care" it became something I came to enjoy

Is that a bad thing....????? I guess Father's genetics passed to me...

At least I am innocent and cute, like my mother before me *Smiles cutely*

*to Isabella*
I sincerely hope he does not make us regret this. Also, should there be any trouble from Henry, please let me know. I did not check first with him.

*James having overheard what Charles said begins*

You will not regret this, I promise, Your Grace... as for Henry... he won't care... he didn't really want me around much after my mother lost her head

Will you care for me?

James, please, try not to be so miserable, and leave questions you know better left unsaid, exactly that - unsaid. I will do all in my power to care for you, but you must not be so persistent in your efforts, you are but a child.

*To Charles*
Have faith my love, he is only young.

*Gives a salute, a sad look passing over his face as he realises he has been stupid and doesn't deserve anyone to care for him*

Thank you, Your Grace, I have been stupid and do not deserve anyone to care for me... exactly what my father told me

James, did you not hear anything I just said?

Stop with the sympathy trip, it will not get you anywhere. I speak to you as I would an adult as I believe you can handle it, don't let me down.

Yes, Your Grace... Sorry, Your Grace...

Anyway.... how has your day been?

I am well thank you, yourself?

*leans down to murmur in his wife's ear*
You are magnificent, did you know?

*Isabella looks up, and kisses her husband's cheek*
I know dear, I know.