Wolsey's study

'There is no denying that this is something more than just a passing romance... If that accident with the pole hadn't happened when he went hunting, he would sleep with many other ladies without caring about having a son, at least maybe in a few years. It's hard to believe that he would mature just like that. As far as I can remember, he slept with... Francis's sister. And he had already known Anne. But... Perhaps she would make him fell in love with her even with all these things coming along... No doubt she is a beautiful woman and she will not waste this fact.' shook his head slightly meaning no. Then he heard of dr. Knight.
'Mary Boleyn... Yes indeed, she has been called not so long ago... The Great Prostitute. But that was of her own volition at all... But going back to Henry... It wouldn't be that bad if the pope gave him permission to marry her relative. It wouldn't be bad...' glanced at Wolsey.
'You have to be careful as incomes of Boleyn family are growing very fast since Anne captivated Henry and she can use it against you.' frowned and looked at a little weaker fire than it was before when he entered the room. He listened to Wolsey about another Henry's demand: asking for another wife. His eyes opened wider and he blinked fastly for a moment.
'He asked for what? Bigamy? My God... That's... Insane! We are all sure the pope will reject this idea... Well, anyone would reject that, especially here in Europe... It could be a disaster for the Kingdom. People could ask for such permission for them either! Henry won't give up until he gets this annullment. I didn't know his so... impulsive.' crossed his arms on his chest and a deep wrinkle showed up at his forehead.
'Hmm... Perhaps... If he really broke with Rome... it could bring some... advantages?' asked quietly.
'This might be a crazy move, but at least king's mind could be free and he wouldn't come up with any other stupid ideas which make such a fuss. Of course I am rather staying... impassive about this matter. This is just my objective opinion.'

Wolsey shrugged and rubbed his chin.
'Well, sooner or later he would have cared about the succession of his reign. You have a son yourself, Thomas, the greengrocer on the corner has a son, even I have a son, may God forgive me...' smiles mischievously for a moment '... but he has not a son! And the Queen can't possibly give him one anymore so it was a matter of time untill he became aware of this. And about Anne...' he frowned and added based 'She's ... different, I should say.'

He leaned forward to him. 'I've heard she denies him and makes him longing for her! It could drive any man crazy, the way she treats him. And yes, she has a will of her own, as I have encountered....'
He sighed and leaned backwards again, thinking about Cromwell's words that the Pope should allow Henry to remarry a relative.
'The problem is...it is at odds with his own argument to get out of a marriage because his wife was married to his relative! He wants an annullment because Catherine was married to his own brother, and now he wants the Pope to give permission to do exactly the same thing!' He rolled his eyes, then listened at his warning for the Boleyns and sighed deeply, grimacing.

'The Boleyns... I'm afraid it's too late. I have offended them several times (and I would do so again!) and I have to tell you a secret, Thomas. During the sweating sickness recently I... well, Anne became sick, I was sick myself, I just thought... I thought it was a sign of God's wrath at the proceedings and I...well, I've sent a letter to the king to ask him to drop the annullment.'
He covered his eyes with his hands, shaking his head. He was silent for a while, and when he looked at Cromwell again, his eyes were moist.
'The King was... outraged and exclaimed that he would have given a thousand Wolseys for one Anne Boleyn!'
He shivered. 'First time I saw him again I was on my knees for several hours to convince him that I would support him at his Great Matter, but I feel he doesn't trust me anymore, not like he did before, at least.'
He shivered again and noticed the fire was almost out. He gestured to a servant who stoked it again and when the flames were high again, he stood up and warmed his hands.

'Of course the suggestion of bigamy ridiculous! It only shows his desperate wish to marry her!'
When Cromwell spoke about breaking with Rome he turned around, shocked and amused at the same time.
'Thomas! I let you flirt with the Reformed ideas, because that's an advantage for me: when Thomas More and others come to me and complain about them... I am prepared for them and can stop their blood thirsty hunting for them, but you know how I think about Reformed ideas, I don't agree with them. And now you suggest breaking with Rome!' His face was full horror.
'It would ruin our country! It's a prejudice to the Catholic Religion and also to my idea of one United Europe , religious seen under the authority of the Pope, who is God's representative on earth!'
He walked over to Cromwell, speaking persuasive at him.
'And as you say yourself, the king is impulsive at times... let me say to you this: beware because if the lion ever discovers his own strength, no one is able to keep him in check anymore!'

'Well only God knows what is the reason of not giving them a son. Even another child... But the reason is definitely not the phrase from the Bible. It seems this is just Her Majesty's destiny... at all.' he put his hands together and crossed his legs.
'Yes, it is quite visible that Anne rejects him. She plays very wisely... And she surely realises that Henry can very easily loose his mind. After all, he is the king of England and he can't have her that fastly what can be really frustrating. Men...' rolled his eyes and sighed.
'I must say that I am happy that I don't have to make such decisions as the king does... People love the Queen, they will surely criticize Henry after his decision related to her and Anne.' suddenly he noticed tears held back in Wolsey's eyes. He felt sorry for him. He wasn't a bad man... even though he didn't stand by Cromwell's personal religious opinions.
'Ohh by writing him this letter you have unfortunately made a mistake indeed... And I must honestly say that I think you are right with your feelings that the king doesn't trust you that much. Because of this letter indeed, if I were him I would also misunderstand you and it would look like you were against my plans. But if you manage getting the annullment... He will trust and love you forever.' smiled slightly with note of consolation. Then Wolsey told him about king's response. It was hard to believe.
'Tousand Wolseys for one Anne Boleyn..? But you have been with him here for about 20 years! That's crazy what love can do to people. He doesn't appreciate what he has. He'd better not choose between both of you in reality... perish the thought.' reproved himself in his thoughts. Then at Wolsey's face showed up displeasure related to Cromwell's idea of breaking the stormy relationship with Rome.
'No, no! I did not suggest that. It was just... an example, a putative episode. I am just wotking this out.' said calmly and flailed his hand. He raised his gaze into Wolsey's face.
'Well, I suppose you are right... We shouldn't discuss that matter next to the king's ears.'

Wolsey sighed after his words about the queen.
'It's a pity indeed... all those pregnancies, and no living male heir. If there was a son, things would be like they used to be, he really loved Catherine, you know. And now they are driven apart and neither of them want to give in to the other. I have been on my knees for both of them but in vain.'

He shrugged and smiled uncomfortable.
'Yes, Henry is used to get what he wants. Anne's refusal to give herself to him Is a great part of the reason why he acts... like he does right now. She is smart indeed, she keeps his attention this way.'

Feeling restless while Cromwell spoke about the people criticizing Henry's decision he paced back and forth across the room, his hands on his back, frowning.
'People love the Queen indeed... it's why I begged Henry multiple times to drop this annullment, but he will not listen. For me, it's the most difficult part, because I'm afraid the people will blame me for my actions to achieve the kings' wishes!'
He stood still for a moment and sighed. 'I don't mind the novelty hating me, but I've always tried to please the people... my only hope is that Anne will give him his son quickly and the people will be so happy that they forgive and forget what it took. And although I don't feel good about this whole situation, don't be mistaken: I'll support Henry whatever it takes as I've always done! Not only because I know my whole position depends on him but just because I love him like a... son!'

He turned around to hide his facial expression, staring into the flames again.
'For twenty years I was his help and stay, and now I have to step backwards to see others taking my place.'
He shrank, adding 'Of course, times are changing... not only it hurts to lose his confidence but I also worry about the people around him... I can say with certainty I always wanted the best for him and did everything to help him become the glorious king he is right now.... but these people... they only seek their own luck, regardless of the consequences. I have sleepless nights about this, Thomas!'

Silence fell while Wolsey gathered his courage again. When he finally turned back to Cromwell he smiled indulgent.
'Well.... I'm glad it was just a loose thought, I don't want to be forced to lock you up, my friend... I need you by my side!'

'Yes, everyone could see that he loved her in his way and what's the most important, respected her.' thought of queen's face again. Then he felt like some tension was growing in the room. Wolsey seemed nervous and Cromwell was under the impression that his face became white.
'Well... This is true that subjects can blame you... But sooner or later they could find out it was King's will and you just had to do this.
And that's a good point... I mean people forgetting about everything after Anne's son is born...' frowned and glanced at the window and then at Wolsey again.
'Yes, I think they could change their minds.' he followed Wolsey's steps. Then cardinal confided in Cromwell his devotion to the king.
'No doubt you do! We can all see this... At least I do. You are very wedded to him and the whole country, you have never tried to wreak havoc over him.' he raised slightly his eyebrows.
'Of course you should wary of these people... They are lurking in the darkness and they will surely come out very soon if anything wrong happens to you. 20 years is many enough for them to feel... Let's say... bored. I do believe their caprices make you concerned.' silence donned on the room again. But Wolsey needed Cromwell.
'I am, Thomas. I am by your side.' he stood up.
'You can trust me. Even if I don't like talking about some problems, I will always be patient and hear you out and try to think as I was in your situation. I will not cry down your needs.'

'Until recently Henry respected her indeed. She should see this! or she would like to know this, let's go to her rightaway!' ! Wolsey laughed at the memory.
'He was devoted to her! And she knew all his needs! All this... just gone, it seems.' he gestured to reinforce his words.
He nodded at Cromwell's words about the subjects.
'Ahh the power of gossip.... though in fact it was the French ambassador who put the first doubt into his mind, while negotiating about a possible marriage between Prinsess Mary and the French Duke of Orleans. He openly doubted the legitimate status of her!' he shook his head and shrugged.
'In fact, even right after Henry got the Pope's permission at the time to marry Catherine there were also voices saying it was wrong to marry her - he neglected them all! Well, it seems he heard them after all!'

He smiled at Cromwell and sat in his chair again.
'About a few years, people will forget this episode too, when the King has his male heir and a loving and kind wife.'
He thought about Cromwell's words about the Norfolks and Boleyns being bored and nodd.
'Perhaps they are... but although they want to rule the country, they don't want to think about it, make efforts for it and they certainly don't think about Englands'future, let alone that of the King!' he sighed and smiled apologetical.
'Norfolk only wants war, he thinks the glory lies on the battlefield.' suddenly he laughed. 'He is also an anxious man, he thinks I use magic arts to stay close to the King!'
When he thought about Boleyn he became serious again. 'Boleyn... he is an ambitious man, like you and me... but only for his own purposes! Well, I don't underestimate him, that's why I open his letters.'

He looked at Cromwell, touched by his loyalty and frowned, searching for words.
'Thomas, if ever... well, you know I will support you on your carreer... I wonder... would you have patience with our sovereign, too? When at midnight he is drinking and having fun with Brandon, or singing, and the documents of that day have not been signed yet, and on your insistence he says: well I go to bed now, because tomorrow we'll go hunting'
he sighed, adding '... if your chance would occur to serve him, you have to take him as he is... a self-indulgent king.'

Still looking at Cromwell's serious face, he added more airy to break the tension.
'.... you are of humble origins, Thomas, but then, so am I. They can't hold it against you, at least they shouldn't do so.
The King should take you as you are, what would look like a big fighting dog who is dragged at a rope by several people. Not that you don't have your charms at times, my friend!' he smiled and winked at him and took another sip of wine.

'So lady Anne is not the only one woman for whom Henry made such... sacrifices you can say! He simply gets bored with all these women... Although Henry sees nothing besides her, he will sooner or later get bored with her... That's so dispiriting, I mean... Breaking their hearts, making such a mess in whole England and also in Rome... if I can speak plainly. I can't find other words for this.' glanced at Wolsey.
'If she doesn't give him a son... He will probably become even... famous because of all these relationships.' then cardinal mentioned the power of magic.
'Well, magic thing is rather ridiculous...' smiled and shook his head.
'These are just figments everywhere, only the stupid believe in such superstitions. It just doesn't exist and these who think this way are simply jealous, as the king loves you and he has never been such a close friend to any other person.' said pointing a finger at Wolsey. The he heard of Thomas Boleyn. He glanced at Wolsey curiously. After all, he was also supporting Boleyn's in their case...
'Do you? May I ask what he usually writes there? Anything about you? King's relationship with Anne?' asked and frowned. After the question of being patient he shrugged slightly.
'I think I could handle that... As if he ever appoints me his close servant... I will have to get used to this, like you did. I will have to take care of another matters while waiting for king's decision for some papers, not waiting idly without any pursuits and only thinking about urgent cases needed to be approved. But... we shouldn't really think of me this way. You are his closest servant and you shouldn't say all these things, as it sounds like you were saying... goodbye! I know, the whole situation is difficult right now and the king might become furious if he doesn't get his divorce... But... there's still a chance though.' sighed slightly.
'I do realize there could be always many enemies around but... Well... Any famous people have some, haven't they?' unfolded his hands widely and laughed.

'Well... spoken plainly, you are right, the whole situation is... just ridiculous! Of course this remains among us, Thomas?!'
Wolsey looks exploring at him, frowning a little, then smiles and shrugs.
'.... but it is reality and I have to face this reality... though it seems a repetition of moves. If only... well it's no use to think about what could have been, I like to think in possibilities, Thomas!'

He laughs and spreads his hands.
'And there are plenty of possibilities, so I'm not desperate... yet.' frowning again he takes a sip of wine.
'.... Well, I don't believe in magic either, though I do believe in faith and in a way you could say there are similarities between them, I mean that one can formulate his way, but Our Lord could have other plans.... and what about the miracles that happen, like blood changing in wine and people who suddenly cure after a pilgrimage?'
He shakes his head and add '... but magic objects or things like that, no. A pity though, for they really think I have a magic ring and I am not aware of it nor its capacities!' he looks sad and then smiles again.
'Jealous, you're right. They only see me walking arm-in-arm with the king and can't imagine we talk together instead of me enchanting him. Although self-indulgent, he is the king and he listens carefully, but he takes the decisions himself! Most of the time we agree, but if not, I can argue with him but I'm the one who has to obey, as it should be! And I do consider him a friend, and for a very long time we were friends indeed, though I'm not that certain we still are...'

He is silent for a while, then looks up at Cromwell's question about sir Boleyn.
'Well, he has been the king's ambassador, first for the Low Lands, later for France... and recently appointed Viscount Rochford. Now he only collects titles... if I may believe his letters' he smiles wry.
'Actually they are quite boring... he writes to his relatives to claim titles like Earl of Ormond and Earl of Wiltshire... probably with forthcoming property! No, he is cunning enough and says no word about the king or -me.' he sigh.

He nods in agreement at Cromwells' words about getting used to the king and his behaviour.
'I'm glad to hear this, Thomas, I really am... ahh you're still young, you don't think about your future or even your mortality... anyway, it was a pure hypothetical note. Henry will never accept a man who was abandoned and then raised by pirats!' he looks mischievously at Thomas and then laughs with him on his words about enemies.
'What is a man without enemies? Tall trees catch a lot of wind, don't they?'

'You are absolutely right, we shouldn't do a what-if.' then he listened to insight into faith and magic.
'Yes, faith is something different and here I can definitely relate. Especially with example you have just gave, the blood changing... That is quite intresting topic.' squinted looking at the fireplace.
'Hmm... If people these days weren't so gullible, you could tell them openly that you are a bad, bad wizard who can change everyone into... something.' emphasised the last word and smiled. 'I don't even want to consider what people could do now if you told them about your imagined magic skills!' rolled his eyes. Wolsey mentioned obeying king's decisions.
'This is perfectly comprehensible that the king is the one who always decide. Though your role should at least boil down to be a good counsel. Then, there always exists a possibility of approving your ideas. But, it seems it is kept only between you and the king, as people share theories that sound ludicrously. Is it for them such a hard thing to gather?' shrugged.
'I suppose Henry still treats you as a good friend. This is just his mood, it has been rather bad recently, as we all see, because of the matter of divorce... After putting it into effect, the relationship between you and the king will go back as it used to be. It comes across as being good in our nearest future for me.' smiled and after a moment of silence, listened to the letters story.
'I see... Well, then it is nothing new for me to hear he cares about climbing the career ladder. He has always been ambitious. It became obvious since his daughter became seeded by the king... Whose father would not take an advatage of that...' raised one of his eyebrows for a moment. Then he faced Wolsey's mock.
'At first... I am not that young! I am in my forties now! If I was supposed to be elevated, it would have happened long time ago. Secondly...' he became serious. His gaze became cold.
'...you are such an unkind putter-on-air and such a rude blackguard!' said kind of outraged. Only for a moment. A vindictive smile appeared at his face.
'...but I like it. Cheers! Drink to that!' raised his goblet and nodded, downed his wine and wiped his mouth.

Wolsey stared into the flames, smiling and shrugging.
'Well, I don't need to tell them I'm a wizard I suppose, they already think I am... and a bad one, too!' He chuckled and took another sip of wine.
'Norfolk believes I let a ghost go after him...' he smiled and shook his head. 'He has no idea... though I'm glad that the King agreed with me that he had to leave court for a while to look after the harvest and North Sea trade.'
He looked at Cromwell with raised eyebrows.
'He was very angry with me... but for me it was another proof of his incapacity to do what he's supposed to do: to work in the interest of our country! Well... at least he was out of the way for some time, though I noticed he's back again at court.' he sighed.

He listened at Cromwell's words about the relationship between the King and himself and smiled weakly.
'I understand that most people can't imagine how the King and I communicate and how close we are... but that has grown over the years. Furthermore we understand eachother without using words and we share most of the time the same beliefs. He also knows I support him whatever it takes and untill now I've always been able to give him what he wants...' he lapsed into a silence, frowning and biting his lips.

'I do hope everything will turn out well, Thomas, I really do. I have never disappointed him, but lately... I am not his only confidant anymore and to be honest, I have the feeling I can't get close to him anymore. He only has interest for one case... his own personal matter and that determines everything.'

Still frowning he looked at Cromwell. 'Yes, he is a true catholic king and yes, he is also a great humanist... but I can't lose the thought he will sacrifice all this for... her!' he shivered and rubbed his chin.

He looked into the flames again when Cromwell spoke about Boleyn.
'Yes, he is ambitious indeed... but at the expense of his children! I have no admiration for him at all, he has no skills himself, he only... runs a family business, one could say.' he smiled grim.
'... and what about his children, are they respected and beloved? I don't think so at all. ' he sighed and shrugged.

A big smile appeared on his face while Cromwell went on rampage against him and he raised his hands in defence.
'Thomas, Thomas, don't be angry with me, I couldn't bare the thought! Listen, for me you're still a young man, I am at least ten years older than you, my friend. And about your career... well, I think you have not yet reached the peek, watch my words!'

He looked guilty and rolled his eyes when Cromwell used bad names at him and sighed.
'Dear Thomas... people ask me about you... who is that man? Should I just tell them that you are a blacksmith's son with a vague background? People seem to fear you and respect you, I only try to spice up your past so they keep respecting you.
A son of a blacksmith will be treated the same way as a son of a butcher, with disdain, I want to save you from the same fate as I still have to face.'

Laughing out loud he raised his goblet together with him, nodded and drank, placing the goblet on the table again with a graceful arc.

'Yes, he is back at court again indeed... Do you think he is still angry at you and thinks of revenge?' glanced at Wolsey with curiosity.
'Apparently all these people are quite... backward if they can't understand that as time goes by, relationships strengthen. I think Henry should think of all these years you were friends together. If he really loves you, he won't do anything against this... Especially, as you said, you have never disappointed him.' said calmly.
'There still exists somewhere a chance he won't break up with his concepts... Even in love with her.'
He heard everything related to Boleyn.
'Well... I can't say much about his feelings for his children... Though as a private person, he has never seemed to me like he was that bad.' frowned.
'If you think I still have a chance about my career... I wouldn't mind then!' shook his head, smiled and his face brightened. He became more serious after Wolsey's words pertain to Cromwell.
'Then I should and certainly will appreciate it.' nodded.
'Of course some people might treat me like this, with respect, though these who already don't respect people who were low-born, they will not respect me either, now or later. But I do not pay attention to that. At all. If a man is a son of the poor, he will always be bad, probably uneducated and a wizard who has set himself a great position near the king, we have to learn to live with it I suppose.' he rolled his eyes and sighed deeply. 'Even if it hurts sometimes...'
'Well my friend, I must say regretfully, I have to leave, as I have many things to do yet. The more we drink, the more drunk we become when there are still cases to close! But I suppose we can get together once more for such a small talk like today. In my opinion we got closer to each other after this conversation...' glanced at Wolsey.
'Of course don't get me wrong, I have a wife!' laughed loudly and became more serious after a moment leaving a small smile at his face.'I shall thank you for this kind host.'

Wolsey made a vague gesture and inhaled dismissive.
´Ohh I am convinced he hates me more than ever and he will continue to seek revenge... together with the Boleyns and also...´ he frowned as if he still could not believe it ´... also the Duke of Suffolk. Well, it keeps them busy, I guess!´ he laughed scornfully.

He listened at Cromwell´s words about Henry.
´Maybe I see ghosts myself... you are probably right, I should have more trust in our years long relationship and also in his morality.´ He shook his head. ´I don´t know why I see everything so bleak these days, perhaps I´m just getting tired of this whole... situation. It weakens our international position! For a long time, both France and Spain searched our support and now... we have to search support, only because of this!´ he looked frowning at Cromwell.
´I also must put pressure on the Pope ... who is after all my Holy Father. Yet I do it, for my King´s happiness!´ he sighed.

He raised an eyebrow as Cromwell told him he liked sir Boleyn in private but decided not to comment, he would find out one day for himself.
Nodding approvingly when Thomas spoke about not paying attention to those who do not respect councellors who were low-born, he added.
'Just don't give them an opportunity to treat you badly, always be one step ahead of them! And don't forget that Henry continues the strategy of his father, who also appointed poor and low-born scholars instead of nobles. I know it hurts sometimes, but please, suffer in silence, don't ever let anyone of them know they hurted you!'

His face lightened and he nodded in agreement when Thomas told him there was still work to do.
'I appreciate your working appetite, I recognize myself in it and yes, the working day has not finished yet even thoug it's late... You will do whatever you need to do and I will write some more letters which need to be sent as soon as possible.'

He smiled widely after his words of getting closer to eachother.
'Well, I really liked talking frankly with you but though we came closer indeed I was not actually thinking of exchanging weddingrings!' he laughed loudly, then added on a serious tone 'ahh... so you are a married man, please, give her my sympathy.'

He looked at Wolsey a little surprised.
'Duke of Suffolk? How do you know he is also against you? Did he show it in any way?'
Then Wolsey told him about his gloom.
'Perhaps you take such a pessimistic view, because the king has never behaved this way? He has always been thought not to be a moody person, especially in my area. No one has ever heard of any other 'big matter' like this one.' he fell into thoughtfulness for a short moment. He wabbled slightly after the vision of war with France allied with other country, especially with Spain.
'Indeed, the position of England at international arena is less respected if they do not want to make a treaty with us themselves...' shook his head unsatisfied. Then Wolsey advised him. Cromwell felt like there was already waiting a higher position for him.
'Do not worry, my friend. I have always been strong, there is no chance I will ever show them my pain. I'd rather die than give them a satisfaction. I am too proud for this...' sighed.
'Then Henry's father must have been gracious and kind as he started appointing the 'normal' people.' glanced at Wolsey knowingly.
'Well, it seems the low-born are very hard-working, systematic and responsible people!' added and smiled after Wolsey told him about his plans.
'And thank you, I will. My beloved Liz will certainly appreciate it.' nodded and smiled friendly.

Of course I'm not leaving yet, as we haven't finished!

Wolsey frowned when asked about the Duke of Suffolk.
´Well... I know the Duke almost as long as I know the king, of course. I never agreed with the familiair way he treats His Majesty, even though he was brought up at court. He became `Master of the Horse ´ and got the title Viscount Lisle to become a suitable marriage candidate. Yet he had the nerve to marry the King´s sister when she became a widow, knowing very well that Henry wanted to remarry her to another king!´ he shook his head and rolled his eyes.

´His Majesty was outraged when he found out and it was me, a simple cardinal, who stopped him from executing Brandon and he gave him his current title Duke of Suffolk. One should say Brandon would be thankful to me but no, he never showed me any gratitude or even respect!´ he sighed.
´For a long time however, Brandon was not welcome at court anymore... it was sir Boleyn who got him back to the court and I think that was the moment their ally started, together with Norfolk.´ he laughed scornfully.
´An impossible combination of men, but yet united in one goal... to get rid of me!´ he raised an eyebrow and smiled meaningfully.

He shrugged and gestured at a servant. ´Bring us something to eat, some fruit and cheese, please´
Turning to Cromwell again, he smiled weakly. ´You are right, he was never so moody... unless he could not go hunting for some while and I think that disturbs him also... he can´t go into the woods now and lose some energy.´

Looking into the flames he listened at Cromwell and laughed hearty at his assumption that the former king should have been kind and gracious.
´Well... the former king was anything but that, my friend. You know he ended the War of the Roses and set the Tudor reign, but to strengthen his claims on the throne he suppressed the nobility who were very powerful at the time. He was a calculating and greedy man, especially at the end of his long reign of twenty four years. Yet he restored the power and the stability of the monarchy, made peace with Europe and left our present king a great wealth.´

He looked at Cromwell for a while, thoughtful.
´Indeed, the low-born proved to be everything you mention and that's why our present King still prefers them... so you should not despair, my friend, he already noticed you and will surely keep you in mind.'

OOC We certainly have not finished

'Well, indeed marring Margaret was rather... inappropriate. But as all we can see the king is very willing to forgive after all. He gets angry only for a short period, then he just forgets everything... On the other hand, it could be very gainful for some of his friends.' looked at Wolsey meaningfully.
'Perhaps you are right, Charles might feel grateful to sir Boleyn and now he sticks with all them together. It must be pervading to you, I mean thinking of what the threesome is know conniving against you... Isn't it?' sighed. 'You have to be careful with every step you take, as any misunderstanding might lead to destruction...' shook his head and frowned.
'Maybe anyone there should sway the king, they should take him for hunting or there somewhere...' said watching moves of the servant who left and came back with the food.
Then he listened to the Tudors history.
'Wise move... Removing all of them and getting all for himself.' smiled slightly. 'Luckily, even if he was so greedy and calculating, he was quite well balanced as he did not end up with war skirmishing England. Henry was a lucky man. I wonder very often how he will end his life as a king... Differently or more similarly.' squinted and pursed his mouth. His face brightened as he heard of the king who noticed him.
'Oh dear Thomas, please, do not say anything like this anymore as I am getting more hopeful than I should be! Who wouldn't like to meet and work at close hand to the king himself?' smiled weakly.

'He is temperamental indeed, but don't be mistaken, he never forgets anything! Even something that happened long ago he can suddenly hold against you. You should never anger him, that is the best.'

Wolsey took some fruit from the scale and ate with taste.
'Please, Thomas, take something to eat, you must be hungry!' He leaned back in his chair, frowning about his words.
'Well, actually I'm not interested in their plans, I have other business on my mind. Just let them play their own little games, I don't fear them.
Norfolk's father fought at the War of the Roses... at the wrong side, the side of King Richard! The Norfolks lost almost everything and had to start all over... it's why he is such a coward and afraid of everything and everyone. And Boleyn... he has to be careful too, he can't make mistakes now his daughter is so close to the King. And Brandon... he is just a wastrel!'

He shrugged and smiled.
'Ahh... he should go hunting indeed, however his dogs will freeze their foot pads and the wild animals have drawn back far into the forest so he has to wait for the early spring.'

Listening at Cromwell wondering how the King will end his reign, he puts his fingertips together, frowning.
'Well... he is at least as clever as his father, a true catholic and humanist so I assume he will be remembered as a great King, at least all my efforts are aimed to achieve this for him!' he smiles widely, but becomes serious when Cromwell speaks out his deepest wish and sigh.

'You are right, to work together with the King and to be close with him is great! It feels like you are warmed by the sun... but it is also as dangerous: it is like playing with a lion, most of the time he is harmless but you must always beware of his claws!'

'I thought so at the begining of my short career at court... He seems rather unpredictable. I have once accidentally seen the moment when he was walking with his wife, it was such a lovely picture! And suddenly he grabs her hand and squeezes it strongly as she is frowning. Just like that. I wouldn't like to experience his anger on myself, especially that I am not even his wife!' laughed ironically.
'And that's good. Keep doing it, keep taking care of your own cases. And well, if I was the king, I wouldn't allow Norfolk to stay at court. Especially after fighting against 'us'.' sighed, took a big red apple and tossed it once.
'Thank you, Thomas.' smiled, nodded and tried some.
'Indeed, Boleyn must be careful more than ever. There is no other way for him to become rich.' glanced at the window.
'Right, winter... Dear lady spring, come and join us as the king wants you to please him! His mistress winter started annoying him.' smiled resigned. Then Wolsey started citing positive sides of king's character.
'I think you have already acheived a big part of his grandiosity! He listens to you and respects you so he is already as great as you want him to be.' pointed Wolsey out while saying about cardinal's influence.
'He'd better not be such a lion as he will loose his most hard-working and responsible subjects if he is that... naughty. It would be a very... regretful lesson.'

Wolsey shrugged, thoughtfull.
'Yes, he is unpredictable at times... but do not underestimate our Queen, she is also very stubborn, especially when she thinks she is right!' he sighed 'Even though she is his wife and should only support the interests of the English, she mostly supports the Spanish interests. She is still a Spanish woman in her heart, with its temperament!' he laughed and shook his head.
'I remember when I was in France with the King, meanwhile she took care of England's matters. England was attacked by the Scottish but their King died in the battle. She wanted to send his head to Henry to cheer him up! It took some persuasive power from the courtiers to convince her that it was not a good idea... so she sent his cloak, covered with blood!'

He looked frowning at Cromwell and spoke slowly.
'He can be very angry and also rude, it is very important to stay calm yourself and wait untill his anger disappears - as sudden as it raises- and then talk quietly with him. Never go against him, say he is right and then he will ask you what you think yourself. Always be aware of what you suggest him, though, because once he makes a decision, it is difficult to talk him out of it.'

Leaning back in his chair he smiled.
'Ahh... Norfolk, well, someone suggested to Henry that it is better to have your enemies in the neighbourhood so they will be grateful to you and want you as a friend instead of fighting you...' he winked.

He listened with interest at Cromwell's words about winter and spring and smiled weakly, thinking about the similarity with the King's matter..
'Well, you could exchange 'lady spring' for 'lady Anne' and 'mistress winter' for 'the Queen'...' he smiled and frowned at the same time.

His face brightened and his eyes glistened when Cromwell complimented his achievements.
'Ahh... I agree with you he is a grandiose King. I want him to outshine all others! That is why I give him all credits when things go well and take the blame on myself when something fails or does not work well!'

He glanced at Wolsey and rised his eyebrows.
'Oh God, I would never think of her this way! She always seemed so calm, humble and... And... You just took all my words out of me.' smiled with disbelief.
'Sending his husband the head of his enemy... What a creative woman! How Henry did become so bored with such a temperamental Queen!' laughed and his eyes became bigger for a moment. Then he listened to Wolsey's suggestions in relation to the king's behaviour.
'Then I would have to think more than twice before I would talk to him. I would probably prepare a speech a day before carrying any conversation with the king.' smiled slightly.
'Well, I must admit that 'someone' was right... Though not all of those enemies are always grateful.' frowned and smiled after Wolsey's comparison of seasons and king's seeded women.
'I know I should not be smiling right now, but it is a good point, though I was not going to make it sound like that.' then he noticed Wolsey's pride. Of course well-deserved pride and smiled widely.
'And by making him outshining all others... You kind of make yourself well-known! Some of my acquaintances think you are a thaumaturge as the king was earlier supposed to be a... hmm... bigger than 'just' a tyrant.' smiled meaningfully.

Wolsey smiled while Cromwell spoke about the Queen, he understood his surprise because the queen nowadays seemed a totally different person than she once was.
He shrugged. ´Well, you probably can´t imagine Katherine used to like the same things as Henry, they liked to party and she was where he was... they understood each other! ´

He noticed their glasses were empty and gestured a servant to refill them.
´... things started to change as the Emperor - who was our natural ally and of course promoted by Katherine - betrayed us! Henry blamed Katherine and moreover, after the miscarriages I already told you about, in her grief she turned to the faith and she became a very devout zealot, too much perhaps... never tell anyone I said this' he smiled a little.

'Ahh... yes you should prepare yourself before talking to him, he can take you by surprise but always wants your solution, not tomorrow or next week, but immediately! Consider all options before you meet with him so you can guide him to the right direction.' While spreaking he stood up and squeezed Cromwell's shoulder before he walked to the fireplace and stared into the flames.

'Well... even "someone" can be mistaken sometimes! My father used to say: if you can't fight them, join them.'he turned around and smiled. 'Not all enemies are predictable, though Norfolk would never dare to act against the King, unlike the Duke of Buckingham! Well.... we both know how he ended.' he frowned and shrugged.

He raised an eyebrow and chuckled after Cromwell's words.
'A thaumaturge, ahh... well I'd love to meet these acquaintances of yours, I know many names people call me, but a thaumaturge! ... ahh I like it, I'll remember it, too!' laughed good-natured.

He frowned when he talked about a tyrant.
'Listen, Thomas, the cub has become an adult lion, though I still think he needs guidance. It 's why I place men in his neighbourhood who I can trust, like yourself being his secretary now. It's also why I appoint the men of his Privy Chamber and talk to ambassadors before they speak to him, you understand?'

'Oh so it turned out that God became her last hope after all those episodes? Or has she always been so wedded to Our Lord?' he rapped on the table with his fingers.
'Of course I will not tell. I will just whisper to one of my friends to forward her your words.' winked and smiled teasingly but became more serious as usually during their conversation.
'I am getting more and more full of positive astonishment as you can handle king's caprices very well. Patience is definitely required...' he also stood up and approached Wolsey putting his hands at his back.
'If we talk about me, I think I am quite patient though I've never dealt with such an important person on whose head depends destiny of this country.' sighed.
'Then Norfolk probably won't do anything stupid as he rather cares about his life... I guess.' sighed. 'Duke of Buckingham... I barely remember this... head.' rised his eyebrows and shrugged. He also laughed after Wolsey's favour on his new nickname.
'Then I will consider calling you this way myself either!' he nodded as Wolsey mentioned his care about the king.
'Yes, I do... You do a good job around him and I am glad you trust me. But well, if I was a bad, bad man you would have probably noticed that and got rid of me, so I probably deserve being trusted a little.' smiled proudly.
'All in all you are the one who king trusts the most and he woudln't manage ruling this country without his, as you said, guide.'

´Well, she has always been a faithfull Catholic, she is Spanish after all...´ he smiled weakly.
´but after the miscarriages she searched for penance and the more devout she became, the more she and Henry drove apart, because he searched... other pleasures.´

He looked at Thomas and raised an eyebrow.
´You ungrateful dog! I should have known better than to tell you my secrets´ raised his hands ´... what was I expecting from a man with such a dark past!´ They looked eachother in the eyes and laughed hearty.

When Cromwell approached him he tapped him on the shoulder.
´Patience is the key, my friend and well, if you can cope with me, the King will be easy for you to handle.´ he chuckled, then added seriously.
´Patience... and the right timing, thomas. He doesn´t like to hear bad news, so don´t bring him bad news, never! Bring him opportunities... and deal with the bad things yourself untill they become good news. Or... distract him.´

Staring into the flames he spoke softly.
´Norfolk is a fool... but a dangerous fool. He cares about his life and I think it´s all he cares about!´ he smiled careful when Cromwell joked about Buckingham´s head.
´Buckinghan´s dead shocked him off, so he is more carefull now. He still thinks I persuaded Henry to execute him...´ he shrugged and looked straight into Thomas´eyes.
´Just for the record... I did not! But I let him in delusion I did.´

His eyes glistened while Thomas got proud of his trust.
´Ahh... I am still figuring out whether I can trust you or not... so don´t be too sure of your position! ´ he smiled warmly. ´My friend, I do trust you fully! I only wished there were more men like you in his neighbourhood, you have all the skills I like to see and I think of men like you when I speak about guidance...´

'Other pleasures... Very kind phrase. Indeed, men like Henry can't stand sitting with his...' paused for a moment pretending deep consideration. '...lower parts of his body at one place.' smiled and thought of faces of a few ladies at court that Henry was drooling over more than once. He laughed after Wolsey's words in relation to repeating his secrets.
'Be careful what you say as I could be a wolf in sheep's clothing!' smiled warmly and then listened to next advices related to the king.
'Right, so I will have to test myself by getting rid of you, then I will achieve just everything.' giggled quietly. 'No my friend, I'd rather not mess with you.' smiled and raised his hands.
'What kind of bad news the king doesn't like the most that you manage to change into good ones?' glanced at Wolsey curiously.
'You weasel! Nice way of keeping Norfolk away from you. 'Stay away or I will have a small talk to a king' it's an another kind suggestion for him. If I were him I wouldn't take any dangerous steps.' crossed his arms on his chest.
'Guidance in my case is rather nothing in comparison to you... I am just a simple hard-working man doing my job and not complaining. I did not come here to make a friendship to the king, though I always thought it would be good if he at least didn't want to remove me from court and from my position.' sighed.
'And I am glad you trust me that much. I do so mutually.' nodded.

'You... comedian!' he smiled about Cromwell's words though also frowned a bit.
'Making fun about the King's.... pleasures! Well... since you seem to be better informed than I about his doings with his ... lower parts I ask you to tell me at once if there is any news that I should know. '

He laughed loudly while he looked intently at him.
'A wolf in sheep clothes! I'd say you are a wolf indeed, but where are the sheep clothes, I don't see them!' he tapped Thomas's back, then turned back to the fireplace and rubbed his chin, thoughtful.

'The king does not like anything which thwarts his own plans. The best example is the moment he planned another invasion in France, after we already invaded twice. You see he was a young King at the time and eager to impress the world at the battlefield. But wars are expensive and there are other ways to find glory... so I persuaded him to create a treaty... the Treaty of Perpetual and Universal Peace! ' he spoke proudly, remembering his best negotiations ever.
He turned to Thomas, smiling broadly.

'You understand... I didn't tell him we had no means anymore to go to war by then, in fact I made preparations to start this war, but meanwhile I negotiated with France, Spain, the Pope, in fact whole Europe to achieve this peace! So he got his glory after all, only in another way he had thought ! '

When Thomas spoke about Norfolk he sighed.
'Ahh... he fears me allright, though I remember I let him come to court once while he was on a mission in Northern Ireland, begging me to let him return because he thought he was going to die there. And now, well ...' he shrugged.

'Well... at least you have one friend; me. In time you will be friends with the king too... at least if he nor I have removed you by then, my friend!' he winked and took another sip of the excellent wine.

Cromwell shared laughing with Wolsey.
'I haven't got any proofs he uses IT recently, but I have seen so many times his gaze, staring at all those ladies, with such a hunger in his eyes!' shrugged and loured his voice.
'I must admit that I've heard some young servants talking quietly about some of king's... groans coming from one of chambers regularly.' winked. 'But shhh...' put his finger onto his lips. 'I know nothing!' rolled his eyes and smiled warmly.
'As I can see, I am not the only comedian in this room! Birds of a feather flock together.' smiled after Thomas tapped his back.
'Yes, this treaty became kind of well-known... Everyone heard about this. Then I am impressed now, I probably wouldn't come up with this if I were you. As long as the king became such a peace defender, it diverted his attention from starting another war and depleting the treasury...' frowned. 'He doesn't already plan another invasion, does he?'
Then cardinal came back to Norfolk.
'Other could say Norfolk is a coward then. What was going on in Ireland that time he was there?' sighed deeply.
'I feel relieved now.' glanced at Wolsey with smile and followed him also drinking his wine.