Alice More's bedchamber

Thomas looked at his wife and took a deep breath. He shook slowly his head

I don't know, my love. I really I have no idea about this. But only one thing is certain: the King, in his blindness, fears no one but God..

He added before turning his eyes towards the fire thoughtfully

"I don't think he even fears Him," Alice retorted. She really had no idea how things could have progressed in such a way. "Thomas, I don't think it's wise to involve yourself any further with the king," she said softly.

Thomas looked at Alice and shook thoughtfully his head

Alice, in truth..I fear for the Queen. It seems that Anne Boleyn hates her openly, and that she hates Queen's daughter too. They say that she threatened her..

He said loweing a bit his voice and looking into her eyes

"Threatened her how?" Alice asked, her eyes growing wide.

Thomas looked at Alice with worried eyes

I have heard rumors, Alice. Remember..that Fisher and I have been poisoned, once. I fear she would do it again..with Katherine, this time..

Then he caressed softly her arm and tried to smile

But these are dangerous speeches, my love. Let's think at our children's life too..

She smiled and her countenance softened. "Yes, you're right. Who knows, perhaps the Boleyns have eyes and ears everywhere." She sat back in the chair and let her body relax. "The children have been well behaved of course, but they are eager for Christmas to come. In that way they shall never grow old."

Thomas smiled while hearing her words. He nodded slowly

Yes..they always loved Christmas. Of course, this will be a very different Christmas at court. Katherine is far and also Princess Mary. And another woman will sit at King's side taking their place. It's rather sad..

He added shrugging and took a sip from his tea

"I take it you will have to attend the court ceremonies," she said a bit sadly. "If you go I will go too. Even though I do not like the king's latest actions, I must show respect for him."

Thomas sighed

I fear we should go, dear. The King would not be pleased to notice our absence. Also, we must be careful. Fisher and I think we should not show our real feelings towards his recent actions..

She put her hands on his shoulders in an act of standing with him no matter the cost. "You know I will do whatever is best, for our family and our king and of course our God. We will go and at the very least enjoy some mulled wine and marzipan," she said, putting on a brave smile.

Thomas smiled and nodded slowly. Then he thought for a little while

And what if...we'd go to Kimbolton Castle to visit Queen Katherine? She must feel very alone, especially during Christmas festivities. What do you think, darling?

He asked turning towards her

"I think that is a wonderful idea, Thomas. But will we be allowed? Surely our activities will be reported back to the king," she said with caution.

Thomas sighed deeply while nodding

Maybe you're right, dear. Better being careful. I'll write her a letter, to show her our support. Hope she'll find peace after so much suffering..

He added thoughtfully