John Fisher's bedchamber

Fisher was on his knees before the little altar in the corner of his bedroom, praying deeply.
As the servant entered, he finished his prayer, crossed himself and stood up.

Let him enter, please he replied kindly.

Fisher nodded and looked seriously into his eyes.

You don´ t disturb me at all, Milord. Please, sit down and share your thoughts with me. I can offer you some water to drink, it is all I have here and I drink nothing else myself.

Fisher poured some water into two goblets and handed one to the Duke.
He listened and nodded and then blinked his eyes.

I know of the engagement, of course. And it would be an honour to me to celebrate the ceremony, but am I the right person to do this? I mean, we are talking about a royal wedding here.... I imagine the Bishop of Canterbury would celebrate.... or His Eminence, the Cardinal Wolsey...

He frowned and looked at him, he heard the rumours too but he couldn't believe them to be true.

Fisher nodded slowly. So it was true, the Cardinal Wolsey was out of favor.
I am sorry to hear this. I never thought of the consequences for him, not obtaining the annullment....

He looked at him, smiling faintly.
I assume the king agrees, so yes, I am happy to celebrate the wedding. I thank you most heartily for this honor. Do you and the future bride have special needs I should know about?

He nodded in understanding.

A royal wedding is a special wedding anyway, I will celebrate the eucharist properly and approprately.

The duke spoke on and he looked up in surprise, strucked by his worried face.

Yes, of course. Ask me anything you want, Your Grace.

Fisher stared at him untill he realized his mouth was open in astonishment and he closed it, biting his lips.

Not... a believer? She.... the Princess Mary-Rose... lost her faith? He blinked his eyes serveral times, shaking his head, too surprised to answer his question about the validity of the marriage.

Why, I mean, what happened that she doesh't believe anymore? he asked, raising his eyes to him. He folded his hands in a silent prayer in his lap.

He nodded slowly, thoughtfull.
mmm, I understand she is confused about the death of her beloved sister. But God gives and takes, in order to strengthen our faith.

Looking into his pleading eyes, he added firmly.
Of course I will talk with her. She will marry you before the eyes of God, she has to realize that, Your Grace.

Fisher smiled faintly.

I will talk with her, Your Grace. Your can rely on my discretion, I respect the sacramental seal. And don't worry, I am sure she will recognize that her belief is still justified.

He tapped his arm gently for a moment to give him courage.

Fisher smiled and stood up as well.

Don´t mention it, Your Grace, there is no need to thank me. We keep in touch then,,, when will the wedding take place? he asked curiously.

Fisher nodded seriously.
Of course.... I understand. Just let me know when, Your Grace, and again, thank you for awarding me the honor to perform the ceremony. All will be fine, I assure you.

He smiled faintly and bowed his head slightly.

After the Duke left, he sank down again and prayed, for the welfare of the Duke and his future royal wife, and for courage and guidance to fullfill his promise to him and speak with Princess Mary-Rose.
He crossed and stood up again, drank some water and left the room.

Fisher was in his bed for days, sick and weak and recovering slowly, too slowly to his liking.
He could hardly sleep and tugged at the blankets, tremendous worrying.

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Thomas heard that Fisher was still lying on bed since days after the poisoning. So he decided to visit him to make sure about his conditions. After being announced by a servant, he walked into room and smiled weakly

Your Grace...how do you feel? The physician told me that you have been lucky and you'll be fully healed soon. But you still need to rest. I came to bring you some news...

He said with serious but friendly voice