Chapter 16: The Cardinal Part 2

March 1450, Palace of Castile

After having their fast, the royals invited him to the library and asked the butler to summon the then Cardinal, Rodrigo Borjas. As they awaited the arrival of the Cardinal, they chatted casually, and Tomas observed the interactions between the Queen and the King.

Although the Queen was the second wife of the present King, she is clearly pampered and loved by the King. Tomas could clearly see that the King had only eyes for her. Tomas was startled by the opening of the study door.

He stood up and greeted the Cardinal who came in. The Cardinal first turned to the royals and greeted them and then turned his eyes at him. When his eyes met the Cardinal's Tomas felt the same kindness, the same awe, that he felt when he first laid eyes on his uncle.

"Ah, you look so much like your Uncle Juan. Did you know that he and I studied in the same Monasterio?" The Cardinal said while chuckling.

"He never mentioned it to me, Padre. He only gave me a letter and told me to pass it on to the Cardinal." Tomas replied.

"That's Juan for you. Always acting mysterious, that guy." the Cardinal replied, then, he turned towards the Royals and said, "I thank the King and Queen for hosting my apprentice. I will take someone to get his belongings shortly."

"You don't have to be so formal with us Cardinal. You know how important you are to our Kingdom. And please, if you don't mind, visit us once in a while. You didn't forget that you were with me since I was a child right?" The king told Cardinal Rodrigo.

"Of course not. I just don't want to interrupt your time with Isabela. I know you two lovebirds are still trying for a child." The Cardinal responded.

"Ah, we cannot stay cooped up in our rooms all day. What would our subject think of us?" The King said, somewhat mortified.

"Hmmm.. Like I'd believe that." retorted the Cardinal.

"Anyways, enough jesting, I will now take my charge to the Monasterio. He will stay there while learning and assisting me," he added.

"Farewell, King and Queen. Thank you for your hospitality. May I please request that you tell my companion about the change in our residence." said Tomas.

"The butler will see to it that your companion is informed. You should leave with no worries. Look at Rodrigo, he is excited to talk to you." said the King in a teasing tone.

The Cardinal just harrumphed and led Tomas out of the Castle.