25th of December, 1538: Christmas in England is fairly non-eventful compared to the previous year. As Lady Magdalen is now pregnant in the country and the children are all off in Hatfield for a private, quite Christmas. So the only drama is that Henry leaves midway through the celebrations for a bathroom break and one ambassador takes it as a grave insult and is promptly thrown into a fountain.
In Scotland, Queen Mary and King James lead the celebrations with a sweet, happy lot of revelries that are designed to show off the growing family of the monarchs, with the Princess Mary charming all of the ambassadors and people present.
In France, King Francois spends his time with his ladies, leaving his son and daughter-in-law to lead the festivities. They do so with elegance, and many hope that the competence and grace that they display is an indicator of future hopes.
In Spain, Charles and Anne have a solemn, quiet Christmas. While they attend the celebrations, they leave as early as possible to spend time with the children. They leave Prince Philip to hold over the celebrations with his betrothed, who shocks the court by planting a kiss on his cheek and dancing ‘wildly’ with the young royal. But many note that they seem quite friendly, and many hope that the marriage is as happy as they are now.