Page 25 of One Knight
“No, Your Majesty. The baron’s sister was the prize, and the Lady Elisande is now my wife. The baron’s daughter … was not an option.”
“Not an option?”
“She is simple, Your Majesty. Like a child.”
King William’s brows rose to his golden circlet. “Simple? Truly?”
Henry nodded.
“So, you married the lady of the land?”
“Indeed, Your Majesty. And a fine mother she will be to my heirs.”
“Huh.” William leaned back on his heels. “And the lady was amenable after the battle?”
“There was no battle, sire. The baron fled, with his knights and soldiers.”
“Leaving the women and peasants defenseless?”
“Yes, Your Majesty. The lady raised a white flag. No blood was shed.”
The king smiled. “The best outcome possible.You are a much more suitable replacement. Where is the lady in question?”
“Behind the walls of the priory, sire. We did not know who approached.”
“Bring her to me. I wish to meet this prize you have wed.”
“Of course, Your Majesty.”
Henry bowed to his king and made his way inside the priory’s gate. As soon as he stepped within, Elisande ran toward him.
“Are you all right? What do they want?”
Her concern for him warmed his heart beneath the layers of metal. “All is well. The king is here, and he wishes to meet you.”
Her eyes went wide. “The king? Meet me? Why?” Fear flickered across her countenance.
“He wishes to meet my bride. Fear not. He means you no harm.”
“Are you sure? They say he is terrifying.”
“In battle perhaps. But to a gentle lady, never. There would be no honor in that.”
He held out his arm, and she placed her hand upon his chain mail.
“I hope he does not mind that I wear your clothing.”
“He does not stand on ceremony. He has just conquered a nation. He understands better than anyone that things are in transition.”
They crossed through the gate, and Elisande moved closer to Henry as they approached the king’s men.
“Your Majesty, I present my wife, the Lady Elisande de Vere.”
The king looked at his bride with a smile and shook his head.
“This will not do at all.”
Henry froze. “Excuse me, sire?”
