Henry regarded her steadily, the faintest tightening of his jaw betraying his patience wearing thin. "No, it is not your duty," he said. "It is your duty to oversee the noble women of the palace until there is a queen upon the throne. It is your duty to be a grandmother to my son. It is not your duty to police me."
The Queen Mother's eyes flashed. "I am still your mother," she retorted. "And I will not stand by while those around you—" her gaze flicked sharply toward Stephen "—conspire to place you in harm's way."
Henry took a step forward. "My valet and my personal guard are beyond your authority," he continued. "They serve at my pleasure and answer only to me. You will not interrogate them, threaten them, or interfere with their duties again. I will not give you another warning. If this repeats itself, I will send you to the Tower of London to live out the rest of your years."
