Henry looked magnificent. Only someone who knew him well might have noticed the absence of joy in his face.
Everything around them was perfect yet Bella knew, with complete certainty, that she had never witnessed two people less suited to one another.
The princess advanced beside her father, the King of France, while noble attendants followed. The entire court seemed to inhale at once, delighted by splendour.
The Archbishop began the solemnisation, his voice rising beneath the immense stone vaults of Westminster Abbey.
At first, everything proceeded perfectly. Prayers were spoken. Responses came at the proper moments. Incense drifted before the High Altar, and the gathered nobility bowed and rose with admirable unity.
Henry stood beside Princess Madeleine, composed. He appeared every inch the triumphant monarch.
The Archbishop asked the required questions of consent. Madeleine answered clearly, promising before God and the assembled court to take Henry as her husband.
