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If there could be dark stars, then two had fallen from heaven and lodged in Berengaria's eyes. The brilliant glow brought a hope to Alinor that she had misjudged her gentle mistress. It was impossible that Joanna would not have advised her sister on what to expect. The only faint shadow on Alinor's expectation was the Princess's total lack of nervousness about the marriage. Alinor quelled the feeling. Berengaria was no coward. She had faced the snow-buried mountains and the raging seas with great fortitude. |
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Joanna's work in arranging the wedding had been well done. Because Richard was not marrying in his own domains, the number of nobles and prelates who would witness the ceremony was relatively small, and the vows could be exchanged in the chapel itself. Joanna wept quietly as she saw the bride and groom joined. Both were radiantly happy. She remembered how frightened she had been at her own wedding. william had been so much older, and she had been so homesick. But it had worked out wellall except her own barrenness. Surely this union would be blessed with fruit, both bride and groom were so young, so strong, so eager. Richard was happy and eager. Those odd little quirks of his It was only because he was more soldier than lover, and there was no harm in that. |
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The King has convinced himself, Simon thought with relief. He is truly filled with joy and eagerness. At least he will be able to take her maidenhead. Simon's worst fear had been that Richard would find himself |
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