Chapitre 72: The Hatred is Mutual

15 April, 1359. Magdaline Castle, Islia

William escorted Princess Sarai to dinner, clenching his jaw at the possessive way he held onto his arm. She flashed a demure smile to the king and queen but as soon as she took her seat, Sarai started making her usual critical remarks to William about everything, from the wine to the music to the quality of the ladies' jewellery. 

He had very quickly discovered that conversation with this princess was incredibly boring. There was no lively talk about ancient poetry or mathematics, nothing about history or good books. Instead, Sarai talked about her gowns and jewels, as well as whatever tidbits of vicious gossip were doing the rounds at court.

In the past, William hadn't much cared what women talked about. It wasn't as if he sought them out for conversation. But now he realised there was something to be said for cleverness and quick wit. This woman lacked both.