章 214: Teardrops

3 May, 1361. Magdaline Castle, Islia.

The weeks were sliding by in a comfortable blur, as signs of spring began spreading throughout the castle gardens and surrounding countryside.

Such a season of contrast to last year, Camilla thought with dark humour. She could now look back and laugh about the stifling heat and the never ending buzz of insects at Westerhaven.

At the time, there had been nothing funny about it.

Camilla and William were heading back to their apartments after dinner in the great hall. A travelling troupe of musicians from the Western Continent were residing in court for several days and they had played a stream of lively ballads that evening.

Camilla's feet were throbbing in her high heeled shoes, aching after being spun around for hours in time to the wild music. William was laughing as he watched her limp.