Musketeer's Daughter:Unanswered Riddle

Chapter 19: His Majesty, the King

As it was, the King did not show up for the feast as something more important detained him. This did nothing to ease Ysabeau's nerves. Marie had a difficult time securing each tie and jewel in her wig as she readied her for the ball. She knew she would not hear the end of it with Andrién, he having no choice but to leave without bidding her farewell.

They were not to remain long anyhow, the King demanding their presence at every turn. She supposed it was to attend the King, as the closest of his guard left without announcement. Indeed, their abrupt departure caused a worrisome clamor among the ton, but they were reassured with the promise of an unforgettable evening and a generous plate of repast.

"So, tell me about this Philippe I have been hearing so much about. Is he the same you had bested as you wondered about in your, ah, breeches?" At least Marie had the decency to giggle.

Ysabeau snorted at her, holding extra still as she slid a sharp pin through her gown. "You know who this Philippe is, Marie—you've but scowled and spat and ho-hummed him too many times. You forget?" She sighed, unsure of her feelings for him. "He disarms me and in turn, I him. It was spectacular, Marie, you should have witnessed it. Then he kissed me."

"He kissed you? I should have been there to protect your virtue."

"Oui, you should have, but Andrién did a fine job of that, but Musketeers need no chaperones about. I am, after all, Andrién III duc de d'Azay-le-Rideau le Garde de la Manche's niece."

Marie gasped and covered her mouth, her other hand still in Ysabeau's hair. "How did he handle it?"

"Well," she smiled with sweet recollection, "I kissed Philippe back when Andrién demanded that he stop."

"Ysabeau!"

"It was his idea that I become a lady and leave my manly ways behind, no? So I gave him what he wanted from me. Are you proud?"

She stood there, thoughtful, the smile fading. "I am glad to see you interested in anyone else but your frère, Ysabeau. It is wrong to pursue Mathieu as you have."

"I have been thinking the very same. So you approve of this Philippe at last?" Ysabeau felt her stomach sink, though she knew Marie was correct. Mathieu would most likely be pleased that she finally grew up and left him be. A dark hardness lurched in her chest and she tucked it away before it grew unbearable.

"He works side-by-side Andrién, he must be the best in everything. Of course I do, so long as he keeps his paws off you."

By the time Marie was done placing the last jewel in her hair, a knock sounded. "Oh, Marie, I do not know if I can go and face the King. I am terrified."

"I do not blame you, amour, however, it is a great honor."

"But he expects me to dance with him! What if he sees through me and discovers I am not the lady I pretend to be and sends me to the guillotine? I am no lady and he would be correct to believe such."