The trumpets sounded, and the herald's voice boomed over the royal court. "KING HENRY THE FIFTH OF ENGLAND!"
You dropped your head and bent into a low curtsy, mimicking the rest of the court. Hal's footsteps echoed off the arches, permeating over the silence as he walked the aisle to his new throne. You were unable to fight the urge to raise your eyes and fixate on the young king, Noticing a look of dread burning in his eyes as he took his place.
He turned, and locked eyes with you. immediately bringing your gaze back to the floor in extreme regret. You had no doubt that the King would punish you for taking in his image before you had permission.
"Rise!" The young king's voice sounded over the court, restrained and unenthusiastic.
You straightened, but couldn't bring yourself to look at him again, mortified that the King himself had caught you being so crass. keeping your head down as the court lined up to pay their respects and pledge their loyalty. Your father beckoned you to follow him into the lineup, the lump in your throat growing as you obeyed.
When you finally arrived at the foot of his throne, you kneeled next to your father. As he made his pledge you were still unable to lift your eyes from the floor.
King Henry thanked your father for his words. "Would your daughter raise her head, and allow me to look upon her face." He requested.
This is it, you thought, your gut-churning as you raised your head in apprehension. His eyes locked onto yours immediately, his face expressionless. He stared into your eyes, not making a sound, for what felt like an eternity.
Then eventually he spoke, without breaking from your eyes. "wait in the west courtyard after the ceremony is completed." He commanded, waving his hand for you to leave. You and your father both bowed your head in agreement and hurried out. his eyes following as you let
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You stood under a large beech tree, waiting for your new king. nervously fiddling with the delicate gold embroidery that wrapped around your maroon gown. You could hear the murmurs of people walking through the corridors, and the rustle of leaves as the light breeze blew through the garden.
You turned, seeing Hal striding towards you. His hands were clasped together behind his back. His head held high, but not with pride. His posture seemed to mimic the weight of England's expectations, and his unyielding fortitude to live up to them. You bent into a low curtsy as he approached.
"Walk with me," he commanded. Without waiting for a response, he turned towards a path leading to the orchards. You obeyed, shuffling in your dress to catch up. "What do you know of me?" He questioned; his eyes glued to the path ahead.
"I do not no much, your highness," you lied.
He stopped abruptly and faced you, staring directly into your eyes. "Do not lie to me." He ordered forcefully, a hint of anger in his voice. "I will not hold you accountable for the murmurings of the court."
