Love and Other Crimes

Named Husband and Wife

King Sigmund sent numerous valuable gifts to his future son-in-law. After Henry's reply that he was happily accepting his proposal, Sigmund wrote back that he was deeply honored and he was preparing a vast dowry for his daughter, Brigitte.

In the time left until his future wife and her family would arrive for the wedding, Henry was feverishly trying to arrange a few things.

First of all, he made clear to Edward and Edith that he would not accept a single moment of inappropriate behavior before Sigmund and his people. As for Princess Brigitte, it was their duty to treat her with respect. "This is about the kingdom's safety! Does anything happen because of you, I'll hold you accountable!"

Of course, his wife should know as few things as possible about his kingdom's affairs. Not to mention, she would be discretely kept away from specific chambers of the palace. Maybe she was a guileless girl. But he couldn't know. So he couldn't risk it. Sigmund was absolutely capable of nasty business like this.

The ruling powers of both Malgravia and Redland were mistrustful of each other. It became obvious when king Sigmund's family and expedition reached the capital of Malgravia. But they still wouldn't ruin the cheerful, friendly, fake ambiance all around. This wedding had to take place in the merriest spirits. For everyone's good.

Henry was informed about the arrival. In the few minutes left until he would welcome them, he had to put himself together. "I'm very happy for this! I want to get married!" He kept repeating it, a few paces away from anyone, trying to convince himself. He could hear Edward's and Edith's murmurs, probably cursing their visitors. "Why the hell? Why now I need you?"

Maxwell rushed to control their temper. Henry nodded "thank you". "Bless you, Maxwell!" At this very moment, when he had to pretend he was happy for sacrificing his future happiness in favor of his kingdom, he needed to be calm. Apparently, he only had Maxwell by his side on that. Despite their love, his siblings couldn't understand.

"They are here, Your Majesty!"

The sentries announced the expedition and they walked in. Henry kept his gaze fixed on the gate. "I wonder what she looks like!" He had never asked himself so far.

He first welcomed Sigmund, who introduced his family. Henry beckoned his siblings to approach. They were kind; or at least they were trying to. But Henry could clearly see their disdain for their guests.

"So, dear Henry, let me introduce to you my little Brigitte!"

Henry smiled, only because he thought he should do so. But right after Sigmund's words, he couldn't think or breathe. His people stood aside and made way for Princess Brigitte to come closer.

When Henry was a little boy, his father had once taken him for a walk in the capital. He wanted his children to be in touch with the ordinary people. An old man approached them and asked the king to tell his son a story. The king happily agreed and the old man told little Henry an amazing story about a ravishing fairy by the nearby river; a lady the likes of whom took any living creature's breath away. Henry now recalled the old man's description of this lady. He would swear he saw her before his eyes.

Sigmund smiled at the couple, staring at each other.

"Well... I have the honor of becoming father-in-law of such a fine and gorgeous young man! But as you can see, I'm bringing to him a bride worthy of him!"

Everybody smiled, as if agreeing with his words. Henry mechanically uttered a few words. And so did the ravishing girl.

Everything was arranged immediately. The wedding ceremony took place three days after the arrival of Sigmund and his expedition. Princess Brigitte of Redland became Queen Brigitte of Malgravia. And soon after the pompous celebrations, Sigmund left for Redland.