In the Shadows of the Cathedral

Alexa spent the afternoon with Prince Gutard. Unfortunately, they could not be alone at any time.

  The Princess could see that, in fact, Cordelia and Ceridon were doing their best to keep him comfortable and well. Alexander had already said that it was only a matter of time before Gutard died, unfortunately. She at least wished he could make it up to himself, and relieve some of the weight in his judgment. That was what his children wanted, too.

But her return to the castle, like Alexa, became uncomfortable. The noble ladies who had not gone to their rural residences sought to invite her to join them at their small events. Alexa could not deny a visit or two in the early evening, from people who said they were sick and begged her to go to pray in their rooms. Feeling, and knowing herself an imposter, but unable to deny this kind gesture, she visited these women and spent time with them.