Yuletide passes joyfully, and Edward is surprised at the attitude of his stepmother, Alfrida, who even happily accepts the invitation to their upcoming wedding. Her deceptions continue as she also makes time for Rumon over the holidays, showing him an affection and tenderness that he was sure had long gone. Alfrida finally agrees to marry Rumon, and further agrees to announce their engagement at dinner that evening. Rumon is overcome with his blind love for her, and tells her of the plans he has made to remove her from her dreary Castle and take her to Ireland, perhaps. At noon Rumon returns to his own lodgings to don his best clothes in anticipation of his betrothal announcement to the King. On his way back to the Castle, he runs into Merewyn, who is.....
