Henry V

you were awoken, deep in the throes of the night, by frantic knocking upon your chamber doors. it takes you a minute to get up and wrap a dressing gown around your body.

"get dressed, my lady. your presence is requested in the throne room, now."

the advisor leads you to the throne room. your father is sitting upon the throne, looking worried. your mother stands to his right, your two brothers on his left. you take a spot standing next to your mother, and she grasps your hand and gives it a hearty squeeze.

the doors to the room open, and in walks the king of england, henry v. his entourage consists of what seems to be high ranking soldiers. most of them are still dirty, whereas henry looks to have cleaned up before seeking an audience with your father.

he looks boyish, even though you suspect he is many years your senior. possibly seven, or eight. he is handsome, and strong, with stoic eyes and a pretty face.

he speaks up, his voice loud and commanding. "france has fallen," his voice booms. "your men have surrendered to england."

you feel your heart sink.

"my armies surround paris," henry continues. "now it is your turn to surrender."

your father is silent for a moment. "what are my options?" he finally asks.

"either i kill you and take your throne," henry begins, drawing a slight gasp from your throat. "or we sign a treaty." that seemed like the logical choice.

"the conditions of the treaty?" your father asks, his chin still raised high, voice calm.

"marriage with your eldest daughter."

so you.