Chapters 17, Windsor Castle, England, May 1277 - 20, Rhuddlan Castle, Wales, November 1277 Summary

In chapter 17, Ellen is still hopeful that she will be able to sway Edward to release her and Amaury. Blanche, Edmund's wife and Ellen's childhood friend, advises Ellen to flirt with Edward. Smile at him and get on his good side so he will listen, she advises. Ellen says she will try, but does not know if she can be successful. When she looks at Edward, all she sees is Amaury in shackles.

Davydd enjoys verbally sparing with the King. During one match the King marvels at Davydd's ability to bewitch women. Davydd looks around the hall looking to ask a woman what women look for in a man. He finds the prettiest woman to answer the question, Ellen. She stares coldly at him until...