"These things take time. Soon she shall be queen, and soon forget this scar upon her reputation. She knows you love her, she is just scared. As long as you stay with her, she will heal; piece by piece." Alyxander raised his gaze as Josephine returned down the staircase, her white hair hidden beneath the bonnet; and what showed looked brown or black in the shadows of the covering. "There, I am ready." Alyx smiled at her and nodded. "Then let us go. The day awaits."