“They’re almost here!” he shouted.
Relief stole over the crowd and people began to chant, “Long live the king! Long live the king!”
And while Joan was thrilled that the king had returned, she held her breath waiting for a glimpse of her husband. Moments later, there he was. Merlin rode out front, and Arthur was flanked by Gawain and Perceval. It hardly registered with Joan that the king looked as if he were sick and in pain. The young sovereign’s blonde hair stood on end, slick with sweat, his strapping body hunched over his horse.
But Joan had eyes only for her husband. And speaking of eyes, she noticed Perceval had two black eyes and a rather angry-looking burn on his left arm. Other than that, he appeared to be in excellent health. Joan was so relieved, her legs shook and she wondered if she might fall over. …show more content…
People cheered, yelled, leapt up and down, and threw flowers at their sovereign. Shouts of, “Bless you, King Arthur!” and, “We love you, sire!” rang out.
Perceval had almost reached her when Joan heard Gawain mutter something. Perceval’s head spun toward Joan and he clearly spotted her. Perceval handed over his reins to Gawain and leapt off his horse. The crowd parted for him, clapping him on the back as he made his way to Joan. He reached her and the first thing he did was grab her face and cover her mouth with his own. The crowd went