In silence, we observed Joseph finalize the marriage contract with the ten brides. Afterward, he directed the nine unresisting grooms off the stage, shifting his focus to Lady Beatrice.
'Thud-thud.'
He approached Lady Beatrice, stopping short before Joséphine.
"Get out of the way, or I'll turn you into a frog," Joseph commanded.
Joséphine thrust her double-edged sword at Joseph, the tip stopping just shy of his throat.
"I dare you to take another step," she challenged.
With a smile, Joseph placed a finger on the sword and pushed it away.
He looked at me, then swiftly turned his attention to Lady Beatrice. "Beatrice," he uttered.
Lady Beatrice recoiled deeper into our protective circle, averting her gaze.
"Don't run away from me," Joseph said.
Joseph returned to the podium, a mere meter from where we stood. Leaning in, he held out his hand to the Bishop. "Father, hand over another contract scroll," he commanded.
