Bontemps entered the Montespan’s chamber to find the King sitting on the lady’s bed. “Is there any change?” the King asked.

“No, Sire.”

“Is she worse?”

“Yes.”

Louis got up and went to the window. He wished to see the gardens, to see new wisps of snow falling and covering his world in a blanket of white, but all he could see was his reflection and the dread in his eyes. “I don’t regret sending her to England,” he said. “Not for an instant. She brought honor to herself and glory to our court.”

“We are all proud of her, Sire,” said Bontemps.

Tears pressed Louis’ eyes but he knew he had to fight them. Kings do not cry, his mother had said. No matter what they face. I am the Sun. I am King! With that he felt his whole being harden, and he turned abruptly from the window. “Someone is trying to destroy me. By destroying her.”

“But they will not succeed,” said Rohan from the door.

Louis looked over. “Madame de Montespan is not here, Rohan.”

Rohan nodded grimly. “Yes. When I heard the news I came as soon as I could. I was seeking her out and saw your guard outside her door, Sire. I wish to offer myself to you as your subject and friend.”

“Is my son still at court?”

“Yes,” said Bontemps. “With the sequester, the Dauphin was confined with his governess.”

“I want him far away from my chamber. He is not to hear her pain.”

“If I may, Sire?” said Rohan.” If I were to school him in riding today, with your blessing, of course, the fresh air and distance might do him a world of good –”

“And it would keep him occupied in body and mind,” said Louis. “Yes. Thank you.”

Bontemps nodded and Rohan smiled a small smile. “We’ll ride to the woods. You have my word. Although, with the sequester –”

“Allow them full passage in court,” Louis ordered Bontemps. “At once.”

“Madame?”

The Montespan wiped a tear from her eye and looked up at Bontemps.

“Madame, the King is waiting for you.”

The Montespan rose from her chair in the King’s bedchamber.

“I need a moment to compose myself,” the Montespan said.

“Of course, Madame,” said Bontemps.

The Montespan walked to the fireplace, put her hand on the mantle, and bowed her head. Close enough to continue listening to the discussion on Henriette’s condition.

“Her Highness is resting now,” the doctor told Philippe. “But I fear we’re not through the worst.”

Philippe rubbed his arms. “My brother always trusted you.”

“I’m honored.”

“I don’t believe I know what that feels like.”

“This must be frightening for your wife. And for those who love her.”

“We’re all of us in sickness here. Just waiting for it to take root.”

“Maladies affect different people in different ways. Some fall easily. Others are born to fight.”