Not a very nice king, is he? One has to wonder if he couldn't arrive at a less violent conclusion. But such is as it is and the past cannot be changed, not even with my considerable power as narrator of the tale. So again, we move forward in time, back to the witch's house, just after the king has told her what he thought she should know.
Maggie listens intently to all her guest has to tell. "This is not good," she starts as she gazes up at the ceiling. "Not good at all."
Gerard turns pale.
"Those pills I gave you," Maggie explains, as she lowers her eyes to her guest. "Were not only enchanted to make sure your blood was passed, but also that your children would be born without complication. The spell should have protected the maidservant, she should not have been taken ill and your daughter, Amelia, should not have known about the fire, as she was far too young." The witch sits back in her chair, as she contemplates the matter.
All the while, Gerard remains seated, staring at her the whole time. He's at a total loss and needs advice.
"Your daughter has been hexed," Maggie suddenly breaks and taps her finger absently against her cup.
"Hexed?" Gerard queries, though he isn't sure what exactly she means, so he prods for clarification. "You mean, like cursed?"
"A special kind of curse," Maggie elaborates as she gives a nod.
"What kind?" Gerard further inquires and sits forward.
"That I don't know," Maggie admits and lets her eye wander. "In order to gain clarity on the matter, I will have to speak with Amelia, myself." She turns her full attentions upon the king. "I therefore, will go back to the castle with you."
"We should leave immediately," Gerard eagerly agrees and stands up.
He and the witch leave their places and exit the cottage, that is once the old woman has a chance to set her furniture to tidying up the place. They meet up with the personal guard who are waiting just outside the cottage and snap to at the presence of their liege. They all form up and start the march back to the castle.