***
The king returned to the main balcony after hearing a large roar from the direction of the harbour. A cursory glance at the waters beyond the breakwater in Monte Vista Bay instantly revealed the source of all the commotion. Three French frigates were approaching with full sails.
‘Are the gunners ready, your grace?’ the king asked the duke who had joined him.
‘Yes, your majesty. The protestors’ cheers will have alerted them.’ The duke frowned as he lowered his telescope. ‘I do not see the prince’s fleet yet, your majesty.’
‘I hope that he has favourable winds. He must arrive on time for this to end without bloodshed. The king considered the uncertain expression on the duke’s face. ‘You still doubt the prince’s plan, your grace?’
‘I cannot see the French falling for such a ruse, your majesty ....’ The duke was interrupted by a royal guard who had stepped onto the balcony.
‘Forgive me your majesty. Someone on the perimeter wall has signalled that the prince’s ships are visible in the distance.’
The king lifted his telescope and panned the horizon. He beamed once he spotted seven vessels emerging from the haze in the distance.