In late spring 483, King Uther makes his decision. He chooses Count Roderick.
The wedding takes place in the king’s company, who gives away the bride. This is the first time that the count and Lady Ellen have ever laid eyes on each other.
A grand feast follows the wedding. This is a lavish and joyful affair, with many courses of food and entertainment between each course. The newlyweds sit side by side at the front, and throughout the meal share spiced wine from a loving cup. Multiple toasts from the guests increase the intake of wine. Dancing follows the meal.
Sir Aed, Sir Gildas, and Sir Trahaern are among the guests, the first two seated near the salt and Sir Trahaern below the salt.
At the start of the feast, Sir Aed is questioned by several ladies who ask how merciful he would be if he was confronted with his hated foe, the Saxons. Sir Aed expresses absolutely no mercy, and his violent ways seem to offend the ladies.
Sir Gildas shows temperance in his enjoyment of the eels in thick spicy puree.
Count Roderick asks Sir Trahaern if he could recommend a suitable knight for an eligible lady he wants married. Sir Trahaern recommends Sir Gildas.
While bream and eel pasties are served, the Count invites Sir Aed to sit above the salt, next to King Uther.
Sir Gildas is presented to Lady Gwenllian, a younger daughter of Sir Gron, a vassal knight. Sir Gildas accepts her hand, and during the feast plans are made for a marriage at the next Easter Court.
Sir Trahaern spends some time gaming, without much success.
By the time it's time for the artichokes stuffed with blueberry rice, Sir Aed takes time off for some gaming, with more luck than Trahaern had.
Count Roderick congratulates Sir Gildas on his marriage plans, and takes the opportunity to ask for advice on Sir Blains, his rival for Lady Ellen. The Count is afraid Sir Blains will influence Duke Ulfius of Silchester County to increase the hostilities between the counties. Sir Gildas skillfully calms the Count.
A monk asks Sir Trahaern to donate to the church, which he does. Sir Trahaern is then challenged to a contest of strenght. Sir Trahaern wins the arm wrestling.
As the feast draws to a close another jug of ale is brought out. Some guests get drunk and rowdy, much to the amusement of the others.
At a late hour Count Roderick and Lady Ellen departs the feast, followed by their groomsmen, bridesmaids and best friends.
Eventually, the feast comes to an end.