Guillaume had an unusual appearance. He wore long, dark brown hair, yet his face was framed by a thick, deep-blue curly beard that made him look both strange and intimidating. Even so, many noblewomen wished to marry him, for his immense fortune could provide financial security beyond imagination.
At the time, many noble families possessed little more than their titles, lacking both political influence and wealth. As a result, despite Guillaume's peculiar appearance, countless young ladies eagerly sought marriage alliances with him.
Why "countless"?
Because Baron Guillaume had already married several times. Yet for reasons no one could explain, each of his wives either divorced him or died from illness. Curious aristocrats quietly sent people to investigate what had become of his former wives after their divorces, but every inquiry ended in silence.
Baron Guillaume frequently hosted lavish banquets in his castle. The grand ballroom was magnificent, filled night after night with distinguished guests. Every seat was occupied as goblets clinked together, music filled the air, and elegantly dressed couples danced across the floor.
Before long, Filippa, the daughter of an earl, approached the baron of her own accord. She proudly introduced herself as a lady from an ancient and distinguished noble house and expressed her willingness to marry him.
Comments