"The ceremony order," Bellatrix continued, producing a second sheet. "Opening procession. The Crown enters first with his mother on his arm."
"Traditional," Petra confirmed.
"He walks me to my seat. Kisses my hand. I sit. He proceeds to the altar."
"Standard."
"Then the Mother's Blessing. He kneels. I place both hands on his head and speak the ancestral words over him while the orchestra plays."
"How long is the Mother's Blessing, Your Grace?"
"Seven minutes."
"Seven."
"It is a thorough blessing, Petra. I have a lot to say to the ancestors about my son and I will not be rushed."
Petra resumed buffing Avalon with the focused dedication of a woman who remained neutral.
"Of course. And then the bride enters?" she asked.
"After the Maternal Reflection."
"The Maternal Reflection."
"A brief pause following the blessing where the mother is given a moment to compose herself before the ceremony continues. It is an ancient Drakenfell custom."
