The route and duration of the bridal procession were not long, but by the time it made a full circle, the prince and his guard looked as though they had just fought a desperate battle, utterly battered and exhausted.
The overly enthusiastic crowds blocked King's Landing's wide central avenue to the point of complete gridlock. Some bolder troublemakers even shouted for the prince's bride to emerge from her carriage and join the procession on horseback.
Prince Rhaegar maintained a constant smile and an amiable demeanor throughout. Only the Kingsguard and the City Watch soldiers were to be pitied; not only did they have to hold back the surging crowds, but they also had to remain constantly vigilant against potential threats hidden within the throngs.
Chapter 74