Grand Duke, this portion of my tale is for your reading only. It shall be removed from any further copies. I trust you will keep this information secret, as I fear what may happen if it is revealed that I shared it.
As had become my morning routine, I wheeled myself out into the gardens. There, Maria would bring me my breakfast and spend a few minutes sharing the latest about her growing romance with Andelbert. I discovered she had learned far more about Andelbert in a month than I had in a year.
As I was finishing up my meal, the Emperor approached my table and took a seat.”
“Excuse me for not rising, Comte,” I said.
“Amusing, Baron. I trust the recovery is progressing well.”
“It is. The doctor attends to me regularly and seems pleased.”
“Excellent. I have come to say my farewells.”
“Oh, I am sorry to see you go, Your Highness.”
“I have stayed too long already. I have an empire to run. I can only engage in such frivolity for a limited time.”
“Of course.”
“I also wanted to share my findings regarding the King and Queen with you.”
I wasn’t sure how to react to that. Or if I wanted to know the personal affairs of the King and Queen. But a Baron does not question an Emperor.
“I met with both the King and Queen regarding their failure to produce an heir. I was straightforward and unflinching in my inquiry. Much to my dismay and somewhat relief, it appears it was simply a matter of the Queen’s lack of interest and the King’s apparent ignorance of how to properly perform his duty.
They are nothing more than a couple of complete blunderers when it comes to these matters. They have assured me that they will make a concerted effort in the future to produce an heir.”
“That is good news, Your Highness.”
“Indeed. Now, I must wish you farewell. I have enjoyed your company over these last few weeks.”
“As have I, Your Majesty.”
“Au revoir, Baron Blastfurnace.”
“Au revoir, Your Highness.”
As the Emperor walked away, I wondered if I would ever see him again.