The following morning, I was taken back to the Queen’s chateau, where I waited for the Queen. She arrived with the same servants as the previous evening. Only this time, the Queen was dress as a farm girl. I was shocked.

“Good morning, Baron Blastfurnace. I trust you slept well.”

“Good morning, Your Highness. I slept soundly, thank you. The palace rooms are spectacular.”

“Indeed. It is pleasant outside, shall we go for a walk?”

“It would be my pleasure.”

We left through the rear of the chateau. After a short walk, I was greeted by a most unusual sight. A small farm village, complete with farmhouse, dairy, barn, and a mill in the shape of a lighthouse, all situated around a pond. It looked similar to many of the small hamlets of my homeland. And totally out of place amid the opulence of the palace.

“Are you surprised, Baron?”

“Indeed, I am, Your majesty.”

“I had this farm constructed to remind me of my Austrian homeland. My marriage was arranged to end conflicts between our two nations. It allows France to focus their hatred on the British Empire. I arrived here at the age of 14 and was initially loved by the commoners. Now that the country is facing financial difficulty, I am being blamed as being too extravagant. As if I was the one to cause France’s hardships. The court has no love for me either, as I am Austrian. ”

I had no idea why she was telling me such personal and political details of her life. I also had no idea how to respond.

“It is a fine village, Your Majesty.”

The Queen laughed and said, “Fear not, Baron. I speak my mind freely. Yet, I am all but ignored by the court. And the King.”

The conversation was getting uncomfortable.

“I have precious little company here. It is rare to have an Austrian visitor. I hope I have not taken advantage of your goodwill.”

“Of course not, Your Highness. I am in debt to your hospitality.”

“Good.”

We spent the next hour touring the village the Queen had built to play commoner. It was like a wealthy child showing me her prized, expensive toys.

While I was touring the Queen’s hamlet, Andelbert was exploring the palace on his own. As he wandered down one of the statue-lined hallways, he saw the maid Maria walking toward him.

“Are you lost, Monsieur Blastfurnace? It is not uncommon.”

“No, I was simply wandering. Although I would ask a favor if I might?”

“What is it?”

“Can you show me the kitchens?”

“The kitchens? Why would you want to see those? Only the servants go there.”

“I apprenticed as a baker. My specialty is bread. I am most at home near an oven.”

“It is an unusual request, but I am confident it can be arranged. Perhaps tomorrow. I will relay your request and bring you an answer.”

“Thank you, Maria.”

“Good day, Monsieur Blastfurnace.”

“Please, call me Andelbert.”

“I must not, Monsieur Blastfurnace.”

“Forgive my ill manners. I am not accustomed to such formality,” Andelbert replied.

“No harm has been done. Please excuse me, I have duties.”

“Of course.”