章節 194: Chapter 194
Chapter 194: A Visit to Sigmaringen
"Yes, Your Excellency, you are still as energetic as ever. This is Charlotte," Maximilian I introduced to Prince Constantine.
Charlotte greeted Prince Constantine warmly, saying, "Hello, Your Excellency! Thank you to the royal family of Hechingen for your assistance."
"Hahaha, a family doesn't talk about two things; that's what that boy Ernst should do," Constantine responded with a smile.
After a moment of polite conversation, East African officials approached, eager to meet the distinguished guests.
"Grandpa Constantine!" a young officer saluted Constantine crisply.
"Is that so?"
"I'm Hans Zhang, a graduate of Hechingen Military Academy, Class 6 of the second phase. I currently hold the highest military position in Dar es Salaam, part of the Hechingen East African royal territory. We've met before, Grandpa Constantine, and had a conversation," Hans Zhang explained.
Constantine nodded in recognition, understanding why Hans Zhang referred to him as "grandpa." The students of Hechingen Military Academy affectionately addressed him as such.
After a brief chat with Hans Zhang and other officials, Constantine excused himself, feeling the fatigue of the long journey.
"Your Excellency, we can discuss matters later. I imagine you must be tired from the journey. It's best if you rest at the residence for a few days, and then we can talk," Maximilian I suggested.
"That sounds reasonable, but I have quite an entourage with me this time. I need to arrange their accommodations first," Constantine replied.
An East African official chimed in, "Your Excellency, you need not worry about that. His Highness Ernst has made arrangements in advance. We have prepared a residence nearby the Dar es Salaam Palace for your entourage. Daily necessities and dining facilities are also available."
"That boy Ernst thinks of everything. I appreciate the preparations," Constantine said with a grin.
May 23, 1869.
Sigmaringen.
Ernst, who had arrived in East Africa a few days earlier, was now visiting Sigmaringen Castle. As he entered the castle, he was greeted by Schneider, the butler.
"Your Highness Ernst, welcome. His Majesty the Prince is currently receiving guests in the living room. You may have to wait a while. Is there anything important you'd like to report?" Schneider asked.
Ernst replied, "I'll wait for Uncle Carl in that case. I'll explore the castle for a bit. No need for an escort; I know my way around."
Ernst had visited Sigmaringen Castle often during his childhood, but this visit was different. With the memories of his past life now fully awakened, he experienced a sense of nostalgia for the castle's grandeur.
He wandered through the castle, gradually recalling the moments of his childhood. As a child, he had focused on playing and paid little attention to the castle's historical and cultural significance.
Ernst climbed the castle's watchtower, offering a panoramic view of Sigmaringen. Unlike Hohenzollern Castle, which stood alone on a mountain, Sigmaringen Castle was surrounded by the town of Sigmaringen itself.
The castle was strategically positioned on the south bank of the Danube River, offering natural defenses on three sides. It was a medieval marvel, reminiscent of the layout of Paris, surrounded by the Seine River on three sides.
While reminiscing about his childhood, Ernst realized that he had grown since then, with more responsibilities and a life plan of his own. Leopold was now in the army, Carol had become a king, and Ernst had ventured into a new phase of life.
Uncle Carl, Prince Karl Anton, had played a significant role in shaping the destinies of the younger generation of Hohenzollerns.
Eventually, Schneider approached Ernst, saying, "His Royal Highness Ernst, His Majesty the Prince has bid farewell to his guests and is now waiting for you in the living room."
Ernst nodded and made his way down to the living room. There, Prince Karl Anton welcomed him warmly.
"Ernst, it's been a while since you visited. Since you started studying in Berlin, you've come here less frequently," Prince Karl Anton remarked.
"Uncle Carl, as people grow up, their responsibilities change. But today, I wanted to revisit the carefree days of my childhood," Ernst replied.
"It seems your generation has truly grown up. Leopold is serving in the army, Carol has become a king, and you have your own life plan," Prince Karl Anton mused.
Ernst acknowledged his cousins' achievements, crediting Prince Karl Anton's guidance. "It's thanks to your excellent upbringing that Leopold and Carol have become such promising individuals."
Prince Karl Anton chuckled, "Hahaha, it's a combination of effort and timing. In my opinion, all three of you have the potential for greatness."
Prince Karl Anton had been a king, prime minister of Prussia, and commander-in-chief of the army in his time, and his capabilities were evident.
Ernst then addressed the reason for his visit. "Uncle Carl, I know you have significant influence, and I'd like to inquire about the state of the railway business across the entire German region."
(End of Chapter 195)
每周推薦票狀態
-- 推薦票
榜單 
-- 推薦票