While I was making silent horseshoes for the King, Andelbert was getting a tour of the kitchens. He will tell this part of the tale.

I rose early and waited impatiently for Maria to arrive. At last, she knocked on my door.

“Are you ready for your tour Monsieur Blastfurnace?”

“Indeed. I am quite excited,” I replied.

“Very well, let’s begin. Follow me.”

We wound our way through the place and out into the courtyard.

“Are the kitchens not located in the palace?” I asked.

“Heavens no. The noise and smell would surely offend the courtier’s sensibilities.”

We reached the other side of the courtyard and entered a stately building. I was taken aback at what I saw. Many ovens and stoves lined the walls, and there were people everywhere preparing food.

“How many cooks are there?” I asked Maria.

“During banquets, there can be 2000 workers in service.”

“Incredible. How do you keep the food warm?”

“Most meals are served cold. The distances and amount of courses make hot meals nearly impossible. Meals are divided into several categories. Hors D’oeuvres, soups, main dishes, fruit, and interval courses. Each category is then divided into two to eight dishes.”

As we walked through the kitchen, I saw countless dishes being prepared with military precision, thanks to an army of culinary workers. We exited out of another door, and I saw palace guards standing outside of a pair of connected buildings.

“Are they guarding the food?” I asked.

“No, those are the ice houses. As you can imagine, having ice in the summer is a rare luxury. The guards make sure the ice is not stolen.”

“This has exceeded my expectations. I am struggling to take it all in.”

“It is a sight,” Maria replied.

We continued down a path until we arrived at a vast garden.

“This is the Potager du Roi, the King’s Garden,” Maria said.

Acres of neatly planted gardens stretched before me, with walkways dividing them into large squares. A circular fountain stood the middle. It was yet another impressive sight. As Maria pointed out the various crops, I kept finding myself gazing upon my guide more than the vegetables.

Eventually, we made our way back through another kitchen building and back to my room.

“I hope you enjoyed your tour, Monsieur,” Maria said.

“It was a highlight of my life.”

Maria laughed.

“I am glad. I must return to my duties now.”

“Maria, I am baker. I make a special bread that has earned me the favor of nearly everyone who has tasted it. Is there a possibility that I would be allowed to bake a loaf for the King?”

Maria gave me an odd look.

“You are not timid about asking difficult things, are you, Monsieur?”

“I want to show my thanks, is all. If it can be arranged.”

“I will relay your request, but I am not optimistic.”

“If it will cause you any trouble, please disregard my foolish request.”

“I will ask. Good day, Monsieur.”

Maria walked away.

In truth, I held a vain hope that the King would be pleased with my bread. But I also hoped it would allow me to spend more time with Maria.

I shall take the narrative back from Andelbert.

Later in the day, Andelbert and I exchanged stories of our adventures.

“How did your tour of the kitchens go, Andelbert?”

“It was incredible. I not only saw the kitchens, but I also saw ice houses and the King’s gardens.”

“Wonderful. And how was your guide?”

Andelbert looked flustered.

“Come now. It is obvious you have an eye for Maria.”

“I admit it. I find her intoxicating to be around. And I act like a bumbling fool.”

“Then you must pursue her.”

“To what end? It will surely end in a broken heart when we have to leave for home.”

“Perhaps you are correct.”

“I asked Maria if I could bake some bread for the King.”

“Brilliant idea! I have endeared myself to the King with my silent horseshoes. Your bread will surely double our favor.”

“Oh, yes, I nearly forgot. You must tell me all about your adventures today,” Andelbert said.

So I did.