A few days later, Andelbert and I explored the grounds of the palace on horseback. I had arranged to show Andelbert the Queen’s Hamlet. He was amazed that such a place would be built simply for the entertainment of the Queen.

As we were wandering around the Hamlet, a footman rode up.

“You have been summoned to the palace for an audience with the King.”

“Then we better not keep him waiting,” I said.

As we rode back, I turned to Andelbert and said, “I hope I have not done anything to offend the King.”

“You said he was impressed with your horseshoes. Perhaps he wants to show his thanks in private.”

“I hope so. I am still nervous around him.”

“That is normal.”

“I suppose you are right.”

We arrived at the palace, and Andelbert headed back to his room. The footman delivered me to one of the King’s guards, who escorted me to a spacious open room with a large round table in the center. At one side of the table, the King sat on an ornate chair. Seated beside him was a man I instantly recognized. It was Emperor Joseph. The man who had given me my Barony and estate.

I bowed and said, “Your Majesty. Your Highness.”

“I trust you recall the Emperor,” the King said.

“Indeed. I am pleased and honored to see you again, Your Highness.”

“And how are you enjoying your estate, Baron?” Emperor Joseph asked.

“I am pleased beyond words, Your Majesty.”

“Then how is it you are here in France?”

I started to get nervous. I wasn’t sure how to reply.

“I am jesting,” Emperor Joseph said. “I am pleased to see you also, Baron. But I am curious as to why you are here.”

“I am afraid the answer to your question is simple wanderlust. I had a burning desire to see more of the world.”

“And it appears you have.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.”

“Enough of the formalities,” King Louis said. “Simply answer the questions.”

“As you wish.”

The Emperor continued.

“Imagine my surprise when I visited the King, and he told me you were here. And that you had made some silent horseshoes for him.”

“It is quite a coincidence,” I said.

“Yes. And since you know who I am, I have called you here to enter you into a confidence. I am traveling incognito. You will address me as Comte de Falkenstien. I will be spending six weeks touring Paris and visiting the Queen. My identity mustn’t be revealed. Do you understand?”

“I do.”

“Good.”

“You are free to go now, Baron,” the King said.

“Your Majesty.”

I bowed and left.

I went straight to Andelbert’s room.

“You will not believe it. Emperor Joseph is here. I just met with him.”

“Truly? That is quite a surprise. Oh, no!”

“What is it?”

“The King thinks I am your brother. What if the Emperor recognizes me from the estate? He spent very little time there before he granted it to you, but there is a chance.”

“I am such a fool. Why did I think lying to a King would be a good idea?” I replied. “Let’s hope for the best. It is not likely an Emperor would notice a valet at an estate he rarely visited.”

“I hope you are right.”