In Kind

Now that the monk has come closer with his torch, you also get a good look at his face. "What Divine Plan had lead God to allow this man to become a monk?!" You hiss.

Otto had his hand on the handle of his sword, ready to strike the monk down for his insolence towards the King. It comes as a total surprise to him and the rest of the men when you and the monk laugh before embracing each other. "Granduncle Hermann, it's good to see you."

You stop embracing and release each other. "I did not think I would see you again this soon." He shifts his eyes upward to your crown, "The crown befits you, grandnephew. Now come," he gestured to you and your enter while he pushes the gates wide open, "night has blanketed the sky."

Hermann orders other old monks to show the men to their intended quarters for the night. The monks and priests are pleased to see you. All of them are old men who could hardly even run as long as you've known them. Some embrace you like Hermann did, others simply bow before you with respect. They do not have much but they still share what they have to eat with you and your men. You tell them it is not necessary but they strongly insist. Supper is a quiet affair.

The men all head for their prepared rooms. You, on the other hand, have a chat with your granduncle. "So what brings you down this road?" He asks. Two candles on the table served as your only source of light. You explain to your granduncle the recent events at home and your current plan of heading to Toscana. "Ah, I see," Hermann mutters, "So the Arch Duke made his move."

"It's funny, granduncle. You sound like you are aware of my mother and Franz Jacques's relationship."

Hermann chuckles, "Oh your grandfather kept me in the light in some matters. Your mother's former engagement was one of them."

You look downcast and you turn away from your granduncle's sight, "This place hasn't gotten any better."

"You weren't gone that long, grandnephew. Some things may change quickly." He indicated to you. He moves his head around, looking at the stone walls and ceiling. "Others not as quickly, I'm afraid." He sighed sadly as he looked down. "Ever since that day when you were but a scrawny ten year old boy, things have only gone down hill even further." But then he raised his head again with brightened eyes. He strangely nods his head a few times before a smile creeps into his face.

"Best you turn in for the night, grandnephew. I have a feeling you will be most occupied tomorrow with certain activities."

Now what could he have meant by that?

Hermann instructs you to go find your old room. You find the room clean but otherwise it's the same as you left it. The main difference is that most of your belongs are no longer there. It feels strangely empty, but you settle in for the night regardless.