Records Repository

Primarily out of curiosity, Stewart turns toward the room identified as “Records Repository.” He is intrigued that a whole portion of the palace has remained undetected by him all these years.

He enters the uninviting room and finds Diego, the Keeper of the Royal Records. As Stewart enters, Diego bows. “Your Majesty! Such a surprise and honor to have you visit on such a day!”

Stewart is momentarily surprised to be addressed in this manner, but tells himself that word must have spread very quickly throughout the palace of his father’s ****.

“I assume you have been apprised of this room’s true purpose?” asked Diego.

“I have. Although I admit I am surprised,” says the king. “And what is your connection with its other purpose?”

“I am much more than the Keeper of the Records, Sire. This position has always been the traditional Keeper of the Harem, as well, although we don’t officially use that term anymore.”

Stewart is surprised. “I thought all such keepers were eunuchs.”

Diego nods. “Indeed, Sire, and I have gladly sacrificed such for the high honor of serving your father, and now, you.”

Stewart cringed. No honor could possibly be worth giving up the Crown Jewels!

“I have come to see the hidden rooms,” said Stewart, “and to determine how best to care for these women who meant so much to my late father.”

“Of course, Sire,” replied Diego. He steps toward a bookcase along the far wall and touches a panel on its side. Stewart hears a loud click, and he sees the bookcase swivel back, opening a doorway into a brightly-lit and colored room.

“Would you like me to show you around, Your Majesty?” asks Diego.