Chapter 13: Giving a Glimpse of Modern Medicine
March 29th, 1788
Royal Palace of Madrid — Morning
The breakfast table was set with royal care.
A silver carafe of hot chocolate steamed in the middle, surrounded by crystal dishes of honey-glazed bread, citrus slices, and warm almond cakes. The Royal Chef himself stood a few paces away, nervously adjusting his cuffs as the final plate of omelet soufflé was brought in.
Princess Juliette sat with her legs swinging beneath the table, humming a little tune as she poured syrup on her swan-shaped brioche. Her golden-brown hair had been brushed into neat curls, and her blue dress matched the morning sky visible through the tall windows.
Lancelot sat across from her, still in his formal black coat from the early morning meetings. Though tired, his smile was gentle as he sliced a piece of pastry and placed it on her plate.
"Too much sugar again?" he asked knowingly.
She shook her head quickly. "Just enough. I need energy today. We’re walking later, remember?"
"After my next meeting," he promised.
Juliette tilted her head, chewing thoughtfully. "You’re always meeting someone. Lords, soldiers, bishops... now who?"
He chuckled softly. "An old man. Our father’s doctor. I need to speak with him about something important."