Chapter 3: The World.
Five months ago
The Royal Family sat together in the grand dining hall of the palace, enjoying a lavish meal beneath golden chandeliers.
Josef, the king, set down his wine glass and turned to his eldest son. "Is everything going well with your research, son?"
Hans nodded. "Yes, Father. The project’s development is progressing daily."
Before the conversation could continue, Queen Hilda interrupted. "Must we discuss royal business at the dining table?"
Hans sighed. "Apologies, Mother."
The room fell into silence. The butlers stood at attention nearby, awaiting any command from the family.
Trying to shift the mood, Hilda turned to the younger children. "Now, Gerta, Conrad—how was school? Wasn’t it fun being around other kids?"
Gerta beamed. "I loved it, Mother! I made new friends, and they were really fun!"
Hilda smiled. "That’s wonderful! And you, Conrad? Did you make any friends?"
"I don’t know if I did," Conrad replied flatly, poking at his plate.
"What do you mean?" Hilda frowned, concern creeping into her voice.