Chapter 50: Surrender
The morning after the celebration, Florence was still immersed in an atmosphere of lingering joy. The festivities, authorized by the Papal Palace, were set to continue for at least four days. During these four days, the people of Florence could cast all their worries aside and fully enjoy the food and entertainment provided by their Holy Father.
However, for most of those who bore the public responsibilities of Florence, a single day of leisure was already a remarkable feat. And for the Secretary-General of the Papal Palace, who was responsible for the administrative operations of all of Florence, even a night of relaxation was almost unimaginable.
So, Julius naturally woke up at nine o’clock in the morning, following his usual schedule. This time seemed rather early to most nobles, who often got up around one in the afternoon to enjoy brunch, followed by a leisurely afternoon tea. They would begin their dinner at eight or nine in the evening, attending or hosting grand banquets that would last until three or four in the morning. Being able to go to bed before five was considered a regular sleep schedule for them. Without any unexpected interruptions, they would continue to live this life of indulgence forever.
The Secretary-General stood by the window, wearing a simple morning robe. The warm fireplace ensured that he wouldn’t shiver from the December cold, even in just a silk robe. The robe was open all the way down and fastened only by a belt, revealing a well-defined chest. He was not wearing glasses, and his long silver hair was loosely tied with a ribbon. In his hand, he held a steaming cup of Ceylon tea.
The large, floor-to-ceiling glass window overlooked the garden. The expensive and rare Queen’s Rose had already passed its growing season. The gardener had pruned the rose’s roots and planted seasonal tulips and roses. Hemlock and ornamental ivy climbed the gaps in the soil, covering every inch of the land and giving the entire garden a vibrant appearance.
Every day, out-of-season flowers from the glass greenhouse were also moved into the garden to decorate the flower beds. Although these delicate and beautiful flowers could often only survive a few hours in the cold wind, their sole purpose was to brighten the mood of the master of the villa – when possible.
But it was obvious that the gardeners’ hard work was about to be in vain.
A knock sounded softly on the door. A servant, holding an envelope, handed it to his master who was standing by the window.
Behind him, two maids carrying a four-tiered silver cake stand carefully placed it on the small round table beside their master. Dozens of exquisite pastries were arranged on it. It was evident that the kitchen had exhausted all their efforts for this beautiful and delicious display.