"Your Royal Highness, the Queen is currently enjoying her afternoon tea in the garden," announced the Carrust Guard with a solemn demeanor. Since his appointment as the chief guard to the crown prince, Carust had always adhered strictly to court etiquette, diligently fulfilling every task assigned by Edel and maintaining a typically reserved demeanor. His reliability and discretion greatly pleased Edel.
June's lush greenery and vibrant blooms set a picturesque scene as Edel made his way to the garden. There, he observed Queen Elizabeth, engaged in lively conversation with a gathering of ladies. Upon noticing her son, the Queen exclaimed, "My Edel, you've finally returned. You're still so young. Your father insisted you visit alone." It was clear that Queen Elizabeth harbored some dissatisfaction with Edel's recent journey to Germany, a sentiment that seemed to disregard the presence of General Pretzel and a host of government officials.
"Mother, I'm back now, and I'm not that young anymore. I am already an adult at sixteen," Edel retorted, showing a hint of resistance to his mother's words.
"My Edel, as long as you remain unmarried, you will always be my little boy," Queen Elizabeth countered firmly, effectively quashing Edel's mild protest. It appeared that mothers of any era shared a common concern for their children's marital prospects, regardless of their age.
The surrounding ladies chuckled indulgently at the exchange between Edel and the Queen.
"Your Royal Highness, perhaps we should find some maids to keep you company tonight," one bold lady teased, sparking laughter among the group.
"Yes, each of our families could contribute a maidservant. I imagine that would keep His Royal Highness quite occupied," another added playfully.
"Indeed, we must ensure that any maid we find for His Royal Highness Edel is most suitable," chimed in a third, the ladies bombarding Edel with their teasing remarks.
"Mother, perhaps we should postpone this conversation," Edel whispered to Queen Elizabeth, who was also laughing, before quickly excusing himself from the gathering. It seemed that women of any age and status relished a bit of gossip, a realization that made noble gatherings daunting for Edel.
Later that evening, during dinner with his parents, Queen Elizabeth looked at Edel with amusement and remarked, "I never expected my Edel to be so wary of women."
"Mother, you spent all afternoon laughing, and you saw that those noble ladies were only jesting," Edel replied, trying to brush off his earlier discomfort.
"Edel, you mustn't let yourself be overshadowed by women. In the future, as a king, such a disposition could be problematic," King Carol interjected, reflecting the conservative views of the Prussian royal family. It was clear that he saw any fear or hesitation around women as a weakness that needed correction.
"Perhaps it's time we considered finding a suitable bedmaid for our Edel. It might help him mature," King Carol suggested to Queen Elizabeth before retiring for the night, still pondering ways to 'toughen up' his son.
"I will keep that in mind, but have you thought of any suitable candidates for Edel's marriage?" Queen Elizabeth asked, hinting at deeper concerns discussed earlier that afternoon.
"The situation is quite complex," the old king mused. "We might consider looking for noblewomen of appropriate age from China. We are not getting any younger, and I truly wish to see Edel settled soon."
"The local nobility does not offer much advantage for Edel's future reign. A royal marriage would be preferable. Perhaps we can afford to wait a few more years," the old king concluded slowly.
The following day, Carust, the chief guard, presented a telegram to Edel. "Your Royal Highness, this telegram has arrived from Denmark, sent by General Preeshan."
Edel read the message, which detailed General Preeshan's encounter with the Madsen machine gun in Denmark. This 9KG weapon was a stark contrast to the heavier 30KG mainstream machine guns like the Ma Keqin. Despite its lesser range and rate of fire, its mobility was a game-changer on the battlefield. However, the Madsen's high price of 45 pounds—a sum that could procure six Mauser 98 rifles—made General Preeshan hesitant to make a unilateral procurement decision, prompting him to seek Edel's guidance.
After some contemplation, Edel decided, "Carust, send a telegram to General Pretzel authorizing the purchase of 700 Madsen light machine guns, and inquire about the patent pricing. If the total does not exceed 60,000 pounds, he may proceed without further consultation."
Days later, a response from General Preeshan arrived, confirming the negotiation at exactly 60,000 pounds. Edel pondered whether this outcome reflected his own inexperience or a miscalculation.
Feeling somewhat despondent, Edel was interrupted by Carust, who brought news of a visitor. "His Royal Highness, Mr. Smith has come to see you."
"Let him in," Edel responded, hoping the American might bring some uplifting news.
"Your Highness, I bring good news," Mr. Smith announced upon entering, his demeanor far from the stereotypical American brusqueness. "A survey team from the United States has arrived to assess potential sites for oil production and refinery locations."
"That sounds promising. I'll join them for the site visit," said Edel, eager for a diversion from palace intrigues.
"Your Highness is most welcome to accompany them," Smith replied.
After Smith's departure, Carust coordinated the arrangements, to which Edel nodded, "Proceed, my captain of the guard."
That evening, Edel discussed the oil field venture with King Carol, who supported the initiative, while Queen Elizabeth expressed some concerns, which Edel managed to assuage.