"Good morning, Your Royal Highness. Welcome! Do you wish to visit our office?" Edel surveyed the quaint two-story brick-and-wood structure before him, which exuded an aura of a bygone era.
"Forget it, we're here for Smith's business matters," Edel responded dismissively.
"Very well, Your Majesty," Smith replied, then turned to address a group of workers with less courtesy, "Get ready to move, you slackers!" It was clear that Smith's politeness varied depending on the company.
Before long, the entourage, including Edel and his guards, arrived at the railway station and boarded a train bound for Ploiesti. They were seated in a royal carriage, an arrangement no doubt made by Carust, the head of the guard. As the train slowly pulled away, Edel gazed out at the passing landscape. Fields of mature wheat stretched as far as the eye could see, swaying in the breeze like golden waves. The sight filled him with a sense of contentment and responsibility.
"This is my country," Edel thought with pride, "and it is my duty to lead our kingdom to strength and prosperity. The kingdom's sword must secure ample living space for our people." His heart swelled with ambition.
Two hours later, the train pulled into Ploiesti. As the sixth largest city in Romania, with a population of 110,000, it seemed relatively small to Edel, who retained memories of larger cities from past lives. Upon disembarking, Edel and his party were greeted by Mayor Karatuuri, along with a retinue of city officials and nobles. This warm reception was undoubtedly orchestrated by Carust.
"Your Royal Highness, welcome to Ploiesti," Mayor Karatuuri greeted him as he stepped off the train. At 35 years old, Karatuuri was a charismatic figure, and as the nephew of the Prime Minister, he was well-connected and well-informed, especially about the crown prince. He knew better than to take any liberties with such a distinguished guest.
"Mayor Karatuuri, please continue with your duties; don't mind me," the crown prince said, indicating his preference for minimal fuss.
"Of course, Your Royal Highness. Should you need anything, please have one of your guards inform me immediately," the mayor replied, understanding the need for discretion.
With a nod from Edel, the group proceeded from the station. Watching them leave, Mayor Karatuuri turned to the police chief and remarked, "Chief Brewer, we must ensure that the crown prince sees only the best of Ploiesti, don't you agree?"
"Absolutely, sir. I promise you, he will," Chief Brewer replied, mopping his brow. Karatuuri was not just a figurehead; he was a proven administrator and a credit to his uncle, the Prime Minister.
As they rode away, Carust briefed Edel on the mayor's background. "Mayor Karatuuri studied in Paris and served as a secretary to the Prime Minister before being appointed here five years ago. He's shown remarkable capability."
"It seems Mayor Karatuuri is quite the competent leader," Edel mused.
Soon, they arrived at the eastern outskirts of Ploiesti where Edel observed Smith directing workers on a 6-square-kilometer plot earmarked for a new refinery. "Mill, take your team to measure the factory site. Willis, take yours north to survey the oil production site. Everyone else, focus on the pipeline locations," Smith instructed loudly as Edel approached.
"Your Royal Highness, wouldn't you like to take a break?" Smith asked, noticing Edel and his party.
"Just carry on with your work; I'm merely observing and will leave shortly," Edel responded, waving Smith off.
Smith returned to his duties, muttering about the need to keep his workers motivated. Edel, feeling there was little else to see, suggested to Carust, "Let's explore the area nearby."
"Very well, my lord. I shall make the arrangements," Carust replied formally.
As they rode through the local countryside, Edel was struck by the pastoral beauty: children playing near the fields, their mothers occasionally scolding them, which only added to the laughter of the working adults. It was a scene that reminded Edel of simpler times from his previous life.
Later that evening, back in Ploiesti, Carust informed Edel, "Your Royal Highness, Mayor Karatuuri has organized a welcome dinner in your honor. He hopes you will attend."
"I will be there on time," Edel assured his chief guard.
At the dinner, Edel was welcomed warmly by Mayor Karatuuri and other dignitaries. Stepping into the banquet hall, Edel raised his glass to toast the city's prosperity, which he attributed to the hard work of those present. "On behalf of the king, I thank you all," he announced.
"All for the kingdom. Long live the king!" the assembly responded in unison.
Throughout the evening, Edel engaged with Ploiesti's main officials and nobles, offering words of encouragement and praise. To Mayor Karatuuri, he expressed his intention to report positively to the king. The mayor humbly credited his success to his team and the king's wise leadership.
"Don't be modest, Mayor. Effective coordination is a significant achievement," Edel remarked, seeing potential in Karatuuri for greater responsibilities.
"It is my honor to serve, Your Highness," Karatuuri responded, clearly moved by the crown prince's approval.
"Karatuuri, with the upcoming construction of the oil refinery and other facilities, your role here is crucial. I trust you to oversee these projects to completion," Edel stated, hinting at future prospects for the mayor in Bucharest, "Your talents are needed."
"Rest assured, Your Highness, everything will proceed as planned," Karatuuri promised, eager to live up to the expectations of his future king.