Amid continuing topics that could be passed over lightly like children, childhood memories, state affairs.
"Nicky, something about this event deeply impressed me."
"What's that?"
"That this country's imperial citizens love their Tsar."
Billy continued self-deprecatingly, as if somewhat envious.
"I suddenly wondered if our citizens are the same."
"How would you be different? German citizens must love you too."
"No, they love the words I speak and the future I present."
His self-deprecating tone was now filled with certainty.
"Nicky, the words Bismarck told me until his death 15 years ago still ring in my ears."
"What did he say?"
"That there's no better friend than Russia."
"..."
Something I once imagined too.
What if Billy hadn't let go of Russia's hand?
'Wouldn't the two countries have spread not just to the Balkans but Western Asia and North Africa?'
