Reflections of the Past Dwelling in the Present

Straßburgo

POV: ???

•Capital of Aüsbal: Straßburgo•

The capital lay sleeping as the night covered the sky with its starry mantle, twinkling in a mesmerizing dance.

In a prominently distinguished building, in a box seat, stood a man with black hair. His face was concealed by a white mask, revealing not even the faintest shadow.

His attire consisted of a dark blue coat with pronounced golden edges, baggy pants of the same color with long white stockings. Additionally, he wore a tricorn hat of the same color with a black feather and black gloves.

He didn't appear very old, perhaps in his late 20s or mid-30s. Tall and not overly robust, but enough to indicate youth training.

The man gazed at the stars, paying little attention to his surroundings. Behind him, the grand doors opened.

Men in military attire approached him.

Dressed in dark gray uniforms with black boots and wooden rifles, six of them entered. Only one wore a black helmet adorned with a double-headed golden eagle and a spike on top.

"Chancellor, the meeting is about to begin. The Haser suggests you enter immediately," spoke the one with the black helmet.

"General Voderbiell also requires your presence after the meeting at the port," added another soldier.

"Thank you for notifying me. Tell the General I'll be there as soon as I can bid farewell to the meeting," he replied with a deep, raspy voice.

The soldiers withdrew, and a few seconds later, so did the Chancellor, entering the Reich Kosmopolik building.

The Reich Kosmopolik was a sumptuous meeting hall in the heart of Aüsbal. Its entrance, flanked by majestic columns, revealed a spacious area with marble floors and high ceilings adorned with intricate designs. The room was illuminated by crystal chandeliers casting a soft light over the imposing rectangular oak table, where the King, high-ranking military officials, nobles, and politicians sat.

The walls were adorned with richly woven tapestries depicting the history of Aüsbal, while portraits of past monarchs silently observed from above. The furniture was a blend of elegance and functionality, with upholstered chairs for the attendees and a raised platform for the King.

The atmosphere in the Reich Kosmopolik was serious and ceremonial, underscoring the importance of the decisions made in that chamber.

The Chancellor sat in his seat, waiting for the other guests. He was alone, except for the guards.

Although he wouldn't admit it, he cherished this peace, which is why he distanced himself from large crowds.

To his dismay, his peace was interrupted by the entrance of about 15 more people.

"Hey! We've arrived, Has... And where's the Haser?" shouted a red-haired individual with a blindfold and the same attire as the Chancellor, minus the mask and hat.

"Göbs, be quiet, or I'll have you executed in the public square," threatened a dark-haired man with a blindfold, addressing the red-haired Göbs.

Ignoring the warning, Göbs began scanning the surroundings. When he spotted the Chancellor, he approached with a seemingly friendly smile.

"Heinrich, long time no see! Pleasure to see you~" He extended his hand for a greeting, met with a hit on Göbs' hand.

"The pleasure isn't mutual." Heinrich dared to utter those words to Göbs before glancing at the rest of the group.