Departure of the Reich Duke

As the evening festivities drew to a close, young Basil danced many dances with Princess Buttercup, daughter of the Margrave of Carpania, his host. The older guests commented about what a striking couple they made.

But the two youngsters were oblivious to the gossip as they just enjoyed each other's company. Buttercup, being a staunch Lutheran, knew that her father would never consent to a marriage with a Roman Catholic, and a supporter of the Emperor to boot! But he cut such a fine figure and was such a good dancer that she decided to ignore the incipient scandal and just have a fun evening.

Buttercup and Basil enjoying the night air and each other's company.

But the next morning came all too soon. The Reich Duke and Duchess and young Basil must depart to continue their regal journey.

The Margrave and Margravine of Carpania and Princess Buttercup, Major General Campbell, OT, and the Dukes and Duchesses of Courland and Sachsen-Wachsenstein join to wish adieu to the Reich Duke and Duchess of Beerstein and young Basil, King of the Romans.
The coach approaches, accompanied by the escort from the Timofievich Cossacks of the Army of Courland.

Finally all the god-byes are said and the ducal party clatter away from Potzdorf en route to their next stop, wherever that might be.

But will their journey be a safe one? Or will it be fraught with danger? Only time (and the machinations of Stagonia and the Deylicate) can foretell!