A Long Absent Friend Returns

Berengar sat upon his throne within the great hall of the Austrian royal palace. A nostalgic expression etched itself upon his handsome face as he gazed upon his visitors with a warm smile. Because of his recent rise in the noble hierarchy, delegations from across the western world, and the near east alike, had visited Kufstein, hoping to establish diplomatic ties with the fledgling Empire.

Among these various delegations were the representatives of the Byzantine Empire. A man he had known for years was now paying homage to him, despite being an old friend. Andronikos bowed his head with complete respect towards the new German Emperor before congratulating him on his rapid rise to power.