Banquet (1)

After an intense four months of dedicated effort and with invaluable assistance from the British Parsons steam turbine and the German Siemens company, a compact AC power plant emerged in the heart of Greece, nestled between the bustling locales of Athens and the strategic port of Piraeus.

In a strategic move to catalyze the widespread adoption of electricity, the Tatoi Palace, residence of the Greek royal family, proudly assumed the role of the inaugural consumer of alternating current in Greece. As preparations reached their zenith, Constantine hastened back to the Tatoi Palace.

Upon his arrival, Constantine spotted Crown Princess Sophie meticulously overseeing the beautification of the palace courtyard, directing servants in the meticulous cleanup of the garden. Positioning himself in a corner, Constantine gestured towards Sophie, who promptly approached, inquiring, "What's the matter, Constantine?"

"Sophie, tomorrow night, as the Crown Princess of Greece, I implore you to organize a grand banquet at the Tatoi Palace. This event serves a dual purpose: to announce your identity as the mistress of the palace to all Greeks and, secondly, to establish contact with the Greek business elite," Constantine articulated.

Since their marriage and return to Athens, King George and his wife had taken residence in the Royal Palace opposite Syntagma Square, leaving the Tatoi Palace eerily deserted.

Concerned about her ability to orchestrate such an event, Sophie turned to Constantine for guidance, expressing her worry, "But, Constantine, this is my first time hosting a banquet. What if something goes wrong?"

Putting her at ease, Constantine assured her, "I'll have Butler Cape assist you. He's an old hand at such affairs and can guide you through the entire process. If you encounter any issues, feel free to consult him."

Seeking further clarity on the recent activities involving the installation of wires and crystal lamps by engineers, Sophie voiced her concerns, "The engineers were setting up wires and installing crystal lamps a few days ago. Could you enlighten me on this matter? I want to be prepared to avoid any mishaps during the banquet."

Revealing the focal point of the banquet, Constantine disclosed, "Those are the stars of the show. Let me forewarn you; the banquet might appear somewhat mundane."

Acknowledging the challenge, Crown Princess Sophie embarked on the banquet preparations with the support of Butler Cape and the air of mystery surrounding the upcoming event.

The meticulous preparations included crafting exquisite invitation letters, personally penned by Crown Princess Sophie, and sourcing ingredients for a diverse array of banquets, with an emphasis on incorporating local Greek delicacies such as olives.

As the clock struck six in the evening the next day, the Tatoi Palace illuminated with a myriad of lights, and opulent carriages continued to arrive at the estate. Crowned in regal elegance, Sophie, arm in arm with Constantine, welcomed guests at the entrance, assuming her role as the gracious hostess.

Among the attendees, Costerbloom, accompanied by his wife, extended warm greetings to the royal couple, expressing, "Nice to meet you, Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Sophie."

Having served as the general manager of the Greek Congo head office, Costerbull had recently returned to Europe after nearly two years dedicated to developing business interests in Congo.

Observing the arrival of the last guest, Constantine signaled to Tesla from a distance and inquired, "Any unforeseen issues? A glitch during the live demonstration could prove embarrassing in public."

Reassuringly, Tesla responded, "We've conducted three successful demonstrations, and everything is functioning normally. The probability of encountering issues is minimal. Rest assured."

Encouraging Tesla to bring his female assistant to the event, Constantine noted the growing familiarity between them despite Tesla's initial reluctance.

As the guests took their seats, Constantine and Sophie entered the parlour, leading the procession into the dining room. The grand dining room boasted a rectangular table adorned with silver candlesticks, crystal-clear goblets, and porcelain plates. The guests settled into high-backed chairs, their anticipation palpable.

Sophie, as the hostess, gestured to the attentive servants, signaling the commencement of the banquet. Male waiters in tuxedos promptly poured wine for the guests, presenting a crimson-hued Nemea wine.

Amidst the sips of wine, Alexandros, a guest accustomed to French wines, remarked on the unfamiliar taste. Sophie, seizing the opportunity to showcase Greek wines, revealed that it was Nemea wine from the Peloponnese Peninsula.

Constantine elaborated on the quality of Greek wines, emphasizing favorites like Astico and Moschofilero. The conversation not only introduced the guests to Greek wines but also aimed to promote their consumption, aligning with Trikupis' vision to enhance the standing of Greek wine in the eyes of the public.

In this diplomatic mingling of royalty, business leaders, and esteemed guests, the banquet unfolded as a symbol of Greek elegance and sophistication, showcasing the potential for economic growth and cultural promotion on the global stage.