The Grand Duke of Avalon

Augustus de Bourbon's eyes slowly opened to the unfamiliar ceiling of ornate plasterwork, the soft glow of morning light filtering through heavy velvet drapes. His last memory was of poring over his dissertation on the geopolitical impact of European microstates, in his modest apartment back in 2024. Now, he found himself lying in a lavish four-poster bed, draped in fabrics too luxurious for his graduate student budget.

As he sat up, bewildered, the door to his chamber swung open with a respectful knock. A middle-aged man in a tailored uniform entered, his posture rigid with formality.

"Good morning, Your Grace. I am Charles, your chief steward. The council awaits your presence in the throne room for your coronation briefing."

"Coronation?" Augustus echoed, his voice a mix of confusion and disbelief.

"Yes, Your Grace. The Duchy has awaited your arrival for some time now. You are to be crowned as Grand Duke Augustus de Bourbon of Avalon today."

Augustus followed Charles through the corridors of what he soon learned was his ancestral palace. Portraits of past rulers adorned the walls, and his supposed ancestors bore a striking resemblance to him. The uncanny familiarity sent a shiver down his spine.

In the throne room, nobles and advisors gathered, murmuring among themselves. As Augustus entered, the room fell silent, all eyes on him. He approached the throne, each step echoing off the marble floor, his heart pounding with a mix of dread and adrenaline.

Standing before the throne, he turned to face the assembly. Charles handed him a speech, but Augustus spoke impromptu.

"Ladies and gentlemen of Avalon, I am as surprised by these circumstances as you are. However, I promise to serve this duchy with all the knowledge and skills at my disposal. Together, we will usher Avalon into a new era of prosperity and innovation."

Murmurs of approval filled the room. Although skeptical, the assembly was intrigued by this young, articulate ruler who promised a future bright with potential.

As the ceremony concluded, Augustus felt the weight of the crown upon his head, not just as a symbol of power, but as a heavy responsibility to a people he had yet to understand. But with the mysterious system and his own knowledge of history and technology, he was determined to lead Avalon to greatness.