19 The baron’s son

The stranger walked close, I checked the guards given to us by Uncle Willy but they were nowhere to be found. I was all alone, exposed, an easy target. I reached for the knife that I hid at my garment.

Before I had the chance to stab to get it, the stranger smiled and removed his hat.

Stranger: Forgive me for being intrusive. A noble woman like you should not be alone here in the ship's balcony. Where is your servant or your husband?

Maria: Im not alone. My family is here with me. They just went for a walk to see the entire ship.

Stranger: Of course you are not alone. I am Karl, son of Baron Ferdinand Luxem of the Netherlands. May I know who am I speaking to?

Maria: Its not proper for a lady with no companion to talk to a stranger. I must leave now.

I left and went straight to their room. I summoned the guards for leaving me all alone. I also ordered my servant Amelie to follow wherever I go from now on.

From then on, I had one guard with me and my servant while the rest kept an eye on my Alexei.

Before bedtime, I opened the luggage given to me by the Kaiser. It was full of expensive and beautiful garments, shoes and jewellery for me and my brother. He made sure that we had all the things we need in order to survive and keep appearances.

There was also a chest full of gold coins..