The Royal Palace, Rome, The United Kingdom of San Pellegrino Romana - 7:30 AM, Monday, August 23, 2010
One of the most famous landmarks of the Republic was the Royal Palace. Disregarding the thousands of tourists and sightseers outside the palace gates, it was usually a quiet time this time of year in the Royal Palace. The Royal Family usually was on their vacation this time of year, and HM King Raphael had just come back from a a visit to Jilai. Now though, the Fall Season at the palace would start off with a State Visit - one of the largest the Palace has seen in several decades.
It was the day of the State Visit, and the palace was exploding with activity. The linen tablecloths were being set in the State Dining Room, the antique wooden floors were being waxed, and the beds were being made. The Palace, though it had hundreds of rooms and suites, was rather easy to navigate. In one of these rooms, HM King Raphael was preparing himself for the State Visit. He was trying to decide which tie he should wear when greeting HM Queen Sophia of Izzyshipper.
"Which one should I wear...." he mumbled to himself, "the royal blue or the maroon tie....I think I'll go with the blue."
Suddenly, there was a quick knock at the door.
"Entré," the King said.
A man in his forties, rather well-dressed, entered the room. His name was Vittorio Garabaldi, and he was the Personal Secretary to the King for the past 15 years. He was a close confidant and friend of King Raphael, and was one of his lifelong friends he hired after his ascension to the throne.
"Sir, we must get going if we are going to make it at the Ciampino on time."
"Yes, I suppose your right. Get the car ready." the King said.
"It already is ready and awaiting your prescence Your Majesty." Vittorio said with a short bow.
"You guys sure work fast," the King said in a not-so-surprised tone, "No wonder I hired you guys."