The steamship glided gracefully through the misty waters, its smokestacks billowing dark plumes into the overcast sky. Poul Nielsen, standing at the ship's railing, gazed pensively at the horizon as the shores of England gradually materialized before him. The salty sea breeze whipped through his hair, bringing with it the faint scent of coal smoke and the anticipation of new beginnings.
As the vessel drew closer to the bustling port, Poul marveled at the hive of activity that awaited him. Dockworkers shouted commands to one another as they hauled crates and barrels onto wooden carts, while a cacophony of ship's bells, steam whistles, and clattering hooves filled the air. It was a testament to the industrious spirit of the late-nineteenth century, and Poul could not help but feel a sense of exhilaration at the prospect of exploring this foreign land.
The ship came to a halt at the quayside, its massive hull groaning against the wooden pilings. Poul gathered his belongings and disembarked, stepping onto the worn cobblestones that lined the bustling harbor. Seagulls wheeled overhead, their raucous cries adding to the symphony of sound that enveloped him.
As he made his way through the throngs of people, Poul took in the sights that surrounded him. Tall, soot-streaked buildings loomed above the narrow streets, their ornate facades hinting at the wealth and prosperity of the city. Horse-drawn carriages rumbled by, their drivers expertly navigating the labyrinthine lanes, while vendors hawked their wares from makeshift stalls, their voices rising above the din.
Poul marveled at the intricate architecture, the myriad hues of brick and stone that adorned the buildings, and the delicate wrought-iron railings that framed each window and balcony. He could not help but compare the aesthetic to that of his own work in Pittsburgh, finding inspiration in the distinct character of the English cityscape.As he continued his journey through the city, Poul noticed the subtle shift in atmosphere as he ventured further from the harbor. The clamor of the docks gave way to the genteel sounds of a bustling urban center – the clip-clop of hooves on cobblestone, the gentle murmur of conversation, and the occasional laughter of children playing in the streets.
"Excuse me, sir," a middle-aged man approached him. "Are you looking for a ride?"
Poul turned to the man, a kindly-looking fellow with a thick accent that Poul couldn't quite place. "Yes, I am in need of transportation to Norfolk. Can you assist me?"
"I can take you to the train station, for a reasonable fare," the man replied.
Poul was relieved to hear this and followed the man to a waiting carriage. They set off towards the train station, chatting amicably along the way. Poul asked the man about the city and the surrounding area, and the man provided him with helpful tips and recommendations.
As they arrived at the train station, the man named his price for the ride.
"That will be two pounds, sir."Poul hesitated for a moment, realizing that the price was exorbitant.
"That seems rather steep for such a short distance," he replied.
The man shrugged. "I'm just trying to make a living, sir. You look like a man who can afford it," he said, eyeing Poul's fine suit.
Poul felt a flash of irritation at the man's assumption. "Where I got my suit is not your concern," he said firmly. "I am willing to pay a fair price, but not an inflated one."
The man scowled, clearly unhappy at being challenged. "Fine, fifty cents then. Take it or leave it," he said gruffly.
"Deal," Poul said, handing over the money. Although the fare was still expensive, he is not going to risk being late for his appointment with the Prime Minister of the British Empire.
He made his way to the train platform and boarded the train.
As the train chugged along towards Norfolk, Poul gazed out the window, taking in the stunning English countryside that passed by. Rolling green hills dotted with sheep, quaint villages with thatched-roof cottages, and ancient stone walls snaking across the landscape.
Poul's mind wandered as he thought about the reason for his journey. He had been summoned to Sandringham House, the residence of the Duke of Wessex, and Sara under the guise of a business trip. But in reality, he just wanted to see if Sara is doing fine.
The train pulled into the station at King's Lynn, and Poul disembarked, ready to make the final leg of his journey. He hailed a horse-drawn carriage and gave the driver the address of Sandringham House. As they made their way down the narrow country roads, Poul took in the beauty of the English countryside. The air was crisp and fresh, and the colors of autumn were just starting to peek through the trees.
As they approached the gates of Sandringham House, Poul's nerves began to kick in. He is about to meet Sara and her father in this world. He stepped down from the carriage and straightened his tie and adjusted his top hat
As he stepped forward to the gate, he was blocked by a guard stationed at the gate.
"Who are you? Do you have an appointment here?" asked the guard.
Poul pulled out the invitation letter from his coat pocket and handed it to the guard.
"I have an appointment with the Duke of Wessex. You can check it here," he replied, trying to keep his nerves in check.
The guard scrutinized the letter for a moment before nodding curtly and stepping aside to let Poul pass.
"Very well, sir. Follow me," he said, gesturing towards the grand entrance of Sandringham House.
Poul followed the guard through the meticulously manicured gardens.
As they entered the grand foyer, Poul took in the opulence of the decor with a sense of admiration. The crystal chandeliers hung elegantly from the high ceiling, casting a warm glow over the marble floors and gilded furnishings. The walls were adorned with portraits of the Duke's ancestors, each one more regal than the last.
A footman approached Poul and took his coat and hat, and the guard led him down a grand hallway lined with doors on either side. They stopped in front of a set of double doors, and the guard turned to face him.
"The Duke will see you now, sir. Please enter," he said with a small nod, before opening the doors and gesturing for Poul to step inside.
Poul took a deep breath and stepped forward with confidence, ready to face whatever lay ahead.
