The Rhine Alliance Was Doomed

As the car rounded the final bend, the sun was sinking behind the distant mountains. Its blood-red afterglow spilled across the hills on the eastern side of the valley, painting the winter-bare woods in burning gold and crimson.

Frederick lifted the heavy curtain covering the car window and let the biting wind rush inside. He had spent the whole journey thinking about the Grand Duke of Mainz's letter, and his mind was growing weary. The cold air helped clear his head.

The person he was about to face would be more difficult than all matters of state combined.

A city nestled between mountains and water appeared ahead: Lohr, Maria's hometown.

In the old town, stone houses climbed the hillside in tiers, their dark slate roofs gleaming with a dull, rust-like sheen in the fading light.

Smoke curled up from the chimneys, drawing thin gray lines across the darkening sky before the mountain wind tore them apart.

In the new district by the river, the docks were packed with cargo ships. Lights dispelled what little darkness remained as cranes hoisted goods aboard.

The garment factory between the old and new districts had just let out for the day. The roads turned into rivers of workers, flowing slowly along.

At the highest point in the city, the Eltar Family castle stood tall and imposing.

By the time the car neared the city, darkness had settled over the valley. Suddenly, the castle burst into a riot of color, transformed into a breathtaking sight.

Frederick had no interest in such light displays, but they were the latest way for nobles to show off. The castles, mansions, and public buildings in Weissenburg City had all followed suit, with Maria in charge of them.

The car entered the castle grounds and stopped in front of the