Upon the glittering waters, the massive Franz Joseph sounded its whistle. The onlooking crowds burst into wave after wave of cheers. They had never seen such a ship, never seen people like this, never seen a wedding like this.
Both banks were packed with people eager to catch a glimpse of the Emperor and Empress. Franz and Olga stepped onto the bow, and the ceremonial cannons prepared on shore suddenly thundered. The people cried out in excitement once more.
Though the heavy wedding gown and crown had already exhausted Olga, she still stubbornly waved to the crowds along both banks.
Franz beside her appeared utterly at ease, and Olga's gaze unconsciously grew a little resentful.
Franz noticed it too and consoled her.
"Had you chosen fewer pieces of jewelry back then, things would be very different now."
"Hmph."
Olga said nothing. She needed to conserve her strength; heaven knew when this torment would end. As a princess of Russia and the Empress of the Austrian Empire, her sense of duty did not allow her to slack off.
"In another ten minutes, we can go into the cabin and rest for a while."
"Mm?"
Olga's eyes immediately lit up. At last, she saw hope.
"We'll have something to eat, then take a short nap to restore our strength."
"Really?"
Olga asked excitedly.
Franz nodded.
"Really."
The cabin was surprisingly spacious. A magnificent crystal chandelier adorned the jade-white ceiling, while the velvet-covered floor gave off an indescribable warmth.
But Olga had no mind to admire any of that. The first thing she did was strip off the deadly armor she was wearing, then hurriedly eat something to replenish her strength.
Only after she had swept through the food like a whirlwind did Olga realize Franz was sitting across from her, watching her.