UEPU

The streets of Ulm were lined with eager citizens, their cheers rising as a sleek convoy of black Volkswagen cars rolled to a halt before the imposing Ulm Minster. From the lead vehicle, Kaiserin Maria Theresia II stepped out gracefully, her serene expression framed by the elegant brim of a wide black hat. The young monarch, despite her tender years, carried herself with the composed dignity of one far older, a presence that commanded respect wherever she went.

Behind her, Kaiserin-Mutter Andrea of Savoy emerged with a knowing smile, exuding a warmth that made the gathered crowd feel immediately at ease. Her hat, adorned with subtle feathers, tipped ever so slightly as she acknowledged the cheers. “What a charming welcome,” she remarked to her daughter, her voice carrying a note of amused affection.

Inside the Minster, the Protestant sermon began, its tone reverent and austere. Maria Theresia sat upright, her hands folded neatly in her lap. Her composure betrayed none of her inner thoughts, though her mind wandered at times. It wasn’t theology that held her interest, but rather the unity her attendance symbolized. She glanced sideways at her mother during a particularly long hymn and caught a faintly disapproving look. Andrea’s lips were pressed thin, and when the sermon concluded, she leaned in as they exited.

“I cannot think what possesses you, darling,” Andrea said softly, her tone laced with the genteel firmness of a mother. “A Protestant sermon, of all things. Whatever would your father have said?”

Maria Theresia adjusted her gloves calmly as they walked to the waiting Volkswagens. “Mummy,” she replied, her voice measured and gentle, “it is precisely because of what Papa would have said that I must do it. One cannot be a monarch for some of the people; one must be a monarch for all.”

Andrea sighed, softening her stance. “Well, if you insist on being so terribly dutiful, I suppose I can only admire it. But do try not to make a habit of it, dear.”

Their next destination was Aachen, where the Kaiserin and Kaiserin-Mutter were greeted with equal enthusiasm. The city’s rich imperial history lent a fitting backdrop to their visit, which included a stroll through its historic streets. While in Aachen, the pair made an unannounced stop at a local brewery famed for its traditions.

The brewmaster, a ruddy-faced man with an infectious smile, offered them a tour of the facility, ending with a sampling of the brewery’s prized ales. Andrea, ever fond of a good drink, raised her glass appreciatively. “Oh, this is simply marvelous,” she declared after her first sip, her eyes twinkling. “I could stay here all day.”

Maria Theresia, however, merely smiled and declined politely, her hand resting lightly on her abdomen. “I fear my duties extend even to my diet, Mummy, My child will not suffer douse of potential reckless behavior on my part” she said with a touch of humor. “But I shall take some home for later, so I don’t feel entirely left out.”

The return to Vienna and the Hofburg was quiet, the black Volkswagens gliding through the night as the lights of the Imperial City came into view. Once back in her study, Maria Theresia settled down to work. Her private secretary had already placed the Imperial Box on her desk, its polished surface gleaming under the light of a brass lamp.

She opened the box methodically, revealing a stack of state papers. First was a speed regulation bill for the Empire’s autobahns. She read through it carefully before signing. Then came proposals for infrastructure improvements, focusing on railways and urban transport. As she signed these documents, she paused at a bill concerning teenage vacation job wages. Her face softened slightly as she read.

“This one’s important,” she said to her secretary. “It’s about fairness. The young must know they are valued.”

Andrea entered with two cups of tea, setting one beside her daughter. “You’ve been at it for hours,” she said with mock sternness.

Maria Theresia smiled faintly, reaching for the tea. “A few more hours won’t hurt, Mummy. There’s always something to be done.”

Andrea chuckled, her voice warm. “Well, just make sure you don’t work yourself into the ground, darling. The Empire needs you rested as much as it needs you industrious.”