One day, in the Office of the Empress in the Imperial Palace of San Fleuve.

    “I see”

    Bang! The Empress slammed the textbook shut.

    Falma and Palle gulped.

    They were, after all, the primary and secondary authors of the textbook that she was holding.

    “I don’t get it”

    (Even though it’s regretful, it’s to be expected)

    Falma thought to himself.

    “It’s a medical/pharmaceutical textbook printed by a mimeograph, right? That’s all I can understand”

    “I wonder if this textbook will be added to the list of new inventions. It’ll be added, right?” the Empress asked the two who had presented the textbook. Palle anxiously interjected, “I don’t know if I’ll ever get to present anything to Her Majesty in my life again. Let me come!” Because the flu was prevalent within the palace, Palle was worried that he wouldn’t be allowed to go due to the risks of infection during chemotherapy. However, Falma’s sanctuary would keep him safe as long as he was nearby, so they both went to the ceremony.

    Palle, who was feeling the pressure of a once-in-a-lifetime moment, caused Falma to be nervous as well.

    “de Medicis brothers, this is an admirable achievement”

    “Haha-“

    “I’m honored”

    “Claude”

    “Yes”

    The Empress beckoned for the Chief Court Physician, who happened to be present, and handed him the textbook. As usual, he was wearing a black coat with a ruffled collar.

    “As the Chief Physician, evaluate this book for me”

    “Understood, I shall read it now”

    After wrapping up her work with the Secretary of State, the Empress elegantly drank the tea on her desk, then pointed at her stomach.

    “It’s noon, I’m a bit hungry. You must be hungry too, right? Why not eat with me?”

    Falma, Palle, and Claude were invited to lunch (le Petite Couvert)

    “I’m honored”

    Palle was allowed to eat next to the Empress. It was one of the highest honors which could be received, and he wanted to boast about it for the rest of his life. Falma, who ate with the Empress after every examination, decided not to say anything.