May 07, 2009 -- Court won't be the same without you
Welcome back to Schönbrunn, after many years' absence. The current Emperor is Francis II, von Kempelen's fifth head of state since arriving at court in 1755, and the last ruler of the Holy Roman Empire. I took the inspiration for this investiture ceremony from the proceedings at Buckingham Palace, because I couldn't find any reference for how they did it in Vienna, way back when.
And speaking of court politics, Wolf's snide remark is probably in reference to Francis' expansion of his spy network and censorship policies following the French Revolution. Funny how watching your aunt and uncle-in-law get their heads guillotined off by an unruly mob will make you suspicious and paranoid. Granted, Maria Theresa wasn't always a shining example of human kindness, but she was known for being more reform minded than her great-nephew.
On a more pleasant note, the von Kempelen family cleans up rather nicely, don't they? You'll notice that there's not a wedding ring on Theresa's hand quite yet; that'll be explained later. I'd really have loved to stick a grandkid or two in there to complete the adorable family portrait, but -- well, that'll be explained later, too.
Till then, I hope you all remember Count Cobenzl from the automaton's first game.
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I can't quite see Wolf being very content in retirement, lol. He wouldn't rest until he had everything in the house talking. He reminds me of Luther's father in "Family Man", always wanting his hands better. Wolf has a much better fashion sense, however...
Perhaps it's just random positioning, but perhaps there's more than gears between Theresa and Joseph?
And entirely off topic, "Court Won't Be the Same Without You" would either be a great song title or indie band name.
Oh, there's definitely something between Theresa and Joseph... just not quite yet. And as for Wolf's activities in retirement, well, I think you'll find some resonance, and further explanation, in next week's page.
Kind of funny that the hero retires on page 64. Reminds me of a song I'm sure you've heard. ;-)
He may have retired *on* page sixty-four, but he was actually aged sixty-five. </nerd> Awesome comment, though.