Chapter 2
“My dearest Lucia,
I have been at court now for a couple of weeks, in the city of Guadalajara. I do so wish you were here with me to see the wonders of this palace, which looks as if it has sprung from a Persian fable.
The journey was long, but the landscapes I was able to see far exceeded any figment of my imagination.
On my arrival I was received by princess Joana, sister of the king, and regent. At first I was in awe of her rigid, severe figure, dressed all in black and with an enigmatic, slightly melancholy air, though her silent kindness and real refinement are rapidly changing my opinion.
The king is a remote figure. He's rarely seen as he seems to be always shut up in his apartments, at work or at prayer. Everybody has a reverential fear of him.
Imagine my state of m
