Albert did not know what to expect as his carriage rolled through huge ornate gates. He stared up the high stone stairs leading up to the palace. Servants came out and helped each passenger step down. Men stood at attention, two at a time. Between them was a weird looking box, attached on either side to poles. He watched as Tamako was escorted into one. The poles were raised to the men’s shoulders. With the emissary seated, they climbed the steps.

Izumi signaled for the group to come forward. “The carrier is called a kago. Please be seated. The steps are steep, and the halls are long. Don’t be concerned. These are the emperor’s own carriers.”

Albert started out stiff, expecting a trip or fall but the ride with smooth and without mishap. Curious about his surroundings, he relaxed and studied the architecture and decorations of the palace. He expected an open flowing design, but this was built more like a fortress. They entered through carved wooden doors and proceeded down a long hall. At an open door, the men stopped and lowered the seat to the floor. Emissary Tamako stepped off and indicated for Albert to follow him into a room.

“This is where Emperor Meiji requested you wait. He is in conference with his cabinet and will see you when finished.”

“How do I approach him?”

“It is our custom to drop onto both knees and not look at him. Some customs did not change. He will decide if you are acceptable and tell you to rise. Please stay here and be comfortable.”

Albert glumly watched the man leave. What if he traveled all this way and was not acceptable? He turned and studied the room. The whole design surprised him. It was completely Westernized with cushioned seats and carved wood arms and legs. The fireplace mantle was made from white marble. A servant entered silently and placed a tray of tea and cakes on the table.

English tea? The whole setup could have been in an English parlor.

Finished eating Albert paced the room, his mind full of design ideas. When a noise in the hall caught his attention, he poked his head out the door and got a glimpse of his mechanical dragon being wheeled down the hall on a cart. Two guards shoved him back before he could see more.

Two hours later, his rumbling stomach woke him. He eyed the cake crumbs and pot of cold tea. Not sure how to ask for more, he ignored the hunger, pulled out a tablet from his pocket, and started updating his dragon design.

“I’m sorry, but Emperor Meiji has been busy with the affairs of our country. He requested you come back tomorrow morning.”

Engrossed in his drawing, Albert jerked around, startled at Tamako’s arrival. He stood on shaky legs as the room swirled. “I’ve been occupied with a new design and lost track of time.”

“Transportation is arranged to pick you up. Please follow me. The carriers will deliver you to the house our gracious emperor has provided.”

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They stopped at a small house, separated from the others in the street. Harris stood in the lit doorway. “You look starved. I made sure there would be plenty for you to eat.”

Albert grinned and climbed off the chair. “Nothing to eat all day but a plate of cakes and tea. Tea!”

“I brought some coffee beans from the ship. The cook ground them for me. A pot is ready for you.”

Later, with his stomach full, Albert leaned back in the chair. “This place is different than I expected. Thought we would be sitting on the floor.”

“There have been a lot of English engineers and workers here. The emperor wants to upgrade the rail system and is using their knowledge. They appear to be idle, one of the men said something about a ‘snafu’. Now, the beds are interesting. Thick mats on a platform.”

“I’m so tired, probably would not notice.”

The next morning, Albert was finishing his last sip of coffee when the carriers arrived. Harris helped him slip on his coat. While they slept, someone washed and ironed their clothes and cleaned off their coats.

He looked down at the slippers on his feet. “Where are my shoes?”

“By the door along with your cane.”

After being dropped off the palace hall, servants guided him to ornate double doors. They opened before him. Emissary Tamako waited inside and indicated for him to enter the room.

Albert only caught a glimpse of the massive room before approaching the seated emperor, dropping to his knees, and bowing his head.

“Ah, Dr. Timmons, we meet at last. Please stand so we can talk.” Emperor Meiji spoke precise English with a British accent.

He leaned on his cane and pushed up to face him. “You do me a great honor to invite me.”

Meiji wore medals and chains across his chest. His uniform was woven with intricate designs Braided tassels hung from his shoulders. A dark, groomed beard circled his mouth and covered his chin. “The accommodations are alright?”

“Perfect. Thank you.” Albert bowed.’

“I have a few questions. Your companion, Mark Harris, why is he here?”

“My valet, and also helps me cut out and shape the cogs and gears.”

“That is not all, am I right? Bring him forward, so I can hear his answer.” Emperor Meiji nodded.

Servants opened the doors, and Harris was shoved in by two strong men. He immediately dropped to the floor and bowed his head.

Albert froze. Was his friend about to lose his head?

“Why are you traveling with Dr. Timmons?”

“As his valet. I also help him with the designs. Cut out shapes from sheets of metal.”

“What else?”

“President McKinley sent me to be his bodyguard.”

“Did not do a good job of that. Any failure like that, and my guards fall on their swords.”

“For me, that would betray my mission.”

“Do you know who attacked him?”

“Yes. They are locked up on the ship.”

“Somehow, in the night, their cell doors opened. My men caught them trying to jump ship. Are these them? Stand and look at them.”

Harris turned to watch two beaten men thrown face down on the floor.

“I believe so.”

“Good. Take them away. They will be dealt with. Now, Emissary Tamako tells me you fixed the steam engine on the ship. Is that another one of your talents?”

“I have worked on a lot of engines, steam or gas, and can fix them. That was why President McKinley picked me to accompany Dr. Timmons. I can help him with his projects.”

“There are plenty of workers that can cut and shape metal. I need you for something else. The engine on my train does not work properly. You will fix it. Take him to it.” The emperor waved two guards forward. They reached out to grab his arms.

Harris shook off their hands and walked from the room.

At least Harris’s head was still attached. Albert did not know whether to be relieved or worried.

“I want to discuss your creation. Emissary Tamako was most impressed with your demonstration.”