Journal Entry 84

11.10.2026

Fräulein Heng, homemade bread and jam, and a stroll on a rainy Sunday morning. I needed and deserved this break.

From the moment I heard the light knock on the royal suite door, I knew Fräulein Heng was on the other side.

We held each other for a long time. I looked into her caring eyes as she handed me the breakfast basket. I served us tea, we ate, and we talked about our families.

“Let’s take a walk,” she said as she put on her overcoat. I knew what those words meant. It was time to talk about what was really on my mind.

I held the large umbrella over us as we walked through the castle grounds. The light rain and gentle breeze were exactly what I needed this morning.

I spilled everything to Fräulein Heng. I held absolutely nothing back, and she listened without judgment.

“What do I do now?” I asked. Those were not raindrops on my cheeks.

“Focus on one issue at a time,” she replied. “Will it be the hourglass or His Majesty?”

“They’re one and the same,” I said.

“Ian, someone left an hourglass on the windowsill in King Jonas’s private office. You want to find out who put it there. That is one issue.”

“And the other is how differently he’s been treating me?”

“Think about what happened at the cabin. The King was looking for something, and the two of you left abruptly. Do you see where I’m going with this?”

“I’m not following you, Fräulein Heng.”

“Think about Line Four, Ian. I believe the King remembered something and made a connection he has yet to share with you. What was His Majesty looking for? That is the second question. You can ask him directly or figure it out for yourself.”

“Fräulein Heng, do you know something you’re not telling me? If you know what Jonas was looking for, please tell me.”

“Ian, darling, I honestly don’t know. But I’m willing to help you figure it out if you’d like.”

“I cannot involve you. No. I will not involve you. I would never forgive myself if something happened to you because I brought you into this.”

“You don’t need to worry about me, darling,” she said softly. “You know I can take care of myself. I should run along now. Would you walk me to my car?”

We walked to her car in silence. The rain grew heavier as we waved goodbye.

I do not know what it is about Fräulein Heng, but I always feel stronger after talking with her. I certainly do this evening.

She’s right. I need to take these questions one at a time. If I try to answer both at once, I might overlook something important. Or someone.