In the month of June, day 13th, 1830.
The Empire of Britain, Kingdom of Prussia, Empire of Russia, and the Austrian Empire received the news that Napoleon II, Emperor of France, had invaded the Regency of Algiers.
In Buckingham Palace, Prime Minister Charles Grey walked through the chambers of the gilded palace towards the office of King George IV.
Inside the King's private sitting room, the curtains were half drawn against the afternoon light. A fire burned low in the hearth despite the warmth of June.
King George IV sat in a wide upholstered chair near the window. His body filled most of it. His waistcoat strained at the buttons. Layers of fabric covered his frame, rich but heavy. His face was round and pale. His hands rested on the arms of the chair, thick fingers heavy with rings. Even at rest, he seemed tired.
A small table stood beside him, holding a decanter of brandy and two crystal glasses.
George IV looked up as Charles Grey entered.
