Jean's smile fades a bit before his laughter brings it back. "Admittedly, I may have instigated a small argument. But then the Bavarian took it too far. He insulted my culture and threatened me, and then wisely decided to leave before my patience ran out."

Jean's chuckle fades and he checks his watch. "As I understand it Herr Kaiser, your daughter has a meeting in the same hotel I am to be staying in. Perhaps I could have your permission to escort her there?"