In Vienna, grand banquets followed one after another, and everyone seemed immersed in a world of wine and women.
Then came some devastating news.
"The Hungarians have murdered Archduke Stephen and his entire family!" (Archduke Stephen was introduced in Chapters 105 and 106, "A Thorn in the Flesh.")
"What?! The Hungarians have gone mad, killing royalty?"
At this time, the slaughter of royalty was an earth-shattering event, especially when they were defenseless and the country was at war.
Strictly speaking, Archduke Stephen was Franz's uncle. By killing a member of the royal family, the Hungarians weren't merely challenging the authority of the Austrian Empire—they were slapping Austria in the face.
The representatives of other countries reacted even more strongly than the Austrian officials present.
The killing of royalty easily brought the French Revolution to mind. That chapter of history had left an indelible shadow over monarchies.
"Those Hungarian madmen!"
"This must be reported to His Majesty the King at once!"
"The executioners are back!"
The hall erupted. Everyone lost their appetite for celebration, and even those hostile to Austria grew cautious.
Even Viscount Stratford, a staunch member of the Anti-Austrian Faction, didn't dare gloat. Still, he couldn't help feeling secretly pleased.
In 1848, the Austrian Empire had defeated France, forced Britain to make peace, swept through Germany and Italy, led the Vienna Conference, and established the European Monetary Union. It had amassed too much prestige.
But now members of the royal family had been slaughtered in the street like dogs. This would surely deal a heavy blow to Austria's prestige and influence, while greatly encouraging other rebels within the Austrian Empire.
"Quick, spread this... tragic news."
Viscount Stratford could barely keep the corners of his mouth from curling up, but he held himself back. If the Austrians really turned around