Franz idly leafed through the intelligence reports sent in from various regions in his study. Though no great wars had broken out, the world was far from peaceful.
From the Far East to South America, flames of war burned everywhere. Even in Bohemia, there was a group of restless people.
They were not, however, the people standing before him now. Several men protesting the education reforms had already been brought before Franz.
Although Bordeaux had warned him beforehand, Franz could not help feeling disappointed when he saw these leaders. At the same time, his resolve to press ahead with the reforms only grew firmer.
The men looked around like country bumpkins. When the heavy wooden doors closed, they panicked. The moment Franz's gaze swept over them, they abruptly lowered their heads, their breathing even growing several degrees heavier.
Worst of all, the group had not even managed to choose a representative and had needed the people around them to point out who the leaders were. Left with no choice, Bordeaux had brought back all the so-called leaders. Their jumpiness after entering the room was even more unbearable to watch.
"What do you have to say?"
Only when Franz spoke did the crowd seem to awaken from a dream.
Yet they merely looked at one another, none willing to speak first.
Franz gave Bordeaux a look. Understanding at once, the latter stepped forward and said, "You are wasting His Majesty the Emperor's time. You have thirty seconds to put your words in order."
At once, cold sweat streamed down their faces. When the thirty seconds were up, they forced themselves to speak.
"Your Majesty, we truly cannot bear the exorbitant tuition fees of the Royal Academy, while the conditions in public schools are so dreadful.
"We ask that you approve the