Giuseppe Verdi wanted to curse the other man for spouting nonsense, but having once been in Rome, he had personally witnessed the entire process of a regime being born, descending into madness, and finally collapsing.
Yet the changes brought by the Austrian Empire were plain for all to see. Still, he would not surrender so easily.
"Your so-called peaceful contentment makes them nothing but prisoners of peace, slaves to tranquility! Your so-called prosperity is no more than feed for penned livestock! I admit that Austria gave them bread and work, schools and hospitals, order and security, opportunities to become officials and make money—but you alone have stripped us of the right to breathe free air!"
"Enough. I did not come here to debate with you. You ought to debate those masters in Vienna; I am sure they would be delighted to engage you in an academic discussion. You have already crossed the Empire's bottom line, but His Majesty the Emperor is merciful. We have two options for you to choose from. We respectfully ask that you allow us to make a few minor revisions to your script, so that it may be suitable for a wider audience."
"Don't even think about it."
Giuseppe Verdi answered without hesitation.
Baron Parwen was not the least bit surprised. He continued.
"For the second option, we will purchase your works and all your property. You may choose exile abroad—Britain or France, whichever you prefer. We can send you there. The Empire recognizes your artistic attainments, but your art is not suited to the Austrian Empire."
"If I remember correctly, this is the Duchy of Parma."
Baron Parwen smiled.
"But it is now administered by the Austrian Empire. You must still obey our laws."
"And if I still refuse?"
Giuseppe Verdi asked tentatively.
"Then I