Frederick William IV truly wanted to gouge out the eyes of the blind man before him who was fanning the flames.
But this was the Federal Assembly, and after Dynastic Unification, Hanover's strength had been bolstered once again. At least on the surface, Prussia did not possess the power to utterly crush Hanover.
"What are you hesitating over?"
Franz timely added some pressure on Frederick William IV, making the latter even more embarrassed.
"N-No, it's nothing. I simply feel that this may be somewhat unfair to Frederick VII."
Frederick William IV spoke instinctively, but George V gave him no chance to catch his breath and immediately pressed him.
"How is it unfair? Please explain clearly."
Frederick William IV instantly became the focus of the entire Confederation. He clearly disliked this feeling very much, yet he had no choice but to say something.
"We should not decide Denmark's fate in Frederick VII's absence."
Frederick William IV thought for quite some time before settling on these words, the most dignified statement and one that might dissuade the people before him.
From his perspective, these words ought to have been flawless—unless someone wished to wield power above that of a king.
Prussia had always sought ways to counter the Austrian Empire's authority, and this time was naturally no exception. His words were aimed at Franz.
This was a congress of the monarchs of the German Confederation. Before all these rulers, even if Franz was dissatisfied, he could not make a scene.
Besides, royal authority was supreme—this was the consensus of most monarchs.
No matter what its intentions were, the Confederation was in fact bypassing Denmark's legitimate ruler, Frederick VII.
"That does seem to make some sense."
The monarchs present began discussing it with their advisors. After all, each of them had their own