"Understood. I shall return to oversee the bookbinding and welcome the new lecturers at once. Your Majesty, I take my leave."
Paul paid respects to Alaric and, receiving no objection, turned and strode away.
The emperor's decree sent shockwaves through the court.
Prince August breaking convention to become a guest lecturer at the Imperial Academy meant even common scholars could now aspire to join its prestigious ranks.
For impoverished students, this was a rare opportunity. Many grew green with envy.
Yet the nobility viewed it differently.
August had always been domineering. With authority over the academy, who could oppose him? They'd be trapped like chicks in his grasp—utterly powerless.
Among the crowd, Samuel and Andy's disciples and relatives exchanged grim sighs. This decree
