Chapter 414: Burden of the Empire (9)
In the square of Florence, the capital of the Toscani Empire, a man stood before a red pot designed by Fabio, appealing to the citizens of Florence.
“His Majesty the Great Emperor desires to liberate those who suffer from hunger and war in the Holy Empire. We need your help! Please, help us just a little!”
Upon hearing the request for help, people passing by began to gather in small groups.
In another country, unless someone were forcibly collecting money, it would only be the rich from the upper or middle classes who would donate money in such a setting. But in the Toscani Empire, thanks to the newspaper Fabio had created, patriotism had already deeply rooted itself in the hearts of all the people.
From nobles to lowly laborers, a variety of people lined up.
“Is it really true that the money will be used for the Toscani Empire?”
“Don’t you see the Toscani Empire’s double-headed eagle on the pot?”
“The Emperor is truly unique. He doesn’t force us to pay taxes, but asks us to voluntarily donate money.”
“Even though it’s for the Empire, raising taxes would make life harder for the people. So His Majesty thought of this method, where he would only ask for donations that the people can afford.”
“Indeed, His Majesty always thinks about the people, even when he’s awake or asleep.”
Although the Emperor didn’t think about the people every moment of every day, he did focus on them most of the time.
At first, Fabio had suggested that the Emperor should show concern for the people in order to establish a strong monarchy, so the Emperor spent a day living in the house of a peasant.