The date was January 15th, 1830.
Snow fell steadily outside the Palace of Versailles, blanketing the gardens in white. Inside, the palace HVAC system kept the air comfortably warm.
Napoleon II was in his office drinking a warm chocolate coffee with marshmallow.
He exhaled in satisfaction. "This weather plus this chocolate drink makes a good pair huh?"
As he was enjoying his drink, Napoleon II's secretary, Charles, entered his office.
"Your Imperial Majesty, this is the report from the first Council of State session," Charles said, stepping forward with a thick folder. "It's about the budget they are requesting for this year. It needs your signature before the Treasury releases the funds."
Napoleon took the folder with one hand, still holding the cup in the other.
"That was fast," he said.
"They didn't waste time," Charles replied. "Every ministry submitted detailed breakdowns. They're… ambitious."
Napoleon set the cup down and opened the folder.
