Elite Affairs - Book one

Chapter Twenty Three

A little bit boring 😀but it's the knowledge is worth it... It's a school novel so it shouldn't be surprising at all. You might actually learn something from it.
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"You are not alone, and you are stronger than you think. I'm here for you, and everything will be okay."

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The atmosphere in the Los Angeles Convention Center was charged with anticipation as St. Mary’s Preparatory School took the stage for the second round of the annual History Competition. Scholars had already come in now, being a witness to the students and cameras were placed from the start, their red recording lights blinking steadily as they focused on the students at the podium, the whole world watching. The presence of recording equipment added an air of seriousness to the proceedings, underscoring the significance of the event. The host stood confidently at the center of the stage, ready to guide the competition with a keen eye on the participants, ensuring that each discussion was accurately documented.

Chidimma and Alice took their positions at the podium, the weight of their school's reputation resting heavily on their shoulders. As they prepared to engage in their discussion on the causes and effects of the French Revolution, the murmurs from the audience faded, replaced by an intense focus on the two girls. The noise of shifting seats and rustling papers subsided, creating an almost palpable silence that enveloped the auditorium.

As Chidimma began speaking, the host leaned closer to his notes, taking meticulous records of their points, nodding occasionally to encourage them. The cameras zoomed in, capturing the earnest expressions on the students' faces as they navigated the complexities of their topic.

"Thank you! So, the French Revolution was crucial because it brought about significant social change. One of the main causes was the inequality among the Estates. The Third Estate, which included everyone except the clergy and nobility, was heavily taxed while the First and Second Estates had many privileges,” Chidimma stated confidently.

Alice interjected, “Right, and the economic strain from excessive spending by the monarchy and debts from wars led to widespread discontent. When the government tried to impose new taxes, it just made things worse. The Storming of the Bastille in 1789—”

“—was a symbol of tyranny,” Chidimma finished, her voice slightly wavering. “But, uh, it wasn’t just about that prison; it represented the oppression of the monarchy.”

Alice nodded but faltered. “Exactly! Although, it’s important to remember that while the revolution aimed for liberty and equality, it quickly devolved into the Reign of Terror. That led to… um, a lot of executions, like thousands.”

Chidimma’s brow furrowed as she tried to clarify, “Yes! It’s significant because it shows how revolutions can lead to, like, unintended consequences. But the revolution also set the stage for Napoleon’s rise, who, um, helped maintain some of those revolutionary ideals but then became a dictator himself.”

Feeling the pressure of the audience’s gaze, Alice corrected herself, “Right, but it’s important to note that Napoleon’s rise was also a result of the chaos left after the revolution. The people were searching for strong leadership after all the upheaval.”

As the discussion continued, the tension in the air grew palpable. The audience, including their peers from other schools, leaned in closer, eager to catch every word. However, as Chidimma attempted to articulate her next point, she stumbled over her words. “So, uh, the revolution was... really complex, with both good and bad outcomes, but it also, um, caused a lot of conflict with other countries. Like Austria and… um, Germany?”

A few students in the audience exchanged glances, and a quiet giggle rippled through the crowd. Chidimma’s face flushed with embarrassment as she realized her mistake, knowing they were being recorded for the world to see. She took a deep breath, trying to regain her composure.