Chapter 397 An Arms Deal with Greece  

December 1st, 1821, Versailles.

The weather in Versailles is turning colder. The gardens of the palace, usually a point of interest, are now quiet and less frequented due to the cold. The streets of the town are busier during the day despite the chill, with people dressed in warm clothing. In the evenings, most residents stay indoors, where it's warmer. This time of year is noticeably quieter and marks a significant shift from the busier, warmer months.

It was eight o'clock in the evening, and Napoleon was seated behind his desk, reading the latest reports of the battle that occurred in Athens between the Ottoman Empire and the Greek revolutionaries.

"Hmm…the tanks have proved themselves effective in this new form of warfare and therefore the Greeks are requesting to get more of this to fully repel the Ottomans out of the Greek's land," Napoleon read.

Armand, standing nearby, nodded. "That is true, Your Imperial Majesty. However, we have informed them that purchasing a tank is extremely costly. I doubt they can afford another five or ten tanks. It might be more practical for them to use the funds they've gathered from supporters to buy smaller arms and ammunition instead," he suggested pragmatically.

Napoleon looked up, considering Armand's words. "True, smaller arms would be more within their budget. But we need to think strategically. We want the revolutionaries to win against the Ottomans, so we will give them a premium discount. I am scheduled to discuss this with a Greek statesman in thirty minutes right?" "Yes, Your Majesty, the meeting with the Greek statesman is set for thirty minutes from now," Armand confirmed, checking his pocket watch. Napoleon nodded thoughtfully. "Good. Arrange some snacks for our guests, and ensure the meeting room is ready," he instructed.

Armand quickly made the necessary arrangements. He instructed the staff to prepare a selection of snacks and beverages, suitable for the diplomatic meeting. Ensuring the meeting room was properly set up, he checked that the lighting was adequate and the seating arrangement was appropriate for a discussion of such importance.

Napoleon, meanwhile, gathered his thoughts and reviewed his strategy for the meeting. He understood the significance of this discussion not only for the Greek revolutionaries but also for France's geopolitical interests.

As the clock neared the appointed time, Napoleon stood up, straightened his uniform, and prepared to meet the Greek statesman. Entering the room Napoleon saw a man in his forties, wearing a black suit and a top hat. He stood respectfully and bowed his head to Napoleon.

"Your Imperial Majesty, it is an honor. I'm a representative sent by the provisional government of Greece, Augustinos Kapodistrias," he said in French.

Napoleon responded to the Greek representative in clear, fluent Greek. "Welcome, Mr. Kapodistrias. It's a pleasure to meet you. Please, have a seat," he said, gesturing towards the chairs arranged for their discussion.

Kapodistrias seemed pleasantly surprised at Napoleon's command of the Greek language. "Thank you, Your Majesty. Your proficiency in our language is impressive," he complimented.

Napoleon smiled briefly, acknowledging the compliment. "I find it important to speak the language of those we wish to understand and work with," he replied modestly.

"That's amazing…how many languages do you speak if you don't mind me asking…" Kapodistrias asked curiously. "Hmm…" Napoleon rubbed his chin. "Pretty much what was spoken in Europe, I can speak. So it is a lot." "You are truly talented and a wise ruler, Emperor Napoleon," Kapodistrias said, clearly impressed. "Your ability to communicate in so many languages is remarkable. It's a rare skill among leaders."

Napoleon gave a small nod, appreciating the compliment but quickly steering the conversation back to the matter at hand. "Let's focus on our discussion. The situation in Greece is critical, and time is of the essence. You mentioned the need for tanks, but as we've communicated earlier, they are expensive and may strain your resources."

Kapodistrias nodded in agreement. "Yes, Your Majesty. We are aware of the costs, but we believe the strategic advantage they offer is crucial for our success. We are prepared to discuss the terms you have come up with." Napoleon and Kapodistrias took a seat across one another, and Napoleon began.

"Okay, the first thing that came to mind is giving you a premium discount. But I'm sure even with the discount it would cost a lot of money. So how about we explore another option?" "What option?" Kapodistrias nervously asked.

"I'm thinking of lending you those tanks but you'll have to pay them at a later date. Ten years after you have achieved independence from the Ottomans. So let's say you get your independence in 1822, you must pay all your debts before 1832. We are going to come up with a payment plan that will allow you to manage this more effectively," Napoleon explained.

Kapodistrias looked both relieved and thoughtful. "That sounds like a more feasible option for us. The deferred payment would give us the time we need to stabilize our economy after achieving independence. But what would be the interest rate on this debt?"

Napoleon leaned back in his chair. "We'll set a reasonable rate, taking into account your situation. Our aim is not to burden you further but to support your struggle for independence while also ensuring a fair deal for France."

The Greek representative nodded, understanding the terms. "That's fair. I believe this arrangement could work well for both parties. We are grateful for France's support in our fight for freedom."

The two men continued to discuss the details, ironing out the terms and conditions of the agreement. They agreed on the number of tanks to be lent, the payment schedule, and the interest rate. Kapodistrias took notes, ensuring he had all the information to report back to his government.

"How about a small arms weapon, Your Imperial Majesty?" Kapodistrias added. "Tanks are effective but infantry is what truly ends the battle." "Well….if you can pay for it, I don't see the reason why not," Napoleon replied. "But let's say you failed to pay your debt in due, it's going to cause some problems between our nations. You know, France values trust, and your provisional government said that an independent Greece will be richer, so we expect that these debts will be honored on time."

Kapodistrias nodded in agreement. "We fully understand the importance of maintaining trust and honoring our commitments. Of all the countries, France is the only one committed, so we will honor our agreement, I can say that on behalf of my government." "Very well, let's finish this discussion by signing a paper. But since this is an agreement made in the spur of the moment, it will take time. Perhaps tomorrow it will be ready…right Armand?"

"That's correct, Your Imperial Majesty." "Great…if Russia can sign an arms deal with the Ottomans formally, so does France to Greece," Napoleon said.