Chapter 406 Things Are Heating Up  

Napoleon observed the departure of the Ottoman Minister from the Blue Salon, noting the ensuing silence that filled the room. The staff members, who were present, directed their attention toward him, awaiting his response.

Armand, unable to mask his frustration, remarked, "I can't believe the Ottoman minister acted that way. It's audacious, considering their empire is on the decline. His impolite demeanor was unexpected. He made a fool out of you, Your Imperial Majesty. Why don't we teach him a lesson and remind him of his place?"

"Then that would make me look like I'm a reactionary leader, prone to emotional decisions," Napoleon replied thoughtfully. "If we are going to show ourselves superior to them, we shouldn't react in a way that is expected. But still, you are right, I felt a bit offended there. This is, after all, the first time a foreign diplomat has spoken to me in such a manner. If it's Russia then I understand, because they have the strength to back their words. But the Ottomans?" Napoleon paused and scoffed softly. "Their boldness doesn't match their current position in the world order."

Upon saying that, Napoleon walked over to a large map of Europe and the Ottoman territories, his finger tracing the borders thoughtfully. "Now, the Ottoman who just spoke to me is surely going to be fired for provoking me into considering military action. Have the full might of the French Mediterranean Imperial Navy on standby," Napoleon directed. "Tell them that if they cross this line—" Napoleon traced his finger, drawing an imaginary border on the map, "—then they will have provoked a response from us. "Your Imperial Majesty, perhaps we should also consider the position of the Russians in this. If the Ottoman ambassador is not bluffing and has secured a mutual defense pact with the Russians, the whole of Europe will be engulfed in another major war." Napoleon shook his head. "No, I don't think the Russians are going to join this conflict. We have a signed agreement. It is in Tsar Paul the First's interest to not abide with our enemies. But…well…it doesn't mean we are not going to take them seriously."

He turned his attention back to the map, his gaze analytical. "We'll increase our diplomatic communications with Russia to ensure they remain neutral. Any hint of their involvement with the Ottomans must be taken seriously. Send a diplomatic envoy to Russia immediately. We need to confirm their stance and reassure them of our commitment to the agreement. In the meantime, let's wait until the situation unfolds in the Balkans—" "Your Imperial Majesty?" Armand asked concernedly as Napoleon suddenly paused his words. "Armand, you have studied the history of the Balkans under Ottoman rule. Tell me, it is not always the Greeks that tried fighting for their rights and independence right?" "Your Imperial Majesty?" Armand asked, noting the sudden pause in Napoleon's words.

"Armand, you have studied the history of the Balkans under Ottoman rule. Tell me, it's not always the Greeks that tried fighting for their rights and independence, right?" Napoleon inquired, looking intently at Armand.

Armand nodded. "That's correct, Your Majesty. The Balkans have been a hotbed of resistance against Ottoman rule for centuries. It's not just the Greeks. There have been uprisings and movements for independence among various ethnic groups, including the Serbs, Bulgarians, and others. Each group has had its own struggle against the Ottoman Empire."

"What do you think will happen, if a superpower nation, such as ourselves, were to help them realize that goal? Do you think they'll rise up against their rulers?" Napoleon asked, his tone indicating he was sharing his intentions more than seeking an answer.

Armand understood the implication of Napoleon's question. "If France were to support these independence movements, it would certainly embolden them. The presence of a powerful ally like France could tip the balance and inspire more widespread uprisings. The Ottomans are already struggling to maintain control; external support could be a decisive factor."

Napoleon nodded, his expression contemplative. "Exactly. Our involvement could change the political landscape of the Balkans." "So you are planning on helping the Balkans to gain their independence?" Armand asked, seeking clarification on Napoleon's intentions.

"It's going to happen later, so why don't we facilitate it now?" Napoleon mused. "When I look at your face and see that expression, Your Imperial Majesty, I can tell you are serious," Armand observed, recognizing the determination in Napoleon's demeanor.

Napoleon gave a slight nod. With the plan set in motion, Napoleon's thoughts turned to other matters of state, signaling the end of their discussion.

*** December 17th, 1821.

In the Russian Empire, St. Petersburg, at the Winter Palace, Tsar Paul I was in his office. As Emperor, he was bound by the constitution to perform his administrative duties. He reviewed reports and dispatches, his attention particularly focused on the growing tensions in the Balkans. "The French are planning to respond militarily if they cross a certain line?" Tsar Paul I read the report aloud, his brow furrowed in concern.

"That's correct, Your Imperial Majesty," Alexei, his advisor, confirmed. "And it seems they are doing that because the Ambassador to France of the Ottoman Empire has rubbed the French Emperor in the wrong way."

Tsar Paul I leaned back in his chair, contemplating the implications. "Surely, France is just posturing."

"Surely, France is just posturing," Tsar Paul I mused, his tone suggesting skepticism.

Alexei, however, disagreed. "I'm not so certain, Your Majesty. The reports suggest that the French Mediterranean Imperial Navy has been called to standby. This is a significant move and indicates that Napoleon might be prepared to take military action if his conditions are met."

"So they are saber-rattling then?" Tsar Paul I questioned, trying to gauge the seriousness of the situation. "We know there is only a limit to how far I can be pushed, right? Just because I agree with the French on certain issues doesn't mean we will tolerate aggressive military posturing in our sphere of influence."

"I agree, Your Majesty, the French are going too far and they think we won't react. Your Imperial Majesty, we stand as a superpower that can stand up to France. If we lose the Ottomans, no other countries would want to partner with us because they think they'd be abandoned if France were in the equation. It's time that we step up to that title."

"I know…assure the Ottomans that once they cross the line and the French respond, Russia will respond as well. Oh, put the Russian Black Sea Fleet on standby," Tsar Paul I instructed decisively.

"I will relay your instructions immediately, Your Imperial Majesty," Alexei acknowledged the order and left the Tsar's office. Once he left the Emperor alone, Paul leaned back in his chair. "Napoleon…it seems that before I die, we are fated to fight one another…again."