February 17th, 1801. Palace of Versailles. Napoleon and Ciela stood near the main entrance, their gaze fixed on the five elegant horse-drawn carriages approaching.
The moment had arrived for Napoleon to engage with the ambassadors representing the countries bound by the Second League of Armed Neutrality. These nations included the Russian Empire, the Kingdom of Prussia, the Kingdom of Denmark-Norway, and the Kingdom of Sweden.
Napoleon adjusted his uniform, feeling the weight of the impending discussions settles on his shoulders. It was time for diplomatic exchanges that could shape things up. Ciela stayed put, adding a calming presence.
As the carriages rolled to a halt, the palace staff moved into action, assisting the ambassadors and their entourages to alight from the carriages.
Napoleon exchanged a brief nod with Ciela, and together they advanced to welcome the distinguished guests. The ambassadors stepped forward one by one. Carl Adam Wachtmeister, the Swedish ambassador, met Napoleon's gaze.
"Welcome to the Palace of Versailles," Napoleon acknowledged. "I express my gratitude for accepting my invitation, Mr. Wachtmeister."
"Thank you, First Consul," Carl Adam Wachtmeister replied with a diplomatic nod. "I'm looking forward to our discussion among representatives from other countries."
Napoleon's gaze shifted to the other ambassadors, each standing as representatives of their respective countries. Among them was Friedrich Ancillon, the ambassador to France from the Kingdom of Prussia, followed by Ivan Tolstoy, the ambassador to France representing the Russian Empire. Lastly, there was Count Frederik Christian Peder Horrebow, serving as the ambassador to France from the Kingdom of Denmark-Norway.
Napoleon and Ciela exchanged handshakes with the ambassadors, a formal acknowledgment of their presence and a prelude to the discussions that lay ahead.
"I trust your journey was without undue difficulties," Napoleon inquired, addressing the ambassadors collectively.
"We are grateful for your hospitality," Ancillon replied courteously on behalf of his delegation.
Tolstoy, representing the Russian Empire, nodded in agreement. "Indeed, we appreciate your gracious invitation. Much like our Swedish counterparts, we are also anticipating the forthcoming discussions and the topics that we shall delve into."
Horrebow, the ambassador from the Kingdom of Denmark-Norway, chimed in as well. "It's an honor to be here."
Napoleon nodded in response, acknowledging their remarks. "Our discussions shall commence shortly. For now, please allow us to escort you to the designated chambers where the deliberations will take place."
With that, Napoleon and Ciela escorted the ambassadors down the ornate halls of the palace.
Upon reaching the designated chambers, the doors swung open, revealing a grand room adorned with regal furnishings. A large table dominated the center, and chairs were arranged for the ambassadors and their entourages.
"Please, take your seats," Napoleon invited.
The ambassadors nodded and took their places.
Napoleon turned to Ciela briefly, a look of determination in his eyes.
"Darling, I'm going to speak with them now. Thank you for standing by me earlier."
Horrebow glanced at his fellow ambassadors before speaking. "Are you sure, Premier First Consul, that the British might attack us?"
"I can't give you a guarantee, but history has shown that the British are willing to use any pretext to protect their interests. Are you going to risk the safety of your country by simply hoping that they won't? Their track record speaks for itself," Napoleon replied.
Ancillon leaned back in his chair, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "It's a significant decision to make, aligning with France in an alliance. The potential benefits are clear, but the risks can't be ignored either."
Tolstoy crossed his arms, his expression contemplative. "And how do we ensure that this alliance doesn't inadvertently lead to a larger war?"
"We set clear terms and boundaries, and commit to defensive actions only. Our primary objective is to safeguard our merchant ships and neutral rights. The alliance should serve as a deterrent to the British, not a provocation."
Wachtmeister's eyes flickered as he considered the options. "And if the British refuse to see it that way? What if they view our alliance as a direct threat?"
"They already see your current alliance as a direct threat," Napoleon interrupted. "But one thing I can assure you is that when you sign an alliance with France, our combined naval forces in the region would be more than enough to dissuade the British from making rash moves. It's not in their interest to escalate matters further, especially when faced with a united front."
"But what if they do? What if they decide to challenge us and the alliance head-on?"
"If that were to happen, then we face it together. Are you going to bow your heads down to the British? Because France won't," Napoleon bluntly stated. "I am going to need a response from your government before the end of this month."
"You're giving us a tight timeline, Premier First Consul," Ancillon said.
"The longer we wait, the more our economies suffer, and the more our rights are trampled upon. We must act swiftly to protect our interests."
"I will speak with my government, Premier First Consul," Tolstoy said.
Napoleon nodded, acknowledging Tolstoy's commitment. "Thank you, Mr. Tolstoy."
Horrebow chimed in. "We will also initiate discussions with our government."
Ancillon, though still cautious, nodded in agreement. "I'll convey this proposal to the king."
Wachtmeister leaned forward, his expression indicating deep consideration. "The Kingdom of Sweden will also engage in deliberations on this matter."
Napoleon's demeanor softened slightly, appreciating their willingness to engage in this dialogue.
"I understand that these are challenging decisions to make. Your nation's security and prosperity are at stake. I trust that your governments will weigh the options carefully."
With that, the meeting concluded. The ambassadors stood, nodding to Napoleon before making their way out of the chamber.
Napoleon remained standing at the head of the table, his thoughts focused on the task ahead. The fate of the proposed alliance rested in the hands of the ambassadors and their governments.
The deadline is ten days, and within that ten days, Napoleon would have to gather evidence that would back up his claim that the British are planning an attack on the member-states. For that, he'll have to consult the Minister of Police, Fouche.