Napoleon reached the entrance to his office, catching sight of Beaumont standing there with a respectful nod.
"Beaumont," Napoleon acknowledged.
"Your Excellency, His Imperial Majesty is currently within your office and anticipates your presence," Beaumont informed him with a slight bow.
Napoleon's lips tightened, a mask of seriousness settling upon his features. "Ensure that no one gains access to this hallway under any circumstances. I mean no exceptions, Beaumont."
"Understood, Your Excellency. The corridors leading to your office have been secured by the vigilant watch of our guards," Beaumont assured.
"Very well," Napoleon replied, his gaze fixed on Beaumont. "I shall not be disturbed. Now, excuse me."
With a decisive nod, Napoleon brushed past Beaumont and stepped into his office. The heavy door closed behind him, muffling the distant sounds of the palace.
As Napoleon advanced further into the room, his eyes fell upon the figure seated at the ornate table. Tsar Paul, Emperor of Russia, sat with an air of dignified poise, his gaze fixed on Napoleon as he entered.
"Premier First Consul Napoleon," Paul greeted in a measured tone.
"Your Imperial Majesty," Napoleon responded with a respectful nod.
The two leaders regarded each other, their eyes locking in a silent exchange of acknowledgment and intent.
"I trust you had a pleasant journey, Your Imperial Majesty," Napoleon inquired, breaking the silence.
Paul's lips curved into a faint smile. "The journey was uneventful, as it should be for matters of state."
Napoleon's lips twitched, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes. "Indeed, Your Imperial Majesty. Matters of state do have a way of demanding tranquility."
"I do, and I'm willing to hand them to you but in exchange, I want something," Napoleon said.
"What is it?"
"I propose that the Russian Empire establishes an alliance with the French Republic. As you are well aware, I've extended the offer to the ambassadors of the member-states within the Second League of Armed Neutrality. This proposed alliance aims to safeguard merchant shipping and would primarily be defensive in nature. Should the British breach its terms, a forceful response would be initiated. Your Imperial Majesty, it's essential to understand that my intentions are rooted in peace and collaboration. I do not stand as your adversary in this matter. Rather, I envision a path toward harmony and mutual benefit. I urge you to view this as a necessary step, considering it a gesture in acknowledgment of my role in safeguarding your life from the conspirators."
"Very well, you have my attention, Premier First Consul," Paul said. "Are you sure that there is a conspiracy going on? You didn't make this up?"
Napoleon simply nodded. "I wouldn't lie about this."
"Okay, hand me the list," Paul demanded.
Napoleon reached out to the drawer of his desk and retrieved a folded piece of paper. He placed it on the table between them, his gaze steady as he pushed it toward the tsar. Paul I regarded the paper for a moment before unfolding it and scanning the contents, his expression growing more serious with each passing second.
"Vladimir Mikhailovich Yashvil, Levin August von Bennigsen, Nikolay Alexandrovich Zubov, Peter Ludwig von der Pahlen, Olga Zherebtsova, Nikita Petrovich Panin..." Paul trailed off as he read the names on the list. His eyes widened, and his fingers tightened around the paper. Recognition flickered across his features, a mix of shock, disbelief, and a growing sense of unease.
"These... these individuals, I know them. Bennigsen, Pahlen, and Yashvil are the officers that I dismissed...the Zubov is a line of noble families that was my mother's favorite, and..." Paul continued reading the list. "Charles Whitworth, the Ambassador to Russia of the United Kingdom."
"Now the list is for you to look into, Your Imperial Majesty," Napoleon said. "I'm sure you have secret agents that can confirm my suspicions and gather further evidence."
Paul's gaze remained fixed on the list. "Yes I do, and if it turns out that they are indeed conspirators, I will see to it that an alliance with the French Republic is established and join your war against the United Kingdom."
Napoleon's eyes widened at Paul's determined response. He only wanted a defensive alliance with the Russians but Paul's willingness to take the alliance a step further was unexpected.
"Thank you for this list, Premier First Consul. I will make sure that these individuals, if proven guilty, face the consequences of their actions," Paul stated with a firm nod, folding the list and stowing it in his pocket.
"Your Imperial Majesty, as much as I see you are determined to find out the truth, I must advise that you don't act rashly, and be discreet in your investigations. I suggest that you have dinner with us, with my family, and leave for Russia tomorrow."
Napoleon's suggestion seemed to resonate with Paul, and he nodded thoughtfully. "You are right, Premier First Consul."
Napoleon leaned back in his chair, a slight smile playing on his lips. "I think this concludes our meeting, Your Imperial Majesty."