Chapter 391 The Press Conference
French Empire, Palace of Versailles, September 25th, 1821.
There was a growing concern about recent events. Reports had spread throughout France about the sinking of merchant ships on their journey from Toulon to Ottoman-controlled Greece. These incidents weren't just isolated maritime news; they sparked widespread debates and discussions in the corridors of power.
The French Empire, an absolute monarchy, found itself in a delicate position. The involvement, whether direct or indirect, with the Greek revolutionaries seeking independence from Ottoman rule, raised complex questions. Supporting a revolution against an autocracy had its implications, considering France's own governmental structure. Napoleon, aware of the need to address these concerns head-on, prepared for a crucial press conference. This event, set to take place in the grandiose Halls of Mirrors, demanded his utmost attention.
In his bedroom, Napoleon was getting ready, assisted by Ciela. She meticulously helped him with his clothing, ensuring every detail was perfect. The importance of his appearance was not lost on him; he knew that every aspect of his demeanor would be scrutinized and interpreted.
"There…you are looking good, darling," Ciela said as she took a step back, looking at him from top to bottom.
Napoleon observed himself in the mirror, attired in a three-piece black suit that was simple yet elegant. This choice of attire was a departure from the more extravagant and ornate clothing typically expected of an Emperor, especially one leading the most powerful empire in Europe. Not to mention, the gaudy attire was often itchy, so he was uncomfortable wearing it.
"Do you want me to escort you to the Halls of Mirrors?" Ciela offered.
Napoleon responded to Ciela's offer with a firm nod. "Of course, darling, as the Queen of the French Empire, it's fitting for you to stand by my side." Shooting a final glance at the mirror, Napoleon offered his arm to Ciela, and she gracefully accepted, linking her arm with his. Together, they exited the bedroom and made their way through the ornate corridors of the palace toward the Halls of Mirrors. Outside the hallway, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Talleyrand was waiting. He bowed upon the sight of the imperial couple before trailing behind them. "Your Imperial Majesty," Talleyrand began in a hushed tone, "I have just received word from our embassy in Constantinople. Sultan Mahmud II is claiming responsibility for the sinking of the French merchant ships. He asserts to our ambassador that these vessels were transporting contraband aiding the Greek revolutionaries." "They are claiming responsibility?" Napoleon repeated. "That's really bold of him knowing that it could spark a conflict it couldn't win." "Well, Your Imperial Majesty, they have all the rights, as much as we hate to admit it. Those merchant ships were indeed transporting weapons and supplies to the Greek revolutionaries. But the optics do not favor us. You see, three hundred Frenchmen died in the incident. This fact alone has stirred public sentiment against the Ottomans, regardless of the legality of their actions." Napoleon nodded. "Yeah, the Frenchmen became so overzealous of our Empire to the point they looked down on others. They would probably seek revenge on the Ottoman. Which is why we have to come up with something, military or otherwise." "Understood…Your Imperial Majesty," Talleyrand said, and before they even knew it, they reached the doors of the Hall of Mirrors. Two Imperial Guards stood in attention before reaching to the doorknob and pushing it.
As the doors to the Hall of Mirrors swung open, Napoleon and Ciela were greeted by a sea of faces, predominantly members of the press. The room was equipped with 1930s-era cameras. These cameras were set up for live broadcasting, capturing every moment and expression. The assembled journalists and cameramen turned their attention to Napoleon and Ciela, their expressions a mix of curiosity and anticipation. Napoleon, maintaining his composure under the intense scrutiny, proceeded to the podium along with Ciela. Once he was at the podium, Ciela sat in the front row Once at the podium, with Ciela seated in the front row, Napoleon prepared to address the assembly. The journalists' cameras were trained on him, broadcasting his image and words to a wider audience.
"Good afternoon, gentlemen and ladies of the French Empire. I am fully aware of the recent incident in the Ionian Sea where ten Victoire Class merchant ships were sunk by a submarine of the Ottoman Imperial Navy. On behalf of the imperial family of the French Empire, I extend our deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and to all who have been affected by this tragedy," Napoleon stated firmly, his voice resonating through the Hall of Mirrors.
"The loss of three hundred French citizens is not just a number; it is a profound loss to our nation. The government is committed to supporting the families of those lost and will ensure that they receive the necessary assistance during this difficult time."
He paused for a moment, letting his words sink in among the audience. "While it is true that these ships were transporting supplies to Greek revolutionaries, it does not justify the aggressive actions taken by the Ottoman Navy. The French Empire takes this matter seriously and will respond appropriately."
Napoleon continued, "We are currently in the process of assessing our options. While some may call for immediate military action, we must consider the broader consequences of such a decision. Our response will be measured, but make no mistake, it will be decisive. We are in communication with our allies and will coordinate our actions to ensure the security of French interests. That's all…
anyone have questions?" Upon concluding his speech, one of the journalists raised a hand, wanting to get picked by the Emperor.
Napoleon pointed at the journalist, giving him the floor to speak. The journalist, a well-known figure in the press corps, stood up, his notepad in hand. "Your Imperial Majesty, there's been much speculation about the French Empire's involvement with the Greek revolutionaries and you explicitly stated that I quote 'While it is true that these ships were transporting supplies to Greek revolutionaries.' Can we take this statement as a confirmation that the French government has been actively supporting the Greeks in their quest for independence from the Ottoman Empire?"
The room fell silent, awaiting Napoleon's response to this direct and politically charged question. "Yes…the French Empire has given the Greek revolutionaries the weapons and the supplies and everything they need to achieve their goal," Napoleon confirmed. "Aren't you worried, Your Imperial Majesty, that what you are doing could cause the relationship between the French Empire and the Ottoman Empire to deteriorate?" the journalist followed up, highlighting the potential diplomatic repercussions.
"The French Empire is always mindful of its international relationships," he stated. "Our support for the Greek revolutionaries is based on our belief in the right of peoples to self-determination. This stance does not equate to an act of aggression against the Ottoman Empire. It is a reflection of our commitment to support those who seek freedom and liberty."
"We are prepared to engage in diplomatic discussions with the Ottoman Empire to address any concerns and mitigate tensions. Our goal is to find a peaceful resolution that respects the rights and aspirations of all parties involved."
The journalist nodded, taking notes, and then sat down. Other members of the press began to raise their hands. But Napoleon knew that answering more complications and potential misinterpretations. He raised his hand to signal that no more questions would be taken. "Thank you for your questions. We will provide further updates as the situation develops," Napoleon concluded, effectively bringing the press conference to an end.
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