Chapter 408 Napoleon Confirming his Stance
The arrival of the Emperor at Hexagone Balard was an event of uncommon occurrence, a testament to the seriousness of the situation at hand. Normally, the Marshals were more than capable of handling military affairs autonomously. However, with the looming specter of war with Russia casting a long shadow over Europe, the presence of Napoleon himself became necessary. As he set foot in the headquarters, a hushed sense of urgency fell over the room, followed by the unanimous rise of the Marshals, the military, and the civilian staff, and then bowing in respect.
Napoleon acknowledged the gesture with a solemn nod solemnly. He quickly moved to the center of the room where a large strategic map of Europe was spread out on a table, surrounded by his top advisors.
"Let's not waste any time," Napoleon began, his voice firm and commanding. "I've been briefed on the situation. It seems that Russia wants to test our resolve and commitment to our partners in the Balkans, particularly the Greeks."
"They are already posturing, sir, using their navy from the Black Sea Fleet," Grand Admiral Marshal Murat reported.
"What's the composition of the Russian Black Sea Fleet?" Napoleon inquired, his eyes scanning the map in front of him.
"According to our latest reports," Marshal Murat responded, "they have about one capital ship, eight heavy cruisers, two cruisers, fifteen destroyers, and twenty submarines."
"However, our naval fleet in the Mediterranean outnumbers them by more than twice that size. If we neutralize those ships, we effectively control the Mediterranean Sea, Ionian Sea, and Aegean Sea," Marshal Murat continued, emphasizing the strategic advantage and added boldly. "We can invade Russia from Crimea."
"Your Imperial Majesty, if war happens, there's no way the Russians can even invade us from the land," Marshal Davout interjected. "We have partners, the Polish, the Germans, and possibly the Austrians if we can get them to our side. So this will be a battle in the sea."
"Correct," Grand Admiral Murat concurred. "We can also conduct a naval blockade, effectively blocking all routes leading to Russia. That meant our fleet stationed in Iceland blocked access to the North Sea, our English Channel Fleet in the North Sea, and we would need to talk to our partner, Denmark, to block all Russian merchant ships crossing the Baltic Sea."
"How about the land?" Marshal Soult inquired, shifting the focus to the terrestrial aspects of the potential conflict.
Marshal Berthier responded, "We can reinforce our borders, particularly in the east. Any countries caught trading with Russia would be met with sanctions, like cutting off trade with that country. This economic pressure, combined with the naval blockade, would significantly limit Russia's options."
Napoleon nodded, approving the multi-faceted approach. "I like all of your ideas. All of which are eager to provoke Russia into a wide-range conflict. Well, it seems that we are heading there nonetheless. How's the Army?"
"All our military bases in France are on high alert, including our overseas army in the colonies and the French Foreign Legion," Marshal Davout reported. "Our troops are ready for mobilization should the need arise. Additionally, we've been conducting regular drills to ensure our forces are prepared for any form of engagement."
"What about the movement of the Russian Army?"
"So far, nothing," Marshal Lannes reported. "Our intelligence indicates no significant movement of the Russian Army towards our borders or in the direction of the Balkans. However, we are maintaining constant surveillance to detect any changes."
Napoleon's expression remained contemplative. "Keep monitoring them closely. We must not be caught off guard. The moment we detect any movement, we need to be ready to respond."
He then turned his attention to the diplomats in the room. "What is the status of our diplomatic efforts with Austria?"
One of the diplomats stepped forward. "Negotiations with Austria are ongoing, Your Majesty. They are cautious, considering their position between us and Russia. We're emphasizing the benefits of aligning with us, especially as the Russians are doing the same."
"What? The Russians are trying to get Austria on their side?" Napoleon asked.
"Yes, Your Majesty," the diplomat replied. "It appears that Russia is also engaging in diplomatic efforts to sway Austria. They are likely offering assurances or incentives to neutralize Austria or even to bring them into their sphere of influence."
"Well, tell the Austrians that if they choose to side with Russia, I don't mind marching to their capital, which, by the way, I did seventeen years ago. If they don't want to see me occupying the Hofburg Palace again, they should consider their position carefully," Napoleon said sternly.
The diplomat nodded. "Understood, Your Majesty. I will relay your message to our ambassadors. We will make it clear that our alliance with Austria is preferable to siding with Russia, both in terms of security and economic benefits."
"How about Germany?" Napoleon moved to another question.
"As for Germany, His Imperial Highness, Francis Bonaparte, has engaged in diplomatic talks with the King of Germany in Munich. Our relationship with Germany is stable but they feel hesitant as they want to focus on developing themselves."
"Developing themselves? They won't be able to develop if the Russians decide to steamroll through Europe," Napoleon said with a hint of frustration. "What about the Poles? I heard that they are staying neutral. Did I hear that correctly?"
"Unfortunately, Your Imperial Majesty, that's quite correct."
"Argh!" Napoleon slammed the table in frustration. "After all we've done for Poland. Gave them independence. This is how they'll pay us?"
"Your Imperial Majesty, they are just being cautious. Poland is standing next to Russia. They will be the first ones to feel the full force should the Russians begin their mobilization."
"Well, instead of them fearing the Russians, they should fear us. Because they solely exist under my discretion. If I stop recognizing them as a state, they would cease to exist and become part of the French Empire," Napoleon declared, his tone indicating his displeasure with Poland's stance.
"We will convey your sentiments, Your Majesty. We will make it clear to Poland the consequences of their neutrality and the benefits of actively supporting our cause."
"Good, now let's return to the Balkans. The Ottomans specifically. When do you think they'll cross the demarcation line?"
"If they continue at their current speed, two days," Marshal Davout revealed.
"I see," Napoleon nodded understandingly. "Let me repeat my words. This is a direct order from the Emperor of the French Empire. Consider ourselves at war the moment the Ottomans cross the demarcation line."
Upon declaring that, the Marshals, and the military and civilian staffers, stood at attention and saluted solemnly.
This is it, the imminent war.
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