Chapter 421 The Call to Arms
March 16th, 1822. One o'clock in the morning.
In Moscow, the Terem Palace, the residence of the Russian Tsars, was unusually quiet. Tsar Paul I, accompanied by his confidant, Alexei, moved quickly through the halls. They were escorted by the Russian Imperial Guards, who were taking them to a secure location within the palace.
Moments later, the Imperial Guards halted in their steps and the leader turned around and faced the Emperor.
"Your Imperial Majesty," he said, extending his hand to the door on his left. "This is the chamber we've prepared for your safety."
Tsar Paul nodded and entered the room, a small, unassuming space that contrasted with the usual grandeur of the palace. Alexei followed, casting a quick glance around the room. It was sparsely furnished, containing only a desk, a chair, and a narrow bed. Maps and documents were spread across the desk.
Sure he could have been situated in the royal office located in the Terem Palace, but the Imperial Guards feared an assassination attempt may happen as the royal office has a clear sight from the outside. Snipers could take advantage of this vulnerability.
The guard captain closed the door behind them, leaving them in relative privacy. Alexei approached the desk, his eyes scanning the maps.
"We need to make decisions, and quickly," Alexei said, his voice low. "The situation in St. Petersburg is deteriorating faster than we anticipated."
Tsar Paul, standing by the window, looked out into the night. "I can't believe Saint Petersburg has fallen and we're now in this situation," he said, his voice filled with disbelief.
Alexei nodded gravely. "The speed of the French advancement was unexpected. Our military strategies need urgent revision."
"No…how come that the French were able to enter the Gulf of Finland?" Tsar Paul continued, his frustration evident. "Like we didn't detect them. How is that possible? I know that our Baltic Fleet lost against the French, however, if that was the circumstances, our intelligence and surveillance should have been heightened, especially after our Baltic Fleet's defeat. This is alarming."
"I couldn't say for certain, Your Majesty," Alexei replied, his expression serious. "It's clear there were multiple failures in intelligence and communication. We must investigate this thoroughly to prevent any such occurrences in the future."
Tsar Paul sighed deeply, his concern evident. "Yes, an investigation is necessary. But for now, our priority must be the defense of Moscow. We cannot afford any more surprises."
Alexei nodded in agreement. "Absolutely, Your Majesty. I will coordinate with our generals to ensure Moscow's defenses are as strong as possible. We will also need to rally our remaining forces to plan a counterattack and reclaim St. Petersburg in due course."
Tsar Paul walked back to the desk, picking up a map of the surrounding region. "We must also consider the morale of our troops and people. The loss of St. Petersburg is a heavy blow. We need to restore their faith in our leadership and military strength."
Alexei stood beside the Tsar, looking at the map. "Indeed, Your Majesty. A display of strength and resolve is crucial now. Perhaps a public address to the nation would be appropriate, to reassure the people and boost the morale of our soldiers."
Tsar Paul nodded slowly. "Prepare the address. I will speak to our nation tomorrow. We must unite our people in these trying times."
***
March 16th, 1822.
At the Place de la Concorde, excitement buzzed through the air. A large crowd had assembled, eagerly anticipating the arrival of Empress Ciela Bonaparte. Journalists jostled for position, readying their notes, pens, and the latest camera equipment, all aiming to capture this moment.
The sound of distant cheering announced Ciela's approach. The crowd's excitement crescendoed as she entered the square, her presence commanding immediate attention. Dressed in a uniform that blended regal elegance with military authority, she walked confidently towards the podium.
As Ciela ascended the steps to the podium, the cheers grew louder, echoing off the buildings surrounding the square. She paused for a moment, looking out over the sea of faces.
Finally reaching the microphone, Ciela surveyed the crowd once more before beginning her speech.
"Citizens of the French Empire," Empress Ciela Bonaparte began, her voice resonating across the crowded Place de la Concorde, "About four o'clock in the afternoon yesterday, our naval and armed forces launched an attack on the capital city of the Russian Empire, St. Petersburg. And I'm happy to announce that through valiant efforts and sacrifices, our forces have successfully taken control of the city."
The crowd erupted into applause and cheers, waving flags and banners in the air. Ciela waited for the noise to die down before she continued.
"This just goes to show that the French Empire has the strongest military and naval forces in the world. To be able to take the capital city of the Russian Empire, whom others considered as a rival, is a testament to our superiority and strategic prowess," Ciela continued.
"France had won three coalitions, and this is the first time the Russians fighting against a coalition and I don't think Russia would emerge victorious like our country did two decades ago," Ciela added confidently.
"But we must not rest on our laurels. The Russians would surely do everything it takes to reclaim their capital city. After all, it's important for them culturally, historically, and politically. War is not yet over," Ciela addressed the crowd with a note of seriousness. "In light of this, I invite the brave men of France to join our army. We need men who are ready to stand for the values of the French Empire, to defend the honor and glory we have achieved. Your commitment will not only help secure our current victory but also pave the way for a peaceful and prosperous future."
She paused, letting her invitation sink in. "To those who join, know that you will be part of a noble cause. The French Empire values your dedication and bravery. Together, we will ensure that our nation remains strong and respected on the global stage."
As Ciela concluded her call to arms, the crowd responded with a mix of determined nods and murmurs of agreement. Many young men in the audience looked inspired, contemplating the significance of serving their country in such a critical time.
Ciela stepped back from the microphone, and her speech finished. As she descended the podium steps, the crowd broke into a chorus of patriotic chants, their spirits lifted by her words.
And from that day, over a million men across the French Empire responded to Ciela's call. Recruitment centers saw a surge of volunteers, eager to serve and defend their nation's interests. The response was overwhelming, with men from all walks of life stepping forward, driven by a sense of duty and national pride.
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