Chapter 310: Prelude to the Battle of Nations

June 20th, 1804. Austrian Empire Capital City, Vienna.

Napoleon and his Grand Army advanced through the streets of Vienna, heading toward the Hofburg Palace. Along the sides of the road, the atmosphere was heavy with gloom and despondency.

The once-thriving city now bore the weight of impending occupation. As the French troops pressed forward, the local population watched in silence, their faces etched with worry and fear.

Napoleon himself rode at the head of the column. He observed the somber scene around him, taking note of the austere expressions on the faces of Vienna's residents. 

Soldiers, disciplined and battle-hardened, marched in unison, their uniforms crisp and their weapons gleaming. Their footsteps echoed through the cobblestone streets, a stark contrast to the hushed tones of the city's inhabitants.