章 320: Prelude to the Congress of Versailles

November 19th, 1804.

On a chilly November morning, Tsar Paul I met with his trusted advisor, Alexei. There was a serious look on Alexei's face, and the Tsar knew what was coming.

"Our army at Friedland was crushed by Napoleon. We've got no troops left, and the Russian court is worried about a possible invasion. They're imploring for you to make peace with France."

"So the battle is truly lost?" Tsar Paul I stammered.

Alexei nodded gravely. "As much as I hate to say this, Your Majesty, but yes, Russia has lost." 

"I can't believe this," Tsar Paul I hissed. "How a single nation defeated the coalition forces." 

"Your Majesty, we are truly not ready for this kind of warfare Napoleon and his troops have already mastered," Alexei reasoned.