Chapter 112
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Chapter 112
19. European Summit – 9
If one were to express the situation on the second day of the Strasbourg talks in one word, then ‘panic’ would be the best choice.
The small and medium-sized countries of the Confederation of the Rhine, which had been trying to create a place for themselves while being wary of the great powers, were unable to wake up to the radical changes in Austria’s attitude.
Austria was silent or tacitly sympathetic to all issues led by France after voting in favor of the permanent military right between member states.
The balance of the conference hall completely collapsed as the host country of the talks and the country with the second largest speaking power among the member states were grouped together.
“Didn’t I tell you? That things would go well.”
“…That’s right.”
Carnot still looked uneasy. He did not trust Talleyrand, and had strongly opposed his appointment. However, as it appeared, Talleyrand brought results.
“But that doesn’t change the fact that he is a dangerous person. Your Majesty must always remember that fact.”
A person who betrayed his country once could do it twice. Carnot knew that Talleyrand was a man who could change his face at any time if he got the opportunity. However, to put it the other way around, it also meant that Talleyrand could not betray Napoleon unless he was defeated.
“I will never collapse as long as I am sitting on the throne. So the Minister doesn’t have to worry at all.”
Carnot could not help but bow his head at Napoleon’s words, which seemed like an oath. Who could devalue this saying as the Emperor’s arrogance?
Even if one looked back on the path that Napoleon had taken so far, he had proved himself enough. Carnot thought that no words could be applied in front of this huge human being.
===
The purpose for creating the Union even when the French Empire gave up its conquest was not simply because it wanted to unite pro-French forces and attract public opinion before preparing for a great war.
A lot of small and medium-sized countries hostile to each other attended the Strasbourg talks because of the pressure from France. Even the middle-sized countries above them never got along well.
In this situation, any threatening action between them was prohibited if an alliance was formed and a permanent mutual defense network was established. ‘I’m annoyed, but I can’t fight for now’ could summarize well the mindset of those who had been conscious of each other, checking, and struggling so far. Relationships would be re-established.
‘Logistics between countries, which had been temporarily blocked by hostile relations, will flow again, promoting the revitalization of the city-oriented market economy. The circulation of capital and the exchange of goods and resources mean that new added value can be created. In the end, just stopping disputes can boost the countries’ productivity. And the Empire, the master of all this, must take full advantage of the fruits of stopping these disputes.’
Carnot succeeded in engraving the image of a just and tolerant bureaucrat in everyone’s mind throughout Europe thanks to his Declaration. But on the contrary, his true opinions were extremely pragmatic and nationalistic.
How unified trade laws and tariffs could play a big role in revitalizing the market economy had already been sufficiently proven through the ‘Region Revolution’ that took place across France.
Carnot made an ambitious plan to realize this within the international unit of the Union and to lead the Union’s wealth and economy, centered on France.
There was no doubt that this huge painting would benefit France, so Napoleon immediately agreed.
Of course, there was an order in narratives. The discussion on this was just a story in the distant future right now. Without certainty and trust in its existence, the newborn Union was still only a group of sand grains.
Although it was only for wartime, the current military right of passage alone made member states feel uncomfortable, so what would happen if they talked about unified tariffs? They would get angry and oppose it. However, it was necessary to prepare a bridgehead for the process now.
“The biggest reason for the Union’s creation was because, as you all know, we dreamed of a Europe that enjoyed peace without war. However, I’m ashamed but this was not the only thing I had announced at the French Imperial Council.”
Carnot once again preached that member states of the Union should jointly develop and pursue better future values. He added that close cooperation between member states was needed to achieve this process.
“We should be able to purchase products from member states first rather than products from countries that are not part of the Union. However, the law cannot force consumers to buy expensive items. Therefore, reasonable prices should be set for reasonable consumption, allowing citizens of member countries to voluntarily purchase products from the other countries belonging to the Union. To this end, I argue that tariffs between member states need to be lower and different for foreign countries.”
In other words, this was to sign a new tariff agreement between member countries and impose lower tariffs than foreign countries. Lower tariffs meant that products could be sold to consumers at relatively low prices.
As a result, Carnot’s proposal was to strengthen the domestic market within the Union and prevent wealth from leaking outside.
It was a very good and irresistible cause, but there was a trap here. The fact that Britain and France were the only two countries to have achieved the mechanical revolution.
‘The mechanical revolution makes it possible to mass-produce quality and cheaper products with less labor and the same raw materials. Originally, only Britain enjoyed the benefits of this innovation and dominated the European market, but now we are intervening and fighting for the pie. Therefore, measures to cut tariffs within member states are needed.’
Since the United Kingdom was an outside country, it would not benefit from this measure, while France was a member country, so its products would be sold at lower prices.
In other words, France would have an advantage in price competition with the United Kingdom. In fact, it was a proposal with Napoleon and Carnot’s willingness to use the entire Union and to make it into a French consumption warehouse.
“The Kingdom of Poland will obey the will of the Empire.”
“The Kingdom of Italy agrees as well.”
Countries faithful to France such as Poland, Westphalia and Italy expressed their approval as if they had been waiting to do it.
In addition, the pro-French small and medium-sized countries of the Confederation of the Rhine, Denmark, Naples, and Sicily joined quickly, creating public opinion. Prussia objected again this time, but it could not go against the trend.
The eyes of the rest of the countries were on Austria. Would it follow the will of France again this time? They looked at Franz I, whose eyes were closed, Metternich, who had an expressionless face, and Karl Ludwig, who was slightly biting his lips. It was Metternich who opened his mouth among them.
“Austria approves, too.”
A groan was heard from the Prussian side. Foreign Minister Hardenberg closed his eyes, and Marshal Blücher could be heard clenching his teeth. The second meeting was literally led by the French.
===
“Austria must definitely have an explanation for this.”
This was what Friedrich Wilhelm III, who left the palace with a stiff face after the meeting, told Austrian foreign staff. The King, who had been criticized for being moderate and passive throughout his reign, did not hide his anger at Austria’s actions today.
“This will be a humiliating day for you and your country, seriously! I hope you feel fortunate that I have patience and discernment.”
To Austria, who had decided to form a united front together with Prussia to contain France, but suddenly broke its promise and joined the enemy’s side, Blücher uttered these ferocious words.
Austrian foreign officials and escort officers warned him, but Blücher continued to threaten them, saying, ‘This is a sacred meeting place, and the talks are not over yet, so think carefully and stopped this while it’s still at this level!’ There was only a cool and sinister atmosphere remaining after the Prussian officials left.
“Foreign Minister, what the hell is going on?”
“If you were going to change your position, you should have at least discussed it with us!”
Small and medium-sized countries such as the Grand Duchy of Frankfurt and the County of Isenburg had been semi-forcedly cooperating with France as members of the Confederation of the Rhine but sought to benefit from Austria in this meeting. They asked Metternich as if they were arguing.
“…I’m sorry. It’s because of the internal situation of the Austrian Empire. Please understand that we cannot reveal the reason.”
Passing by them, who had a puzzled expression on their faces, the Austrian officials left the palace. What on earth was happening between France and Austria? The questions of these member states were solved at the very next meeting.
===
“As I’m telling you in advance, the rating set does not mean discriminating against any member state. All member states will be protected by the Union and will enjoy the same benefits, rights, and peace.”
On the third day of the Strasbourg talks, French Empire’s Foreign Minister Armand-Augustin-Louis de Caulaincourt[1] (promoted from Vice Minister to Minister of Foreign Affairs during the Russian expedition) announced the criteria for dividing the ratings of member states in the Union.
To quantify the ranks of all member states, the evaluation indicators were largely divided into three areas: population, economy, and military. Among the three, the one playing the greatest role in the calculation of grades was the population.
Citing the ‘Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen’ set by France’s National Constituent Assembly in 1789, Caulaincourt said that all citizens of member states deserved freedom and sovereignty as individuals, regardless of nationality and origin.
Caulaincourt’s logic was that the more citizens a country had, the more power it should have in the talks of the Union.
Next, the weight and role that the member states could occupy in the security and development of the Union were used as indicators.
If a member country was attacked by an external enemy, member states were obligated to launch a joint front against it.
Considering this, how much military contribution could be made had certainly to be an important factor in determining the rating of members. The economic indicator was similar.
With the birth of a group of countries called ‘Union’, economic blockages would inevitably proceed, and countries with specialties, products, and goods that could help the Union’s joint development deserved preferential treatment.
France, the host country and chair country, set the ratings of member states across these indicators as follows:
Chair Country – France.
Vice Chair Country – Austria.
Standing States – Prussia, Denmark, Naples, Poland, Bavaria.
Federal States – Saxony, Westphalia, Switzerland, Italy, Württemberg, Sicily, Baden, etc.
Small Federal States – Other small countries, city-states.
The first thing that caught the eyes of the foreign officials of the member states was… the presence of Austria’s name next to the awkward and subtle position of Vice Chair Country. In the midst of their colorful facial expressions, Metternich sighed lightly and recalled his reunion with Talleyrand.
===
Austria had been properly caught for hiding Fouché for years. Metternich, who predicted that he would be dragged by Talleyrand at this rate, made a counter-proposal to overcome the situation by demonstrating his natural talent for diplomacy.
“I admit all my faults. What your country wants in return is our cooperation in the talks. It sounds good. After today, Austria will actively support France’s side at the Strasbourg talks. We will provide you with Joseph Fouché’s whereabouts and clues to find him. We will also promise as much military support as possible for the future war that your country will participate in.”
“Hehe, this is a sign of sincerity that exceeds the expectations of me and the Imperial Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It’s only natural for the French Empire to keep secret the fact that you have hidden Fouché… I’m sure you have additional suggestions here?”
Give what you can and receive what you need. There was no blockage in the negotiations because they were both experienced and similar diplomats.
“In calculating the rating of member states, the intention of your country is to have several mid-sized countries under the chair country. Thus, if there is competition between them, France can exercise strong decision-making power in the Union, as the only chair country.”
Talleyrand nodded without showing any expression, and Metternich continued.
“Please provide a place for us under the chair country and above the central states. We will not challenge France’s authority, but please allow us to exercise our rights as a second country, different from the other member countries.”
As if he had been waiting for these words, Talleyrand showed a deep smile.
===
“Hehehe! Austria… Austria! Did they betray us for this little title? This is the moment when the Habsburgs that dominated Europe completely degenerated into French dogs!”
Blücher’s insults did not reach the ears of the Austrian foreign officials who were far away. However, if they had heard him, it could have been a serious diplomatic issue, so Prussian officials should have stopped or warned him.
However, no one on the Prussian side stopped Blücher. No, they could not do it.
“Prussia got the same grade as Denmark and Bavaria?”
Denmark’s population was only over 2 million, and Bavaria’s one was a little more than that, but far less than 4 million. On the other hand, Prussia had a population of 6.6 million. In addition, its military power and economic power were also incomparable to these two countries.
Naples and Poland, even if they were grouped together, could not be compared to Prussia in any way in population, economy, or military. And they were not grouped together. In the end, this was a French trick to keep Prussia in check and pressure it.
Creak
Friedrich Wilhelm III gritted his teeth slowly. Austria’s unexpected betrayal, France’s dirty tricks, and other member states’ doubtful views. This was more than he had endured during the Treaties of Tilsit.
He had never been humiliated to this extend in his life. As everyone was looking at him, Friedrich Wilhelm III rose from his chair. Almost at the same time, Prussian foreign officials and escort officers stood as well.
“I don’t think Prussia deserves to be in this circus.”
With that one sentence left, Friedrich Wilhelm III and the Prussian officials immediately left the meeting. There was only cold silence remaining after they left.
“Let’s continue the talks. We will decide later which member state will become a standing state to fill Prussia’s vacancy.”
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Napoleon expelled Prussia in a light tone as if this situation was really trivial.
Member states of the Union swallowed their saliva looking at Napoleon and France. Then they realized. Napoleon’s declaration on the first day of the talks that France would have a reasonable, fair, and democratic position was nothing but superficial.
In the end, the Strasbourg talks were just one well-organized puppet show controlled by the puppet master called France.
TL notes
[1] Armand-Augustin-Louis de Caulaincourt
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Chapter 112
19. European Summit – 9
If one were to express the situation on the second day of the Strasbourg talks in one word, then ‘panic’ would be the best choice.
The small and medium-sized countries of the Confederation of the Rhine, which had been trying to create a place for themselves while being wary of the great powers, were unable to wake up to the radical changes in Austria’s attitude.
Austria was silent or tacitly sympathetic to all issues led by France after voting in favor of the permanent military right between member states.
The balance of the conference hall completely collapsed as the host country of the talks and the country with the second largest speaking power among the member states were grouped together.
“Didn’t I tell you? That things would go well.”
“…That’s right.”
Carnot still looked uneasy. He did not trust Talleyrand, and had strongly opposed his appointment. However, as it appeared, Talleyrand brought results.
“But that doesn’t change the fact that he is a dangerous person. Your Majesty must always remember that fact.”
A person who betrayed his country once could do it twice. Carnot knew that Talleyrand was a man who could change his face at any time if he got the opportunity. However, to put it the other way around, it also meant that Talleyrand could not betray Napoleon unless he was defeated.
“I will never collapse as long as I am sitting on the throne. So the Minister doesn’t have to worry at all.”
Carnot could not help but bow his head at Napoleon’s words, which seemed like an oath. Who could devalue this saying as the Emperor’s arrogance?
Even if one looked back on the path that Napoleon had taken so far, he had proved himself enough. Carnot thought that no words could be applied in front of this huge human being.
===
The purpose for creating the Union even when the French Empire gave up its conquest was not simply because it wanted to unite pro-French forces and attract public opinion before preparing for a great war.
A lot of small and medium-sized countries hostile to each other attended the Strasbourg talks because of the pressure from France. Even the middle-sized countries above them never got along well.
In this situation, any threatening action between them was prohibited if an alliance was formed and a permanent mutual defense network was established. ‘I’m annoyed, but I can’t fight for now’ could summarize well the mindset of those who had been conscious of each other, checking, and struggling so far. Relationships would be re-established.
‘Logistics between countries, which had been temporarily blocked by hostile relations, will flow again, promoting the revitalization of the city-oriented market economy. The circulation of capital and the exchange of goods and resources mean that new added value can be created. In the end, just stopping disputes can boost the countries’ productivity. And the Empire, the master of all this, must take full advantage of the fruits of stopping these disputes.’
Carnot succeeded in engraving the image of a just and tolerant bureaucrat in everyone’s mind throughout Europe thanks to his Declaration. But on the contrary, his true opinions were extremely pragmatic and nationalistic.
How unified trade laws and tariffs could play a big role in revitalizing the market economy had already been sufficiently proven through the ‘Region Revolution’ that took place across France.
Carnot made an ambitious plan to realize this within the international unit of the Union and to lead the Union’s wealth and economy, centered on France.
There was no doubt that this huge painting would benefit France, so Napoleon immediately agreed.
Of course, there was an order in narratives. The discussion on this was just a story in the distant future right now. Without certainty and trust in its existence, the newborn Union was still only a group of sand grains.
Although it was only for wartime, the current military right of passage alone made member states feel uncomfortable, so what would happen if they talked about unified tariffs? They would get angry and oppose it. However, it was necessary to prepare a bridgehead for the process now.
“The biggest reason for the Union’s creation was because, as you all know, we dreamed of a Europe that enjoyed peace without war. However, I’m ashamed but this was not the only thing I had announced at the French Imperial Council.”
Carnot once again preached that member states of the Union should jointly develop and pursue better future values. He added that close cooperation between member states was needed to achieve this process.
“We should be able to purchase products from member states first rather than products from countries that are not part of the Union. However, the law cannot force consumers to buy expensive items. Therefore, reasonable prices should be set for reasonable consumption, allowing citizens of member countries to voluntarily purchase products from the other countries belonging to the Union. To this end, I argue that tariffs between member states need to be lower and different for foreign countries.”
In other words, this was to sign a new tariff agreement between member countries and impose lower tariffs than foreign countries. Lower tariffs meant that products could be sold to consumers at relatively low prices.
As a result, Carnot’s proposal was to strengthen the domestic market within the Union and prevent wealth from leaking outside.
It was a very good and irresistible cause, but there was a trap here. The fact that Britain and France were the only two countries to have achieved the mechanical revolution.
‘The mechanical revolution makes it possible to mass-produce quality and cheaper products with less labor and the same raw materials. Originally, only Britain enjoyed the benefits of this innovation and dominated the European market, but now we are intervening and fighting for the pie. Therefore, measures to cut tariffs within member states are needed.’
Since the United Kingdom was an outside country, it would not benefit from this measure, while France was a member country, so its products would be sold at lower prices.
In other words, France would have an advantage in price competition with the United Kingdom. In fact, it was a proposal with Napoleon and Carnot’s willingness to use the entire Union and to make it into a French consumption warehouse.
“The Kingdom of Poland will obey the will of the Empire.”
“The Kingdom of Italy agrees as well.”
Countries faithful to France such as Poland, Westphalia and Italy expressed their approval as if they had been waiting to do it.
In addition, the pro-French small and medium-sized countries of the Confederation of the Rhine, Denmark, Naples, and Sicily joined quickly, creating public opinion. Prussia objected again this time, but it could not go against the trend.
The eyes of the rest of the countries were on Austria. Would it follow the will of France again this time? They looked at Franz I, whose eyes were closed, Metternich, who had an expressionless face, and Karl Ludwig, who was slightly biting his lips. It was Metternich who opened his mouth among them.
“Austria approves, too.”
A groan was heard from the Prussian side. Foreign Minister Hardenberg closed his eyes, and Marshal Blücher could be heard clenching his teeth. The second meeting was literally led by the French.
===
“Austria must definitely have an explanation for this.”
This was what Friedrich Wilhelm III, who left the palace with a stiff face after the meeting, told Austrian foreign staff. The King, who had been criticized for being moderate and passive throughout his reign, did not hide his anger at Austria’s actions today.
“This will be a humiliating day for you and your country, seriously! I hope you feel fortunate that I have patience and discernment.”
To Austria, who had decided to form a united front together with Prussia to contain France, but suddenly broke its promise and joined the enemy’s side, Blücher uttered these ferocious words.
Austrian foreign officials and escort officers warned him, but Blücher continued to threaten them, saying, ‘This is a sacred meeting place, and the talks are not over yet, so think carefully and stopped this while it’s still at this level!’ There was only a cool and sinister atmosphere remaining after the Prussian officials left.
“Foreign Minister, what the hell is going on?”
“If you were going to change your position, you should have at least discussed it with us!”
Small and medium-sized countries such as the Grand Duchy of Frankfurt and the County of Isenburg had been semi-forcedly cooperating with France as members of the Confederation of the Rhine but sought to benefit from Austria in this meeting. They asked Metternich as if they were arguing.
“…I’m sorry. It’s because of the internal situation of the Austrian Empire. Please understand that we cannot reveal the reason.”
Passing by them, who had a puzzled expression on their faces, the Austrian officials left the palace. What on earth was happening between France and Austria? The questions of these member states were solved at the very next meeting.
===
“As I’m telling you in advance, the rating set does not mean discriminating against any member state. All member states will be protected by the Union and will enjoy the same benefits, rights, and peace.”
On the third day of the Strasbourg talks, French Empire’s Foreign Minister Armand-Augustin-Louis de Caulaincourt[1] (promoted from Vice Minister to Minister of Foreign Affairs during the Russian expedition) announced the criteria for dividing the ratings of member states in the Union.
To quantify the ranks of all member states, the evaluation indicators were largely divided into three areas: population, economy, and military. Among the three, the one playing the greatest role in the calculation of grades was the population.
Citing the ‘Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen’ set by France’s National Constituent Assembly in 1789, Caulaincourt said that all citizens of member states deserved freedom and sovereignty as individuals, regardless of nationality and origin.
Caulaincourt’s logic was that the more citizens a country had, the more power it should have in the talks of the Union.
Next, the weight and role that the member states could occupy in the security and development of the Union were used as indicators.
If a member country was attacked by an external enemy, member states were obligated to launch a joint front against it.
Considering this, how much military contribution could be made had certainly to be an important factor in determining the rating of members. The economic indicator was similar.
With the birth of a group of countries called ‘Union’, economic blockages would inevitably proceed, and countries with specialties, products, and goods that could help the Union’s joint development deserved preferential treatment.
France, the host country and chair country, set the ratings of member states across these indicators as follows:
Chair Country – France.
Vice Chair Country – Austria.
Standing States – Prussia, Denmark, Naples, Poland, Bavaria.
Federal States – Saxony, Westphalia, Switzerland, Italy, Württemberg, Sicily, Baden, etc.
Small Federal States – Other small countries, city-states.
The first thing that caught the eyes of the foreign officials of the member states was… the presence of Austria’s name next to the awkward and subtle position of Vice Chair Country. In the midst of their colorful facial expressions, Metternich sighed lightly and recalled his reunion with Talleyrand.
===
Austria had been properly caught for hiding Fouché for years. Metternich, who predicted that he would be dragged by Talleyrand at this rate, made a counter-proposal to overcome the situation by demonstrating his natural talent for diplomacy.
“I admit all my faults. What your country wants in return is our cooperation in the talks. It sounds good. After today, Austria will actively support France’s side at the Strasbourg talks. We will provide you with Joseph Fouché’s whereabouts and clues to find him. We will also promise as much military support as possible for the future war that your country will participate in.”
“Hehe, this is a sign of sincerity that exceeds the expectations of me and the Imperial Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It’s only natural for the French Empire to keep secret the fact that you have hidden Fouché… I’m sure you have additional suggestions here?”
Give what you can and receive what you need. There was no blockage in the negotiations because they were both experienced and similar diplomats.
“In calculating the rating of member states, the intention of your country is to have several mid-sized countries under the chair country. Thus, if there is competition between them, France can exercise strong decision-making power in the Union, as the only chair country.”
Talleyrand nodded without showing any expression, and Metternich continued.
“Please provide a place for us under the chair country and above the central states. We will not challenge France’s authority, but please allow us to exercise our rights as a second country, different from the other member countries.”
As if he had been waiting for these words, Talleyrand showed a deep smile.
===
“Hehehe! Austria… Austria! Did they betray us for this little title? This is the moment when the Habsburgs that dominated Europe completely degenerated into French dogs!”
Blücher’s insults did not reach the ears of the Austrian foreign officials who were far away. However, if they had heard him, it could have been a serious diplomatic issue, so Prussian officials should have stopped or warned him.
However, no one on the Prussian side stopped Blücher. No, they could not do it.
“Prussia got the same grade as Denmark and Bavaria?”
Denmark’s population was only over 2 million, and Bavaria’s one was a little more than that, but far less than 4 million. On the other hand, Prussia had a population of 6.6 million. In addition, its military power and economic power were also incomparable to these two countries.
Naples and Poland, even if they were grouped together, could not be compared to Prussia in any way in population, economy, or military. And they were not grouped together. In the end, this was a French trick to keep Prussia in check and pressure it.
Creak
Friedrich Wilhelm III gritted his teeth slowly. Austria’s unexpected betrayal, France’s dirty tricks, and other member states’ doubtful views. This was more than he had endured during the Treaties of Tilsit.
He had never been humiliated to this extend in his life. As everyone was looking at him, Friedrich Wilhelm III rose from his chair. Almost at the same time, Prussian foreign officials and escort officers stood as well.
“I don’t think Prussia deserves to be in this circus.”
With that one sentence left, Friedrich Wilhelm III and the Prussian officials immediately left the meeting. There was only cold silence remaining after they left.
“Let’s continue the talks. We will decide later which member state will become a standing state to fill Prussia’s vacancy.”
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Napoleon expelled Prussia in a light tone as if this situation was really trivial.
Member states of the Union swallowed their saliva looking at Napoleon and France. Then they realized. Napoleon’s declaration on the first day of the talks that France would have a reasonable, fair, and democratic position was nothing but superficial.
In the end, the Strasbourg talks were just one well-organized puppet show controlled by the puppet master called France.
TL notes
[1] Armand-Augustin-Louis de Caulaincourt
Chapter 11219. EuropeanSummit 9If onewere to express the situationonthe second dayofthe Strasbourgtalksinone word, thenpanic' would be thebest choice.Thesmalland medium-sized countriesofthe Confederationofthe Rhine, which hadbeen tryingtocreate aplacefor themselveswhilebeingwary of thegreatpowers, were unable to wake up to the radical changesinAustria's attitude.Austria wassilent or tacitlysympathetictoall issues ledbyFrance after voting in favor of thepermanent military right betweenmember states.The balance of the conference hallcompletely collapsedasthe hostcountry of thetalksand the country withthe second largest speaking power among the memberstates weregrouped together.Didn'tI tell you? That thingswouldgowell.That's right.Carnot still lookeduneasy. He didnot trust Talleyrand, and hadstronglyopposed hisappointment. However, as it appeared, Talleyrand broughtresults.Butthat doesn't change thefact that he is adangerous person. Your Majesty mustalways remember thatfact.A person whobetrayedhis countryonce could do it twice. Carnot knewthat Talleyrand was a man whocouldchange his face at any time if he got theopportunity. However, to put it theotherway around, italso meant that Talleyrandcouldnot betray Napoleon unlesshewas defeated.I will never collapse as long as I amsitting on thethrone. So theMinisterdoesn't have to worry at all.Carnotcouldnot helpbut bow hishead at Napoleon's words, which seemedlike an oath. Whocoulddevalue this saying as theEmperor's arrogance?Evenifone looked back on the path thatNapoleonhad taken so far, hehad proved himself enough. Carnot thoughtthat no words could be applied in front of thishuge human being.===Thepurpose forcreatingthe Union evenwhen theFrench Empire gave up its conquest wasnot simply because it wanted to unite pro-French forces andattract publicopinion beforepreparing for a great war.A lot of small and medium-sizedcountries hostiletoeach other attended theStrasbourg talks because of the pressure from France. Even themiddle-sized countries above them never got along well.Inthis situation, any threatening actionbetween them was prohibited if an alliance was formedand apermanent mutual defense networkwas established. I'm annoyed, but I can't fight for now' could summarize well the mindset of those who hadbeen consciousofeach other, checking, and struggling so far. Relationships would be re-established.Logisticsbetween countries, which had been temporarily blockedbyhostile relations, willflow again, promoting the revitalization of thecity-oriented marketeconomy. The circulation of capitaland the exchange of goods andresources meanthat newaddedvaluecan be created. In the end, juststoppingdisputescan boost the countries' productivity. And the Empire, the masterofall this, musttake full advantage of thefruits of stopping these disputes.'Carnot succeededinengraving the image of a justand tolerant bureaucratineveryone's mind throughoutEurope thanks to hisDeclaration. But on thecontrary, his true opinions wereextremely pragmatic andnationalistic.How unified trade lawsand tariffscouldplay a big role in revitalizing themarket economyhad alreadybeen sufficientlyproven throughthe RegionRevolution' that took place across France.Carnotmade an ambitiousplan to realize thiswithin the international unitofthe Union and to lead the Union's wealth andeconomy, centeredonFrance.Therewas no doubt thatthis huge painting would benefitFrance, so Napoleon immediately agreed.Of course, there was an order in narratives. Thediscussion on this was just astoryinthe distantfuture right now. Without certaintyand trust in its existence, the newborn Union was still only agroupofsand grains.Although it wasonly forwartime, the currentmilitaryrightofpassage alone made member statesfeel uncomfortable, so what would happen if they talked about unified tariffs? Theywouldget angry and opposeit. However, it was necessarytoprepare a bridgeheadfor the process now.Thebiggest reasonfor the Union's creation was because, as youall know, we dreamedofa Europethat enjoyed peace withoutwar. However, I'mashamed butthis wasnot the only thing I had announced at theFrench Imperial Council.Carnot onceagainpreachedthat memberstates of the Union shouldjointly develop and pursuebetter future values. He added thatclosecooperationbetween memberstates was neededtoachieve this process.Weshould be abletopurchaseproductsfrom memberstates first rather than products fromcountries thatare not part of the Union. However, the law cannotforceconsumers to buy expensiveitems. Therefore, reasonable pricesshould be set forreasonable consumption, allowingcitizensofmember countries to voluntarily purchase products from the other countriesbelonging to the Union. Tothis end, I arguethat tariffs betweenmember states need to be lower and differentfor foreigncountries.In other words, this was to sign anew tariff agreementbetween membercountries and imposelowertariffs than foreigncountries. Lower tariffs meant thatproductscouldbesold to consumersatrelatively lowprices.Asa result, Carnot's proposal was to strengthen the domestic marketwithin the Union andprevent wealthfrom leaking outside.It wasa very goodand irresistible cause, but there was a traphere. The factthat Britain and Francewere theonly twocountries to haveachievedthe mechanicalrevolution.Themechanical revolution makes it possible to mass-produce quality and cheaper products withless labor andthe sameraw materials. Originally, only Britain enjoyedthe benefits of thisinnovation anddominated the European market, but nowweare intervening and fighting forthe pie. Therefore, measures to cuttariffs withinmember states areneeded.'Since the UnitedKingdom wasanoutside country, it would notbenefit from thismeasure, whileFrance was a member country, so itsproductswouldbesold at lower prices.In other words, France would haveanadvantage in price competition withthe United Kingdom. In fact, it wasa proposal with Napoleon and Carnot's willingness to usethe entire Union andtomake it into aFrench consumption warehouse.TheKingdom of Polandwill obey the will of the Empire.The Kingdom of Italy agrees as well.Countries faithful to Francesuch as Poland, Westphaliaand Italy expressed their approval as if they had been waitingtodoit.In addition, the pro-Frenchsmalland medium-sized countriesofthe Confederationofthe Rhine, Denmark, Naples, and Sicilyjoined quickly, creating public opinion. Prussia objected again thistime, but it could not go against the trend.The eyes of the rest of the countrieswere on Austria. Would it followthe willofFrance again thistime? They lookedatFranzI, whoseeyes were closed, Metternich, who had an expressionless face, andKarl Ludwig, who wasslightlybiting his lips. It wasMetternich whoopened his mouth among them.Austriaapproves, too.A groan was heard from the Prussian side. Foreign Minister Hardenbergclosed his eyes, andMarshal Blcher could be heard clenchinghis teeth. Thesecond meetingwas literally ledbythe French.===Austria must definitelyhave an explanation forthis.This was what Friedrich Wilhelm III, who leftthe palace with astiffface after themeeting, told Austrian foreign staff. TheKing, who had been criticizedfor being moderate and passive throughouthis reign, didnot hidehis anger at Austria's actions today.Thiswill be a humiliating day foryou and your country, seriously! I hope you feel fortunate that I have patience anddiscernment.ToAustria, who had decided to forma unitedfronttogetherwith Prussia to containFrance, butsuddenlybrokeits promiseand joined theenemy's side, Blcher uttered these ferocious words.Austrian foreignofficials and escortofficerswarned him, but Blcher continued to threaten them, saying, This is asacred meetingplace, and thetalksare not over yet, sothinkcarefully and stopped thiswhileit's still at this level!' Therewas onlya cool and sinister atmosphere remaining after thePrussianofficials left.Foreign Minister, what thehell is going on?Ifyou weregoingtochange yourposition, you shouldhave at least discusseditwith us!Small andmedium-sized countries such as the Grand Duchy of Frankfurtand the CountyofIsenburghad beensemi-forcedly cooperating with France as members of the Confederation of the Rhine butsought to benefitfrom Austria in thismeeting. They asked Metternich as if theywere arguing.I'm sorry. It's because of the internal situationofthe Austrian Empire. Please understandthat we cannotreveal the reason.Passing by them, whohad apuzzled expression on their faces, theAustrianofficials leftthe palace. What on earth washappening betweenFrance and Austria? Thequestions of these member stateswere solvedatthe verynext meeting.===As I'mtelling youinadvance, the rating setdoes notmean discriminating against any memberstate. All memberstates willbeprotected by the Union andwill enjoy thesame benefits, rights, andpeace.Onthe third day of theStrasbourg talks, French Empire's ForeignMinisterArmand-Augustin-Louis de Caulaincourt1promotedfrom Vice Minister to Minister of ForeignAffairs duringthe Russianexpedition announced the criteria fordividingthe ratingsofmember states in theUnion.To quantify theranksofall member states, the evaluation indicatorswere largely dividedinto three areas: population, economy, and military. Among thethree, the oneplaying thegreatestrole in thecalculationofgrades was thepopulation.Citing theDeclaration of the RightsofMan and of theCitizen' set by France's National Constituent Assembly in 1789, Caulaincourt said thatall citizens of member statesdeservedfreedom andsovereigntyasindividuals, regardlessofnationalityand origin.Caulaincourt's logic was that the more citizens acountry had, the more power it should have in the talks of theUnion.Next, theweight and role thatthe member statescouldoccupy in the security anddevelopmentofthe Union wereused as indicators.Ifa membercountry wasattackedbyanexternalenemy, member stateswere obligatedtolaunch ajointfrontagainst it.Considering this, how much military contribution could be made had certainlytobeanimportant factor in determining therating of members. The economic indicatorwas similar.With the birth of a group of countries calledUnion', economicblockages would inevitablyproceed, and countries with specialties, products, and goods thatcouldhelp theUnion's joint development deserved preferentialtreatment.France, thehost country and chair country, setthe ratingsofmember states acrosstheseindicators as follows:ChairCountry France.ViceChairCountry Austria.Standing States Prussia, Denmark, Naples, Poland, Bavaria.FederalStates Saxony, Westphalia, Switzerland, Italy, Wrttemberg, Sicily, Baden, etc.SmallFederal States Other small countries, city-states.The first thing thatcaught the eyes of the foreign officials of themember states was the presence of Austria's name nexttothe awkwardand subtle position of Vice Chair Country. In the midst of their colorful facialexpressions, Metternichsighed lightlyand recalled his reunion withTalleyrand.===Austria had been properly caught forhiding Fouch for years. Metternich, whopredicted thathewouldbedragged by Talleyrand at thisrate, made a counter-proposaltoovercomethe situation by demonstrating his natural talent fordiplomacy.I admitall my faults. What your countrywantsinreturn is our cooperation in thetalks. It sounds good. After today, Austria will actively supportFrance'sside at theStrasbourg talks. Wewill provide you with Joseph Fouch'swhereaboutsand clues to findhim. We will alsopromise as much military supportaspossiblefor the futurewar thatyour country willparticipatein.Hehe, thisisa sign of sincerity that exceedsthe expectations of me andthe Imperial Ministry of ForeignAffairs. It's only naturalfor the FrenchEmpire to keepsecret the fact thatyou havehidden Fouch I'm sureyou haveadditional suggestions here?Givewhat youcan and receive whatyou need. There was no blockage in thenegotiations becausethey were bothexperiencedand similardiplomats.In calculating the ratingofmember states, the intention of your countryistohave several mid-sized countriesunderthe chair country. Thus, if there is competition betweenthem, France can exercise strongdecision-making power in the Union, asthe onlychaircountry.Talleyrand nodded without showingany expression, and Metternich continued.Pleaseprovide a place for us under thechaircountry andabovethe centralstates. We will not challengeFrance'sauthority, butplease allow us to exercise our rightsasa secondcountry, different fromthe other member countries.Asifhehad beenwaiting forthesewords, Talleyrandshowed adeep smile.===Hehehe! Austria Austria! Did they betray us forthis littletitle? Thisisthe moment when the Habsburgsthat dominatedEurope completelydegeneratedinto Frenchdogs!Blcher's insultsdid not reach theears of theAustrianforeign officialswho werefar away. However, if theyhad heard him, itcouldhave been aserious diplomatic issue, so Prussian officialsshould havestopped or warnedhim.However, noone on the Prussian side stoppedBlcher. No, they could not do it.Prussia got thesame grade as Denmark and Bavaria?Denmark's population was only over2 million, andBavaria's one wasa littlemore than that, but farless than 4 million. Onthe other hand, Prussiahad apopulation of 6.6 million. Inaddition, its military power andeconomicpowerwere also incomparable to these twocountries.Naples and Poland, evenifthey were groupedtogether, could not be compared to Prussia in any wayinpopulation, economy, ormilitary. And they werenot groupedtogether. In the end, thiswas aFrench trick to keepPrussia in check andpressureit.CreakFriedrich Wilhelm III gritted his teeth slowly. Austria's unexpected betrayal, France's dirty tricks, and other memberstates' doubtful views. This wasmore than he had endured during theTreatiesofTilsit.Hehad never beenhumiliated to this extend in hislife. Aseveryonewas lookingathim, FriedrichWilhelm III rose from his chair. Almost at the same time, Prussian foreignofficials and escortofficersstoodaswell.I don't think Prussiadeservestobeinthis circus.With that one sentence left, FriedrichWilhelm III and the Prussian officialsimmediatelyleft themeeting. Therewas onlycold silence remaining after they left.Let'scontinuethe talks. We will decide later which memberstatewill becomea standing state to fill Prussia's vacancy.Read latest Chapters at Wuxia World . Site OnlyNapoleon expelled Prussiaina light tone as if thissituation was reallytrivial.Member statesofthe Union swallowed their salivalooking at Napoleon andFrance. Then theyrealized. Napoleon'sdeclarationonthe first day of thetalksthat Francewouldhave a reasonable, fair, and democratic position was nothing but superficial.In the end, the Strasbourg talks werejust onewell-organizedpuppet showcontrolled by thepuppet master calledFrance.TL notes1Armand-Augustin-Louis de Caulaincourt