Chapter 425 The Fall of Constatinople

Chapter 425 The Fall of Constatinople

?General étienne Macdonald sat in a makeshift office, the walls echoing with the distant thuds of artillery. Maps and plans were scattered across his desk, each marking the progress of the coalition's advance into Constantinople. The general, a seasoned veteran, maintained a stoic expression, his focus undeterred by the chaos outside.

One of his aide-de-camps entered his office. He saluted at the general before speaking.

"General, one of the Ottoman Sultan's advisors wishes to speak to you."

"Let him in," Macdonald granted.

As an Ottoman advisor was ushered into his presence, Macdonald's eyes briefly met the visitor's. The advisor, visibly anxious, cleared his throat.

"General Macdonald, I am here on behalf of Sultan Mahmud II," he began. "The Sultan wishes to discuss a ceasefire. He proposes a peaceful surrender to preserve the city and its people."

Macdonald's expression remained unchanged. He was aware of the strategic importance of this moment. A ceasefire could save countless lives, but it also meant halting the momentum of his forces.

"Are the words of your Sultan genuine? You know, there are instances in the past where belligerent forces sued for peace only to use it as a time to escape or regroup," Macdonald replied skeptically.

The advisor met Macdonald's gaze seriously.

"General, I assure you, the Sultan's intentions are sincere. We seek to avoid further destruction and loss of life. The city cannot withstand much more, and the Sultan is aware of this. He wishes to preserve what remains of Constantinople and its people."

Macdonald leaned back in his chair, contemplating the proposal. "And what are the terms of this ceasefire?" he asked.

"The Sultan proposes an immediate cessation of hostilities. In return, we will withdraw our troops from key areas and allow coalition forces to enter the city peacefully. We ask for the protection of civilians and the preservation of our historical and religious sites," the advisor outlined.

Macdonald nodded slowly, processing the information. He knew the value of ending the conflict swiftly and preserving the ancient city, but he also had to consider the strategic advantage his forces currently held.

Throughout this period, General Macdonald remained in close communication with his superiors and allies, reporting on the progress and any challenges faced. The ceasefire had been held, and the transition was proceeding as planned, but everyone involved knew that the situation was delicate and required constant vigilance.

***

The news of the Ottoman Empire surrendering to the coalition forces spread across France, with Frenchmen once again celebrating their major victory and knocking one of Russia's allies.

In the Palace of Versailles, Napoleon watched the celebration from his television, a smile spreading across his lips.

In his office, Foreign Minister Talleyrand and his confidant, Armand stood in silence.

"Okay, with the Ottoman knocked out, let's discuss the new Ottoman territory," Napoleon said as he turned off the television and grabbed a rolled document on his table.

He unfurled it and spread it out on the table. The document was a detailed map of the Ottoman Empire, with its vast territories marked out clearly.

Napoleon pointed at the Anatolia peninsula. "This area will remain under Ottoman control. We will reduce their empire to this region," he stated firmly.

Talleyrand, ever the diplomat, nodded in agreement. "And the Balkan territories, Sire?"

Napoleon's finger traced along the Balkan regions on the map. "These lands are to be liberated. We will support the formation of independent states here. The people of these territories have long sought freedom from Ottoman rule. It's time they governed themselves."

Armand, quietly observing, interjected, "And what of the territories outside Anatolia that won't form part of these new countries?"

"Those lands will be annexed by France," Napoleon answered simply. "Talleyrand, you will head to Constantinople and oversee the negotiations and the implementation of these changes. Ensure the transition is smooth and that our new territories are integrated effectively."

Talleyrand nodded, understanding the significance of his task. "Of course, Sire. I will make arrangements to leave for Constantinople as soon as possible."

Napoleon then turned to Armand. "And Armand, ensure our ambassadors in Europe are briefed on this development."

"Will do, Sire."

"Dismiss."