After his proclamation, Napoleon stepped out of the grand chamber. Lucien and Talleyrand followed behind him.
"It's a great speech, Your Excellency," Talleyrand commented. "I must say, I got inspired by your words."
Napoleon chuckled, brushing off the compliment. "Oh, enough with the flattery, Talleyrand. I'm getting bored of hearing your praises."
Talleyrand bowed slightly, his expression earnest. "I apologize, Your Excellency, but my words were genuine, not mere flattery."
"Talleyrand, I'm sure you have already reached out to the Austrians. What were the terms they proposed for peace?"
"I was just about to inform you, Your Excellency," Talleyrand replied, clearing his throat. "The Austrians demand that the republic established in the Treaty of Campo Formio be dissolved, and the territories be returned to them. Additionally, they insist on the restoration of King Louis XVI to the throne."
