The arrival of the Emperor at Hexagone Balard was an event of uncommon occurrence, a testament to the seriousness of the situation at hand. Normally, the Marshals were more than capable of handling military affairs autonomously. However, with the looming specter of war with Russia casting a long shadow over Europe, the presence of Napoleon himself became necessary. As he set foot in the headquarters, a hushed sense of urgency fell over the room, followed by the unanimous rise of the Marshals, the military, and the civilian staff, and then bowing in respect.
Napoleon acknowledged the gesture with a solemn nod solemnly. He quickly moved to the center of the room where a large strategic map of Europe was spread out on a table, surrounded by his top advisors.
