May 12th, 1822.
In a functional, sparsely decorated room in the Kremlin, Moscow, Tsar Paul I of the Russian Empire sat behind his desk.
Alexei entered quickly, holding a telegram. His expression was grave, indicating the urgency of the news he carried. The Tsar, a man known for his stern demeanor, looked up sharply, sensing the importance of the moment.
"Your Imperial Majesty, we have received critical news," Alexei began, his voice betraying a hint of nervousness. "The Ottoman Empire has surrendered to the coalition forces. The agreement includes significant territorial losses and the creation of new independent states in the Balkans."
Tsar Paul I's face turned red with anger. He stood up abruptly, his chair scraping loudly against the floor. "Surrendered? How could they capitulate so easily?" he bellowed, his voice echoing through the room.
