As soon as Joseph stepped down from his carriage, a group of royal family members and diplomats from the Italian States eagerly came forward. Yet they merely stood respectfully on either side of the path, their eyes full of anticipation as they waited for him to approach.
Clearly, they had learned through their own channels that the Crown Prince of France would likely be coming to the Tuileries Palace today, so they had been waiting here since early morning.
France was now the one calling the shots in Northern Italy, and this summit would very likely determine the future prosperity or decline of the states of Northern Italy.
If they could learn some important information from the Crown Prince of France before the summit began—no, even if they merely exchanged a few casual words with him and made themselves familiar to him—it might bring unexpected benefits to their countries.
Just then, a youth of around ten emerged from beside the stone pillar before the gates of the Tuileries Palace, accompanied by several officials.
Joseph's gaze swept over the others before finally settling on him.
That boy was Carlos IV's eldest son—the Crown Prince of Spain, Ferdinando, the future Ferdinand VII. The man behind him was Count of Floridablanca, Spain's Chief Minister.
"It is an honor to meet you here, Your Highness the Crown Prince." Ferdinando bowed first and said in a childish voice, "Your glorious victories have spread throughout Spain. Father speaks of you every day, saying that you are his closest and most respected friend."
Joseph smiled and returned the salute.
After they exchanged a few polite remarks, the boy silently stepped aside, while Count of Floridablanca, who had been standing behind him, came to Joseph's side.
"His Majesty asked me to convey his congratulations on France's great victory."