Grand Duke of Bavaria Theodore and his ministers watched the French Envoy with tense expressions.
They all knew that a single word from the latter could now decide Bavaria's life or death.
State Minister Pomenthal stepped forward, pressed a hand to his chest in salute to Segur, and spoke with difficulty:
"There is no doubt that the mighty French Army has defeated us. His Majesty is willing to... accept any terms in exchange for your country withdrawing its troops."
Segur returned the smile and shook his head. "No, Bavaria has not been defeated. This is merely Austria's defeat.
"If Franz II had not forced you to send troops to Ingolstadt, threatening Lieutenant Colonel Moreau's supply lines, General Dernberg would have been very reluctant to come into conflict with you.
"If I remember correctly, it was also Austria that previously insisted on dragging Bavaria into that wicked war against France.
"That cost you more than ten thousand troops in Luxembourg. Even now, quite a few Bavarian soldiers remain in our prisoner-of-war camps.
"And yet, what grudge exists between our two nations?"
Segur turned his gaze to Theodore. "None at all!
"Not only is there no grudge between us, but our two countries conduct vast amounts of trade every year. In the past, we both joined the Seine-Rhine Trade Agreement.
"Your refined salt, flax, and ceramics are very popular in Paris. Oh, there is even a white porcelain brush rest produced in Munich in my study."
The Bavarian ruler and ministers immediately exchanged glances. This did not seem like someone who had come to announce terms of surrender. It seemed more like a friendly visit...
Pomenthal cautiously asked:
"Then, in your opinion, what must our country do to obtain a Ceasefire Agreement?"
"A ceasefire? Oh, yes." Segur nodded. "But perhaps our two