The grand chamber had not been this crowded since the July riots.
Deputies sat stiff in their velvet seats, pages flicked furiously through reports.
Outside, protestors gathered some waving tricolor flags, others hoisting portraits of Major Moreau.
At the center of it all stood General Beauchamp, alone behind a wooden desk, his medals shining under the chandeliers.
Chairman Rémy banged the gavel.
"This committee was summoned," he began, "to investigate the conduct and consequences of France's military involvement in Spain. Particularly the role played by Major Moreau whose actions have become the subject of both public awe and parliamentary disgust."
Dubois paused, glancing at his papers. "This inquiry does not assume guilt. But it does demand clarity."
Lucien Armand leaned forward. "Let's not dress this up. The man is a liability. He duels generals in the mountains. He sends Frenchmen to die for a republic that barely exists. And now he writes manifestos instead of orders!"
