October 5th, 1799. In the city of Paris, Ciela stood proudly with her two children, Aveline and Francis, in front of the nursing school that she had tirelessly worked to fund.
With the medical articles that Napoleon had sent her from the Middle East, Ciela was able to establish a nursing school that would revolutionize healthcare in France. As they approached the entrance, the sound of footsteps echoed through the corridor. Nurses in crisp white uniforms hurried by.
"Good afternoon, Madame Bonaparte!" One of the student nurses exclaimed, her face lighting up with recognition and excitement. She was joined by a chorus of greetings from her fellow classmates, all eager to express their gratitude to Ciela for her role in establishing the nursing school.
Returning their greetings, Ciela replied, "Good afternoon. Are you enjoying your courses so far?"
The students nodded enthusiastically, their faces bright with enthusiasm. One of the students, Juliette, stepped forward and spoke with eagerness. "Madame Bonaparte, we are learning so much! The curriculum is comprehensive and engaging. We are studying anatomy, physiology, patient care, and even practical skills like wound dressing and medication administration. It's truly remarkable!"
Ciela smiled, pleased to hear their positive feedback. "I'm delighted to hear that, Juliette. It's important to have a well-rounded education that encompasses both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. I'm glad the curriculum is meeting your expectations."
When Napoleon departed for his campaign in Egypt, Ciela took on the responsibility of improving Paris' infrastructure. One major project she focused on was the completion of the water station, which had been under construction for years. Through her efforts, the water station was now operational and delivering fresh water to the people of Paris. While the availability of water was currently limited, Ciela was determined to expand its reach and make clean water accessible to a larger population.
She also witnessed the start of the construction of new schools and hospitals, which were generously funded by the Parisian elites through charity events she organized.
In the realm of technology, she would correspond with Napoleon, listing down the technologies she believed would be beneficial. Some examples included cameras and telephones, which would be showcased at the upcoming Exposition des produits de l'industrie fran?aise, or Exhibition of Products of French Industry, scheduled to be held in December.
After a moment of exchanging pleasantries with the future nurses of the French Republic, Ciela sighed in satisfaction. Her husband would be pleased when he returned to Paris.
The moment she thought of that, her face turned pale and somber. Napoleon hadn't written back for three months, making her feel concerned and worried about his well-being. Like is he okay? Is he eating or sleeping properly? The weight of uncertainty hung heavily on her heart. She yearned for his safe return, for his presence beside her and their children.
Ciela took a deep breath, gathering her resolve. She knew that dwelling on her worries wouldn't bring Napoleon back any sooner. She had a duty to fulfill to elevate her husband's image to the people of France.
"Uhm…Madame Bonaparte, there is a letter for you."
Ciela's eyes lit up as she heard the word "letter" from Beaumont, and raised her voice. "Is it from Napoleon?!"
Beaumont shook his head, a hint of disappointment in his eyes. "No, Madame Bonaparte, it's not from Napoleon," he replied softly. "It's actually from the office of the Minister of War."
Ciela's excitement deflated slightly, but she remained curious. "Oh, I see. And what does the letter say, Beaumont?"
Beaumont handed her the letter, and Ciela quickly scanned its contents.
"It's a thank-you letter," she said, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "The Minister of War is expressing gratitude for the donation of boots and uniforms to the soldiers of France fighting in the European theater. It seems our contributions have made a difference."
This was the other way of her helping Napoleon.
By making generous donations to the French Army and the people of France, and spearheading infrastructure projects and a feeding program, Ciela aimed to boost Napoleon's image among the people.
Francis and Aveline, now four years old and having grown more perceptive and taller, noticed the change in their mother's expression. Francis tugged at Ciela's sleeve, his innocent eyes filled with concern.
"Mama, are you okay? You looked sad when the letter wasn't from Papa."
Ciela crouched down to meet Francis' gaze, a gentle smile adorning her face. "Oh, my dear Francis, thank you for noticing. Mama was just hoping to hear from Papa, but it seems he's busy with his important responsibilities. But don't worry, he's doing his best to keep us safe and make France a better place for all of us."
Aveline joined her brother, wrapping her small arms around Ciela's neck. "We miss Papa, Mama," she whispered. "I miss Papa's letter."
Ciela pulled Francis closer by the arm so that she could hug Francis and Aveline together. "I know, my dears," she whispered. "I miss Papa too."
Beaumont was touched by the scene. He had been with the Bonaparte family for many years, and he had seen how much they loved each other.
Ciela rose up and grabbed both of their hands. "Okay my dears, why don't we resume our tour here in the nursing school."
She led her children through the nursing school escorted by the staff members. She pointed out the different classrooms and facilities and along with it, Francis and Avelien asked questions, satiating their curious minds.
Two hours later.
As Ciela and her children were leaving the nursing school, they were approached by a man in a long black coat. He had a distinguished air about him, and Ciela could tell that he was someone important.
"Madame Bonaparte," the man said, bowing his head. "I am Charles Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord, the foreign affairs minister of France."
Ciela's eyes widened as she recognized the man. He was the one who wrote a letter to Napoleon, inviting him to his chateau and expressing his support should Napoleon decide to take matters into his own hands.
Ciela curtsied. "It is an honor to meet you, Minister Talleyrand. This is my children, Francis and Aveline."
Talleyrand smiled warmly at the children. "It is a pleasure to meet you both. Francis, you are just as handsome as your father and you, Aveline, are just as beautiful as your mother."
Francis and Aveline beamed a proud smile at the praise.
"Uhm…Minister Talleyrand, how can I help you?"
"Madame Bonaparte, can I invite you to dinner? I have something important I wish to discuss with you," Talleyrand revealed.
Ciela hummed in thought and then answered. "Okay…I don't see the reason why not."
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