Ciela, Francis, and Aveline arrived at the bustling Palais-Royal, a popular gathering place in Paris. The air was filled with the lively chatter of people from all walks of life, and the place hummed with various activities.
As they stepped out of their carriage, Ciela looked around, taking in the vibrant scene before them. Merchants displayed their goods in colorful stalls, and the enticing aroma of freshly baked bread and roasted chestnuts filled the air. Children laughed and played games, while couples strolled hand in hand, enjoying the day.
The Palais-Royal was renowned for its lively atmosphere and diverse crowd, making it an excellent opportunity for Aveline and Francis to experience the world beyond the confines of the palace. Ciela held their hands firmly, guiding them through the bustling crowd.
"Stay close to me," she instructed them, her voice firm but reassuring. "There are many people here, and it's easy to get separated."
The children nodded in understanding, their eyes wide with excitement as they observed the bustling activity around them. Bessierres, one of Napoleon's trusted commanders, and his Elite Consular Guard, discreetly blended in with the crowd, keeping a watchful eye on the family from various vantage points.
As they walked, they passed by merchants selling colorful fabrics, sparkling jewelry, and delectable pastries. Aveline's eyes sparkled with curiosity as she spotted a charming doll on display, and she tugged at Ciela's hand, pointing at it with a hopeful look.
"Mama, look at that doll! Can I have it?" she asked, her voice filled with eagerness.
Ciela smiled, recognizing her daughter's excitement. "We'll see, my dear," she replied. "Let's explore a bit more before we decide."
They continued their stroll, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the Palais-Royal. Francis was intrigued by the street performers who showcased their talents, from musicians playing lively tunes to acrobats executing impressive feats. He watched in awe as a skilled juggler effortlessly tossed flaming batons into the air, his eyes wide with wonder.
As they made their way through the crowd, Ciela's eyes met Bessierres', who gave her a subtle nod to indicate that all was well. His Elite Consular Guard discreetly kept watch over the family, ensuring their safety while remaining inconspicuous.
"If your father was here, we would be totally surrounded," Ciela chuckled as she commented, reminiscing about the time when the people of Paris cheered from every corner at the sight of Napoleon.
"I wonder why people aren't cheering for you, Mother?" Francis curiously asked.
"Yeah…mama…I wonder that too," Aveline added.
"Well, my little dears, that is because your mother is not as popular as your father," Ciela simply explained with a warm smile. "Your father is a great leader, and the people of Paris admire him."
"Does that mean you're not important, Mama?" Aveline asked, her brow furrowing with concern.
"Oh, no, not at all," Ciela reassured them. "Your father and I are a team, and we both have our roles to play. While your father leads our nation, I support him from behind the scenes."
"And you are very important to us, Mama," Aveline added, hugging Ciela's arm affectionately.
Ciela's heart swelled with love for her children. "And you two are the most important people in the world to me," she said, giving each of them a tender kiss on the forehead.
As they continued their walk through the bustling Palais-Royal, they suddenly heard a familiar voice call out, "Madame Bonaparte?"
They turned to see a tall, distinguished man with an air of elegance approaching them. It was Thomas-Alexandre Dumas, a French General who served under Napoleon Bonaparte.
He was accompanied by his wife, Marie-Louise élisabeth Labouret, a graceful and refined woman.
"General Dumas?" Ciela exclaimed, a smile of delight crossing her face. "It's been so long!"
Dumas planted a kiss on Ciela's hand, and Marie-Louise greeted her with a warm smile.
"Enchanté, Madame Bonaparte…And these must be your children," Marie-Louise said, her eyes sparkling with kindness as she looked at Aveline and Francis.
"Yes, these are my children, Aveline and Francis," Ciela proudly introduced them. "Aveline, Francis, this is Thomas-Alexandre Dumas and his wife, Marie-Louise élisabeth Labouret. I'm sure you met General Dumas three years ago?"
"Ah, you were the General that served under my father in Italy and Egypt," Francis nodded, remembering the stories he had heard about General Dumas from his father's accounts of their military campaigns.
"Indeed, I had the honor of serving under your father's command during those campaigns," General Dumas replied with a warm smile. "So, Madame Bonaparte, may I have the honor of knowing why you are here in Palais-Royal?"
"To buy some clothes for my children and a gift to a certain someone whose birthday is coming up," Ciela replied with a smile, appreciating General Dumas' polite inquiry. "We received an invitation to a birthday celebration, and we thought it would be a wonderful opportunity for Aveline and Francis to experience a different aspect of Parisian life."
"Ah, that sounds delightful," General Dumas said with a nod. "Palais-Royal is indeed a lively place, perfect for such an occasion. "Oh, I hope I am not interfering too much, I just happened to see you from afar."
"Not at all, General Dumas," Ciela replied warmly.
"So, Madame Bonaparte, we'll be on our way," Dumas tipped his hat courteously. "Marie-Louise and I have some errands to run as well. It was a pleasure to see you and your lovely children again."
"The pleasure is all ours, General Dumas," Ciela replied with a warm smile. "Thank you for stopping by to say hello."
With a final exchange of pleasantries, General Dumas and his wife bid their farewell, disappearing into the crowds of Palais-Royal. Ciela, Francis, and Aveline resumed their exploration.
Moments later, they arrived at the Faubourg Saint-Honoré, which was known for its high-end fashion and luxury boutiques.
They entered a clothing store, and Ciela watched as her children browsed for clothes. While waiting for the two of them to choose, Bessierres, in civilian attire, entered the establishment.
"Uhm…Madame Bonaparte, a word please."
Ciela turned to Bessierres, noticing the serious expression on his face. She excused herself from her children for a moment and followed Bessieres to a more private spot inside the clothing store.
"What is it, Bessierres?" Ciela asked, her tone concerned. "Is there something I should be aware of?"
"I apologize for interrupting, Madame Bonaparte, but I must express my concern," he said in a hushed voice. "I noticed you talking to General Dumas and his wife out in the open. While I understand that you might be comfortable with them, we must always prioritize your safety and security. Please, next time, do not speak so openly in public places, especially in a place where an individual with an opposing view lurks around."
Ciela nodded. "I understand, General Bessierres."
She sighed inwardly, even without Bessieres, Ciela could protect her children and herself. She too had been eyeing out potential threats discreetly, and her instincts during her old line of work were still kicking.
"I must return to my children now," Ciela said and then made her way back to where Francis and Aveline were still busy browsing the clothes.
"Now, have you two found something you like?" Ciela asked.
Francis held up a handsome suit, and Aveline displayed a beautiful dress.
"I also selected a dress that would be our gift for the daughter of Louis de La Rochefoucauld," Aveline said.
"Great. Let's pay the clerk now and be on our way," Ciela said.
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