Chapter 272 Return to Paris and a New Problem
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Three days later, Napoleon and his family have to leave and return to Paris. During those days, Napoleon discussed the possibility of linking Madrid and Spain through railways, improving Castellano's manufacturing techniques by giving them the know-how of the newest technique, and starting an electric company that would provide electric lights to the city of Spain.
Before leaving the palace, Fernando arrived at Ciela's room and knocked on her door.
He heard footsteps approaching from inside the room, and the door soon opened to reveal Ciela. She wore a warm smile upon seeing her brother at her doorstep.
"Brother," she greeted him warmly. "What can I do for you?"
Fernando cleared his throat and spoke. "Can we talk?"
"Okay," Ciela stepped aside to allow Fernando to enter her room.
Fernando entered the room. Then, he turned his attention back to his sister, who closed the door behind him.
Ciela's warm smile persisted as she regarded her brother. "What's on your mind, Fernando? It's not often you seek a private conversation like this. In fact, it was our first time having this one-on-one talk."
Fernando met her gaze, his expression serious. "You must know that you leaving our home has caused us emotional distress, and you can't blame me for hating you and giving you the impression that I don't like you here. But all of that changed, partly due to my father talking some sense to me. I want you to know that as your brother, I value our family above all else. These past few days with Napoleon and his proposals have opened my eyes to the possibilities of a brighter future for our family and Spain. And I've realized that holding on to past grievances won't help us move forward."
"My husband's proposal…Uh, you mean that?" Ciela asked. "Of course, as the one who has caused such emotional distress, I understand you hate me. But I won't hate you for that, because that would be illogical of me," she chuckled. "Still, I want to apologize, truly."
"Apology accepted…you have found your own happiness. That alone means a lot to me," Fernando replied sincerely. "I may not fully understand the path you've chosen, but I see that it's brought you joy, and that matters the most. Okay…I'll leave you be to prepare for your departure. But, Ciela, please promise me one thing."
Ciela looked at her brother, her eyes curious. "What is it, brother?"
"Promise that you'll stay in touch with us," Fernando said. "Even if you're far away in France, don't let distance separate us further. Write to us."
Ciela smiled warmly, touched by her brother's words. "Our mother has beaten you to it. Don't worry, I'll write to you."
Fernando's expression softened and gathered courage to spread his arms. "Can I?"
Ciela nodded and stepped into her brother's open arms, and they shared a warm embrace.
As they pulled away from the hug, Fernando spoke with sincerity, "Take care of yourself, Ciela. And if you ever need anything, know that we're here for you."
With those parting words, Fernando left Ciela's room, leaving her with a sense of peace and closure.
Thirty minutes later, the Bonaparte family boarded the grand carriage waiting outside the Castellano estate. Aveline waved her hand at the Castellanos, who waved back in return. Francis did the same, offering a polite smile.
Napoleon, the last to step into the carriage, turned to face the Castellano family, and he bowed his head respectfully. "Don Alfonso, Don Fernando, Do?a Isabella, Do?a Catalina, thank you for your warm hospitality."
Alfonso nodded in acknowledgment of Napoleon's gratitude. "Your Majesty, it has been an honor to host you and your family. We look forward to the promising future our collaboration may bring."
After hearing that, Napoleon bowed once more before joining his family inside the carriage. The Elite Consular Guards flanking the convoy of the First Consul's carriage mounted their horses, and with a resounding call, they set the procession into motion.
***
Two days later, at the Palace of Versailles. Napoleon promptly returned to his administrative duties. In his office was the Foreign Minister of Foreign Affairs, Talleyrand, the Minister of Navy, Denis Decrès, and a person that Napoleon hadn't met. Based on his appearance, he seemed to be in his seventies, and just like other old elite Frenchmen, he wore a powdered wig. The man had a distinguished air about him, and his presence exuded wisdom and experience.
Napoleon, as he settled behind his desk, gestured for his guests to sit. He read the latest reports about their colonies.
"So far, our colonies in North Africa and the Middle East have the potential to bring more profits by the end of the year. They are territories that are rich in iron, gold, oil, and other valuable resources," Napoleon stated, addressing his ministers and the distinguished guest. "The construction of the Suez Canal is expected to be completed by the end of 1804, thanks to its huge population participating in its construction. The prospect of our nation as an economic power is very high, especially when we are the sole manufacturers of high-quality industrial goods."
Talleyand, Decres, and the guest he hadn't met yet nodded in unison, agreeing to his words.
"So, who do we have here, Talleyrand, Decres?" Napoleon asked.
"Your Excellency, this person here is Georges René Le Peley de Pléville," Decres introduced. "He is a candidate for the position of Minister of Overseas, who will be responsible for overseeing our territories, dominions, mandates, departments, and collectivities."
"It's an honor to meet you, Your Excellency," Georges René Le Peley de Pléville said with a respectful nod.
Napoleon studied Georges René Le Peley de Pléville for a moment, recognizing the wealth of experience and knowledge he must possess due to his appearance and the recommendation from his ministers. "The honor is mine, Monsieur de Pléville. Tell me something about yourself."
"Well, Your Excellency, I was a vice-admiral. I have been through a lot of wars such as the War of Austrian Succession, the Seven Years' War, the American War of Independence, and the French Revolution. I also have administrative backgrounds, serving as the governor of Marseille, and Minister of Navy for two years from 1797-1799."
Hearing that, Napoleon hummed in acknowledgment, clearly recognizing Georges René Le Peley de Pléville's extensive experience and contributions to the nation. "Your service to France has been distinguished, Monsieur de Pléville. There's no doubt you'd fit into this ministerial role. However, at your age…can you still serve your country?"
Napoleon made a quick search of his system and found that Georges was going to die in 1804 in Paris and that he received the Legion of Honor, something that Napoleon had not introduced yet.
"Your Majesty, I may be old, but I can still serve my country with dedication and vigor," Georges replied with vigor.
"This Minister is going to be a huge one, that is because our territory expanded across the world. I am going to expect a lot from you given your experience, and I hope that we can forge a strong partnership to further strengthen France's global presence and secure our interests in these territories," Napoleon said.
Georges met Napoleon's gaze with a determined expression. "I won't let you down, Your Excellency."
"Very well, we now have the Minister of Overseas. Speaking of overseas, is there something I should know?"
"There is one, Your Excellency," Talleyrand spoke. "A conflict with the United States…should you pursue your interest in North America by sending troops to reassert our control, a war between the United States and the Republic of France would become inevitable."
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