Chapter 293 Upholding the Promise
The news of the de facto head of state of Spain declaring Napoleon's newborn son being the future King of Spain sent ripples across the entire continent.
Napoleon found himself reading missive after missive from the diplomats of the European nation wanting to get confirmation from him and asking if he had been involved in Spanish affairs.
Of course, Napoleon denied any involvement in the civil war and that denial alone was enough for every nation in Europe to grow more wary of France. They couldn't simply believe it. Some conjectured that it was France who instigated the civil war, but they can't find conclusive evidence of it.
Not only were the Europeans wary of the decision of the de facto ruler of Spain. The populace was befuddled as to why Duke Alfonso was not declaring himself king but instead relegated that to a child who wasn't born in Spain.
Alfonso eloquently and patiently explained the situation to the confused and concerned Spanish populace, beginning with a crucial fact that seemed to resonate with many: Napoleon's son, Tristan, was also the son of his own daughter, Ciela. Ciela, he emphasized, was of pure Spanish descent, with Spanish blood flowing through her veins.
This revelation served as a pivotal point in Alfonso's explanation, quelling some of the skepticism and confusion that had gripped the nation. The people began to understand that Tristan's royal lineage was undeniably tied to Spain, and he was, in essence, a Spanish prince by birthright. Alfonso argued that by designating Tristan as the future King of Spain, he was ensuring that a true Spaniard would ascend to the throne, one who had a direct connection to the country's heritage.
As Alfonso continued to speak, he stressed that Tristan, being an infant, was untouched by the political turmoil and rivalries that had plagued the nation. This innocence, he believed, would make Tristan a symbol of hope and unity, transcending the divisions that had torn Spain apart. He urged the people to view this decision as a path toward reconciliation and stability.
He also emphasized that proclaiming Tristan as the future King of Spain, meant that Spain and France would become perpetual allies through familial ties, as Tristan was not only of Spanish descent but also a member of Napoleon's family. This, Alfonso argued, could potentially lead to improved relations between the two nations.
Not only that, he assured the people that he'd act as a regent for the young prince until. Tristan came of age.
Gradually, Alfonso's words began to sway public opinion. While doubts still lingered in some quarters, many Spaniards started to accept the logic behind his choice.
Thus the issue was solved, and the Kingdom of Spain began its restoration after a seven-month civil war.
***
December 20th, 1802. Palace of Versailles.
At Napoleon's office, Napoleon was bombarded with questions from his children, Francis, and Aveline, about the news they heard from the newspapers and staff.
"Father…is it true that Tristan is going to be the King of Spain?" Francis asked.
"How is that even possible?" Aveline added.
"Your grandfather explained it, your mother is a Spanish noble, and Tristan is her son," Napoleon began, trying to simplify the matter for his curious children.
"So if that is the case papa. Why is Francis not the one selected to become the king of the Kingdom of Spain?" Aveline interjected with genuine curiosity.
"That is because Francis," Napoleon flickered his gaze at Francis and continued. "Is my heir when I step down in the future as Emperor of France."
"I see," Aveline hummed with understanding, her young mind grasping the concept of inheritance and succession a little better now. "Wait—if Tristan is to be the King of Spain, would that mean Tristan is going to leave us?"
Napoleon chuckled softly at the melancholic thought that had crossed Aveline's mind. "No, he will stay here until he is fifteen years old."
Hearing that, Aveline heaved a huge sigh of relief. "I thought Tristan was going to leave the Palace of Versailles. I would miss him if that were to happen. Because I won't be able to cuddle and play with him," she admitted with a pout.
Napoleon smiled warmly at Aveline's attachment to her little brother. He reached out and gently ruffled her hair, appreciating her sisterly love for the youngest member of their family, for now, as there is one on the way.
As they were having their wholesome moments, the door opened with Ciela and Alfonso entering Napoleon's office. Ciela was carrying Tristan on her arms cocooned in a soft blanket, and the infant seemed to be peacefully asleep.
"Mama! Grandpa!" Aveline jumped out of her seat and rushed toward her mother. She gazed up at the baby, tiptoeing as if wanting to get a closer look at the peacefully slumbering Tristan.
Ciela leaned down, allowing Aveline to gently touch her baby brother's hand.
"Ah—he's so cute~!" Aveline cooed, her heart melting at the sight of her baby brother. She gently brushed her finger against Tristan's tiny hand, marveling at his delicate features.
Moments later, Ciela straightened and beckoned Aveline and Francis to greet their grandfather.
The two obliged and greeted Alfonso. After that, Ciela spoke.
"Aveline, Francis, would you leave us for a moment? Your grandfather and I have to speak matters with your father," Ciela said gently, her eyes filled with warmth as she addressed her children.
Aveline and Francis exchanged curious glances before nodding in understanding. "Of course, Mama," Aveline replied with a sweet smile, and together the brother and sister left the office.
As they left the room, Napoleon rose to his feet as Alfonso and Ciela walked over to his desk. Napoleon planted a kiss on Ciela's cheek and exchanged hands with Alfonso.
Then he beckoned the two to take their seats.
"So, Don Alfonso, how is the situation in Spain?" Napoleon asked as he returned to his seat.
"Once it was precarious, now it was amicable. Some were bitter about my decision but they are only a minority with the majority supporting the idea. I'm glad that Tristan is growing well."
"Naturally he would grow well," Ciela interjected. "She is my son, after all," she added with a soft, affectionate smile directed at her father.
"No doubt about that," Alfonso chuckled. "A grandfather should see their grandson twice a year. Now, Napoleon. I came here to witness you upholding your promise to Spain?"
Napoleon smiled as he grabbed a document on his desk and handed it to Alfonso.
Alfonso opened the document and there he saw the contents.
"Spain will receive foreign aid from France to help with your restoration," Napoleon began. "The indemnity is canceled and I will just think of it as purchasing your Spain territories in North America. Also outlined in the document are the trade deals and cooperation agreements that will help jumpstart Spain's recovery and strengthen our diplomatic ties. We are committed to seeing Spain flourish once more."
Alfonso nodded approvingly as he read through the details. "This is a generous offer, Napoleon. Spain will undoubtedly benefit from this assistance."
"Of course, I would be generous, it is to be my son's kingdom in the future after all. Think of it as my personal investments in Spain's future," Napoleon replied with a hint of pride in his voice. "In the future, France and Spain will become partners, should one find itself in trouble, the other is bound to help."
Closing the document, Alfonso smiled in satisfaction. "With this, we will be a modern country like France. Napoleon, my dear Ciela. I will now take my leave."
"Have a safe trip back," Napoleon said. "Let's see each other in the crown ceremony."
"Oh, I'll be there."
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