Chapter 334 Prologue: One of the Imperial Princess of the French Empire
June 20th, 1821.
In the heart of New Paris, the capital of New France (modern-day St.Louis Missouri) a neoclassical palace, with design similar to the Mikhailovsky Palace, marked the city's skyline.
A young woman lay asleep in one of the palace's many bedrooms. She was undisturbed and at peace, a gentle smile gracing her features. The room was generously sized, with art pieces and luxurious furnishings accentuating its opulence.
As the morning unfolded, an imperial maid drew the curtains aside. Sunlight streamed into the room, signaling the beginning of a new day. The woman's sleep was light, and the intrusion of the daylight caused her to stir.
The young woman began to rouse, her eyes squinting, adjusting to the light.
"Good morning, Your Imperial Highness,"
The young woman stretched her arms and yawned. After that she glanced at the maids present in her bedroom. There were two of them with one pushing a serving cart with tea and breakfast items on it. The aroma of freshly brewed tea filled the room, complementing the bright atmosphere created by the morning sunlight. The young woman, known to the world as Princess Daphne Bonaparte, acknowledged the maids with a nod.
"Good morning, Elise, Maria," Daphne responded softly.
The Imperial Maid, Maria handed her a tea on a saucer, and Daphne sniffed the aroma, taking in the soothing scent before taking a sip. The warm tea seemed to awaken her senses further, readying her for the day ahead. Elise was arranging the breakfast items on the table, ensuring everything was in order for the princess.
"What wonderful weather we have today," Daphne noted cheerily, observing the clear blue sky and the vibrant energy of the morning through the window.
"It is indeed a beautiful day, Your Imperial Highness. We have prepared your bath and the day's attire," Elise informed Daphne.
Daphne swung her legs off the bed and her feet touched the soft, plush carpet that lined her bedroom floor. The day had officially begun, and the prospect of the family reunion was a source of anticipation. Maria pulled back the doors leading to the en suite bathroom, revealing a steaming bath infused with fragrant oils.
As Daphne stepped into the warm, scented water, a wave of relaxation swept over her. The serene environment of the bathroom, enhanced by the aromatic scents and the gentle sound of the water, offered a brief sanctuary of calm before a day filled with duties and engagements.
After the bath, Daphne wrapped herself in a luxurious towel and moved to the adjoining dressing room where an array of dresses, accessories, and jewels were meticulously laid out. Elise, with a discerning eye for style and the princess's preferences.
After the bath, Daphne dried off using a soft towel and proceeded to the dressing room next door. The room was organized, with a selection of dresses, accessories, and jewelry neatly arranged for her choice. Elise had prepared everything based on what she knew of Daphne's style and the day's agenda.
Daphne selected a white gown that had long sleeves and detailed golden embroidery. The design was on the sleeves, the front of the skirt, and the bodice. The dress fit her well, emphasizing her form. She paired it with thigh-high stockings, white gloves that reached past her elbows, and matching white heels. The ensemble was both practical and stylish, suitable for the day's events.
She then checked her reflection in the mirror, and Maria combed her strawberry-blonde hair, ensuring every strand was in place.
"Your Imperial Highness. Our departure is scheduled for eight o'clock this morning. We shall be conveyed by automobile to the New Paris Airport, from which we shall embark on a flight journey to San Francisco. Upon our arrival, we are to be received by His Imperial Highness, Crown Prince Francis Bonaparte."
"Hmm…I wonder why my brother chose San Francisco as our meetup place. If France is the destination, crossing the Atlantic would be more direct from here," Daphne mused aloud. She was used to the meticulous planning that went into the royal family's schedules, every detail arranged for maximum efficiency and security. So, a seemingly indirect route piqued her curiosity.
Maria paused, placing the comb on the vanity table. "Your Imperial Highness, I believe it may have something to do with the Crown Prince's current engagements in the western part of the continent. It might be convenient for him to meet you en route."
Daphne nodded; that made sense. There was an oil discovery at Los Angeles and her brother Francis went there to inspect the site and discuss with the engineers and experts on the potential expansion and development.
Oil, after all, was becoming an increasingly valuable resource due to the inception of automobiles and aircrafts developed by the Ministry of Science and Technology twelve years ago which uses oil as fuel and was slowly becoming a mainstream in the field of logistics.
Thirty minutes later, they made their way out of the palace. Trailing behind them were royal footmen in their blue livery carrying luggages , each marked with the royal insignia.
Outside, a luxurious automobile called the Bonaparte Imperial CL Phaeton, awaited her. The driver, in crisp uniform, stood at attention, ready to chauffeur the princess to the airport.
The staffers outside the palace bowed their heads as the Imperial Princess passed by, demonstrating their respect and allegiance. Daphne, used to such displays of reverence, acknowledged them with a gracious nod. The footmen efficiently loaded the luggage into the pickup cars while Daphne and her maids stepped inside the luxurious automobile.
With everyone settled, the car proceeded towards the airport. The drive was smooth, and Daphne took the opportunity to observe the city of New Paris. Under construction buildings that would serve as commercial and residential spaces, workers toiling to bring architectural marvels to life, and streets bustling with people going about their business marked the sidewalks who would stop in their steps and glanced at the royal convoy.
They arrived at the airport, which is just a strip of paved land. Parked on it was a four piston engine airliner, ready for departure. Waiting outside of it was the pilots and the crews bowing their heads at the approaching car. Daphne disembarked from the car, her maids and footmen in tow. With measured steps, she ascended the boarding stairs and took her seat inside the aircraft. The interior of the plane was outfitted with luxurious seating and amenities, befitting the travel needs of the imperial family.
The captain made a brief announcement, detailing the flight duration and expected weather conditions. The engines roared to life, and the aircraft taxied down the runway before ascending into the crisp morning sky. The journey to San Francisco was underway.
Daphne gazed out of the window, her thoughts adrift. The urban landscape of New Paris gave way to the arid and rugged terrains of the west. Below, the stark beauty of deserts and rocky mountains stretched endlessly. Despite having already made numerous flights, she was still amazed that a technological marvel such as an airplane exists.
A few hours into the flight, the aircraft began its descent. The city of San Francisco, with its distinct architecture and bustling ports, came into view. The plane landed smoothly, taxiing to a stop where a delegation and a motorcade stood ready to receive the princess.
Daphne was welcomed by local dignitaries. Pleasantries and formalities were exchanged before she was escorted to the motorcade. The drive from the airport to the port of San Francisco was efficient. The roads were clear, courtesy of the local police who had orchestrated an effective traffic management plan to ensure the princess's smooth passage.
Arriving at the port's terminal, Daphne stepped out of the vehicle. In the terminal, there was a man standing, wearing a white naval uniform with royal insignia and crest of the Imperial Family of France pinned on his chest. His gaze fixed on Daphne as she approached.
Daphne's eyes widened and sparkled as she recognized the man.
"Brother~!"
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