Chapter 432 Is It Already My Time?
The morning light filtered through the high windows of the grand chamber where Napoleon sat, its rays casting a warm glow over the room's opulent furnishings. He was perched at his desk surrounded by stacks of documents and maps.
Armand entered the room, carrying with him a sheaf of papers. He approached Napoleon with a respectful bow.
"Your Majesty, I bring news regarding the positions of the Spanish Empire, Italy, and Germany concerning the Russian question," Armand reported.
Napoleon looked up, his eyes sharp with interest. "Proceed, Armand. What terms are these nations proposing? Or rather my children are proposing."
Armand shuffled through the papers, organizing his thoughts before speaking. "Sire, the Spanish Empire has been quite vocal in their demands. They seek substantial reparations from Russia, citing economic losses and the disruption of trade routes. However, they are not pursuing territorial concessions. They emphasize financial compensation as their primary concern."
Napoleon nodded thoughtfully, his fingers tapping lightly on the desk. "And Italy? What is their stance?"
"Italy's demands are in a similar vein, Your Majesty," Armand continued. "Their focus is also on reparations. They argue that the war's impact on their economy and infrastructure necessitates significant financial restitution from Russia. There is a strong sentiment among the Italian leadership that monetary compensation is essential for their national recovery."
"Interesting," Napoleon murmured, his mind already analyzing the potential implications. "And Germany? What of their position?"
"Germany's approach, Sire, is somewhat more complex," Armand explained. "While they too are demanding reparations, they emphasize a long-term economic partnership with Russia as part of the settlement. They believe that fostering a collaborative economic relationship will lead to greater stability in the region. Like the others, they are not seeking territorial adjustments."
Napoleon leaned back in his chair, his gaze distant as he pondered the information. The lack of territorial demands was a significant factor, one that could potentially ease the negotiations with Russia.
"So only the Poles are the ones demanding territory from Russia?"
"That is the case, Your Imperial Majesty…That meant only the Poles are the ones barring the European continent from achieving a comprehensive peace," Armand confirmed.
"Their territorial claims are deeply intertwined with their national identity and security concerns. But if one may think abou—"
As Napoleon was in the middle of his talk, a sudden throbbing pain struck him in the stomach, causing him to grunt and wince in pain. He clutched his abdomen instinctively, his face contorting with discomfort. The sharpness of the pain was unexpected, interrupting his train of thought abruptly.
Armand, noticing the sudden change in Napoleon's demeanor, quickly stepped forward with concern. "Your Imperial Majesty, are you alright?"
Napoleon, trying to regain his composure, waved him off slightly. "It's nothing... just a temporary discomfort," he managed to say, though his voice betrayed the pain he was experiencing.
"Sir…I have been noticing your stomach discomfort these past few days…Perhaps you can have it checked by our doctors. It's best that they determine the cause and provide you with the necessary treatment," Armand suggested cautiously, aware of Napoleon's usual reluctance to seek medical attention.
Napoleon sighed, the pain still evident in his expression. "Very well, Armand. Arrange for the Imperial Doctor to see me. But let's keep this matter discreet. We cannot afford any rumors about my health affecting the ongoing negotiations or the morale of our people. Most importantly, my wife and my children."
"Of course, Sire. Your privacy and health are of paramount importance," Armand replied, relieved that Napoleon was taking the matter seriously.
Napoleon, still holding his abdomen, slowly rose from his chair. "In the meantime, continue to monitor the situation with the European powers. Keep me informed of any developments, especially regarding the Polish demands."
"Understood, Your Majesty. I will ensure that all your directives are followed and that you are kept abreast of any changes," Armand assured him, preparing to leave the room to summon the physician.
Napoleon took a moment to steady himself. The pain in his stomach had been persistent these last few days—. Wait…didn't the original Napoleon Bonaparte in his timeline die of stomach cancer? The pain in his stomach that he is experiencing right now couldn't be related to that, could it? He really has to know if it's stomach cancer or not.
Fifteen minutes later, the Imperial Doctor arrived, a man of distinguished appearance and sharp intellect, known for his discretion and expertise. He greeted Napoleon with a bow, sensing the urgency of the situation.
"Your Majesty, I was informed you are experiencing abdominal discomfort," the doctor said.
"Yes, doctor," Napoleon replied, his face still showing signs of discomfort. "The pain has been persistent and quite sharp. I need to know what's causing it."
The doctor nodded, indicating his understanding of the severity of the situation. He began with a comprehensive medical history, asking about the onset, duration, and nature of the pain. He inquired about associated symptoms such as nausea, changes in appetite, weight loss, and any other gastrointestinal complaints.
After recording Napoleon's responses, the doctor proceeded with a physical examination. He palpated Napoleon's abdomen, checking for tenderness, masses, or enlargement of organs.
"The tenderness in your epigastric region and the nature of your symptoms are concerning," the doctor remarked. "Given the severity and persistence of your pain, along with your medical history, I believe we should conduct an endoscopy to get a clearer view of your stomach's interior."
Napoleon's expression became more serious upon hearing this. "Do you suspect it could be something as grave as stomach cancer?"
"It's too early to draw any conclusions, Your Majesty," the doctor replied cautiously.
The doctor continued, explaining the procedure. "Endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure. We'll use a flexible tube with a camera to examine the inside of your stomach. It will give us valuable insights and help rule out or confirm any serious conditions, including malignancies."
Napoleon nodded, understanding the importance of a thorough diagnosis. "Proceed with the necessary arrangements for the endoscopy. It's essential we ascertain the cause of this pain with accuracy."
"Of course, Sire. I will arrange for the procedure to be done with the utmost care and discretion. In the meantime, please try to rest and avoid any foods that might aggravate your condition," the doctor advised.
As the doctor left to organize the endoscopy. Napoleon was left in his thoughts again. He gazed up to the ceiling and whispered.
"Oh Goddess…is it already my time?"
Updat𝒆d fr𝒐m freew𝒆bnov𝒆l.c(o)m