Chapter 65 Two Big News



On the 17th of December, 1794, within the walls of the illustrious Château de Chantilly, Napoleon Bonaparte found himself engrossed in his office, meticulously drafting schematics for his latest endeavor. In recent months, he had devoted himself to the realms of science and technology, spearheading groundbreaking research initiatives. These included the development of the spark gap radio, overseeing the construction of state-of-the-art factories for the production of advanced rifles, and even establishing a dedicated laboratory for Antoine Lavoisier to experiment and test Napoleon's innovative ideas.

While busy scribbling technical diagrams and calculations, a knock on the heavy wooden door interrupted Napoleon's focused concentration. Startled, he looked up from his work, his piercing gaze fixating on the entrance.

"Enter," he commanded.

The door creaked open, revealing Beaumont, the chateau's butler. He entered the room holding a silver tray carrying a sealed letter. Napoleon's curiosity was piqued as he recognized the official seal of the National Convention embossed on the envelope.

"General Bonaparte, there was a letter for you from the National Convention," Beaumont announced with a respectful tone, placing the tray on the desk before Napoleon.

Napoleon's brow furrowed as he reached out to take the letter. With a mix of anticipation and apprehension, he broke the seal and unfolded the parchment within. As his eyes scanned the words, a surge of mixed emotions washed over him.

[Dear Brigadier-General Napoleon Bonaparte,

I hope this letter finds you in good health and spirits. It is with a heavy heart that I convey the decision of the Committee of Armaments, Powder, and Mining, following their thorough review and discussion of your proposal regarding the adoption of the repeating bolt-action rifle as the new standard weapon for the French Army.

After careful consideration, the committee has regretfully decided to reject your suggestion. I understand that this news may bring disappointment, considering the dedication and effort you have invested in this endeavor. However, I assure you that the decision was made after taking into account various factors and concerns.

The committee highlighted several reasons for their decision. Firstly, they expressed concerns regarding the production cost of the proposed rifle. The financial implications of manufacturing and distributing a large number of these rifles would impose a significant burden on our limited resources. In these challenging times, it is essential to allocate our funds wisely and prioritize the pressing needs of our nation.

Moreover, the committee expressed hesitations about deviating from the traditional muskets that have been the backbone of the French Army for centuries. They questioned whether our soldiers could adapt swiftly to the new weapon, considering its different mechanics and reloading techniques.

Furthermore, the committee raised doubts about the long-term reliability and durability of the rifle. They stressed the need for extensive field testing to ensure its effectiveness in various combat scenarios. Given the urgency of the current war effort, they argued that investing resources in proven technologies and immediate action is crucial for the success of our military operations.

I want to assure you that the committee greatly appreciates your dedication and visionary approach to advancements in our military capabilities. While your proposal may not be realized at this moment, your innovative thinking and leadership remain invaluable assets to our nation. We encourage you to continue exploring avenues for improvement and advancements that align with the current needs and constraints of our army.

If you wish to discuss this matter further or require any clarification, please do not hesitate to reach out to the committee. Your feedback and input are always highly valued, and we are here to support you in your future endeavors.

With utmost respect and gratitude,

Lazare Carnot

Committee of Armaments, Powder, and Mining

National Convention]

Seconds later, Ciela broke the silence. "Uhm...Napoleon, I have something to confess to you."

"What is it?" Napoleon's curiosity was piqued as he felt a shift in Ciela's tone. He tightened his embrace, holding her a little closer.

Ciela took a deep breath, her voice trembling slightly. "I think... I might be pregnant."

Napoleon's eyes widened in surprise at Ciela's revelation. His grip on her tightened instinctively, a mix of emotions surging through him—joy, apprehension, and a hint of nervousness. He felt a rush of warmth spreading within him, and for a moment, the weight of his recent rejection faded into insignificance.

"Pregnant?" Napoleon repeated. "Well, I'm not even surprised. After all, we do it almost every day."

"Is that your reaction?" Ciela pouted, finding his reaction to the news unexpected. She had anticipated a more heartfelt response from Napoleon, one that mirrored her own emotions. She had been nervous about sharing the news, unsure of how he would react, but his nonchalant reply caught her off guard.

Napoleon quickly realized his casual response might have come across as insensitive. He released his grip on Ciela and gently turned her around to face him, his expression softening.

"No, no, Ciela, please don't misunderstand," he said earnestly, his hands cradling her face. "It's just that the timing of this news, right after the rejection of my rifle proposal, is quite surprising. But will you be okay? You are going to be a mother," he added with a hint of excitement in his voice.

A smile spread across Ciela's face, relieved by Napoleon's clarification and elated by his genuine enthusiasm. She placed her hands over his, her eyes sparkling with joy.

"Yes, Napoleon," she replied. "Are you ready to be a father?"

"What did I tell you before we made love? That I'll take responsibility right? So of course, I have considered my role as a father," Napoleon replied with a warm smile. "Which also means that I have to marry you. After all, it is seen as a stain upon one's honor to have a child out of wedlock."

What Napoleon said was true. During the late eighteenth century in France, societal norms and customs placed a significant emphasis on marriage and the expectation of formalizing a union if a woman became pregnant. While it was not an absolute requirement dictated by law, it was generally expected that if a man impregnated a woman, he would marry her to legitimize the child and provide social and financial support.

Marriage was considered a crucial institution in French society, and the birth of a child outside of wedlock was often seen as a stain on the reputation and honor of both the woman and her family. In order to preserve social standing and avoid scandal, it was customary for the man responsible for the pregnancy to take responsibility and marry the woman.

Ciela's eyes widened in surprise at Napoleon's sudden mention of marriage. She hadn't expected him to propose so swiftly, especially considering the circumstances. Her heart fluttered with a mix of excitement and nervousness.

"Napoleon, are you asking for my hand in marriage?"

"I did plan that in the future but given the current circumstances that have arisen, I believe it's the right time to make it official," Napoleon replied, his gaze unwavering. "Ciela, you are the love of my life, my confidante, and now the mother of my child. I want to create a strong and stable family for our future, and I can't imagine a better partner than you. Will you marry me?"

Ciela's eyes welled up with tears of joy, her heart overflowing with love for the man before her. She had dreamed of this moment, but never did she anticipate it happening quite like this. Yet, the circumstances didn't matter. All that mattered was the deep connection she shared with Napoleon and the prospect of building a life together.

With a radiant smile, Ciela nodded and whispered, "Yes, Napoleon, a thousand times yes! I want nothing more than to be your wife and the mother of our child."

Napoleon's face lit up with an elated grin as Ciela's response confirmed his hopes. He pulled her into a tight embrace, and kissed her passionately, pouring all his love and excitement into the moment.

Inwardly, Napoleon contemplated. In real history, Napoleon's wife, Josephine, didn't bear any children with him. However, in this alternate reality, Ciela would become his wife and the mother of his child, altering the course of his life and potentially influencing the future of France itself.

It seems to him that he is making his own destiny now in this alternate world.