Chapter 106 An Unexpected Invitation



After a brief but decisive discussion with Citizen Barras, Napoleon wasted no time in setting his sights on a daring conquest: Egypt. Taking a page from the real-world Napoleon's playbook, he recognized the potential of invading Egypt to disrupt British influence in India. Barras' immediate endorsement of the plan revealed his ulterior motive—to dispatch Napoleon far away from the political intrigues of Paris. With clarity of purpose, Napoleon dedicated himself to meticulously crafting a comprehensive campaign, one that would not fail similarly to the real Napoleon Bonaparte.

A week later, Napoleon finalized his plan and was ready to present it to the Directory in Paris. He was in his office, stowing documents inside the leather briefcase. Just as Napoleon finished securing the last document inside his sturdy leather briefcase, the door to his office creaked open. Startled, he turned his gaze towards the entrance, and there stood his beloved wife, Ciela.

"Love?" Napoleon called. "Is there something I can do for you before you leave?"

Napoleon's keen eyes immediately noticed a folded letter clutched in Ciela's hand. The sight of it piqued his curiosity, for he had not expected any correspondence at this particular moment.

"Darling...a letter has arrived for you," Ciela said, handing Napoleon the letter.

Napoleon tilted his head to the side, wondering who was the sender of the letter. He grabbed the letter and opened it, revealing the impeccable penmanship that adorned the page. His eyes scanned the opening lines, which addressed him as "Dear General Napoleon Bonaparte." The formality of the letter intrigued him further, urging him to immerse himself in its contents.

[Dear General Napoleon Bonaparte,

I hope this letter finds you well amidst your preparations for the grand campaign in Egypt. It is with great admiration for your strategic acumen and unwavering dedication to our nation that I extend this invitation to you.

I humbly request your esteemed presence at my estate, Château de Valois, nestled amidst the serene French countryside. I believe it is of utmost importance that we engage in a private and confidential discussion regarding matters of national interest. The nature of our discourse is of significant consequence, and I trust in your discretion.

I propose a meeting at three o'clock in the afternoon, whereupon we shall have the opportunity to exchange insights, perspectives, and aspirations that shall shape the future of our beloved France.

It is my fervent hope that you shall honor me with your presence and grant me the privilege of engaging in dialogue that will undoubtedly contribute to the success of your forthcoming expedition.

With great anticipation,

Charles Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord]

Reading the last line of the letter, Napoleon's eyes widened in recognition. Charles Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord, the current foreign minister of France. Based on his knowledge of history, Talleyrand served as Napoleon Bonaparte's foreign minister after the coup of 18 Brumaire until 1807. However, their relationship had soured, leading to a loss of Talleyrand's confidence in Napoleon due to his ambitions.

However, one undeniable fact was Talleyrand's exceptional diplomatic skills. Despite this, his loyalty had always been questionable. Talleyrand had shown a propensity for switching sides when his current master's power was waning or no longer secure.

Napoleon pondered aloud, what should he do? Should he entertain Talleyrand's invitation and go to his estate or ignore the letter? He weighed the pros and cons. Talleyrand may be a good diplomat but it is the loyalty that Napoleon wanted from him.

"What is my love? Whose letter was it?" Ciela asked, snapping Napoleon out of his train of thought.

Talleyrand leaned forward, his gaze steady and intense. "General I read the constitution you have placed in the republics that you established and I must say...I expected something more revolutionary from you."

"You mean the concentrated government that I established?" Napoleon corrected. "It is true that I believe in strong leadership and centralized power. In times of instability, a firm hand is necessary to guide the nation toward progress and prosperity.

"Indeed, stability is vital, but the problem with your concentrated government is that power is in the hands of one man, and you knew what happened three years ago, where Robespierre lost his way and became a tyrant."

"Did you just invite me over here to discuss the constitution, Talleyrand?" Napoleon asked.

"Nope, you can consider me asking the constitution as the prelude for my true intention. You see, the republics you established, you are the one governing it right? So does that mean you have an interest in political power?

At that moment, Napoleon realized what Talleyrand was doing. He wanted to know if Napoleon was interested in getting involved in the politics of France, and if Napoleon said he has an interest, then Talleyrand would do anything in his power to help him because, at the moment, he knew that the current government is weak and unpopular to the people. He is looking for someone who he can serve.

"Well, Talleyrand can I be honest with you?"

Talleyrand raised his brow, surprised by Napoleon's sudden seriousness.

"By all means, General Bonaparte, I'll be as silent as the grave," Talleyrand said.

"You know, the National Convention, the Legislative Assembly, and the Directory, all of them did their own politics but none of them truly cared for the people. I am disgusted by the way our country has been governed," Napoleon admitted, his voice tinged with frustration. "I am tired of the infighting, the corruption, and the disregard for the needs of the French people."

"And you believe that you could govern it better than them?" Talleyrand inquired.

"I am saying that they could do better," Napoleon paused, collecting his thoughts. "But I also believe that I have the vision, the determination, and the ability to bring about the change that France desperately needs. I am not driven by personal ambition but by a genuine desire to serve the people and build a nation that thrives on equality, justice, and progress."

Talleyrand leaned back in his chair, his expression contemplative. "General Bonaparte, throughout my years in politics, I have encountered many individuals who claimed to have noble intentions but ultimately succumbed to the temptations of power, wouldn't that be the same to you?"

"No," Napoleon said without hesitation.

Talleyrand nodded and sipped his scotch. "Very well, General Bonaparte. To realize that vision, you will need allies, and I am more than welcome to help you."

"And would you be loyal to me?" Napoleon asked, smirking.

Talleyrand chuckled softly. "As long as you are working for the best interest of France, I will do everything in my power to serve you."

"That's fine to me," Napoleon said, and he pulled out his timepiece. "I'm afraid that I have to go, Talleyrand, I have a meeting with the Directory about the campaign I proposed."

"You mean in Egypt?" Talleyrand inquired. "I was informed of your plan by Barras. Is it really wise for you to lead the expedition yourself? Because, as you may already know, they are sending you far away from France."

"I am well aware of their intentions, Talleyrand," Napoleon replied. "But this expedition is an opportunity for me to prove myself to the people of France. If I succeed in the campaign, conquering Egypt and Asia, it will undoubtedly enhance my reputation and garner support from the people."

"In that case, good luck with your presentation, General Bonaparte," Talleyrand said.