Chapter 258 Birthday & Unexpected Visitor

Chapter 258 Birthday & Unexpected Visitor

September 28th, 1801.

One of the most important days of Napoleon's life is the birthday of his twins, Francis and Aveline.

The preparations for the twins' birthday celebration had been in full swing for weeks, leaving no detail overlooked.

In the heart of the Palace of Versailles, the grand ballroom had been transformed into a magnificent space fit for a royal celebration. The walls were draped with luxurious fabrics in shades of blue and gold, echoing the colors of the French flag. Crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, casting a soft, ethereal glow over the room. The floor was polished to a mirror-like shine, ready for the evening's festivities.

A stage was set up at one end of the ballroom, adorned with velvet curtains and gilded accents. This stage would serve as the centerpiece for the evening's entertainment, which was sure to be as grand as the setting itself.

As the clock struck six, the guests began to gather in the ballroom, creating a distinguished assembly of ministers, generals, scientists,? government officials, and industrials. They were dressed in the finest of suits, their attire befitting the grandeur of the occasion.

Napoleon and Ciela made their entrance, the room falling into hushed awe as they crossed the threshold. Napoleon's military uniform was resplendent with its golden epaulets and medals. Ciela, radiant in a white gown adorned with jewels, moved gracefully by his side. They were the epitome of regal sophistication as if they were the King and Queen of France.

The attendants could simply let out a sigh of admiration as they followed their movement with their eyes.

The twins, Francis and Aveline, were not to be outdone. Dressed in miniature versions of exquisite attire, they exude an air of youthful splendor that hinted at the promising future of France. Their bright faces held a mixture of excitement and wonder as they gazed upon the grandeur of the ballroom and the distinguished guests who had come to celebrate their special day.

This was the first time Napoleon hosted this kind of event for a birthday celebration. In the past, Napoleon and Ciela would celebrate the birthday of Francis and Aveline through a simple family gathering and opening their gifts. It was because years prior to this year, Europe was at war with one another. Napoleon couldn't afford to host such extravagant celebrations during the tumultuous years of war. But now, as peace settled over Europe, Napoleon saw an opportunity to showcase the splendor and stability of his empire to the world.

Of course, none of the taxpayers' money was used on this grand affair. It all came from Napoleon and Ciela's pockets.

Francis and Aveline took their seat at the center of the stage, where two small thrones had been placed for them. Their eyes sparkled with excitement as they looked out at the audience, feeling like little monarchs presiding over their own royal court.

And then, Napoleon stepped forward.

"Where are you going?" Napoleon asked.

"Someone wants to see me outside, so I'm going out. It won't take long."

"Ahh..." Napoleon nodded in understanding.

"Very well," he added, leaning in to place a soft kiss on Ciela's cheek. "Handle it as you see fit, my love."

With those words, Ciela continued her journey towards the entrance, where the mysterious noblewoman awaited. Beaumont escorted her through the grand halls of Versailles until they reached the gate.

The noblewoman who wanted to meet Ciela was waiting just outside the palace gates. She looked a lot like Ciela, with beautiful blonde hair neatly styled in an elaborate updo, and wore an elegant gown that spoke of wealth and sophistication.

"So this is where I would see you, huh... sister?" the noblewoman said in Spanish.

Ciela's eyes widened in surprise at the unexpected revelation. The use of "sister" left her momentarily speechless.

Ciela managed to regain herself and utter the name she hadn't spoken in years.

"Isabella?"

Beaumont looked between Ciela and the noblewoman, his eyes blinking. "What seems to be happening here, Madame Bonaparte?"

"After all these years, you were just in France..." Isabella said, still speaking in Spanish. She then shifted her gaze to Beaumont, who was still confused.

"I'm Isabella de Castellano, daughter of the Duke of Castellano. That lady over there is my sister," she said in French.

"Madame Bonaparte...you have a sister from Spain?"

Ciela bit her lower lip, her emotions and thoughts swirling. "Yes, Beaumont, I do. I was born there."