Chapter 321 The Grand Welcome Of Paris



On December 1st, 1804, in the capital city of the French Empire, Paris, the streets were abuzz with anticipation. Crowds of Parisians had gathered along the thoroughfares, each one clutching a small French flag as they eagerly awaited the grand procession of the Grand Armée, a formidable force that had played a pivotal role in the recent War of the Third Coalition.

The weather that day was far from accommodating; a biting chill hung in the air, and a somber gray sky threatened rain. Despite the discomfort of the cold, the Parisians remained undeterred, their collective enthusiasm serving as a stark contrast to the wintry conditions. They huddled in small groups, their breath forming visible plumes in the frigid air, but their spirits were anything but frosty.

As the rhythmic drum beats grew louder, the atmosphere in the city intensified. The anticipation was palpable as the crowd watched for the first glimpse of the approaching procession, their flags snapping briskly in the cold breeze. The moment was marked by a sense of unity and pride, as the people of Paris came together to honor the warriors who had fought bravely for their nation.

The procession commenced with the cavalry, their horses proudly adorned and carrying the eagle standards that were the embodiment of the French Empire's strength. Thousands of cavalrymen, dressed in their resplendent uniforms, rode in tight formation, their mounts stepping in unison, creating a rhythmic cadence that echoed through the streets.

Following the cavalry, the infantry units came into view. These foot soldiers, arrayed in their distinctive uniforms, marched in disciplined ranks. The clank of their bayonets and the synchronized thud of their boots striking the cemented streets reverberated through the city.

The infantrymen, like their equestrian counterparts, bore the symbols of the Empire - the tricolor flags and the imperial eagles.Updated from novelb(i)n.c(o)m

The procession continued as it passed under the grand Arc de Triomphe. And at the Arc de Triomphe, is an orchestra, playing the national anthem of France, "Le Chant du départ" or in English, "'The Song of Departure", on a loop.

During the proclamation of the Empire of France, Napoleon introduced some changes to the national anthem. In the revolutionary era leading up to the Consulate, the anthem had been "La Marseillaise," or in English, "The Song of Marseille." But now that France is an Empire ruled by an Emperor or a monarch, the national anthem of La Marseillaise does not fit the new order of things.

But that victory comes at a cost, as we have suffered almost 20,000 dead and ten thousand wounded. Their sacrifices will not be in vain as we honor their memory today. These brave men who gave their lives for France, we salute them with the deepest gratitude.

To those families who have lost their father and brother, let me assure you that the Empire of France won't abandon you. You will be compensated for your losses and ensure that your lives will continue in comfort and prosperity. The state shall sponsor the education of the children left fatherless by this war.

To the wives who have lost their husbands. The Empire of France will provide pensions to support you and your families, ensuring you are not burdened by the absence of your loved ones.

It is our solemn duty to care for those who have sacrificed for the nation. We will establish programs to support the wounded veterans, providing them with the medical care and assistance they require.

Now, the war has ended, and so has our bitterness towards enemies. It's time that we make peace and look toward the future. Where our children and grandchildren will grow up in a world not defined by conflict but by prosperity and unity. We have proven to the world that we are a force to be reckoned with, and now we must harness that strength to build a better future.

Next week, delegations from the Austrian Empire, Russian Empire, Kingdom of Prussia, Kingdom of Denmark-Norway, and Kingdom of Spain will arrive to discuss the post-war peace terms. One that would end all wars in Europe.

That's all, thank you for welcoming the men who fought for France. Vive la France!"

Concluding his speech, the crowds chanted back.

"Vive la France! Vive l'Empereur!"

And the orchestra continued.