Chapter 351 Prelude to India

Chapter 351 Prelude to India

"India?" Daphne repeated, her brows knitting together in a frown of confusion. "But whatever business have we in India?"

"We're bound for India to inspect the progress of a grand palace under construction," Francis explained, his tone carrying a hint of formality. "It's a directive straight from our father—the Emperor. His word is final, and we must adhere."

Realizing the gravity of the situation and that resistance would be futile, Daphne's shoulders slumped ever so slightly. She understood that imperial commands were not to be taken lightly, nor were they open to negotiation.

"India," she murmured under her breath, a mix of resignation and curiosity in her voice. "I never imagined setting foot on such exotic lands."

Francis, noting the change in his sister's demeanor, offered a reassuring smile. "It will be an adventure, Daphne. Perhaps, there's more to gain from this journey than we initially thought."

Daphne lifted her gaze to meet his, a spark of intrigue now flickering in her eyes. "An adventure, you say?" She pondered the idea for a moment before finally nodding, her sense of duty as a royal outweighing her personal reservations.

"Very well, Francis. If it is our father's command, then we shall go to India and see this grand palace for ourselves," she declared.

Her decision made, Daphne turned on her heel, her maids falling into step behind her as they continued down the corridor. Francis watched them go, a thoughtful expression on his face as he contemplated the unforeseen detour in their journey.

***

The distance from Edo to Calcutta is roughly 4,500 nautical miles, spanning across the East China Sea, through the Strait of Malacca, and into the Bay of Bengal. It's a twelve-day journey by sea, assuming favorable weather conditions and no unforeseen delays.

July 24th, 1821.

Just as calculated or estimated, the French Pacific Fleet arrived in the Bay of Bengal twelve days later without facing any major setbacks or delays. The journey had been relatively smooth, and the weather had been kind to them.

As they neared the royal automobile, a man stepped forward. A man in his early forties, wearing an exquisite governor uniform.

"Eugène de Beauharnais," Francis called and the two shook hands casually.

"Your Imperial Highness, we have been expecting your arrival."

Eugène de Beauharnais was Francis's second-in-command during the French-Maratha wars, which allowed France to control the whole subcontinent. When Francis left India, Francis recommended him to Napoleon to serve as the governor of the French territories in India. With extensive experience and proven loyalty to the Empire, Eugène had proven himself to be a capable administrator, ensuring stability and prosperity in the region.

"Governor de Beauharnais," Francis greeted, "It's been quite some time. How have you been managing our father's territories?"

Eugène offered a small smile, "It has indeed been a while, Your Imperial Highness. Things have been going well here. The integration of local governance and our administration has been smoother than anticipated. And as you can see," he gestured around, "the region is prospering under French rule. Not only that, it's benefiting France financially."

Daphne, observing the exchange, stepped forward with grace. "Governor," she greeted, inclining her head slightly.

"Princess Daphne," Eugène bowed respectfully. "Welcome to India. It is an honor to have you here."

"Thank you, Governor," Daphne replied. "So, can we see the Palace now?"

"You're sounding a bit impatient, Daphne," Francis whispered.

Daphne shot him a quick, sheepish smile before turning back to the governor. "My apologies, Governor."

"No need to worry. I'm sure you are eager to return to France. Being far from home is one of the most difficult feelings," Eugène sympathized, understandingly. "But to answer your question, yes, we can certainly proceed to the palace. It's not far from here, and I believe you'll find the progress quite impressive."

The group made their way to the royal automobiles, with Francis and Daphne taking a seat in the lead vehicle. The convoy started to move, winding its way through the streets of Calcutta.