Chapter 355 The Anticipated Reunion Part 1

Chapter 355 The Anticipated Reunion Part 1

August 9th, 1821. Within the opulent chambers of the Palace of Versailles, Emperor Napoleon rested peacefully, enveloped in the luxury of his grand bed. The soft rhythm of his breathing resonated through the room, punctuated occasionally by gentle snores.

Outside, the first light of dawn was beginning to touch the palace's magnificent façade, casting a warm, golden glow across the vast estate. Inside, the emperor's personal attendants moved quietly, ensuring that everything was in its rightful place, and the atmosphere was serene, befitting a ruler of Napoleon's caliber.

In the emperor's chamber, the heavy drapes had been pulled back, letting the morning light seep in and gently coax the ruler from his slumber. His eyelids fluttered open, and he made an attempt to sit up but found his movement hindered by Ciela's arm draped comfortably across his torso.

He gently extricated himself from Ciela's embrace, careful not to disturb her peaceful slumber. But it seemed his movements, though gentle, were enough to rouse her. Ciela stirred, her eyes slowly opening as she adjusted to the morning light. Noticing Napoleon's attempt to leave the bed, she lifted her arm, allowing him the space to move.

"Good morning," she murmured, her voice soft and laced with sleep.

"Good morning," Napoleon replied, offering her a warm smile. "Did you sleep well?"

"I did, thank you," Ciela responded, stretching her limbs gently.

"Good morning, Your Imperial Majesties." Lord Chamberlain of the Imperial Household, Beaumont greeted as he bowed reverently.

He continued. "Breakfast is ready at the dining hall and His Imperial Majesty Tristan Bonaparte, and Her Imperial Majesty, Aveline were already in the dining hall," Beaumont informed them with a respectful tone.

Napoleon nodded in acknowledgment, "Very well, we will be there shortly." He turned his attention back to Ciela, "Shall we?" he asked, offering her his hand to help her out of bed.

Ciela accepted his hand graciously, "Yes, let's not keep them waiting," she replied, her voice gaining more clarity as she fully woke up.

The family settled into their seats, ready to enjoy the morning meal together. The table was laden with an assortment of breakfast items, ranging from fresh fruits and breads to hot dishes prepared by the palace's skilled chefs. The aroma wafting from the dishes was enticing, and it wasn't long before they all started to serve themselves.

Tristan, ever the disciplined one, made sure to take moderate portions, while Aveline opted for a variety of fruits and a croissant. Napoleon and Ciela, meanwhile, balanced their plates with a mix of proteins and vegetables, conscious of maintaining their health.

After all, Napoleon and Ciela are in their early fifties. Despite their age, their body appearance was still the same as in their thirties. The reason? Diet, exercises, and a meticulous routine of self-care developed and refined over the years.

As for their children, their plan of having six children failed. Ciela was only able to bear four children, which are Francis, Aveline, Tristan, and Daphne. She couldn't bear children after that. It could be a medical condition, or perhaps the toll of previous pregnancies, but it wasn't something the couple dwelled upon. They were grateful for the children they had, each of whom had grown into their roles within the family and their respective territories.

Speaking of which.

"So, the French Pacific Fleet, I was told that it would arrive—" Napoleon paused as he checked the time on his wristwatch. "Seven o'clock in the morning. The current time now is seven past thirty..."

"They have taken a plane from Toulon and are on their way here to Paris. They'll arrive at ten o'clock in the morning, Father."

"It's good that we will reunite with one another soon," Ciela commented. "Oh how I missed you the moments when you were a child and so dependent on us, now you have grown independent."

"Indeed, it's been quite some time since we were all together," Napoleon added, casting a fond glance towards his children. "Your duties have taken you to different parts of the empire, and while I am proud of the responsibilities you have taken on, I have also missed your presence here."

Tristan nodded, understanding the sentiment. "I agree, Father. Managing the affairs in Spain has been an invaluable experience, but I do miss the family gatherings."

Aveline smiled, chiming in, "And in Italy, things have been going smoothly, but it's always nice to come back home to Versailles."

Napoleon looked pleased, "I'm glad to hear that. We'll find out about Francis and Daphne once they arrive in Paris." Follow current novels at novelhall.com)