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.

"Gentlemen and ladies. I'd like to thank you all for coming here despite your busy schedules. I am aware that we are all busy with our work and I'm thankful for that. But today, it's a special day, not only for my twins but for the nation. After almost a decade of war in Europe, peace finally graced our continent. Let this celebration be a reminder of the resilience and strength of our great nation. Today, we celebrate not just my children's birthday but also the rebirth of France as a symbol of stability, unity, and prosperity. Vive la France!"

"Vive la France!" the attendants echoed in unison.

And then the party began. Musicians and performers took their positions on the stage, and the grand celebration continued. The ballroom was filled with enchanting melodies, and guests swayed and twirled to the rhythm of the music.

Napoleon and Ciela, seated at a specially prepared table, watched with pride and joy as their twins enjoyed every moment of the celebration. The twins, with their innocent smiles, became the center of attention as they received gifts and well-wishes from the distinguished guests.

As the evening progressed, the grand feast was served. Tables groaned under the weight of exquisite French cuisine, from rich and creamy soups to succulent roast meats, and delicate pastries. Fine wines flowed, toasts were raised, and laughter filled the air.

After that, Napoleon and Ciela would talk to the guests. Napoleon spoke with his generals, ministers, and scientists, and Ciela with the industrialists and government officials.

Even if it was a birthday celebration for their daughters, there's no avoiding the fact that duty and politics were always present in the lives of Napoleon and Ciela. Their roles as leaders of France demanded constant attention, even on such a joyous occasion.

The twins weren't left out, they were surrounded by children of their age who were sons and daughters of prominent attendants. Audrey, their personal caretaker, watched over them.

While Ciela was speaking with one of the industrialists who worked on railways, a Beaumont approached her.

"Madame Bonaparte," Beaumont whispered politely. "There's someone at the gate looking for you."

"Who is it?" Ciela whispered back from the corner of her lips.

"She won't tell, Madame Bonaparte. But based on her appearance, she seemed to be a noble from another country. She said she'll only speak to you."

Ciela's brows furrowed in curiosity. She wondered who it was. There's only one way to find out. She excused herself from the conversation with the industrialist and made her way towards the entrance of the ballroom, leaving him with a polite nod. Napoleon noticed her leaving the ballroom. He excused himself and walked up to her side.

"Ciela," he called and Ciela paused, turning her attention to her husband.

"Hmm?"

"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."