The Peasant Empress, Part I
Late Night, February 15th, 1842
"My Emperor, erm... Marshal Fortier is here to see you."
"Send her in." Napoleon II was looking over the documents of the New Grand Army, examining its expenses and needs. Reports had come in from the European War of 1841. New combat formations had been developed, said to be much better at bringing force to bear than the old formations. Napoleon II was eager to implement these techniques into his own armies. Behind him, Marshal of the Empire Fortier walked in with a few members of the Imperial Guard. She wore her full uniform, and had several medals affixed to her coat.
"My Emperor, you must calm yourself. With the work you put in for your people, i'm surprised you haven't worked yourself to death. I and the Guard can do the official reports, you must turn in. You know you must be in top condition for Restoration Day. It will be the fifteenth anniversary this year. Go to your chambers."
Napoleon II stopped. Had it really been that long? It had been. Fifteen years ago, Napoleon II and his men had been standing outside Québec City, on the precipice of the House of Bonaparte's return to power. Fifteen years ago...
"Fine, but I order you to come with me,
Marshal Fortier."
"You know I hate it when you pull rank...
my Emperor."
"And you know I hate it when you always dress in your full uniform. Either way, Captain Lavigne can handle official matters. Right?" Adrien Lavigne, Captain of the Imperial Guard, nodded. "See? Now it is you who worry, Marie."
"Alright, my Emperor. Gentlemen, we shall retire."
"Yes my Emperor, my Empress."