Chapter 404 Feeling Proud  

"Another advantageous deal, Your Imperial Majesty," Armand remarked with a sly. "Are we planning a similar approach with the Chinese representatives?"

Napoleon, standing by the grand window, gazed pensively into the distance. "East Asia, particularly China, is rich in culture. But there's a common flaw in their perspective—they see themselves as the center of the world, superior in their ways. This belief blinds them to the reality that others, like us, hold greater power and influence. Our ability to craft such unequal treaties stems from this ignorance. They don't realize that in our eyes, they're barely sovereign states," he explained with a touch of cold realism.

Armand nodded, absorbing Napoleon's assessment. "So, we exploit this arrogance to our advantage, binding them into agreements that serve our interests first and foremost," he concluded. Napoleon turned from the window, his expression resolute. "Precisely. Our negotiations with China will follow this principle. We'll secure terms that favor us, ensuring our dominance in these diplomatic games." "But I can't help but notice, Your Imperial Majesty, that this man you spoke to, Takenouchi, is…how should I say this? A smart man. He recognized immediately that the treaty was unfavorable. He questioned the exclusivity clause, showing a clear understanding of its implications for Japan's foreign policy and trade freedom."

Napoleon's expression remained unchanged. "Indeed, Takenouchi is no ordinary diplomat. His perceptiveness and concern for his country's autonomy were evident. However, what can he do about it? There's nothing he can do but to partner with France." "But what if the Russians decided to establish diplomatic ties and offered Japan a better term than us?" "Hmm," Napoleon hummed thoughtfully. "Well, we can still talk to the Joseon Kingdom or the Qing Dynasty. There are a lot of countries that would benefit from the modernization." "Speaking of the Joseon Kingdom, I heard that you have intentions of making Joseon Kingdom part of the French Empire and declare Her Imperial Majesty, Ciela Bonaparte, the Empress of the East. Is that true?" Armand inquired, a hint of curiosity in his voice.

Napoleon turned his gaze back to Armand, his expression contemplative. "Expanding our empire to include the Joseon Kingdom is an ambitious plan, and designating Ciela as Empress of the East would indeed be a significant move. Basically, it is a personal matter which I must fulfill." "So you are that serious, Your Imperial Majesty," Armand asked, wanting to get his confirmation.

Napoleon nodded, confirming his intentions.

Armand's expression grew thoughtful. "I wonder if the people living on that land would accept such a dramatic change. The Joseon Kingdom has its own long-standing culture and traditions. Imposing foreign rule, even with Ciela as Empress, could face resistance." Napoleon's eyes narrowed slightly. "Armand…you know very well how France deals with rebellion right? We utterly crush it. Resistance, while expected, will not be a deterrent to our plans. We have the military might and strategic prowess to quell any opposition. Especially when we are up against an army whose weapons are dated back to the Middle Ages. They have guns but it's not comparable to what we have." "I'm sure they are using the guns exported by the Europeans one or two centuries ago. A gun that operates by lighting up the fuse and hoping it fires correctly," Armand added with a hint of disdain. Napoleon scoffed softly as he turned around, facing Armand fully. "Armand, what's after this?" "Well, Your Imperial Majesty. Your schedule for today is surprisingly vacant. You'll only check the documents on your table, stamp and sign them, and then you have a meeting with the Minister of Finance to discuss the budget allocations for the upcoming military expansions. After that, you have the rest of the day to yourself, unless there are any unforeseen developments."

Napoleon then moved towards his desk, glancing over the documents piled up there. "I will have time for myself huh? But there are quite a lot. Are you sure that I will have time left when I sift through all of this?" Armand nodded confidently. "Yes, Your Majesty. Most of these documents are routine approvals and updates. I've already organized them to streamline your review process. You should have ample time later in the day once these are completed."

Napoleon, with a brief nod of acknowledgment, began to focus on the documents before him. He worked methodically, his pen moving swiftly across the pages as he approved or annotated them. Despite the volume, his efficiency in handling the paperwork was evident. After all, he had been dealing with paperwork ever since he became the Emperor, and compared to his early years as Emperor of France, this pile of documents seemed manageable. He quickly found a rhythm, signing off on some, making notes on others, and occasionally pausing to read more closely when a particular detail caught his eye.

Finally, after some time, Napoleon finished reviewing the last document. He set his pen down and glanced at the clock, noting the time. It was still early enough for him to prepare for his meeting with the Minister of Finance.

Standing up, he straightened his uniform and walked towards the door, signaling to Armand that he was ready to proceed. They made their way to the meeting room, where the Minister was already waiting.

The meeting with the Minister of Finance was as Napoleon had instructed - brief and to the point. They discussed the budget allocations for the military expansions, focusing on ensuring the funds were used efficiently and effectively. Most of it was allocated to the navy, as Napoleon was planning to create a bill that increased the size and capabilities of the French naval forces. He emphasized the importance of a strong navy to project power overseas, especially with his ambitions in East Asia.

With the meeting concluded Napoleon returned to his private office. The rest of the day was indeed his. He decided to use this time to spend time with his wife.

However, in the middle of their couple time, Armand visited them.

"Your Imperial Majesty, you have to see this," Armand said, there was an urgency in his voice. Napoleon frowned slightly before accepting the document. He opened and there he learned—.

"The Ottoman Empire is mobilizing their entire army to crush the rebellions of the Greek rebels." "Your Imperial Majesty, even with our support, there's no way those Greek revolutionaries would stand a chance against the entire army of the Ottomans. Not to mention, they are supplied by the Russians." "You have to de–de-escalate the situation immediately my dear," Ciela said. "I know…get the Ottoman ambassador to the Palace of Versailles, right now," Napoleon ordered.