Chapter 394 The Departure of the Last  

Same date, three o'clock in the afternoon. In the Palace of Versailles.

In Daphne's bedroom, her personal maids, Elise and Maria, were assisting her in getting dressed for her departure. The outfit she chose for the journey was a practical yet elegant ensemble, suitable for travel. It was a functional dress, designed for comfort during the long trip to Quebec, but still maintaining the sophistication expected of her status. The maids worked efficiently, ensuring every detail of her attire was perfect. Daphne, meanwhile, appeared calm but contemplative as she stared at the vanity mirror, reflecting on the journey ahead.

This was the moment she had been waiting for. She was about to govern her own domain like her siblings. She had long envied them, but now, her dream of contributing to the French Empire's success was becoming a reality.

Her thoughts were interrupted by a gentle knock on the door. Elise answered it, revealing Daphne's father, Napoleon, at the doorway.

"Wow, you are so beautiful," Napoleon praised.

Daphne giggled at her father's compliment. "Thank you, Father."

Napoleon stepped into her room and immediately noticed the sweet scent in the air, a mix of fresh flowers and light perfume. He took a moment to look around, observing the tidy and clean space, characteristic of Daphne's meticulous nature.

"It seems you are all set for your journey," Napoleon said, his chuckle lightly veiling his underlying sadness.

Indeed, it was a bittersweet moment for him. Three of his children were already abroad, contributing to the empire, and now Daphne was leaving too. He had promised her this day, but now that it was here, it was more emotional than he had anticipated. "Yes, father. I have everything I need," Daphne replied as she stood up, facing him with a bright smile. "Thank you, Father, for this opportunity."

Napoleon's heart skipped a beat. The way his daughter presented herself before him was so cute…and elegant. He would miss her dearly.

"Father?" Daphne tilted her head to the side, sensing the emotional undercurrent in her father's demeanor.

Napoleon met her gaze, a faint smile appearing on his face. "I'm just reflecting on how quickly time passes. You've grown into a remarkable young woman, Daphne."

Daphne approached her father, her expression softening. "I know this is hard for you. I'll miss you too, Father. But I'm ready for this. I want to make you proud."

Napoleon sighed. "Well, whatever you do, I'm already proud of you. Every parent does."

"That's given father…but I haven't done anything significant yet like my siblings," Daphne pouted and added. "By the way, where is Mother?"

"She said she would meet us at the airport," Napoleon replied. "I'll be waiting for you at the main entrance, the cars are ready."

Daphne nodded at her father's words. "Thank you, Father. I'll be there shortly."

Napoleon gave her a reassuring nod and then left the room to give her a moment to gather her thoughts and belongings. Daphne took a deep breath, feeling a mix of excitement and nervous anticipation about the journey and her new responsibilities.

After a final check to ensure she had all her essentials, Daphne left her bedroom with her personal maids and footmen in tow, carrying her luggage. She reached the main entrance of the palace where cars were lined up for her departure to the airport. Her father, Napoleon, was waiting for her, standing solemnly by the door.

He opened the car door for her, and Daphne gladly stepped into the car, taking a moment to look back at the palace, her home for so many years. It was a poignant goodbye, but she was ready for the next chapter of her life.

Napoleon closed the car door behind Daphne and walked around to the other side to enter the vehicle himself. He wanted to accompany his daughter to the airport, a final gesture of support and a chance for a few more moments together. As the car rolled away from the Palace of Versailles, Daphne gazed out of the window, observing the familiar streets and buildings of her childhood. The sights of Versailles, embedded with memories, were hard to leave behind.

The journey to the airport was quiet, with each person lost in their own thoughts. Upon arrival, they were met by a small group tasked with ensuring Daphne's smooth departure. Walking towards the private terminal, Ciela was already there waiting for them, her face lighting up with a warm and encouraging smile.

"Oh my…Daphne…" Ciela hugged her daughter tightly. "I can't still believe that you are really leaving."

Daphne smiled, feeling a sense of comfort in her mother's embrace. "I hope to make the most of this opportunity, Mother."

Napoleon, observing his wife and daughter, joined in the embrace, enveloping them both with his arms.

"Remember, Daphne, you are not just our daughter but also a representative of our nation. We're confident in your abilities," Napoleon said, stepping back to allow Daphne some space.

Daphne nodded, her determination evident. "I understand, Father. I'll do my best. I will make Canada one of the most prosperous dominions of the French Empire."

After a few more words of encouragement and final checks, it was time for Daphne to proceed to the boarding area. She hugged her parents one more time.

"Take care of yourself, Daphne," Ciela said softly.

"I will, Mother. Thank you for everything," Daphne replied warmly.

Napoleon gave her a final nod.

With a deep breath, Daphne turned and walked towards the aircraft, her steps firm and confident. She boarded the plane, settling into her seat and looking out the window as the aircraft prepared for takeoff.

As the plane ascended into the sky, Daphne watched as the familiar landscape of Paris disappeared below her. She was now on her way to Quebec. The flight time was expected to be eight hours.

Settled comfortably in her seat, she began to review the documents and briefs she had brought with her. These contained detailed information about the Dominion of Canada, its current political climate, economic status, and various challenges and opportunities.

The documents also provided a comprehensive overview of Canada's administrative structure, key political figures, economic drivers, and social issues. Daphne knew that understanding these aspects was crucial for her role. She was determined to make informed decisions and contribute effectively to her new position, that is if she wanted to beat her brother, Francis or Tristan.

"Okay…here I go."