He Became Napoleon’S Genius Son [EN]: Chapter 9

(8) On the Eve of the Revolution, the Safe is in England

Gold coins, if left alone, are just inert metal.

“100,000 livres [French currency], that’s a considerable amount of money. What are you going to do with it?” Madame Recamier asked, her expression alight with curiosity.

A vast amount of money can overthrow a country.

A small amount of money solves the immediate problem of hunger.

But what about a moderate amount of money?

Eugene chuckled, looking at Madame Recamier.

“I have to invest it.”

The Great Revolution is less than a year away.

100,000 livres is a significant sum, but its impact is limited.

Even if a revolution occurs, silver coins won’t become worthless paper.

Still, their value will undoubtedly fall due to inflation.

A revolution is also a time of upheaval.

Wealth is crucial during such times.

However, this sum alone isn’t sufficient; I need to increase its scale.”

Suddenly, Madame Recamier’s eyes sparkled with an enthusiasm that belied her age.

“Where? Perhaps our Recamier Bank?”

“Monsieur Recamier, be realistic. The kingdom is teetering on the brink of bankruptcy. What good will investing in France do? Remember, the Duke of Orleans provided this money specifically for investment in America.”

“Hmm, then what kind of investment are you considering? Perhaps reinvesting in America?”

Of course, historically, America ultimately prospers.

The problem is that’s 200 years in the future.

In the long run, everyone dies.

Assessing the impending revolution, Eugene shook his head.

“That seems like a very long-term investment. A bankruptcy declaration could come at any moment. If I were to invest, it would have to be abroad. Somewhere nearby, where I can access the money easily, and where business is thriving.”

“Has such a country emerged recently? All of Europe is in a recession. You’re young, so you may not be aware.”

“Why wouldn’t there be? It’s right next to us.”

Eugene raised a finger slightly and pointed west.

“England.”

Madame Recamier, who had been quite surprised already, widened her eyes in further astonishment.

“England is France’s enemy, isn’t it?”

“The war ended some time ago. Besides, after the American Revolutionary War, British financiers are experiencing a slight downturn, aren’t they? Now is the opportune moment to invest. India, England’s primary market, remains strong.”

“Hmm, that makes sense. I’m also investing in the French East India Company, but it can’t compete with the British East India Company.”

The Seven Years’ War concluded 25 years ago.

The American Revolutionary War ended 5 years ago.

They are perpetual rivals, but 18th-century Europe is an era of trade, even between enemy nations.

Currently, Madame Recamier also has connections for investing in England.

Then who would be a good choice?

Again, considering future success.

Eugene’s eyes lit up.

“Please invest in Barings Bank. They’ll likely accept it, especially now.”

Barings Brothers Bank.

Historically, it becomes infamous for collapsing due to a rogue employee’s derivatives trading.

However, in the late 18th century, it’s on the cusp of becoming the world’s leading bank.

Even the renowned Rothschild family was secondary to the Barings when they were at their peak.

That period of rapid growth coincides with the French Revolution.

So, now is the growth phase, making it a promising bank.

In modern terms, it would be a high-growth venture.

Madame Recamier nodded, seemingly impressed.

“Oh, where did you hear about them? They’re reliable. They have branches in the New World and partners in Amsterdam. They can access funds from the Netherlands if needed.”

“Will you do it? I’ll pay the fee.”

“Okay. Let’s decide to receive the fee with something else.”

Suddenly, Madame Recamier looked at Eugene intently.

“Protect Julie’s future.”

This time, Eugene was taken aback.

“I’m only 7 years old?”

“No, what! I have no intention of marrying Julie to you! How dare I even consider it, you being the son of the profligate Alexandre!”

“Ah, yes. Then what is it?”

It’s a slightly unfair assessment.

Unlike Alexandre, Eugene isn’t a playboy, even historically.

Rather, Julie is considered one of the most beautiful and romantically astute women in Paris.

However, Madame Recamier, prejudiced by her father’s behavior, would never consider Eugene as a ‘son-in-law’.

Of course, nominally and legally, Madame Recamier has no relation to Julie, but still…

Madame Recamier glanced back at the 100,000 livres in silver coins and said.

“You will undoubtedly succeed. Especially in turbulent times like these, it’s easier for a prodigy like you to thrive.”

“You flatter me.”

“If you remember today’s help when you achieve success, Julie will be safe, right?”

Eugene’s eyes widened slightly.

It’s like a glimpse into the future.

In fact, ‘Madame Recamier,’ Julie, faces an unhappy old age.

Why?

Because she clashes with Napoleon and is exiled from France.

For Madame Recamier, this is akin to asking for her life to be saved when a rebellion erupts in France.

Eugene nodded.

“I promise. When I succeed, Julie will be safe.”

Madame Recamier smiled.

“Okay. Then, shall we go make a deal with the Barings brothers?”

It was the moment when Eugene reached out to those who would become the leading bankers in England at the end of the 18th century, through Madame Recamier’s mediation.

***

September 1788 is typically a season of harvest.

-Whoosh!

But Paris was ablaze with unrest.

At the end of August, the royal government finally declared national insolvency.

The price of wheat skyrocketed, public sentiment grew volatile, and riots erupted in various locations.

The disgruntled citizens of Paris also took to the streets.

In short, a ‘riot’ was underway.

“Smash everything! Give us bread!”

“I’m hungry! How long are we supposed to live like this?”

“Punish Brienne and Lamoignon!”

Roménie de Brienne, the king’s chief advisor and finance minister.

Guillaume Chrétien de Lamoignon, the second-in-command of the government and Minister of Justice.

Both held key positions in the current regime but resigned to take responsibility.

The public now seeks to inflict violence upon them.

“Burn it all down!”

Suddenly, a gentleman wearing a hat glanced back at Eugene, hearing the commotion outside the second-floor cafe.

“Wow, France is certainly heating up. Isn’t it, young prodigy friend?”

He was distinctly different from French aristocrats.

Dressed in a casual outfit resembling modern suits.

It was the attire worn by gentlemen in London in the late 18th century.

Eugene smiled, looking at the British gentleman, Francis Baring.

“It’s unavoidable. The country is on the verge of bankruptcy, Mr. Baring.”

“About 8 years old? You’re remarkably precocious. Haha, I’ve heard your name is quite famous in Parisian society.”

“I merely played card games for the royal family.”

Eugene glanced sideways.

“That money was acquired that way.”

There, Hippolyte Charles nervously guarded the money.

100,000 livres.

It was tightly bound in a sack to avoid attracting attention, but if the rioting citizens outside discovered it, it would be stolen.

Nevertheless, Eugene had no choice but to come to this dangerous place.

Because a true luminary had promised to come to Paris in person.

Francis Baring, the founder of Barings Bank.

He founded the bank with his brother, John Baring, and the official name of the bank is [Barings Brothers Bank].

However, Francis is the driving force behind the business and the creator of the renowned Barings Bank of later years.

He had already amassed a fortune by investing in the American Revolutionary War.

Even though England lost the war, Francis profited.

Suddenly, Francis tilted his head.

“That’s not the kind of money one acquires with such grace. About 100,000 livres. I heard from Mr. Recamier. You sold the Duke of Orleans American bonds that haven’t even been issued yet?”

“I was fortunate. It’s thanks to His Highness the Duke of Orleans’ generosity.”

“American bonds, are there any more?”

Francis, a daring banker who would dominate the era, strangely flashed his eyes.

“I believe I might be able to sell them to America in the future. I want our bank’s commission to be that.”

Usually, such proposals are rife with scams.

However, Eugene knows that Francis isn’t the type to be scammed but to scam others.

All the prominent politicians of the time trust Francis.

Furthermore, Francis reciprocates with trust.

To Pitt, Fox, and even Napoleon of France.

That’s what makes it even stranger.

If it’s not a scam, why would he make such a risky deal?

New World bonds are essentially bonds of the American government that haven’t even been established yet.

Eugene blinked, an interesting expression on his face.

“Indeed, you see great promise in the New World business.”

“Of course. I also consider it an investment in a promising prodigy in France.”

“Me? I’m just a little precocious and have a knack for gambling.”

Francis Baring burst out laughing.

“Puhahaha! I enjoy card games too. No, the reason our family has come this far is all thanks to gambling-like ventures. But gambling isn’t just about luck! It’s about brains!”

Even now, it’s noisy outside.

When the tall British gentleman laughed loudly, the cafe customers who were anxiously looking outside stared at him.

However, Francis was bold enough to come to another country, even a potential enemy country.

Well, historically, Barings Bank is always bold.

That’s why they eventually fall behind Rothschild.

Francis, the founder of the bank that still has more than 30 years left to reach its peak, flashed his eyes.

“I’m telling you. Everyone else is withdrawing from the New World, but I kept investing. Also, I came to this very unstable France. Why is that?”

“I wonder? Do you enjoy danger?”

“That’s right! Danger, adventure! Risk!”

Francis shouted in a truly excited tone.

“If you want to earn only a little, you have to avoid risks. But if you want to earn a huge amount of money, you have to gamble. On a very big risk!”

That’s certainly true.

If the person in front of you is a major banker like Madame Recamier, it’s even more true.

The problem is that Madame Recamier mediated, but Francis’s actual opponent is Eugene.

He’s just a kid about to turn 8 years old.

But to take a risk, there’s no other way to explain it.

Eugene recognizes this type of person very well.

A kindred spirit.

A gambler.

“A country on the verge of ruin, a young genius entrusting me with money there. Isn’t that a risk worth gambling on?”

“Why?”

“It’s simple!”

Francis lowered his voice this time.

“If France collapses, wouldn’t the nobles of this France rush to buy these bonds?”

Eugene’s eyes widened.

For Eugene, who knows history, it’s not actually gambling.

However, for those who can’t see an inch ahead, this is gambling.

Even a gamble involving hundreds of thousands of livres, or hundreds of thousands of pounds.

Francis smiled brightly.

“How about it? Will you trade with me? With American bonds!”

Gambling businesses are more prevalent in England than in France.

Furthermore, enthusiasm for gambling doesn’t discriminate between young and old.

Eugene, staring at the 48-year-old middle-aged gambling gentleman, smiled and grabbed his hand.

“Okay. I think you’ll be a good partner.”

One is big, and the other is small.

However, only the passion for gambling is the same.

In short, they are profligates who dream of hitting the jackpot.

At this moment, Eugene and Francis bet on the gamble that even if France collapses, America won’t.

Furthermore, it’s a gamble that these bonds can be converted when France collapses.

Of course, Eugene was sure he would win.

Because he knows history.

It was then.

“It’s His Majesty the King’s decree! Suppress the rioters! Shoot!”

Startled, I looked outside.

-Bang! Bang! Bang!

As if to announce the fall of France, gunshots rang out loudly.

A bloody crackdown had begun.

The Royal Guard and the Swiss mercenary Guard were deployed to subdue the citizens.

Francis whistled.

“That won’t last long.”

He said that while looking at the Guards running as if the royal family was still strong.

That is the future to come.

***

The stench of blood is far from the peaceful Palace of Versailles.

“Wow, our prodigy. Amazing! You sold that? Where?”

The person who first mentioned the bond is separate.

It is Princess Marie Therese Charlotte.

Of course, Eugene has no intention of paying Marie a commission.

Eugene accompanied Marie and answered simply.

“To noble elders and bankers who enjoy adventure.”

“Did you make a lot of money? You’ll buy me a gift too, right? Ouch. I couldn’t eat delicious food because of the corset. How about a fancy brioche?”

“Princess, don’t expect too much from a poor prodigy.”

Marie is now at the age of wearing a corset, and she is waddling with her tightly laced waist.

This end of the 18th century is the end of the so-called Rococo fashion.

The era hasn’t changed yet, so Marie is in training to wear a corset diligently.

Of course, even in the 19th century, she won’t be able to untie the corset for a while.

It was the moment when the princess and Eugene were lightly chatting.

“Oh my god, Necker again! That Protestant!”

Queen Marie Antoinette was furious and entered the corridor of the Petit Trianon.

Behind her, the Count of Artois was closely following.

While Eugene and the princess, who were surprised, hesitated, the two talked as if they were arguing.

“We must kick him out, Your Majesty the Queen.”

“How? The former Secretary of State resigned on his own. A declaration of insolvency has occurred. There is no alternative but that man who exposed the royal finances!”

“That’s what I’m saying. To raise an impious guy as chief advisor! That guy is even very close to an ominous group! Even!”

The king’s youngest brother, the royalist Count of Artois, revealed his teeth.

“He’s talking about holding the Estates-General. Even by doubling the commoners!”

It is a story that children don’t need to know, don’t know, and shouldn’t know.

It is the story of the change of prime minister due to the royal kingdom’s financial bankruptcy crisis.

Archbishop Brienne, who gave Eugene the bond, resigned.

Instead, Jacques Necker, the former chief advisor and finance minister, was reappointed.

However, Necker is originally famous for exposing that the royal family is on the verge of bankruptcy due to waste.

No one in the royal family can like Necker.

Anyway, he is the one who made it known to the outside world that the Count of Artois was on the verge of bankruptcy due to debt and that the Queen was pouring money into 4,000 dresses.

However, the French royal family has no alternative now.

There is no financial expert as capable as Necker, and there is no other debt solution.

Queen Marie Antoinette bit her lip and sighed.

“Hoo, I’ll find a way somehow. The royal family will be in danger like this.”

Eugene rolled his eyes as he listened to the story.

The Queen’s thoughts aren’t wrong.

Because as a result of following Necker’s advice, the royal family eventually faces ruin.

It is the holding of the Estates-General.

But would the revolution not have happened if it hadn’t been held?

It was the moment when Eugene thought about the bloodshed he had seen yesterday.

The Queen, who discovered Eugene and Marie Therese, approached.

“Huh? Oh my, our Charlotte. What are you doing here with the prodigy?”

“Yes, Mama. Eugene said he did something fun. You know the bond paper he got from America? He sold it!”

“What, where?”

Eugene politely said to the Queen, who had her eyes wide open.

“Yes, Your Majesty the Queen. I succeeded in converting it through a banker in the Netherlands.”

Of course, this fact can’t be a secret to the royal family, shouldn’t be a secret, and isn’t a secret.

Anyway, it is something that was executed with the approval of Archbishop Brienne.

In addition, to receive the [American bond] from the successor Necker in the future, the Queen’s approval is also good.

Then the Count of Artois, who was listening next to him, whistled.

“Oh, our gambling prodigy had such talent? Should I entrust some funds to you?”

“Pfft, pay off all your debts and talk about it. Count. Your Majesty can no longer forgive you.”

“Ah, isn’t that inevitable to maintain dignity, Your Majesty the Queen.”

In 1788 AD, the total finances of the royal government are 503 million livres, and the expenditure is 629 million livres.

A deficit of 126 million livres weighs down on the royal family.

Of that, the royal family directly spends 35 million livres, and the rest is mainly military expenses and national debt interest.

However, the debt owed by the royal family, Count Artois, is a whopping 20 million livres.

It is almost the same as the royal family’s annual expenses.

Of course, it may be natural to spend money like water on hunting, banquets, and gambling.

Conversely, if you owe this much debt, 100,000 livres is bound to look ridiculous.

Marie smiled and said jokingly.

“Okay, then. Shall we entrust my pocket money to our little banker?”

“Yes? What do you mean?”

“The new Secretary of State has issued [public bonds] this time. They say they will solve the finances by selling them here and there, but it’s really difficult. How about it? Why don’t you try selling it once? I’ll give you a commission as much as the interest. Um, 3 percent?”

Eugene felt his eyes widen.

This is French government bonds.

Of course, since the royal family issued it, it will become paper if the Great Revolution breaks out.

However, in fact, these government bonds become a headache for the French revolutionary government in the original history.

Because of the flood of demands from domestic and foreign bondholders to redeem the bonds.

In a word, it isn’t a bond that will only end up as paper.

If there is a funder who can convert and hold it.

For example, Barings Bank.

“If you entrust it to me, I will gladly do it.”

Lightly laughing, Queen Marie Antoinette nodded.

“Okay. First of all, try 1 million livres once.”

1 million livres, the annual income of a decent noble.

If it is 3 percent commission here, it is 30,000 livres per case.

It is a huge amount of money for an ordinary prodigy to handle.

However, the French royal finances are already at their limit.

In a situation where they owe 4.5 billion livres, it doesn’t matter whether it’s 30,000 or 1 million.

It will just be a feeling of giving a prodigy a toy in a troublesome situation.

Nevertheless, Eugene accepted this deal.

Because it was a golden opportunity to increase his power.

Suddenly, Princess Marie, who was waddling and wearing a very slim corset, approached and clapped her hands.

“Wow, that’s great. Right, prodigy?”

“Well. In a country that already has 4.5 billion livres of debt, I wonder if that will have any meaning.”

“Huh? What are you talking about?”

Suddenly, Eugene looked at the princess and whispered.

“Princess, you will soon have an era where you have to be determined.”

The child is 3 years older than Eugene.

Princess Marie, who is about to turn 11, tilted her head and smiled brightly.

“What are you talking about, you little prodigy! Pfft!”

Eugene smiled back and turned his gaze.

In September 1788, the sun was setting on the peaceful Palace of Versailles.

With only three months remaining until the cataclysm begins, Gambler Eugene has initiated his game.

***

December 1788: the era rushes forward.

“So, how much did you make, exactly?”

In peaceful times, Eugene could have grown up without a care. The problem is that this era is defined by unprecedented war—a massive upheaval that the power of a mere boy cannot halt.

Eugene’s surroundings have also undergone rapid changes. For instance, Ippolito, who used to grumble while doing chores just eight months ago, is now a loyal attendant.

*Clang!*

That’s the sound of the silver coin pouch Eugene just tossed to him with a flick of the wrist.

“Well, the interest rate is low—1%? I’ve deposited the money in Hope & Co. in Amsterdam, though.”

The way Ippolito swiftly snatches the pouch from the air demonstrates his excellent reflexes. Even though he’s a boy in his prime, about to turn sixteen, he possesses outstanding physical abilities.

Of course, Eugene didn’t make Ippolito his attendant without a reason.

Ippolito, his eyes wide as he counted the silver coins, said, “Wow, that’s a lot! Wait, is the interest really the problem? The important thing is selling off those American treasury bonds or our French public bonds, right? You’re getting a commission, aren’t you?”

“Well, about ten times the interest, roughly.”

“Huh? Wait, then… a million *livres* [French currency]?”

Eugene put a finger to his lips as he watched Ippolito doing the math.

“Shh, Ippolito.”

Fortunately, the citizens of Paris are preoccupied with their own struggles and aren’t paying attention to them. In any case, they don’t have the *yoyuu* [余裕, Japanese for ‘余裕’, meaning ‘余裕’] to pay attention to the two boys returning from Versailles on mules and horses, because they are suffering from a winter drought.

On the other hand, Eugene’s ‘bond brokerage’ is very successful.

The business proceeds as follows: Eugene obtains unsold portions of American Continental Congress bonds and French public bonds from the royal family. The sales destination is Barings Bank. With the French banker Recamier as guarantor, he trades through the leading Dutch bank, Hope & Co.

Of course, this process requires the actual movement of physical items or certificates. Ippolito is the one who handles those errands. He’s quite perceptive, quick-witted, and trustworthy, so he’s been entrusted with the job.

Naturally, when it comes to silver coins, it’s not just Ippolito who’s involved; there’s a separate escort team—Recamier Bank’s escort team.

Still, Ippolito, who only did errands and didn’t know the scale of things, whistled. “Wow, you’re really going to be rich soon. No, you *are* rich.”

“That’s not important, Ippolito. The world is about to turn upside down. I’m just saving money because it’s easier to cope with if you have money, and it’s good for hiring people.”

“You’ve been saying that for a while. What are you going to do? And how are you going to gather people?”

Eugene stopped the mule in front of the Beauharnais mansion and shrugged. “First, I have to use Mr. Hoche. Wouldn’t that guy know some soldiers? I can pay them more. According to my calculations, there’s still about half a year left.”

“People will listen to Mr. Hoche, but what’s this about time?”

“It’s the time for the world to turn upside down, and for everyone to get their heads chopped off.”

Eugene glanced at the Saint-Germain district and spoke softly, “Bourgeois, nobles, clergy.”

That word sounded somehow eerie, and Ippolito shivered. What on earth is this kid seeing?

The sun sets early in Paris in winter, so it’s very dark. Ippolito was momentarily afraid of what might happen in the darkness.

Suddenly, the owner of the Beauharnais mansion rushed out, jumping up and down. “Good heavens! The Estates-General has really been declared!”

Ippolito was so surprised that he almost fell off his horse. Eugene calmly replied, looking at the excited Alexandre, “I told you, Father.”

“Yes! You gave me the information that such talk was circulating in the royal court, but actually deciding on it is another matter!”

“Are you that surprised? Of course, it’s something that happens only once every 175 years, when they gather next year.”

The Estates-General, soon to be the assembly of representatives from the clergy, nobility, and commoners, is a council of social classes. Europe has traditionally had a culture of councils. It’s a product of the feudal era when local lords and cities competed with each other.

In the days when centralized absolutist monarchies were emerging, kings gathered the Estates-General to check the nobles. However, in England, the nobles won completely, and this Estates-General was transformed into a modern parliament.

On the other hand, in France, the king held absolute power, so there was no reason to convene the Estates-General. Therefore, the Estates-General has not been convened for over 170 years.

Now, it’s the Estates-General after 170 years since the last one. The reason is to levy new taxes. However, the thoughts of those who are gathering—the members of the Estates-General—are different.

Suddenly, Alexandre’s eyes sparkled, and he shouted, “Of course, I’m surprised! The time has come for this Alexandre to finally make a name for himself in the world, hasn’t it?”

This time, Eugene was a little surprised and asked back with wide eyes, “Are you going to run as a member of the Estates-General?”

“Of course! Our Beauharnais family is also one of the 300 noble families that move this kingdom. My brother will go out as a Parisian nobleman, but I won’t miss this opportunity either!”

“Which region are you going to run for? Ah, you’re going to run as a representative of the Blois region.”

Blois is a region near Paris. The Beauharnais family has inherited estates in this area for generations. The Estates-General is also ultimately a council, and members are appointed based on recommendations from local notables.

As the second son, and always struggling with debt due to a lack of wealth, Alexandre is still at the tail end of a prestigious family—enough to receive recommendations from notables.

The problem is that becoming a member of the Estates-General isn’t necessarily a good thing in this era. Of course, Alexandre, a man thirsty for success, couldn’t see that.

“That’s right! This is no time to stand around. I have to go see General Lafayette. He will know the situation most accurately!”

Alexandre rushed out to find Lafayette, his former superior in the New World expeditionary force. Eugene looked at Alexandre’s back with dismay.

If he knew the original history of later generations, it would be a natural thing. Alexandre once served as the chairman of the National Convention established after the Estates-General, and then was drafted into the army and went to the battlefield. After that, he was held responsible for his poor command and executed. In short, he is a typical lower-ranking nobleman who failed because he was overly greedy without ability.

On the other hand, Ippolito, who couldn’t even dream of being a member of the Estates-General, was impressed. Perhaps it’s the feeling of an ordinary citizen seeing the second-generation heir of a mid-sized company running for the National Assembly in modern times.

“Certainly, the noble family is different. But General Lafayette is a hero of the American Revolutionary War, right?”

“Well, yes. He’s also a Freemason.”

“Huh? What does that mean? Freemasons are people who gather and have strange discussions?”

A secret society embroiled in conspiracy theories that dominate the world in the 21st century: Freemasons. However, in the 18th century, it was an organization with many social figures as members, even though its activities were private.

From George Washington and Lafayette to Mozart, it’s a truly diverse group. It’s a global club of celebrities with members throughout European Western civilization. However, they were also an organization that was wary of the royal families of each country, because it is a society that shouts dangerous subversive ideas—namely, [Freedom].

But there is one more problem in France.

“The head of the French Freemasons is the Duke of Orléans. And the Freemasons also supported the American Revolution.”

“Uh, so, what?”

“Think about it. What kind of world do the Freemasons want?”

Absurdly, the head of the French Freemason headquarters is now the Duke of Orléans—the king’s cousin, a nobleman of the kingdom with a slightly distant claim to the throne. He has been advocating for the British constitutional monarchy from before, and inviting those with subversive ideas to discuss them.

It’s not *just* because of them that the revolution broke out, but it is clearly one of the contributing motives.

“At the very least, a revolution will break out to overthrow the monarchy. We must prepare for that period of chaos.”

Eugene shrugged, considering that point. “However, there is definitely something I need to do before that.”

“What is it?”

“Mother. I have to bring her here before it gets dangerous.”

It is the issue of Josephine’s return.

***

Now, even the Palace of Versailles is no longer quiet.

“The Estates-General—why do we have to bow down to the commoners!” Marie Antoinette, the owner of Petit Trianon [Marie Antoinette’s private estate on the grounds of Versailles], was raising her voice, seemingly urging King Louis XVI.

On the other hand, Princess Marie Thérèse, who hates her parents fighting, grumbled, “Ugh, it’s noisy. Why are the adults so noisy? [Louis] is already sick.”

Louis—not referring to Louis XVI, nor Louis XVII, who became famous for his imprisonment in the original history, but Louis Joseph Xavier François, the eldest son of the king, Marie Thérèse’s younger brother. In fact, he is the same age as Eugene. However, he has been suffering from tuberculosis since he was a child and is still lying in bed. It is an incurable disease that cannot be treated in this era. In the end, this little Louis dies just before the French Revolution begins.

Eugene, briefly recalling the inevitable tragedy, answered from the side, “It’s because the government has a lot of debt.”

“How much debt do they have? These days, our page is working hard to sell bonds, right? It was originally just a pile of paper occupying the chief advisor’s desk.”

“That’s not enough. Also, no one knows if it can be used in an emergency.”

Money is not omnipotent. Even in modern capitalist society, if the government that guarantees that money collapses, the money becomes waste paper. Moreover, it is now the 18th century. Above all, even if you are a lower-class person, you can spend money as much as you want, but when it comes to the royal family, money is useless during the revolutionary period. Even if you have money, no one may accept it.

Instead of explaining all of this, Eugene brought up another story. There was a fact that the employer, the princess, needed to know.

“Princess, in case I suddenly disappear, don’t be surprised.”

The princess was startled and turned to Eugene. “What do you mean? Why, is *Maman* [French for ‘Mom’] cutting Eugene off?”

“No. Not right away, but I have something to do overseas around the summer.”

“Why? I don’t like it. Not being able to see those brioche-like cheeks!”

Eugene grumbled, pushing away the princess who was sticking to him and pinching his cheeks. “Ouch! Please stop talking about brioche. I’ll be honest: I have to go get my mother.”

If Marie Antoinette had heard it, she would have frowned. From the queen’s point of view, Eugene’s mother, Josephine, is a *libertine* [a person, especially a man, who behaves without moral principles] from the New World. It’s obvious that she wouldn’t think it necessary to bring her to Paris. However, anyway, an era is coming when the reputation of the aristocratic society is no longer important, because an era is coming when being a *libertine* becomes a symbol of freedom. Conversely, it is a stage where Josephine can be active.

Of course, Princess Marie, who doesn’t know these circumstances and wouldn’t care even if she knew, opened her eyes wide. “Ah, Mrs. Beauharnais. You said she’s in the New World now, right? Are there many pretty things there?”

“Strictly speaking, it’s not a continent, but one of the West Indies in the Caribbean Sea. Anyway, she lives on an island called Martinique.”

“But why are you trying to bring her here? Isn’t Paris more dangerous? I heard it’s noisy these days.”

Eugene was slightly surprised. It means that even the young princess, who seems to know nothing, has heard of the riots in Paris. That means the riots are that serious.

“You do hear things.”

“Yeah? They say the rioters are always causing trouble. The adults are trying to hide it, but I hear everything.”

“That’s right. Paris *is* dangerous. It will become more dangerous in the future.”

There is less than a year left now—an era when not just simple riots or rebellions, but armed conflicts begin to occur; an era when nobles are beheaded, and the royal family is dragged from Versailles to Paris; furthermore, an era when they will try to put all these people in prison and put them on the guillotine.

Eugene looked at the luxurious Palace of Versailles and the cozy Trianon again. All of this collapses in an instant—the huge space, power, and system that seem like an iron wall now.

Eugene shook his head lightly to shake off his thoughts and said, “But Martinique is much more dangerous than that, because England can attack.”

In fact, strictly speaking, the problem is the revolution rather than England. The revolution will spread not only to France but also to the colonies. Because of that, the slaves revolt. The royal family will not have immediate problems. However, Josephine may be in danger in the meantime. In the original history, she returned safely amidst the chaos, but it was only a miraculous event. No matter how much Eugene is a reincarnator, Josephine is clearly his biological mother. He can’t leave her life to a miracle.

Anyway, the princess, who was convinced by the word ‘England’—the biggest enemy of France—pouted. “Okay, I can’t help but go get *Maman*. Instead, you have to come quickly!”

Eugene smiled cutely as he looked at the princess. “I will. I’m not going right away. Don’t worry too much.”

If possible, I don’t want to see this princess despair, even if that future is a difficult historical flow to change. It’s something I’ve been thinking about for over half a year.

At that time, the Count of Artois was heard shouting from afar, “Doubling the number of bourgeois members is absolutely unacceptable!”

It is about the request to match the number of commoner members of the Estates-General to the same number as the clergy and nobles combined. Perhaps Necker is arguing according to the demands of intellectuals. The king will worry, and the queen and his younger brother, the count, will demand that he refuse. But in the end, the king allows it.

“I can’t help it. The country is on the verge of bankruptcy now. We have to resolve new taxes.”

Now is the prelude to the collapse of the king’s power, which seems very strong. Eugene has come to see that scene.

***

Paris is boiling even more.

“Look! Rise in the name of [Patriots], citizens of France!” Countless pamphlets, soon booklets, were scattered on the streets. Perhaps because there are so many things they want to say, more than 100,000 pamphlets are printed every month. Perhaps even in modern France, this many books are not sold.

Citizens who know how to read do so directly, and those who do not know listen to the words of the speaker who is spreading the pamphlets. Lawyers, doctors, and writers who advocate holding the Estates-General shouted everywhere.

“France is in crisis! Our citizens must be with the [Patriots] to protect the country!”

“Intellectuals including Mirabeau, Condorcet, and Sieyès are leading us. Duke d’Aiguillon has also promised to join us.”

“Fair taxation for everyone!”

Among them, absurdly, was Alexandre. “The hero of the citizens, General Lafayette, will convey our demands to the king!”

Mirabeau, Condorcet, Sieyès—all are big figures in the early days of the revolution. The same goes for Duke d’Aiguillon and Lafayette, the hero of the Revolutionary War. Even though it is winter before the Estates-General is held, it is already bustling.

Eugene was watching the scene as he was leaving the Palace of Versailles.

“Break it! We’re about to pay taxes now!”

On one side of the street, citizens were smashing the customs office—a toll booth installed on the outer streets entering Paris. One of the reasons why wheat prices are soaring is the toll attached to wheat coming from outside Paris. It is the reason why citizens who are angry at the lack of wheat are rioting.

Fights also broke out frequently everywhere.

“Ah, please give me bread! My child is dying!”

“Shut up! Do you think my house doesn’t have children?”

“Hey, stop there! Catch that pickpocket!”

At that moment, Eugene saw a familiar sight from afar.

*Thud! Thud! Thud!*

A child who was running away with bread on the street was caught and beaten. As Eugene hurriedly drove the mule with Ippolito, the citizens scattered, but the child was already dead.

“Terrible.”

It was when Eugene was muttering gloomily that someone snapped from behind him. “Huh, what’s so terrible about a page?”

When he turned around, he saw a familiar face: Armand Ganay, the queen’s adopted son.

Eugene looked at Armand and asked, “Where are you going, Armand?”

“Wherever I go! It’s not something I’ll let a noble know!”

“Don’t tell me you’re going to see the people of the Patriot faction?”

Somehow, Armand’s steps were heading towards the speakers. [Patriots]—it’s a name that sounds like nationalists, but in fact, it’s a faction where influential commoners gathered before the revolution. After the revolution began, many of them became the famous [Jacobins]. In a word, it is the driving force of the revolution. The people who are speaking as if they are inciting the citizens now also belong to the [Patriot] faction. Behind it, of course, will be the Duke of Orléans.

When Armand was startled, Eugene shook his head. “Don’t get too close. It’s dangerous.”

“Ha! As if you’re not a noble. Just watch, the Estates-General will change the world!”

“It’s not that; it’s that you won’t be safe in that changed world.”

Eugene said, staring at Armand, “You are the adopted son of the Queen from Austria to them, Armand.”

In fact, this is what the Duke of Orléans should hear. He is now crazy with the idea of becoming king and will support the revolutionaries. However, once the revolution breaks out, sponsors are useless. Only those who know how to ride the storm survive in the storm. The great nobleman Orléans is precarious, so what about Armand, who is only the queen’s adopted son? It would be fortunate if he didn’t die, being branded as the son of Queen Marie, who is notorious among the citizens. No matter how much Armand is actually dissatisfied with the royal family, hates being the adopted son, or hates the queen…

Armand trembled and turned around, shouting, “Shut up!”

Looking at his back, Ippolito grumbled from the side. “Geez, I told you with good intentions. That guy is pretty twisted.”

“This kid—isn’t he the kid who bumped into me a long time ago?”

“Huh? The kid who died here? Oh, is that so? I guess so.”

It is the boy who bumped into Eugene a long time ago and tried to hit him, but ran away because of Ippolito. It seems that the boy continued to pickpocket on the street. If he knew he would be beaten to death like this, would he have still pickpocketed?

Eugene, who was quietly looking at the boy’s body, gritted his teeth. “Yes. It would be impossible for a country that cannot save even this kind of child to survive.”

The splendor of the royal family, the enormity of the bonds, the pleasant aristocratic family—perhaps Eugene was intoxicated by all of this. But the reality is harsh. France is at its limit now.

The speaker shouted loudly in the distance in the square. “Citizens of France! Let’s rise together and tell the king and the Estates-General about the crisis of this country now!”

It sounds very mild. However, the anger, resentment, and aspirations of the boiling people will soon explode. The reality that I saw in the historical records was approaching Eugene’s eyes.

Eugene ordered Ippolito. “Soon, I have to go find my mother. Ippolito, prepare a ship. Tell Mr. Hoche to meet me too.”

January 1789: when the Estates-General was announced, Eugene began preparing to leave for the New World.