While in transit towards Brest. The Imperial Family of Bonaparte joined together for a breakfast in the dining car.
The carriage was steadier than the others, built wider and lower to reduce sway. A long table had been secured to the floor, already laid with porcelain plates, polished cutlery, and covered dishes that kept their heat despite the motion. Sunlight slid across the tablecloth in shifting bands as the countryside passed outside.
A steward moved quietly along the side, lifting lids in sequence. Fresh bread. Eggs. Roasted meats. Fruit arranged in shallow bowls. Coffee steamed in silver pots.
Napoleon II pulled out a chair for Elisabeth before taking his own seat beside her. Napoleon I and Marie Louise sat opposite them.
"Careful," Napoleon II murmured to Elisabeth as the train hit a gentle curve.
"I'm fine," she said, though she accepted his hand anyway.
Marie Louise watched the exchange with a small, knowing look.
