Cordemais, Pays de la Loire, December 1835
The automobile slowed as it approached the facility.
The plant stood ahead along the riverbank, large but contained. Brick walls reinforced with iron beams. Four stacks rose above the structure, but none were active. No smoke. No movement from the chimneys.
Napoleon II watched it in silence.
Beside him, Marcel Giroux held a thick folder, edges worn from repeated handling.
"This is the final inspection before activation, Sire," Giroux said. "All systems have been tested individually. Today we confirm integrated operation."
Napoleon II nodded once.
"Then we verify everything."
The automobile rolled through the gate and came to a stop near the main entrance. Workers were already lined along the approach, not in ceremony, but in position. Engineers, operators, maintenance crews—each assigned to a section.
Napoleon II stepped out.
The chief engineer approached, removing his cap.
"Sire. The plant is prepared for full activation."
