July 12th, 1821.
Aboard the French Pacific Fleet's flagship, the IFNS Napoleon, stood Francis, his eyes scanning the expansive horizon. The shores of Edo were bustling with activity, crowded with thousands of its citizens who had gathered to witness the fleet's departure.
There was a palpable mix of emotions in the air—apprehension intertwined with a sigh of relief. The French Pacific Fleet had, after all, played a pivotal role in altering the course of their nation's history, having once wreaked havoc upon their capital for refusing to yield to the French demands. The scars of the past were still fresh in the minds of many.
Yet, amid the remnants of bygone chaos, there was an emerging sense of optimism. A portion of the populace was ready to turn the page, eager to embrace the potential of a new era and leave behind the shadows of the conflict.