Napoleon spotted the document on top at a glance, and his breathing immediately grew heavy with excitement.
He knew that style of document all too well—it was a letter of appointment!
Clearly, he had won a string of victories in Italy and had even captured Austria's headquarters there—Milan.
Last time, after the great victory at Toulon, he had been promoted to colonel. This time, then, he ought to become a Brigadier General!
The image of soldiers saluting him and addressing him as "General" surfaced uncontrollably in his mind, and waves of satisfaction surged through his heart.
He was a man who valued power more dearly than life itself. Becoming a general held extraordinary significance for him.
Napoleon immediately snapped to attention and looked expectantly at Brigadier General Carnot.
The latter glanced at him, picked up the letter of appointment from the top, then slid it to the very bottom.
Napoleon's eyes nearly turned green as he screamed inwardly, Hey! No, what are you doing?!
Brigadier General Carnot picked up the second document, unfolded it, and said sternly, "Special Order No. D10227 from General Staff Headquarters.
"Colonel Napoleon Bonaparte, after occupying Milan, you violated Article 5 and Clause 2 of Article 11 of the French Army Regulations. Without the consent of Military Affairs Supervisor Major Odorik, you arbitrarily requisitioned supplies and military funds, and improperly issued allowances to soldiers...
"Furthermore, while the Dimoubin Legion was besieged in Genoa, you received at least three requests for reinforcements from General Dimoubin, yet never sent aid. Nor did you clearly explain your reasons for withholding reinforcements or your subsequent operation plan, leaving the Dimoubin Legion in an extremely dangerous situation...
"Based on the violations above, General Staff Headquarters has decided to issue you its most severe warning and revoke your rank of colonel. Given