The Naval Battle of the English Channel

Four days had passed, and the date had shifted to May 25th, 1801.

Across the expanse of the English Channel, a formidable sight was taking shape. The French and Spanish Fleets sailed in unison. The combined forces boasted an impressive array – 120 ships of the line, flanked by 30 frigates and supported by 10 brigs.

At the helm of this fleet was the Flagship Orient commanded by Admiral Brueys d'Aigalliers. His reputation preceded him, earned through his adept operations in the Mediterranean Sea, where he had skillfully orchestrated the transportation of men and supplies to bolster the Egyptian campaign. Which resulted in Napoleon Bonaparte having assigned him to become the Admiral of the Fleet. 

Amidst the creaking of sails and the rhythmic lapping of water against hulls, Admiral Brueys stood on the deck of his flagship, his gaze fixed on the horizon, towards the coast of Great Britain.