Chapter 1858: General Vance’s Intentions

In the gazebo of Bertie’s palace front courtyard, Ian Shelby and Jocelyn were keeping him company for afternoon tea, having already played two games of chess.

Father and son were equally skilled at chess.

"Where are Annie and Trevor? Haven’t seen them for a couple of hours," Bertie asked as he placed a chess piece, seemingly remembering suddenly. "What are they up to?"

Ian considered his move, "They’re taking bridal photos. A few days ago, they scoped the royal grounds and decided to use this time to shoot several sets, trying out various styles."

"That’s good, getting ready early so they’re not rushed later," Bertie remarked happily, looking up at the young people sitting across from him, "Have you two taken your photos yet? When do you plan to?"

"We’re doing a travel photoshoot," Ian replied, then turned to wrap an arm around Jocelyn’s shoulder with a smile, "We plan to travel around the world, and take photos in Balisle."

"Do you have the time?"

"Yes, everything will be arranged before we leave," Ian said. "We’ll finish the wedding banquet in Riventhal first, and there are some matters at the hospital that need attention."

"Take bodyguards," Bertie suggested worriedly.

Ian just laughed and shook his head, "No need, we’ll keep a low profile so as not to attract attention. We’ll also be cautious about safety. Besides, society’s overall security is quite good."

Bertie didn’t say much more, just reminded them to stay safe.

After finishing the game, Ian planned to take Jocelyn to see the couple taking their bridal photos, so he bid farewell to his father and left hand in hand with her.

Bertie remained in the gazebo, the breeze carrying the fresh scent of soil, though the people had left, the tea had not yet cooled.

He drank tea alone, reflecting on the events of recent times, feeling very fortunate.

His health had recovered, granting him decades more to live, a bonus life indeed.

Eden had stepped down and stopped causing trouble, and the remaining royal troublemakers had been dealt with.

His son returned to inherit the throne, married the woman he loved, and the long-missing Annie had been found...

Such was the greatest happiness in life.

Sipping his tea with a smile, Bertie absentmindedly looked up to see General Vance approaching, without even a little attendant, he came alone.

The old King was slightly taken aback, holding his teacup as he looked at him, feeling that it must be something important since they typically had no direct matters to discuss.

"Your Majesty." General Vance knelt on one knee, performing a knightly gesture.

The old King felt a slight jolt in his heart, then watched him rise, directly asking, "What’s the matter? Do you have something to discuss with me?"

Easily discerned with a glance.

General Vance stood before him, appearing heavy-hearted.

"Please, have a seat." Bertie’s expression was gentle, "If there’s something, just say it, no need to beat around the bush."

But General Vance stood there motionless, meeting the old King’s gaze, daring to speak up, "Your Majesty, I’m here for Winnie."

Bertie asked thoughtfully, "Has her condition improved?" Knowing about the girl’s depression.

"Since King Louis returned, Nina’s condition has been relatively stable, at least she hasn’t had any suicidal thoughts," he explained.

"That’s good!" Bertie remarked without catching the main point, thinking, "It’s been stable for a while, continue with the medication, and with proper guidance, depression is something that can be overcome with a strong mind!"

General Vance knew he hadn’t caught the main point, from the mention of King Louis’s return, which wasn’t just a timeline but a most crucial remedy.

"Your Majesty, Nina likes the King." The father got straight to the point, asking, "Could the King marry her as his consort?"