Chapter 1168
Kylle instructed her children be taken out to play, then summoned Jocelyn's mother, Vera Jansen, for a conversation. When Vera heard Kylle mention Thomas, she frowned slightly.
“Your Majesty, General Farrell is much older than Jocelyn; he may not be a suitable match. However, the Marquis of Glandale’s third son, Hubert Schmitt, is a promising young man. He’s young and talented, having passed the provincial examinations last year. Though he won’t inherit a title, his talent and the Quinton family’s support could certainly advance his career.”
Hubert was striking and composed. At nineteen, he had already passed the provincial exams and was preparing for the national exams. His future seemed bright.
Vera’s words caused Lydia, standing nearby, to chuckle. “Madam Vera, do you think the Quinton family has many promising sons?”
Vera felt a surge of pride. “Naturally. There’s not a weakling among them. The third branch may be the weakest, but even Logan married a high princess.”
Kylle laughed. “My third uncle isn't weak; he simply had an accident. Before his fall, he was as sharp and clever as any of the others. Our family has no weaklings. With such a large family and so many talented sons, many already serve in official positions, and even more are poised to. What do you think someone like Hubert Schmitt, supported only by his mother’s family, can achieve?”
Kylle glanced nonchalantly at her fingers, then added, “We can’t have him competing with your son for positions, can we?”
Vera’s expression grew serious.
Lydia quickly added, “Exactly. There are limited positions. It’s preferable if Ms. Jocelyn’s husband doesn’t compete with the Quinton family’s sons. As for General Farrell—yes, he’s older, but he’s a third-ranked general. His mother also holds an official title. If Ms. Jocelyn marries him, he could secure her a title, making her a titled lady at a young age. Why bother with someone else when such a path is clear?”
Vera considered their words. Though intriguing, it wasn't entirely convincing. She began to doubt Hubert’s impressiveness.
“Your Majesty,” Vera said, “General Farrell’s household is rather disorderly. Who knows what else the Farrell family hides? Besides, he was previously married. How could we allow one of our family’s daughters to marry him? Even powerful military officials don’t compare to civil service officials in reputation.”
“Aunt Vera, if he weren’t previously married, how would General Farrell ever consider Jocelyn? Have you heard? Ms. Young once admired him. Both families were about to arrange a match, but General Farrell deemed her unsuitable.”
Vera, though familiar with the story, found it hard to believe. “How could General Farrell refuse the royal chancellor’s granddaughter? That shows his arrogance.”
“Arrogant, yes, but a justified arrogance. Do you know why he’s so confident?” Kylle picked up her coffee, her pale fingers tracing the rim of the cup. A faint smile played on her lips. “There are things I shouldn’t tell you, Aunt Vera, but Jocelyn is my cousin. When something good arises, I always consider her first. I don’t have a special opinion of General Farrell, but His Majesty does.”
Kylle slowly sipped her coffee, watching Vera’s expression shift from stunned to elated. She lowered her gaze, savoring the warmth as the words settled.
Vera was indeed tempted.
Lydia seized the opportunity. “Earlier, Her Majesty mentioned General Farrell to Ms. Jocelyn. However, Ms. Jocelyn dislikes him, finding him too old. But why didn’t Ms. Young feel the same? Was Mr. Young wise enough to see the bigger picture? Mr. Young, a high-ranking official, even approached General Farrell’s family to propose. That speaks volumes about General Farrell’s desirability. Ms. Jocelyn may not understand, but as her mother, you should carefully consider this for her sake. There’s also her temperament. Could she tolerate a concubine? General Farrell is devoted; Her Majesty even tested him. He has no intention of taking a concubine. No concubine means a much more peaceful life. ”
Vera was thoroughly convinced, practically wishing for this marriage. The absence of concubines was a tremendous comfort—fewer troubles, fewer complications. What could be more desirable?
Moreover, Kylle made a valid point. Vera couldn’t allow her son-in-law and son to compete for positions. Each branch of the family had its pre-arranged roles and responsibilities.