Chapter 363 Heading off to Southern France

Chapter 363 Heading off to Southern France

Immediately following his father's directive, Francis exited the room, leaving Napoleon and Lucien immersed in their grave discussion. Upon stepping into the corridor, he was slightly taken aback to find Tristan leisurely leaning against the wall, an apple in hand.Follow current novels at novelhall.com)

"Francis," Tristan began, his voice tinged with a mix of curiosity and concern as he took another bite of his apple. "What grave matter has father entrusted upon you?"

"It's a dire situation unfolding in the southern regions of France," Francis divulged, his tone laced with the weight of responsibility. "An outbreak of what is believed to be an influenza virus. Father wishes for me to personally oversee the crisis management there."

Tristan's eyebrows shot up in surprise, his previous casual demeanor now replaced by a more serious one as he processed the information. "That sounds perilous, brother. Are you sure about this?"

"I have my orders, Tristan. And besides, it's our duty to stand with our people in times of crisis," Francis affirmed.

"Hmm...southern France you say? Did Father tell us when did it start?" Tristan asked.

Francis shook his head. "I was only told that there was an outbreak and I needed to go there. I guess I'll find it out once I'm on site."

"I see..." Tristan hummed thoughtfully. "Well, if there is an outbreak, it immediately turns into an international issue," Tristan stated matter-of-factly, taking another bite of his apple.

Tristan continued, now completely immersed in the discussion and visibly concerned.

"Especially if it's as contagious as the flu. Borders might get closed, and trade could be affected. Not to mention the fact that most of our trades go from Toulon to Barcelona. Since Toulon is part of Southern France, it's likely to be directly impacted by this outbreak. This could really hamper our economic activities. Should I inform my government about this?"

Tristan shot a glance at Francis as if challenging him.

Finally, with everything in order, Francis took a moment to collect himself before heading out. He knew he was walking into an uncertain situation, but he was ready. He had a duty to fulfill, and he wasn't going to let anything stand in his way.

With one last look around his quarters, he grabbed his bags and left, his steps brisk and purposeful as he made his way to the palace gates—wait, he had forgotten something.

"Oh right...I meant to inform Aveline about the situation," Francis sighed deeply. He turned around promptly, heading back to reach out to his sister. It was essential that she be made aware of the situation, given Italy's geographic proximity to Southern France.

Aveline was staying in her old bedroom during her time in the Palace of Versailles, he was able to arrive there in just a few minutes. He knocked softly before entering, finding Aveline sitting by her window, a book in hand.

"Aveline, I need to speak with you," Francis said, his tone urgent.

Aveline looked up, her brow furrowed in concern as she noticed Francis's hurried demeanor. "Brother, what's wrong? And you looked like you are going out."

"It's an influenza outbreak in Southern France. I'm heading there to oversee the crisis management," he quickly explained. "But I realized I hadn't informed you about it. Italy could potentially be affected given the proximity, and I thought it wise to let you know as you are the Queen of Italy."

Aveline set her book aside, her full attention now on Francis.

"An influenza outbreak?" Aveline repeated, her eyes widening with realization. "That sounds grave. Thank you for letting me know. I'll need to make arrangements and alert our health officials immediately."

Francis nodded, pleased that she understood the gravity of the situation. "I thought you should know, given the potential for this to cross borders. Make sure your people are prepared."

Aveline stood up, her determined expression showing her readiness to take action. "I will. And brother, please be careful."

"I will...I'm off to Southern France now. I'll be back in a week."