Chapter 1833 - 507: Facing Each Other with Swords in the Name of the Sacred, Reconciled by the Demon King’s "Plot" (Part 3)

They are both quite awkward: one has a poor grasp of joking, while the other's expressions leave one wondering whether to laugh or not.

Just as Jelock was pondering how to reopen the conversation, Edward thought for a while and suddenly spoke up.

"Richard is becoming more like you," Edward said with a hint of fatherly kindness on his face, continuing in a gentle tone, "That kid is seriously studying the glory of a Knight, stubborn like a mule."

"I'll take that as a compliment," Jelock smiled, momentarily forgetting formalities, "Though I actually think Alfred was more like me when I was young."

"That was before," Edward shook his head, his tone carrying a mix of helplessness and a bit of humor, "Their personalities have changed quite a bit over the past year, especially recently. The two youngsters found themselves an unbeatable opponent and get put in their place every time."

"Oh?" Jelock showed obvious surprise, "That's incredible, whose child dares to sort out the future Duke?"

Thinking of the fierce girl, Edward's smile grew slightly nuanced.

"It's a child of the Colin family, specifically Colin's sister... although she's an illegitimate child, her demeanor isn't typical. All in all, she's probably a good person."

Most illegitimate children are either timid or very calculating, rarely developing into well-rounded souls.

And Miss Vivian, though her personality is a bit odd, unleashing full force kicks at children and looking at the legitimate heir in a way that sends chills... but her sunny disposition and confident manner are reasonably normal.

Jelock chuckled.

"Speaking of which, what about Lino?"

"Lino hasn't changed much in these two years, still as playful as ever, and increasingly like Erin." Edward's eyes turned particularly tender, showing he greatly spoiled his daughter, even more than the heir, "Ah, I somewhat wish she could be a bit quieter. Bravery and kindness are wonderful traits, but her energy is too abundant."

"It's quite good." Jelock whispered, casting his gaze towards the monastery's entrance, "Being like Erin is nice... If she weren't burdened by the Light of Praise, she would probably lead a joyful life."

Edward gently shrugged.

"Perhaps."

The greatest lesson he learned from the previous generation was to never trust sudden inspirations that disrupt well-laid plans.

Sometimes taking a different path seems to solve immediate problems, but actually buries bigger troubles for future generations.

However, it's quite interesting that Edward feels Divine still favors the Campbell family.

Although none of his three children resemble him, each, in some wonderful way, has filled many familial regrets.

Perhaps it's Saint Sis's reward for him.

He shares something in common with Jelock; although decisive, he believes in karma.

"Speaking of which, you've changed quite a bit."

Looking at the suddenly speaking Edward, Jelock pointed at himself, saying surprisingly.

"Me?"

"Is there anyone else here?"

Edward laughed, patting Jelock's uninjured shoulder, as he stood up from the rubble.

Watching his brother's back, Jelock was surprised to find that wide back seemed less weary.

He moved his Adam's apple slightly and said.

"... You've changed quite a lot as well."

Edward was surprised.

"Have I?"

Jelock earnestly nodded.

"I feel... You've gotten younger."

Although it might all just be his illusion, he felt after their conversation, his brother was much more relaxed than before.

This eased Jelock's guilt slightly.

His previous arrogance had caused his brother considerable trouble, but this time, he might truly have helped him... a bit.

Edward paused, suddenly thinking of his white hair, and started laughing heartily when he realized he hadn't told Jelock anything.

Jelock looked at his brother, confused, casting puzzled glances at him.

After laughing enough, Edward raised his hand and rubbed the silver-white bangs hanging over his forehead with his raised index finger.

"I forgot to tell you last time, this hair is actually dyed."

This matter was widely circulated in Thunder City.

All the citizens knew he dyed his hair white to share in Erin's hardship.

However, Jelock was in the Dungeon and places like the Dungeon or Krant Island probably wouldn't receive copies of the Thunder City Daily.

Embarrassedly, he had said he would let his brother witness Thunder City flourish, yet had not sent a single newspaper there.

In the future, he would enhance the security on Krant Island, and include newspapers in the supplies sent there.

"So... Not because I annoyed you?" Jelock said quietly.

Edward's lips curled into a smile.

"Don't underestimate your big brother, your little mishap wouldn't break me."

This wasn't entirely true, last Winter Moon had indeed whitened a few strands of hair, or else he wouldn't have dyed his hair silver.

"Don't worry about me, take care of yourself, consider it for the sake of our mother."

Leaving behind a dumbfounded Jelock, he left a final farewell and headed towards the monastery's outside.

When the sunlight pierced through the clouds and shone on his forehead, the smile as gentle as Prince Colin once more transformed into an eagle-like ferociousness.