Chapter 6 Their Grandfather

That was what he said, but one could hear the pride dripping from his voice. “He's full of nonsense,” Phoebe replied calmly. There was an innate pride in her very being. “In debates, there is only victory or defeat, no such thing as sophistry versus righteousness.” After a brief pause, she added, “But that old man is rather adorable. He's even learned how to tattle.” Lucius chuckled, his tone carefree. “Bad luck for him. Between us, who's the real guardian here? And he's tattling on me? I ought to give him a good smack.” Lucius pedaled his dilapidated tricycle, taking Phoebe along, the two enjoying the picturesque scenery of Hepham. They were accustomed to this lifestyle: Lucius was content, and Phoebe thoroughly enjoyed it. “Phoebe, it must have been hard for you to transfer from Jexburgh University, where you were admitted as the top student in the nation two years ago, to Hepham University,” Lucius suddenly said softly. Phoebe's expression remained serene. Her crystal-clear, bright eyes took in the view of the bustling cityscape as the lights began to glow. She spoke gently, “As long as you don't feel it's unfair, I won't either. You coming back is the greatest blessing for me. Being alive is better than anything else.” The atmosphere grew quiet. After a long silence, Lucius finally exhaled and said, “Don't worry. I promised Grandpa I wouldn't go back to Jexburgh for three years.” “And after three years?” Phoebe asked. No one knew how much courage it took for her to voice those four words. Lucius smiled but didn't respond. He simply pedaled harder. “Lucius, you still can't let it go, can you?” Phoebe's voice trembled slightly. “Let it go?” Lucius smiled radiantly. “The Seelye family sacrificed everything for the nation, but what did we get in return? A year ago, Grandpa passed away from grief. Seven years ago, your father died on the battlefield. Five years ago, your uncles also gave their lives for the country.” Lucius's voice was calm as he continued, “You're the only one alive in the Seelye family. After I went to prison, what happened to you? Did your legs really become paralyzed from illness, as you say? I'm not stupid! Though I don't carry the Seelye name and was only an orphan Grandpa took in, the debts owed to the Seelye family will be collected by me. The Seelye family isn't done yet!” His voice betrayed no emotion. “Lucius, they say you won't enter Jexburgh for three years, but when you do, it'll be to kill three people,” Phoebe said, wrapping her fair arms lightly around Lucius's sturdy waist. “Three people? Haha, not sure that's enough,” Lucius replied with a faint smile. “Those people owe our family far too much. Even taking their lives isn't enough to repay it.” Lucius deliberately skipped over the heavy topic and grinned. “Phoebe, I made a little money today. We're having meat for dinner!” The tricycle headed straight for the market. “Lucius, your name that means 'lux, the illustrious one' was chosen by Grandpa to remind you to shine in the world. Now, you're collecting scraps to support me. If Grandpa knew, he'd be furious,” Phoebe said. “Haha! Phoebe, you're my entire world. That name isn't wasted,” Lucius laughed heartily. Their current life was undeniably impoverished. They lived in a shared courtyard within an old alley in Hepham. Their portion consisted of two small rooms, with a shared kitchen and bathroom. Lucius cooked while Phoebe, as always, immersed herself in her books. After dinner, the two prayed for Phillip together. That night, Phoebe had fallen asleep. Lucius sat on the bed, gazing out at the moonlit night, lost in thought. He sighed, his eyes briefly resting on the photo hanging on the wall. Then he smiled. His mind conjured up the image of Phillip's stern, upright face—a man of unwavering principles, unyielding to even the smallest compromises. Phillip was a true legend. He had joined the army at thirteen, enduring the most chaotic times in history. He trekked through snow-covered mountains and marshlands, participated in and led numerous renowned battles, and was a genuine hero of Clusia. Yet, Phillip was indifferent to fame and fortune. After liberation, he refused high-ranking positions, choosing instead to return to a life of simplicity. Though eventually called back to serve, he only held the modest rank of department head within the military. His rank was a mere lieutenant colonel. In Jexburgh's deep and treacherous political waters, he was insignificant. Yet, he was an anomaly. This lieutenant general could command the respect of lieutenant generals and even full generals, who called him “Commander Seelye.” What truly struck fear into people's hearts was Phillip's direct line to the highest authorities. With his rigid, uncompromising character, he had filed countless complaints and reports throughout his life, offending many powerful figures. This left the Seelye family constantly under pressure and led to repeated tragedies. The year Lucius went to prison, Phillip finally succumbed to his grief. Though he died of natural causes at ninety-one, it was a life cut short by sorrow.