In the same traditional-looking manor in Suesville.
After receiving Ian here as a guest a few days ago, Jasper appeared as well.
Jasper had always thought that Law Manor was huge, but it paled in comparison to Gale’s manor. There were five entrances and exits each, and a courtyard that occupied hectares of land.
It was evident that Gale had put a lot of his wealth into this residence.
Arriving at the entrance of the courtyard, Jasper found servants already waiting for him there.
After clarifying Jasper’s identity, the servant then ushered Jasper into the manor that had hundreds of years of history.
After seven to eight minutes of walking and passing two artificial hills, an artificial lake, and two lake pavilions, Jasper arrived at the inner courtyard.
Between beautifully decorated buildings was another lake pavilion, one that Jasper found Gale sitting in.
Though his head was full of white hair, he was a strong man.
Gale was reading when Jasper walked over.
Glancing at the cover, Jasper realized that it was a thread-bound ancient book, a rare ‘History of the North and South’.
Jasper walked into the lake pavilion, and Gale shut the book before turning to smile at Jasper. “You’re here.”
Despite not knowing whether Gale was a friend or a foe, Jasper still held enough respect for the Haddock Chamber of Commerce’s spiritual leader. He nodded and replied, “Yes, I have.”
Gale hummed and looked down to read his book again. He merely pointed at the seat opposite him and spoke, “Take a seat.”
Jasper sat before Gale as ushered, and there was a small round stone table between the two.
Like that, half an hour passed.
Gale continued to focus on his book throughout that half an hour while Jasper enjoyed the coffee served by the servants. He did not mind the fact that he had to wait.
Half an hour later, Gale finally put the book down and sighed. “I’m growing old now. There are times when I end up forgetting things while I’m doing something else.
“Especially when it comes to reading. Interesting plots take up all my focus. I apologize if I have made you wait, Jasper.”
Jasper smiled. “You still insist on reading every day, Old Master Hurlbutt. You’re a role model to youths like me. I’m honored to be able to learn from you. I don’t feel like I’ve been made to wait at all.”
Gale smiled and placed the book down. “Among this compiled ‘History of the North and South’ is ‘The Tale of Casey Charles’. The troop of white horsemen is truly fascinating.
“Now that I think about it, you share many similarities with Casey Charles, Jasper.”
Jasper immediately replied, “You’re too kind, Old Master Hurlbutt. The white-robed General Casey Charles was a legendary general. How could I possibly compare to him?”
Gale smiled. “Historians claim that Casey Charles was a cautious man. Dressed poorly and uninterested in musical instruments, he was a horrible archer and even worse on horseback. However, he was great at uplifting soldiers and urging them to do their best.
“You, on the other hand, are humble and low-profile. You have never flaunted your ability and while you are ambitious and young, you have never held it over anyone’s head. In terms of business tricks, you are understanding of what people want and you are good with scheming.
“Would you not say that you two have much in common?”
Jasper looked at Gale and replied calmly, “I’m honored that you’ve paid so much attention to me, Old Master Hurlbutt.”
Beneath Gale’s snow-white eyebrows were a pair of wise eyes that were now filled with intent as he spoke, “I did not know much about you in the beginning and then Ian came to look for me to ask me for help.
“I became interested in this young man who managed to corner my student, so I had someone ask around for me.
“It would be fine if I had remained ignorant, but the more I heard about you, the more intrigued I became. You’re an interesting young man… The Laws value you a lot as well, correct?”
