Chapter 111: Gawain’s Growth and Family Dynamics (rewrite)

Gawain's Growth and Family Dynamics

Lott had figured out the source of Gawain's rapid growth: the river water she had drunk earlier. It turned out that not only did the fish in the bucket grow significantly, but the river water also had a peculiar effect of accelerating biological development. Although Gawain had only consumed a small amount, it had made her grow to the size of a four or five-year-old child.

Lott realized that if he wished, he could use the river water to accelerate Gawain's growth further, potentially even turning her into an adult overnight. However, he quickly dismissed the idea. He wanted his daughter to enjoy a healthy childhood and develop naturally. Such rapid development might lead to psychological issues later on, so he chose to allow her to grow at her own pace.

Gawain, laughing and playing in her father's arms, drew an envious look from Galahad. Whispering to Lott, Galahad said, "Foster father, I won't disturb you any longer. I'll leave for now."

"What's the hurry?" Lott responded, puzzled. "We're family. Don't be so formal."

Galahad was taken aback by Lott's response. Seeing him hesitate, Lott placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "Come, sit down and stay with your sister."

As Lott gestured for Galahad to join them, he thought, [By the way, help me deal with the files.] Morgan, who overheard Lott's thoughts, found it amusing but understood his intentions. The idea was that while Gawain was still young, it was important for her to grow up happily. Later, she could assist her father with his duties.

Morgan approached and said with a slight smile, "Little girl, don't you know that your father is tired? Come, let mother hold you…"

Gawain looked at her father with a mixture of surprise and sadness as Morgan gently took her from Lott's arms. Lott, feeling helpless, watched as his daughter was comforted by her mother. He thought to himself, [This little one is being bullied now, but I'll keep this moment in mind. I'll be interested to see her reaction when she becomes a knight and looks back at this time.]

Morgan, while pretending to be stern, playfully tousled Gawain's neatly combed hair, much to the little girl's displeasure. Gawain almost cried from the playful torment, but Lott quickly intervened.

"Tsk…" Morgan reluctantly released Gawain, who immediately rushed back into Lott's arms with a small "ooh" of relief. Lott gently patted her back, feeling a mix of amusement and affection.

Morgan and Lott, as a couple, shared a playful conspiracy to tease their daughter, reflecting the sometimes light-hearted yet challenging dynamics of family life.

After a while, Lott said, "Alright, let's get you back. Your mother and I still have work to do, so please don't be a bother."

Gawain, with a serious face, nodded and said, "Okay, father. I won't disturb you and mother. I'll stay out of your way."

She glanced at Galahad, who was still looking a bit lost and added, "Brother Galahad, let's go. Some things aren't suitable for children to watch."

With a mature expression that belied her age, Gawain exhibited a level of precociousness that was unusual for a child under three months old. Lott and Morgan exchanged amused looks at their daughter's cheekiness.

Galahad, feeling a bit threatened by the situation, decided to make a hasty exit. He thought, [I'll keep you in my thoughts, Princess Gawain. Good luck.]

Gawain, sensing the danger in the air, looked longingly at the palace exit but was quickly pulled back by Morgan. "Little Gawain, come, Mother has something to teach you," Morgan said with a stern smile.

"Mom, I don't want to!" Gawain protested, but it was no use.

As Gawain was led away by Morgan, she had to accept the inevitable lesson. It was a day of considerable growth for Gawain, both literally and metaphorically.

Later that evening, as Altria arrived to report to Lott and Morgan, she found Gawain diligently learning to write beside Lott. Although Gawain looked like a child of three or four years old, she was only a few months old. Altria handed Lott the documents and reported, "Your Majesty, we have instructed the remaining Knights of the Round Table to begin distributing the leaflets in all major cities of Britain, except in the territories controlled by the Humble King Vortigern in Wales."

Lott nodded in approval. The Knights of the Round Table had become crucial in managing the territories and spreading the word about the official selection examination. By targeting literate individuals who were dissatisfied with their current lives, Lott hoped to find capable and supportive personnel for his administration.

"If there's nothing else, I'll take my leave," Altria said, her thoughts shifting to dinner.

Lott interrupted her, "Wait a moment."

He then addressed Gawain, "That's enough studying for today. You should go with Altria to the dormitory and rest. Remember, take Gawain back first before eating. This order cannot be changed."

Morgan added, "Yes, this order must not be changed. Do you understand?"

Altria, somewhat resigned, nodded. "Yes."

As Altria took Gawain and left, Lott and Morgan exchanged a high-five, sharing a moment of camaraderie despite their ongoing workload.

"Alright, back to work, you rascal," Morgan said with a playful tone.

Lott's expression shifted from happiness to a more resigned look. Despite the challenges and tiredness, he realized that his efforts were crucial for his family's future and well-being. He hoped that by working diligently now, he would alleviate future burdens on Gawain and ensure she could grow up without undue pressure.