Translator: Cinder Translations
...
After confirming the part-time job, Aldridge had Kevin sit down and began to instruct him on a few matters.
"Kevin!" the mentor said with a serious tone, "You've been in Gabella for a while now, so you must have some understanding of the current situation in the imperial capital."
Kevin was a bit puzzled. "What do you mean, sir?"
Aldridge's face took on a solemn expression. "It's about the issue of the Emperor's heir."
Kevin understood. He had heard whispers about the subtle rivalry between the two sons of Emperor Bartley Griffin—the Crown Prince Felix Griffin and the Second Prince Antonio Griffin.
"Listen!" Aldridge said, conveying his message to Kevin. "The Royal Archives is part of the royal buildings, so it will inevitably get caught up in these disputes. However, as long as you don't actively probe into these matters and refrain from asking too many questions, you won't get into trouble."
"I will definitely keep that in mind," Kevin nodded earnestly.
My goodness, what used to happen only in novels and on stage is now happening right next to me!
Seeing Kevin look a bit frightened, senior Mond Landon quickly reassured him, "Don't be afraid, Kevin. If you follow the teacher's advice, you won't run into any problems. You're an outsider, and you carry the reputation of the Scholar's Tower. As long as you don't involve yourself, others won't bother you."
I don't want to get involved, Kevin silently retorted. However, from your previous demeanor, it seemed like you had a good relationship with Second Prince Antonio Griffin, who is also my senior since he learned under Professor Aldridge.
For some reason, his curiosity piqued, and he blurted out, "So, who do you support, teacher?"
As soon as he spoke, he realized he had overstepped, especially since Aldridge had just reminded him not to pry.
Aldridge first shot him a glare, then stroked his beard and said, "You shouldn't ask such casual questions in front of outsiders. However, since we're all friends here, it's fine to tell you. I obviously support my student Antonio, and the entire Scholar's Tower supports him as well. This isn't exactly a secret; the whole empire knows about it. So, as a member of the Scholar's Tower, when you're out there, people will assume you're an Antonio supporter. But if you start asking questions here and there, it will definitely lead you into trouble, which is why I specifically instructed you today."
Kevin nodded repeatedly. Over the past few years, he had learned what kind of entity the Scholar's Tower was in the Gabella Empire. In short, it had deep roots and strong influence. No wonder they dared to openly support the Second Prince; even if they chose the wrong side, the new emperor wouldn't take it out on the people in the Scholar's Tower. At most, they would just reduce some financial support.
After pondering, Aldridge said, "Alright, Kevin, take some time to familiarize yourself with the Royal Archives. Make sure to get along with the staff there. If you encounter anything you don't understand, be sure to ask them—except for the matter I just mentioned. In short, don't look down on others just because you're a member of the Scholar's Tower."
"I will remember your instructions," Kevin respectfully bowed to his mentor.
"I'll walk you down," Mond Landon said as he led Kevin out.
"Kevin, do you know?" Mond said as they walked down the stairs, "I believe that only by handing the empire over to His Highness Antonio can Gabella... No, all of human civilization have a future."
Hmm? It seems that Senior Mond is a loyal supporter of the Second Prince.
"Ah, it's a pity that although we support him, the Crown Prince has more than half of the local lords and the Gabella Church backing him, along with a mother who is the Empress and a grandfather who is the Chancellor of the Empire. The outcome is hard to predict."
What outcome? Kevin thought silently. Compared to Felix, Antonio's conditions are too poor. Besides, there are rumors about his disreputable origin—being the child of a witch. Wait? Hold on, Antonio just won a significant battle. For Gabella, which values military achievements, there might be a chance after all.
Even though he was secretly comparing the two princes in his mind, Kevin remained silent, keeping his mentor's instructions in mind.
Meanwhile, Mond Landon continued to talk non-stop.
Before they knew it, they reached the door, and Mond glanced at Kevin with satisfaction.
"It seems you've remembered what the teacher said. In the future, just do as I told you, and when it comes to the two princes, no matter how the other party talks, don't interrupt."
So this was a test, Kevin sighed in relief and left after bidding farewell to Mond.
…
After seeing Kevin off, Mond returned to Aldridge's study.
"How was it?" Aldridge asked.
"Very good," Mond replied with a smile, "Kevin took your advice to heart."
"Ah," Aldridge shook his head. "With this child's talent and wisdom, if he were to join our plans, he would definitely grow to be a great asset. But he's still so young; I can't bear to pull him into this mess."
Mond laughed heartily. "What do you mean by 'pull him into this mess'? That's such a harsh way to put it. Teacher, we're doing this for the future of human civilization!"
"Ah, enough of this. Do you know? McDonald and Yarvi are coming back."
TL: Duke McDonald, previously mentioned in Ch320.
"Oh!" Mond replied, but internally he felt a wave of unease.
Old Marshal McDonald is a big shot in the Gabella Empire's military. He fought alongside His Highness Antonio in the war against the Nesta Empire. After their victory, His Highness Antonio returned first while the old marshal stayed temporarily at the border.
McDonald had never expressed any inclination towards either prince in their rivalry. It was uncertain what changes his return might bring, especially since he wielded immense influence within the military.
As for Yarvi, he was another important senior in the Scholar's Tower, a few years younger than Aldridge, making him a junior. Yarvi specialized in military strategies and was sent to the border to assist Antonio and McDonald after the war broke out. After the ceasefire, he was responsible for negotiating with the Nesta Empire and remained at the border, returning alongside McDonald this time.
"I wonder if Yarvi managed to persuade McDonald. That old man has always been known for his rigidity."
Aldridge stroked his beard, a hint of worry etched on his brow.
Mond reassured his mentor, "With His Highness Antonio's outstanding performance in this war, he must have made a deep impression on the old marshal."
"Yes, I think so too." Aldridge agreed with his student.
Even if they couldn't sway him to the side of the Second Prince, they at least needed this old marshal to remain neutral. They absolutely couldn't let him support Crown Prince Felix.
---
TL Note:
I summarized the big author's note.
The author apologizes for the delay, explaining they became captivated by Cantonese opera after watching White Snake: The Legend of Love, which led to a distraction.
(End of the Chapter)
---
Want More of (FF)?
Read ahead on [Pa.treon](pa treon . com / CinderTL) – up to Chapter 684.
Early access starts at $5. Your support keeps this going!
💥Use Code CINDER2025 to get 50% first month discount on TUR and TUP Tiers. Valid Till 15Jan2025.
Subscribing to this tier also gives you access to Nightmare Strikes!
Translated 1200+ Chapters and 1.42M+ Words