Five Years Later
Year 6 of the Goblin Empire.
At Mount Celestia's The White Bastion, Jano was dealing with a month's worth of paperwork. Nowadays, he spent most of his time meditating, taking a whole month for his cultivation, and dedicating just one day to governance.
The sun was now high in the sky when a Winged officer, her face grave, entered the room.
"Your Majesty, we've received word from our people in the north. They've reported seeing a tribe of Hawkmen near the Bros Mountain Range. The tribe is said to number over ten thousand, and their leader is rumored to be the ninth prince of the Hawkmen King!"
"I remember that near the valley plains of the Bros Mountain Range, there's a new city founded by the Goblins. A few tens of thousands of Goblins live there," the officer continued. "Why would these remnants of the Hawkmen King's court settle so close to the Goblin city?"
"How could the Goblins not have noticed a tribe of ten thousand Hawkmen living right next to their city?" Jano frowned.
"We've investigated, Your Majesty. For the past few years, every year, some Hawkmen have been traveling to the city," Inona replied.
"It seems the Goblins are hiding something from us," Jano sneered.
"What should we do? Let these remnants of the Hawkmen King's court grow stronger?" Inona asked.
"For now, let them be. These Hawkmen can't pose a real threat. The Goblins won't let them take over," Jano replied coldly. "But, when the time is right, we'll wipe them out."
"Inona, our task now is to focus on growing the Winged race." Jano's tone was calm and resolute.
Ten Years Later
Year 16 of the Goblin Empire.
Jano was once again meditating atop the mountain. His presence was more profound than it had been a decade ago, exuding authority and strength.
That day, the same youthful and beautiful Winged officer, Inona, approached him.
"Your Majesty, a young human boy claiming to be your son is here to see you," she said.
On the peak of Mount Celestia, Jano, his silver hair flowing in the wind, didn't open his eyes. He spoke softly, "A son? Where did this human child come from? Send him back.
"Yes, Your Majesty," Inona nodded and turned to leave, but as she was walking down the stairs, Jano's purple eyes opened, and he suddenly called out, "Wait, Inona. Let him come."
He recalled the events of that night, fifteen years ago.
A moment later, a handsome young human boy with golden hair and purple eyes walked up to Jano. They stood facing each other in silence for a long time.
A sudden feeling of kinship surged in Jano.
"Fiona really did have a son!" Jano broke the silence, speaking first.
"My child, come to me."
The 15-year-old boy, now taller than Jano's shoulder, stepped forward obediently.
"My mother said you are my father!" the boy said earnestly.
"Indeed," Jano replied with a gentle nod. "My son, what is your name?"
"My mother named me Reinhardt," the boy answered.
"Reinhardt? What a great name. It seems your mother wants you to be a man as mighty as a lion!" Jano praised, then asked, "How did you get here, child? I remember, the Goblins are very strict about controlling you."
"Father, I rode a griffin to get here!" Reinhardt pointed toward the sky where a griffin was soaring, with a Winged soldier following it from a distance.
Looking at the griffin flying in the distance, Jano shook his head.
"That's too dangerous, Reinhardt. If the Goblins find out, you'll be guilty of a serious crime for leaving on a griffin!"
"It's fine, Father. My mother will cover for me. Besides, Amigul's nineteenth son and I are close, so there's no danger," Reinhardt reassured him.
"Well then, you've come all this way to speak with me. What is it you wish to say?" Jano asked.
"My mother said you would teach me how to become an extraordinary professional!" Reinhardt's face lit up with a brilliant smile.
Translation Analysis:
Simplifying Complex Cultural References: The original text references various political and cultural contexts such as the "Goblin Empire" and specific terminology like "extraordinary professional" and "Hawkmen King's court." I kept the references simple while maintaining the essence of the story. "Extraordinary professional" was translated as "extraordinary professional" to fit Western fantasy norms.
Pacing and Narrative Flow: The chapter moves quickly between Jano's reflections, his interactions with Inona, and the introduction of Reinhardt. I made sure the pacing was consistent, balancing introspective moments with action. I avoided slowing down the story unnecessarily, focusing on advancing the plot while maintaining character depth.
Character Development and Dialogue: Jano's character development is subtly conveyed through his conversations, particularly his reaction to Reinhardt. His thoughts about Fiona's son create a sense of anticipation and emotional depth. The dialogue between Jano and Reinhardt was kept direct and focused on their connection, allowing for emotional resonance without over-explaining.
Maintaining Themes of Power and Kinship: The themes of power (embodied by Jano) and family (highlighted by his son Reinhardt) were central. I focused on Jano's inner conflict and pride when meeting his son, keeping it clear that while he was emotionally moved, he remained focused on the broader political context.
Keeping Cultural Differences Simple: The "griffin" was left as is, understanding that it is a familiar mythical creature to Western audiences. The use of the griffin to symbolize freedom and danger is clear in Western fantasy tropes.
Clarifying Character Roles: Inona's role as Jano's administrative leader was emphasized to show her importance in the governance structure. The reference to "extraordinary professional" was maintained as it implies Jano's high expectations for Reinhardt's future.
Character Relationships: The emotional core of the chapter revolves around Jano and Reinhardt's father-son bond, set against the backdrop of their tumultuous world. I carefully crafted the dialogue to reflect a father's concern, a son's ambition, and the underlying tension between personal desires and political realities.
Conclusion:
The chapter was translated to keep the pacing smooth and the dialogue meaningful while ensuring cultural nuances were clear to Western readers. The focus on power, family dynamics, and political strategy is intact, and the emotional connection between Jano and Reinhardt is emphasized without detracting from the broader narrative. The shift from world-building to personal drama provides depth to the characters while moving the plot forward. Let me know if you need further adjustments!