Chapter 199: Utilitairianism |
Morale Support: Scherzo
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After the “delightful” dinner, Lisa brewed two cups of red tea for both of them and took Aya upstairs to play, leaving the two men in the living room.
Subconsciously, Percival took out his pipe from his pocket, but quickly put it back. It seemed that his wife did not allow him to smoke at home.
“This red tea tastes good.”
Reiner took a sip of the red tea, its fragrance filled the air, perfectly balanced in sweetness, creating a stark contrast with the red cabbage soup.
“This is the tea brought back by my father-in-law from the Astar Kingdom in the eastern part of the continent. The climate there is perfect for tea cultivation, and almost all the highest quality tea on the continent comes from the Astar Kingdom. Just think, in the era of the Ancient Magic Empire, such tea was only available to the privileged upper class. Now, even ordinary people can taste it with a little money. It’s somewhat lamentable.”
Percival explained. He took a sip of the red tea, leaning back on the sofa, appearing very relaxed.
“It’s truly a magical family,” Reiner responded. He was contemplating Percival’s intentions. According to Igor, Percival took on the role of the Lord of this thesis review committee mainly to accumulate merits within the Magic Association to obtain a higher position, increasing his chances of advancement.
From Percival’s relatively direct persuasion in the morning, advising Reiner not to create unnecessary trouble, and the afternoon’s review of the Durawn perpetual motion machine, it was clear that Percival was adept at political maneuvering. Coupled with his decent magical abilities, rising to the higher echelons of the Magic Association didn’t seem like a difficult task.
Being within the Magic Association, even though it didn’t directly enhance one’s power, provided access to more resources and the opportunity to connect with higher-level mages. This, indirectly, could assist in advancement. Moreover, holding a position within the Magic Association came with a generous salary. At least, mages didn’t have to worry about not being able to afford a house.
“Reiner, what happened this morning may have been my words crossing a line. Here, I apologize to you. But you must understand, I’m not doing this for myself, but for your own good.”
Percival whispered softly. Reiner remained silent, listening attentively.
“I’ve seen many talented mages who, due to their youth, felt invincible and ended up falling into pitfalls they couldn’t climb out of. Eventually, they faded into obscurity. Reiner, the achievements you’ve attained now, honestly, far surpass mine. You have an excellent starting point.”
His words seemed to carry a hint of envy, but he continued.
“However, in reality, not everything goes smoothly in this world. You need to consider the future. In this institution, you can access cutting-edge theses and have plenty of personal time. You should focus on improving yourself rather than wasting time on trivial theses.”
He was likely referring to the incident this morning, where Reiner’s repeated objections led to an extended meeting.
“If our review committee had enough weight to influence the acceptance or rejection of a thesis, then perhaps spending time carefully examining every detail would be reasonable. But the fact is, this is just an experimental institution. The opinions generated here have no impact on the vast majority of theses. So, I trust you know what to do, Reiner.”
Percival was speaking about a situation that many had encountered before: whether to take every task seriously when one’s actions seem inconsequential.
Considering Reiner’s observations in the afternoon, it appeared that most individuals in this thesis review committee, except for Brother Bel, had little interest in the theses and were only here to take advantage.
Igor aside, Roger spent almost the entire afternoon away from the office, busy in the laboratory with his students. Hannah, in front of her desk, didn’t flip a page of the thesis she had opened for an hour, and Savros simply placed his thesis on a nearby table, surrounded by dozens of cards with written text, seemingly occupied with something else.
In contrast, Reiner, who pursued the truth, seemed somewhat out of place.
“Sorry, Lord Percival, but I believe that even if something seems inconsequential, it doesn’t mean we shouldn’t take it seriously.”
Reiner responded directly.
“Perhaps a thesis, in the eyes of the majority, may seem worthless, but if it is truly innovative and can inspire others, then even if our voices are inaudible, we still need to convey this.”
Hearing Reiner’s words, Percival’s face darkened.
“Moreover, the author of a thesis, even if this specific thesis has major flaws that can’t be proven, might have correct ideas. After receiving constructive criticism, they may reorganize their thoughts and eventually arrive at the correct conclusion. Though we, by ourselves, can’t change the overall evaluation of the thesis, pointing out its bright spots is not difficult.”
After finishing, Reiner saw Percival put down his teacup.
“Reiner, you have a good mindset, but it’s a misconception brought on by your string of successes. In reality, most of the theses we receive here, like the ones those people at the manor’s entrance have, are nothing. Another portion is difficult to verify with our current means. What you mentioned won’t happen.”
Percival shrugged, but he didn’t necessarily need to convince Reiner. For Percival, Reiner would only come here a few days each month in the future, hardly significant.
“Never mind. I just wanted to remind you not to waste time on meaningless things, but to use it to improve your magical abilities. In the past, when I was in the Law Department, I also indulged in chasing after elusive things. But later, I realized I was wrong. Only by becoming stronger can you obtain what you want and protect what belongs to you.”
Percival glanced at the stairs leading to the second floor and said lightly.
“Thank you, Lord Percival. However, I may have my own plans.”
Reiner replied calmly, neither being humble nor arrogant. Percival’s views weren’t entirely wrong: they were just too utilitarian, even at the cost of violating certain principles. Reiner wouldn’t go down that path. Through Fina’s father’s incident, no one should be looked down upon, and no one should stop shouting just because their voice is small.
The night had grown late. Reiner stood up from the soft sofa and bowed to Lord Percival, bidding him farewell.