Seated in the dining hall, Athan and Gerald engaged in a conversation delving deeper into the intricacies of the immolation ritual.

Athan couldn't help but express his admiration, remarking, "So, they are intelligent, then. Their ability to maintain their positions for such extended periods is a testament to their astuteness."

A faint trace of amusement danced across Athan's features as he continued, "I am grateful to have such capable individuals in the Empire. With their support, alongside that of my mother and father, we can bear the weight of this vast empire."

A sense of surprise enveloped Athan as he realized that in this world, there were nobles who did not disregard the commoners. He recalled the countless novels he had read, where nobility showed little regard for the lives and needs of those beneath them.

Indeed, there were discrepancies between the world of fiction and reality. While disheartening in terms of not being able to rely on novel tropes to predict the future, Athan found solace in his understanding of human psychology from his previous life. At least he could navigate through situations with some degree of familiarity.

Throughout their conversation, Athan's gaze remained fixated on Gerald. In that moment, a spontaneous question emerged from Athan's thoughts.

"Uncle Gerald, this question has nothing to do with the immolation. May I inquire about something personal...?"

Gerald's solemn eyes locked onto Athan's, interrupting him before he could finish his sentence.

"No, Your Highness, absolutely not," Gerald replied, devoid of expression.

He continued in his usual stoic manner, "We are engaged in a matter of great importance, Your Highness. Any inquiries regarding my personal life hold little significance in relation to the impending two years. I kindly request that you restrict your questions to those that will be of assistance during this crucial period."

Athan wore a crestfallen expression, his voice filled with longing. "Uncle, can't you make an exception for me? I will be absent for a total of two years."

Athan then directed an intense gaze, accompanied by his puppy-like eyes inherited from his strikingly beautiful mother, who retained her allure even in her late forties. Athan's puppy eyes had proven remarkably effective in the past, even on Gerald, who harbored deep affection for him despite never outwardly displaying warmth.

Gerald maintained his stern countenance, unmoved. "I will grant permission under the condition that this will be your final indulgence in trivial questions before your departure, Your Highn-"

Athan interjected hastily, not allowing Gerald to finish his sentence. "Absolutely."

"Very well, then," Gerald acquiesced. "You may pose your question, Your Highness."

This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author's work.

Athan's voice carried a mischievous undertone as he inquired, "Uncle, aren't you in your late thirties?"

A hint of surprise flickered across Gerald's face as he responded, "Yes, Your Highness, that is correct. What are you implying?"

Athan couldn't resist teasing Gerald further, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Then why have you not considered marriage? You are undoubtedly handsome for a man in his late thirties. Surely, there must be many women vying for your attention. I've heard that you are quite renowned in high society as Count Paige."

Gerald's expression revealed a subtle pang of sorrow concealed beneath his usual composure. "Your Highness, I have yet to find someone suitable for me, that is all. I trust that satisfies your curiosity."

----------------------------------------

Though Athan found Gerald's response unsatisfying, he nodded in acknowledgment.

Gerald's voice carried a weight of seriousness as he inquired, "Is there anything else you wish to know about the immolation, Your Highness?"

Athan's face reflected his curiosity as he pondered for a moment. "Are there any specific rules associated with this tradition of immolation?"

Gerald's tone grew resolute as he explained, "Indeed, there are rules, for this goes beyond mere tradition and enters the realm of an examination. The first rule is that you are prohibited from disclosing your true identity under any circumstances."

Athan nodded, understanding the importance of this rule. "Of course, that makes sense. It wouldn't be much of a test if I could freely reveal my identity. And what is the second rule?"

Gerald continued, his voice unwavering, "You are not permitted to reenter the Empire for two years. During that time, you must fend for yourself. There are numerous risks involved, such as potential encounters with bandits or becoming entangled in a war. However, I believe Your Highness will manage well, provided you choose your destination wisely."

A flicker of disappointment crossed Athan's face as he mused, "This doesn't seem like much of a challenge, Uncle."

Gerald replied, "I am pleased to hear you say that, Your Highness."

Curiosity lingering, Athan inquired about the third rule, "And what is the third rule, Uncle?"

Gerald's response was concise, "There are only two rules, Your Highness. Shall I provide you with the details concerning the designated date and the allowance you will receive for the duration of two years?"

Athan contemplated the amount he would be given. A typical family in the empire required approximately 80 gold coins for a comfortable life. As a prince, he expected to receive around 10 gold coins to establish himself. However, given that this was a test, the minimum allowance could possibly be as low as 5 gold coins.

Speaking softly, Athan expressed his desire, "Please, enlighten me with the specifics."

Gerald's voice remained devoid of humor as he replied, "The immolation must commence within one week after Your Highness's sixteenth birthday."

Athan realized the urgency, remarking, "That means I have less than three days remaining within the palace. And what will be the amount of allowance provided?"

Gerald's words sent a chill down Athan's spine. "You will be granted approximately 20 silver coins."

Terrified, Athan absorbed this information. This revelation elevated the difficulty of this tradition from low to high. The majority of the challenge stemmed from his lack of knowledge about the world beyond the capital. As a prince, he had spent his entire life sheltered within the confines of the palace, with little understanding of the basic lives of commoners.

His knowledge of the outside world had been primarily derived from books, which rarely delved into the intricate details of ordinary existence.

Athan couldn't help but voice his concern, "Isn't the amount rather meager?"

Gerald responded, unperturbed, "Surely, it won't pose much of a challenge, Your Highness?"

"Uncle, this amount is barely sufficient for travel outside the country."

Gerald reassured him, "You need not worry, Your Highness. Once you select the country you wish to reside in from among the bordering nations, you will be dropped off at the nearest border to its capital."

Athan now realized the harsh reality. The next two years of his life were bound to be filled with misery and hardship.

*****

Support me through Patreon : Asher NightShade | With me in this Fantasy world! | Patreon