Dark Century chapter 1 epilogue

"And so, young Dietlaff, it seems this particular adventure has come to a close."

The Fellow, Julius Mauser, was just another in a long line of Academy scholars who had demanded a meeting with Hansel. With no energy left to refuse, they had badgered him with absurd questions, and left him little time to focus on the reality of what had happened.

"Perhaps it would be a better use of our time if I were to tell you what I know? I regret to tell you that your Uncle Eddlebrecht died during the disturbances."

That was a surprise. Hansel had no love for the old man, but he always assumed Uncle Eddlebrecht could buy his way out of any problem.

"We are still trying to find out the circumstances surrounding the incident, but you have my deepest condolences. Unfortunately this does raise the issue of your tenure here. Your cousins have made it known that they have no interest in funding your education any further."

That made sense. His cousins were grudging rivals, and they didn't have the sibling loyalty to Hansel's mother that had persuaded his uncle to shell out in the first place.

"In any case, somehow I doubt that a life of prayer was ever truly your destiny."

So he would have to pack his bags, and head home to his parents? Worse luck.

"There is, perhaps, a way that I can help you. As the Academy's Reader of Intentions, it is my role to understand the future, and how events are likely to unfold. I believe I stand a much better chance of doing this with you by my side."

"Wait, are you offering me a job?"

"As research assistant, yes. The pay is terrible, but this line of work provides myriad opportunities to gain advantageous incomes."

"I'm not sure I can really say no."

"And I doubt that I would have asked if you could. Discretion is a big part of what we do."

"Then I guess I'm a spy, now."

"A coarse word, but appropriate, I suppose. Welcome aboard, Research Assistant Dietlaff."

Done