After dinner,克莱恩 sat comfortably on the sofa in the living room, carefully cutting open the letter sent by his mentor. At the dining table, Melissa was diligently working through textbook problems, illuminated by the glow of the gas lamp, while Bensen was curled up in his armchair, reading "Introduction to Financial Accounting." Unfolding three full pages of the letter,克莱恩 looked at it with a mixture of anticipation and apprehension: "…I'm delighted to receive your letter, which brings back memories of the past few years of my life. Unfortunately, Welch and Naya have permanently passed away…" "I attended both of their funerals and witnessed the profound grief of their parents—two young people who were destined for bright and fulfilling futures…" "Life's course is always unpredictable; no one can foresee what will happen at the next moment. The older we grow and the more experiences we accumulate, the more I come to appreciate the fragility and helplessness inherent in being human." "Regarding the historical records you mentioned about the main peak of the Honegich Mountains, I recall that Dr. John Joseph, an archaeologist, authored a specialized monograph detailing his observations on the main peak, where he discovered several ancient structures dating back over a thousand years." "It is truly shameful for every historian and archaeologist that we lack precise dating methods—our assessments rely solely on architectural styles, mural characteristics, and a limited number of legible inscriptions, making our conclusions only approximate." "It is hard to believe that human settlements existed at such a high altitude. Dr. Joseph has ample evidence demonstrating that these people developed their own distinct civilization—specific details are difficult to convey clearly in this letter. I recommend you visit the Deville Library to see if they can borrow that monograph. I assure you, the Deville Library, generously donated by Sir Deville, holds a more extensive collection than the one established by the municipal government." "The title of the monograph is 'A Study of Ancient Remains at Hornachis Peak,' published by the Runes Press." "Additionally, several papers have mentioned relevant details, published in journals such as 'New Archaeology' and 'Archaeological Review,' with specific titles and issues..." ...Klein read each word carefully, repeatedly reciting the titles of the monograph and papers mentioned by his mentor. Next, he pulled out the letter paper, found the pen, and composed his gratitude in formal written language. "Melissa, could you deliver this letter to me tomorrow? That's the postage." Klein placed the sealed letter and the extra postage fee beside his sister's books. Melissa glanced at it and said, "Klein, the postage doesn't need to be that much." "Yes, the postage doesn't need to be that much, but girls need a certain amount of pocket money." Klein smiled and replied, "I'm sure Selena has already told you that." "Seeing that Melissa still seemed a bit resistant, he quickly added, 'It can help you purchase the materials and tools you need.' 'Tools...' Melissa repeated softly, her gaze shifting to the book, giving a barely perceptible nod, 'Alright.' Clay's lips immediately curled into a smile as he light-footed walked back to the sofa. 'Excellent persuasion—precisely identified Melissa's key concern,' Benson nodded, speaking in a lowered tone with a smile. Clearing his throat, Clay responded seriously, 'Then how shall I convince you? Your self-study should focus on grammar and classical literature, of course, though basic mathematics and logical reasoning are equally important.' Based on the curriculum of public schools and grammar schools, and drawing from the content of university entrance exams, Clay could already sense the general direction of what would eventually become the 'civil service examination.' Benson ran a hand over his hairline, chuckling to himself: "In front of those books, I feel like a scruffy baboon." "But they're definitely useful," Cline said with a steady smile. At that moment, Melissa set down her pen, stood up, and walked over to the sofa. "Benson, Cline, Sunday this week is Selena's birthday. She and her parents would like to invite us all to a dinner celebration. Do either of you have time?" "I should have no problem," Cline replied after a moment's thought. It would also be a great opportunity to meet Selena's friends—just in case something ever happens to Melissa, he'd be able to find out about her without any difficulty! "I can do the same," Benson said, running his fingers through his hair. "So we'll have to think about what birthday gift to give Selena." Cline smiled. "That's exactly what Melissa should handle—she knows Selena better than we do. All we need to do is what any gentleman would do: pay the bill." "I've never heard someone describe laziness in such a beautiful way before," Bensen shook his head and smiled lightly. Klein smiled back, "That's the role of grammar and classical literature." "...," Bensen hadn't expected the topic to circle back again and found himself momentarily at a loss for words. We chatted a bit more about the weather, and he mentioned proactively: "The sanctuary has replied to my telegram, instructing El and Lorota to immediately send the sealed object, '2–049,' along with the Antigonos family's notes to Beckland, and they've sent an additional night watchperson who arrived by steam train yesterday afternoon to assist." "I think they should have already departed." Already departed? Then does that mean I'm finally free from the shadow of the Antigonos family's notes? Kline paused, feeling a bit unreal—like he were dreaming. It's easier than I expected... No further developments, then? "May the goddess protect them, and may they have a smooth journey." After pausing a few seconds, Kline traced a red moon symbol on his chest. Dunne put on his hat and pointed toward the door. "I need to inspect the Raphael cemetery. By the way, I've forgotten something—Leonard and the police have made some progress in their investigation of the Confraternity members. They've identified the carriage driver who transported them and confirmed their temporary residence in Tingenthal, but they've remained cautious, leaving no particularly valuable clues." "Indeed, a true ancient and secretive organization," Klein remarked in agreement. Dunne nodded and turned toward the door. Three seconds later, he paused and turned back. "Also, your formal membership application—the Hall may need two to three more days to respond. Heh, this is a separate matter from the Antigonus family's records, handled by different departments, so the efficiency differs." "I understand," Klein replied sincerely. In the meantime, he silently added a note to the captain's mind: Today, remember to submit the reimbursement request! Watching Denne depart, Caine heard Rosan's astonished voice: "By the goddess, are you finally becoming a formal member? I remember you joined us less than a month ago!" Caine smiled. "Since I consumed the 'Seer' potion, this has been certain to happen." "That makes sense..." Rosan paused for a moment, then sighed wistfully, "I had been praying for you to complete your mystical studies and join the roster of night-watch officers as soon as possible. But now... by the goddess, I have to take shifts every two days! I'm not a night-watcher by any means! My skin, my condition—by the goddess, save me!" "Shouldn't you be used to this kind of routine by now? Before I joined, it was always you, Bright, and Old Neil taking turns on night shifts, wasn't it?" Caine asked, puzzled. Rosan shook her head with deep sorrow. "No, previously there were four, and even earlier, five. Unfortunately, Cohen-Li chose to become one of the 'Never-Sleepers.' Viola didn't renew her contract last month and joined Hoynor Mechanical Company. She's a girl with exceptional manufacturing talent, though she lacked opportunities and financial means. Five years of administrative work have given her sufficient experience and foundation." Pausing, Rosan glanced at Caine,掩嘴 smiled. "I've just thought of a wonderful plan, Caine. You should marry soon—and accidentally reveal your extraordinary secrets to her. This would be only a minor breach of confidentiality; no serious consequences, since no one can keep such a secret from someone who shares a bed with them for years. Then, you can introduce her to us and have her join as an administrative staff member! A perfect plan!" "Klein's lips moved slightly. "Miss Rosan, you could also find a husband rather quickly—this should be easier. I believe you have sufficient means to keep your secret from him." Upon hearing this, Rosan's eyes widened and her mouth gaped open. "How can that be? Marriage is a serious matter—it requires careful observation, thoughtful selection, and time to verify the match." You just said that a moment ago... Klein didn't argue with Miss Rosan. He merely smiled, exchanged a few polite words, and then excused himself, entering the underground. At the armory, he saw Old Neil busy with his hand-ground coffee, so he sat down and waited patiently. "Shouldn't you be on your way to becoming a formal member by now?" Old Neil asked casually while filtering the coffee. "The captain says it will take two to three more days, and we're still uncertain whether the Hall will approve," Klein replied calmly. "Hey." "Old Neil smiled, 'Such matters won't be rejected by the Hall, especially since you've become a remarkable one.'" At this, he turned to look at Caine with a cheerful expression. "You'll need to be mentally prepared—every formal member of the Watch must go through a rite: completing an independent task. Of course, Dunning will certainly assign someone a simple, straightforward one, and since you're a supportive seer, it'll be even more manageable."