Chapter 188

Chapter 188

From Cosmic Rascal to Professor.

Episode 188: The Battle For The Head Of The Family (3)

Aidel advanced to the next slide, revealing an image of two academic papers.

“These are my two principal publications.”

The first was the Feynman-Reinhardt model, which provided theoretical support for reconstructing the Ether Belt. The second detailed the quantum gravity resonator, an invention that had saved over 300 lives.

These two studies represented Aidel’s achievements over the past two years. Though the quantity might seem modest, their quality surpassed anything produced by his siblings.

“Though the young master is not a physician, he has saved numerous lives. He rescued those afflicted by Outer Gods and made substantial contributions toward ending the Southern Great War.”

Sonia’s words sparked a commotion among the council members.

“My son accomplished all this?”

“Impossible!”

“Two first-author papers in From someone who hasn’t even finished growing?”

“If you’re going to fabricate stories, at least make them credible.”

Brian’s supporters on the council worked to diminish Aidel’s achievements like professional critics. However, others spoke in Aidel’s favor:

“Since when were doctors the only ones capable of saving lives?”

“As one of the top ten families, we should approach succession with flexibility.”

“They say true geniuses face envy and skepticism in their time.”

“What a promising young man.”

As the council members continued their heated debate, Aidel calmly moved to the next slide. The screen displayed:

10 Ways to Torment Outer Gods

This would be the main focus of his presentation.

“Ten ways to torment Outer Gods. Two of them – the Ether Belt reconstruction and resonator research – were previously introduced by Sonia. With just these implementations, our galaxy has become safer compared to others.”

Aidel continued his presentation with composure.

“However, these measures alone are insufficient. Observe.”

03. Development of Darwin Legion’s Outer God containment device through crystalline research

04. Development of counter-tempest technology

05. Enhancement of Plasma-Ether Sword

06. Neutral effect

07. Front tank

08. Neutralization through opposing forces

09. Construction of a one-light-year linear particle accelerator

10. Graviton bomb

“Eight additional strategies remain. If we execute these methodically, humanity will undoubtedly emerge victorious in the war against the Outer Gods.”

“That’s preposterous.”

“Indeed, in our current circumstances, it does sound far-fetched.”

Aidel stepped down from the podium and established eye contact with each council elder individually – a common technique employed during public presentations.

“The primary obstacle is funding.”

“If financial resources are the issue, shouldn’t you approach the government? Given your capabilities for such research, surely they would provide whatever resources necessary?”

“Government support is more limited than you might expect. It appears I’ll need to secure the research funding independently.”

Cardric erupted in laughter, believing Aidel was sealing his own fate. At that moment, Brian nudged him discreetly.

After Brian whispered something to Cardric, the latter nodded, chuckled, crossed his arms, and remained silent.

“I wish to become head of the family to save more lives than I could otherwise. For this, I seek prior approval to utilize the family’s wealth. Thank you.”

With Aidel’s announcement concluded, Cadric saw his opportunity. He discreetly approached an elder of the council.

“I’m concerned about the third son.”

“Why is that?”

“Aidel had a gambling addiction in the past. He once squandered family funds and received harsh punishment from father. His frequent mentions of the family fortune worry me – if he becomes head…”

“You dare slander your own brother?”

“No, Uncle! I’m merely stating facts!”

Cadric protested, his expression tearful as he waved his hands frantically. But he received only an icy response.

“Focus on yourself instead of undermining others.”

“…Yes, understood.”

As Cadric turned away, head bowed, he found Brian, the eldest, standing behind him. Brian sighed softly and placed a comforting hand on Cadric’s shoulder.

“Don’t take the scolding too hard. It seems our great uncle favors Aidel.”

“I understand, brother.”

“Let’s both do our best – today’s presentation isn’t the final decision for succession.”

They followed the adults to the dining room, where androids bustled about serving meals. Brian and Cadric took seats at the front table.

Nearby, Aidel and Ceti were already seated, their conversation carrying over to Cadric’s ears.

“Brother, you’re insane. Mentioning family assets like that? Don’t you want the position?”

“Whether I want it or not, the funding would be beneficial.”

“You should have at least mentioned your fiancée. That would have helped your case.”

“I’d rather avoid criticism for riding on Adelwein’s reputation.”

Something felt off to Cadric – since when were those two so close?

While Cadric eavesdropped, Brian contemplated his own presentation, absently toying with his glass. Though his performance hadn’t been poor, uncertainty still gnawed at him. As he drummed his fingers on the tablecloth-covered table and swallowed hard, Arnold stepped up to the microphone.

“Pardon the interruption, but I have an announcement for the Reinhardt family.”

All heads turned as Arnold continued:

“At month’s end, my third son, Aidel, will celebrate his engagement to the Adelwein family’s only daughter. The date and venue are set, and I hope those present today will honor us with their attendance.”

“Ah yes, that’s right.”

“The Adelwein daughter – isn’t she the one attending Stellarium Medical School?”

Brian released a quiet sigh, one that carried both relief and apprehension. His mind raced with calculations.

With a soft clink, he set down his fork, having barely touched half his meal.

“I’m finished eating.”

“Already? Why?”

“Even now, people on frontier planets survive on wild green soup while we, as noble children, feast on such extravagance. I find it difficult to continue eating.”

Cadric fell silent, not because of his brother’s display of humility, but because he noticed the two elder council members at their table regarding Brian with approving eyes.

“Not only intelligent but humble as well.”

“He’ll certainly manage the family fortune better than the third son.”

The sound of Cadric’s own utensils hitting the plate echoed as he, too, set them down. He cursed his carelessness – he’d been so focused on the meal that he’d forgotten this gathering was yet another stage in the competition for family leadership.

The realization struck him: every moment was an opportunity to prove oneself worthy of becoming the next head of the Reinhardt family.

As Cadric rose from his seat, he caught snippets of conversation from the adjacent table.

“If only the money spent on these dishes had gone to research funding!”

“This fool is at it again.”

“Ceti, no need to be polite. Call him a bastard like you usually do.”

“…You really don’t care about becoming head, do you?”

“Just eat well and pour yourself into research – that’s how you’ll prove your worth. Work until you drop.”

“Fine, but put that tablet away and eat first!”

In front of the adults, Aidel ate distractedly, his movements rushed—as if he were chased by work. He continuously scribbled formulas on his tablet PC.

It was an act.

Surely, it was a charade meant to deceive the elders, who knew little to nothing. The idea of Aidel truly attaching himself to studying was about as plausible as the end of the universe.

Interesting. Let’s see how long he can keep it up.

Cadric inwardly sneered as he left the dining room.

“This, upon closer look, is no ordinary character.”

After Cadric departed, Aidel could no longer catch the adults’ conversation at his table. They watched him as he effortlessly scrawled his formulas.

The family succession competition will be held over the next two months. To everyone’s relief, the test would be based on relative evaluation and seemed simpler than initially anticipated.

“The family will provide adequate support for each candidate. Your task is to achieve accomplishments that align with your personal aspirations.”

Caitel von Reinhardt, the head of the elders, explained briefly.

“Naturally, two months isn’t enough time to make a significant impact. We’re primarily assessing your sincerity and potential. There’s no need to feel pressured – focus on completing a project within your capabilities.”

“When you mention a small project, what scale exactly are you referring to?”

“That depends entirely on your individual capabilities.”

Cadric scratched his head.

“The head of the Reinhardt family must always remain upright and steadfast. Only then can they guide the family’s development without being swayed by anyone – be it a partner or a relative.”

The message was clear: rather than asking such questions, candidates should think independently and act with conviction.

“It would be beneficial to identify a problem and develop a solution accordingly,” Caitel continued. “The challenge should be slightly beyond your current capabilities, and I expect you to meet the established deadlines.”

“Naturally, you might not achieve complete resolution within the time constraints, but that’s acceptable. Focus on pursuing tasks that align with your personal life goals.”

“Throughout these two months, the androids assigned to you will record all your actions. Remember to conduct yourselves with dignity, always striving to uphold the Reinhardt family’s standards. That concludes our briefing!”

Cadric, Brian, and Ceti pondered.

However, Brian and Ceti’s deliberation didn’t last long. They knew what needed to be done.

“Erica, let’s go to the Ultron star system.”

“This humble servant will follow young master anywhere.”

Brian targeted an underdeveloped frontier star system, planning a project to improve its medical conditions.

Meanwhile, Ceti turned to her android.

“Secretary Bella?”

“Yes, President! Something interesting is about to happen!”

Ceti planned a project to completely dominate the southern and western regions’ medical transport network with ‘Maidoc.’

And.

Aidel.

“Sonia.”

“Young master.”

“Sonia.”

“Young master.”

Sonia shook her head from side to side.

“No, young master. The others would be too pitiful.”

“What’s the big deal about four research papers?”