Chapter Fifty: Suspicion and Targeting—Mingchuan’s Choice

October 2, 2237, the Royal Palace of London, Prince Quiver’s chamber

“Prime Minister, what do you think? Is he my elder brother?” In the palace, Prince Quiver summoned the Prime Minister.

“I’ve watched you all grow up, but even I cannot be certain,” the Prime Minister replied. “But indeed, that so-called 76—his hair truly resembles the royal family’s distinctive shade, and…”

“And what?” Prince Quiver suddenly became agitated.

“When His Highness Tresy was young, he injured his forehead while roughhousing with you all. Though it’s not very obvious, he has a scar in the exact same spot.”

“So all the evidence suggests he is my brother, only…”

“Only he hasn’t admitted it, right?” The Prime Minister smiled lightly.

“No, you must find my brother—whether he’s alive or dead. I just want to know he’s safe.”

“Yes, Your Highness.”

Meanwhile, beneath the Clock Tower, in Tyrant Taylor’s laboratory secret chamber

“Wow… so eager to know how I’m doing?” Who would have thought that after impersonating 76, Mingchuan would plant a listening device on Quiver’s younger brother’s sword sheath. “Oh dear, my wound, it’s still…” In disguise as Tayner, Mingchuan listened alongside the Taylor brothers to the words coming through the bug.

“Good thing you checked inside your clothes, otherwise you would’ve fallen for a counter-trap as well,” one said.

“Hehe, my little brother is especially fond of the sword our father gave him. He rarely uses it, and this time the opportunity was rare, so… hehe.” Tayner silently snickered. “Alright, let’s check the other side’s bug. I’m curious what Wenxin thinks.”

At the same time, in the military camp, in the chamber of Earl Flying Dragon

“Earl, you’ve spent much time in the palace. Is what Quiver said true?” Mingchuan listened quietly through the bug in Wenxin’s watch.

“Your Highness, I seldom even see Prince Charlie, who is quite social, let alone Prince Tresy, whom I’ve met only once,” the Earl muttered. “But Prince Tresy is remarkable for his hair, shimmering like gold, and eyes as bright as the stars.”

“So this 76…” Wenxin’s tone slowed. “And Mingchuan, who vanished at the start of the competition, and Tresy, whom His Majesty has always sought—are they the same person?”

“Mingchuan’s hair is clearly black, and his eyes are the black typical of those of Asian descent. I believe there’s certainly a connection, but they aren’t the same person. However, 76 and Prince Tresy are nearly identical. I didn’t notice anything strange, but I’m about eighty to ninety percent sure it’s him,” the Earl declared, with a conviction that was both certain and uncertain—an assurance tinged with doubt.

(“Seriously… mind your language!”)

“Alright! Then, should I do something to Mingchuan?” Wenxin asked, curious. “Or should I just drag him over for questioning? After all, no one can get past this potion.” Wenxin produced a vial, tossing and catching it.

“No, best not to expose yourself. If that fellow really is with the Prince, he might lead us to him.” The Earl’s strategy was universal, if rather outdated.

(“Even without a listening device, I wouldn’t have one!”)

“Fine. And the potion…”

“Use this! Taylor’s new concoction—guaranteed to work!” The Earl handed over a box containing several vials.

“Alright, Earl, next time bring me something good, and don’t just drop by unannounced!” Wenxin said, pushing the Earl’s door open as she left.

After Wenxin departed, back in Tyrant Taylor’s laboratory secret chamber beneath the Clock Tower

“Hey, Taylor, you gave the Earl the potion even though he’s our rival? What kind is it?” Tayner questioned Taylor.

“It’s actually an interrogation drug. When you’re asked about something you don’t want to answer truthfully, it stimulates your nerves and affects your brain. So, when you try to lie, you may inadvertently speak out thoughts related to the issue without even realizing it,” Taylor explained simply. “But don’t worry. When I tested it on the Earl last time, I already prepared the antidote. Here, take it!” He tossed a box to Tayner. “Is it labeled as ‘Lie’? This drug has a fruity scent, so no matter how unpleasant something is, it masks the smell. Carry it with you.”

“Thanks, mate! I bet Wenxin’s going to fall right into my trap this time!”

———Extra Notes———

Perhaps you want to curse, “Damn, you finally updated ‘Mecha Dynasty’!” Well, if I’m uninspired, I simply don’t update. I plan to dedicate these chapters to reflections on the protagonist revealing his identity… Also, due to the inconvenience caused by people adding me on QQ (for reasons I don’t understand), I’ve created a QQ group called “A Different World,” number 644289008. Feel free to join and discuss with me.