"The Ous Alphabet was an alphabetic script invented by the Orthodox School to improve the Atrelin language. It once had considerable influence, and even parts of the Atrelin script in common use today were adapted from it.
To be honest, it's much more intuitive and easier to use than the pinyin system, and better suited to our linguistic habits."
Inside the Mage Tower, Roland discussed the matter with Lunifis by email and confirmed that this phonetic notation system did pose a threat.
"Although Seris Pinyin has a distinctive system of initials and finals and has already proven itself in widespread use in a major nation of 1.4 billion people, this is Atrelin, a magical civilization whose writing is primarily alphabetic."
"It's hardly surprising that Nisi would give it that assessment."
Roland's gaze shifted slightly. Sure enough, as he continued browsing the Magic Network, he found no shortage of complaints and criticism of Seris Pinyin.
In this unfamiliar other world, barriers to its adoption were an objective reality.
And those barriers could translate into support for the new system.
Over the next few days, more and more mages took notice of the Ous Alphabet phonetic notation system.
Even the authorities seemed pleased to see this, deliberately or otherwise building momentum for a showdown between the two sides.
After learning of the situation, Ovesto specifically summoned Roland and advised him, "Their approach to winning public support is very effective. If they manage to persuade someone with real influence to join them, support will snowball.
You and Lady Lunifis need to come up with a response quickly."
At those words, Roland's gaze darkened, with a faint trace of anger in it.
It was not that he feared having his arcane achievements stolen or his position usurped. Rather, it reminded him of his homeland's