Babel

In 1828, the Royal Institute of Translation at Oxford, known as Babel, is the undisputed center of global power. It is here that the magic of silver-working - harnessing the meaning lost in translation through enchanted silver bars - has fueled the British Empire's colonial might. For Robin Swift, an orphan from Canton brought to England to study at Babel, this world represents an escape from his past and a promise of a life dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge. He finds a home within its hallowed halls, forging a bond with a unique cohort of fellow linguists who have also been plucked from the lands Britain seeks to control.

But the pursuit of knowledge cannot be separated from the machinations of power. As Robin's understanding of silver-working grows, he begins to see the deep-seated inequalities the institution perpetuates. He learns that serving Babel means turning his back on his homeland and reinforcing the imperial machine that oppresses it. When a shadowy organization dedicated to disrupting the empire's reliance on silver sets its sights on him, Robin must confront the true cost of his idyllic life. He is forced to question whether change can be enacted from within a corrupt system or if revolution demands a more violent necessity.