Ethan Hayes was stunned. The abrupt transition from the exam arena to the royal palace left him unnerved. He hadn't even noticed when or how he was transported. It felt like time itself had accelerated exponentially, compressing countless moments into a single breath, whisking him back to the heart of the Clover Kingdom.
"Is this... time magic?" Ethan murmured in awe. Unlike spatial magic, which allowed instantaneous travel via portals, time magic seemed even more versatile and efficient.
Julius Novachrono, the Wizard King, regarded Ethan with calm authority. "Ethan Hayes, 15 years old, from Rockshore Village at the kingdom's border. Orphaned young, you were found near the coast by villagers. We have sufficient evidence to conclude you are not originally from this continent. You hail from across the sea—an outsider."
Ethan didn't flinch. He had anticipated this. After all, the Wizard King's reputation for diligence and thoroughness meant that every detail about his past was likely laid bare. "So, Wizard King, does this mean Clover Kingdom does not welcome outsiders?" Ethan asked pointedly.
Julius smiled faintly. "Not at all. Be it nobles, royals, or commoners, I judge all by their deeds, not their origins. However, I must admit, you've displayed exceptional audacity."
Ethan understood the subtext. He had considered joining the Golden Dawn but dismissed the idea. Bonds formed through prolonged camaraderie could be both a blessing and a curse. With the impending elven reincarnation threat, he didn't want emotional ties clouding his judgment. Better to sever them early than risk being ensnared.
"Wizard King," Ethan declared firmly, "I want to learn magic from you!"
Julius raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Learn from me? Our magic affinities differ—mine is time, yours is wind and fire. I'm not sure how much I can teach you."
Ethan nodded. "I'm not asking for specific spells or techniques, but rather your philosophy and insights."
Julius's curiosity deepened. Ethan's perspective was refreshing. "Interesting. Very well, I'll consider your request, but first, answer three questions honestly."
The First Question: How do you view the future of the Clover Kingdom?
Ethan paused, deliberating. Finally, he responded, "Treading on thin ice. The empire teeters on collapse."
"Bold words!" Marx snapped, his mushroom-shaped hair quivering in indignation. "How dare you insult the kingdom!"
Julius raised a hand, silencing Marx. "Interesting choice of words. Elaborate."
Ethan met Julius's gaze. "The Clover Kingdom is geographically vulnerable—sandwiched between the Diamond and Spade Kingdoms, with the Heart Kingdom lurking in the distance. While our magical prowess deters external threats, the real danger lies within. Internal divisions, when left unchecked, can destroy even the strongest fortress."
Marx's retort was swift. "Are you insinuating there's a traitor among us?"
Ethan shook his head. "Not necessarily a spy, but deep-rooted inequality. The exam earlier demonstrated how nobles look down on commoners. Even with a grimoire, they dismiss me. Imagine how they treat those without one. The cracks in society run deep. Remember, water can carry a boat, but it can also capsize it."
Julius repeated the phrase softly, "Water can carry a boat, but it can also capsize it..." He sighed. The divide between nobles and commoners had always troubled him.
The Second Question: How would you solve this problem?
Ethan smiled. "Simple—treat everyone equally."
Marx rolled his eyes. "Empty rhetoric. Easier said than done."
Ethan continued undeterred. "Nobles hoard resources—land, money, power—leaving commoners with nothing. If you want to bridge the gap, redistribute resources. Provide land and education to commoners. Most importantly, treat them with respect."
Julius nodded thoughtfully. "Respect is vital but also the hardest to instill."
"Exactly," Ethan agreed. "It's not about charity. People value what they earn. Establish schools for commoners to teach magic and ensure their talents are nurtured. Create a new unit alongside the nine Magic Knight squads—one exclusively for commoners. Over time, as they prove their worth, respect will follow naturally."
Julius clapped his hands, impressed. "Remarkable. Your ideas are bold yet practical."
The Third Question: What is your ultimate goal?
Ethan grinned. "To surpass the Wizard King—or perhaps, become someone even greater."
Julius laughed heartily, clasping Ethan's shoulders. "Ambitious, aren't you? Very well, Ethan Hayes. You've piqued my interest. Let us see how far you can go."