Chapter 22: The Imperial Academy

Reed Jace prepared the high-quality tea recently bestowed upon them by the Emperor, brewing it in a jade teapot. The fragrant aroma of the tea filled the room as Reed poured a cup for Ethan Caelan and respectfully offered it:

“Your Highness, please enjoy the tea.”

Ethan lifted the teacup, took a sip, and smiled slightly, savoring the exquisite flavor of the finest tea from Helios. He said softly:

“Sit down, both of you, and join me for tea.”

Reed and Leo Grant hesitated before sitting down beside Ethan, each taking cautious sips of their tea while expressing their concerns about Ethan’s new position.

Leo broke the silence:

“Your Highness, the title of Grand Academician may sound prestigious, but it is merely a title without real power. You will spend your days in the Imperial Academy, engrossed in compiling books and teaching, as if you were trapped in a gilded cage.”

Reed nodded in agreement, his deep voice tinged with concern:

“Your Highness, as a prince, this position seems beneath