The Kingdom Art Academy is located in the northwest corner of the Royal Capital, adjacent to the Bis Mountain Range.

In autumn, the mountains are covered with fallen leaves, a unique scene of the Royal Capital and a source of inspiration for many artists.

There are over ten famous paintings based on this scenery alone, and quite a few musical works as well.

When Ethan arrived the next day with his group, it wasn't as dramatic as his arrival at the pier yesterday; a group of people were waiting for him.

After all, the Royal Capital Art Academy is considered a prestigious school in the Royal Capital and is well-known throughout the entire Kingdom.

So only one school staff member was waiting at the gate.

This was the result of Ethan contacting Hughes in advance.

Of course, he couldn't avoid being scolded by Hughes.

"...You only come to find me when you need something. Why didn't you come when you became famous? Have you already forgotten who your teacher is? Have you forgotten which is your alma mater?"

Despite these words, Hughes still agreed to an exchange activity with Winster University.

"Ethan, long time no see."

Unexpectedly, the person who came to greet Ethan was an acquaintance.

Of course, this acquaintance is relative to Ethan's past self.

This person is considered Ethan's senior, also a student of Hughes, and a very talented artist.

"Marcel, long time no see. Did you stay at the academy?"

Theoretically, Marcel should have graduated last year.

"Yes, the Royal Capital isn't an easy place to survive in, especially in the Royal Capital's art world. So it's better to stay in school for now." Marcel said, looking at Ethan with a hint of envy, "I wish I could become famous at a young age like you."

"I saw your painting. It's really excellent. I especially love your piece 'The Last Justice.' It's brilliant, the rebellion against power, the aristocracy, the denunciation—I can feel the spiritual power in it..."

"Thank you." Listening to Marcel's words, Ethan vaguely sensed that this guy seemed a bit too excited; it seemed he didn't just love the painting.

Ethan suddenly recalled that during his school years, he often heard that Senior Marcel often secretly engaged in some radical activities, even joined some secret groups.

However, he didn't mention it and just exchanged pleasantries.

As they walked into the school, Ethan noticed it seemed a bit quiet.

This was a bit strange because the atmosphere at the Kingdom Art Academy is very relaxed, and many people like to wander the campus searching for inspiration.

"Is today a holiday?" Ethan couldn't help but ask.

"No, actually, someone happens to be visiting the teacher today."

"Oh? Who could attract so much attention?"

In the Kingdom Art Academy, where everyone is a future artist, pride abounds; it's generally difficult to attract a crowd just to see a particular person.

"Our teacher's rival, that old man."

Marcel said with a bit of resignation, yet also some solidarity.

Ethan's memory resurfaced, recalling who Marcel was talking about.

The great artist Ike Rubins.

This guy and Ethan's teacher Hughes debuted around the same time, both specializing in classical painting, focusing on oil and portrait paintings.

In the art world, they are often mentioned together, referred to as the twin talents of classical art.

Hughes didn't think much of this because he felt Rubins was too arrogant, with works lacking true soul; he looked down on Rubins.

Meanwhile, Rubins also looked down on Hughes, often expressing critical remarks about Hughes since the art world had praised Hughes more highly than him for many years.

They could be considered rivals, or perhaps enemies.

"Why is he here?"

Although Ethan asked this, he already had a guess.

This guy was probably here to stir up trouble.

"Recently, that old man painted a piece that's been widely acclaimed in the art world, said to surpass similar works..." Marcel expressed some disdain while also seeming helpless.

"What painting?"

"It's called 'Spring Fairy.'

'Spring Fairy?'

Marcel probably thought Ethan had been keeping up with the art world, so he spoke simply.

Ethan had no idea what 'Spring Fairy' was, but soon memories flooded back—that was—

Hughes also had a 'Spring Fairy,' which was one of his masterpieces.

No wonder Rubins came to cause trouble.

Was he feeling capable again?

As they talked, Ethan followed Marcel to the entrance of a large auditorium from which sounds echoed, seemingly someone passionately speaking through a loudspeaker.

Once Ethan and the others stepped into the auditorium, the voice became clearer.

"...Therefore, art has its highs and lows. Certainly, you once had foresight and created 'Spring Fairy.' At that time, you were absolutely a pioneer in art; I respect you then. But over the years, you've been indulging in the mundane world. How long has it been since you painted well? That's why I've surpassed you. Everyone feels my 'Spring Fairy' is the genuine artwork."

In the auditorium, on stage, an old man was passionately speaking, displaying a posture of authority and dominance.

Opposite him sat another small old man, silent.

The small old man was Ethan's mentor, Hughes.

His expression didn't look pleasant, and the audience remained silent.

After all, this was the Kingdom Art Academy, considered their home ground, yet they were being openly confronted by an outsider.

The problem was that they had no response.

Because the old man on stage had works and talent, no one could refute his words.

"Oh, yes, your student, named Ethan, right? Randomly scrawled a few paintings and found a few art dealers to praise them mindlessly, now hailed as the next master—it's an insult to art. Does he understand what art is? In my view, he's seeking fame and fortune, and you as his teacher bear responsibility for this."

Ethan didn't expect to hear about himself before he had even settled in.

"Ladies and gentlemen of the Kingdom Art Academy, you must take warning, become aware of what you seek, don't lose your original intention on the path of artistic pursuit, aim for true art and avoid becoming fake artists."

The small old man was still speaking passionately, assuming the role of a life mentor.

Meanwhile, Ethan had already asked Marcel and found a new loudspeaker. As the old man's final words dropped, he suddenly turned it on and said loudly: "I oppose."

The sudden blaring sound nearly knocked Rubins to the ground; he quickly steadied himself and looked around.

"Who, who opposes? Step forward!"

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