Looking at William's inquisitive gaze, Adrian almost chuckled.
A mage primarily looks for aptitude in a student before considering other aspects.
It doesn't matter whether they are from nobility or peasantry.
The reason why Fran and Adrian so strongly support the King's Academy is that it is too difficult to find someone suitable for studying alchemy among the nobility.
People of noble birth tend to view alchemy as merely a tool.
Who would want to take on a student they truly do not admire, regardless of how good their qualifications are?
And if a peasant child is suitable, why bother with a noble's child?
Adrian knew all too well how he had gotten to where he was.
He really did not know if taking on a noble's child as a successor would one day repay the debt of life and upbringing owed to their family before becoming legendary.
Many legendary mages of noble birth even fail to touch the line of law because their debt is too great, despite being right at the threshold.
