“Of course, I also hope you do so. But during the process, if you encounter any problems, you can come to me at any time!”

　　Eric Carter patted Ethan Brooks on the shoulder, his face full of encouragement.

　　The triennial imperial examination was about to arrive. Each time, it was a battlefield for the court ministers, and even princes and lords would try to win over the talents they favored.

　　If Ethan Brooks became the top scorer, it would definitely cause many big shots to fight fiercely over him.

　　“Who exactly are you?” Ethan Brooks asked with a frown. For Eric Carter to say such things, his identity was clearly not as simple as just an imperial guard!

　　“Let’s find a quiet place to talk!” Eric Carter glanced at the commoners around them and chuckled in a low voice.

　　Ethan Brooks nodded. He was now quite interested in Eric Carter as well.

　　“Miaoyin, you should go back first. Father is anxiously looking for you.” Ethan Brooks turned to Lily Brooks, who was dressed like a little beggar.

　　“I’m not going back!” Lily Brooks rolled her eyes and said, “I want to cultivate immortality. I’m not staying here to become a tool for a political marriage!”

Chapter 14: Losing One’s Own Composure

　　Back at the inn, Eric Carter specially asked the attendant to prepare a table of food and wine, then chatted at length with Ethan Brooks. In his previous life, he had lived in the 21st century, an era of information explosion, and after years in the workplace, the management strategies he spoke of left Ethan Brooks in constant admiration.

　　It was the first time Lily Brooks had seen her brother admire someone so much, which made her extremely interested in Eric Carter.

　　Soon, Grace Bennett and Emily Cooper also came downstairs. Seeing Eric Carter chatting and laughing with a pair of siblings, they curiously came over to join.

　　Ethan Brooks and Lily Brooks were instantly stunned by Grace Bennett’s peerless beauty. Remembering their manners, Ethan Brooks quickly averted his gaze, and Eric Carter gave them a brief introduction.

　　“How confident are you about this imperial exam?” Eric Carter asked with a smile as he sipped his tea.

　　“I’m fully prepared. I will definitely prove myself!” Ethan Brooks replied confidently. Although he didn’t say he would be the top scorer, his tone clearly revealed his ambition.

　　He paused, then cautiously asked, “You wouldn’t happen to be the Third Prince…”

　　Emily Cooper and Lily Brooks both perked up their ears, most curious about Eric Carter’s identity.

　　“Haha, as long as you know, that’s enough. Don’t worry, even though I’m down and out now, I have confidence I’ll regain my power!” Eric Carter interrupted him. The inn was full of all sorts of people; he couldn’t let this information spread.

　　Ethan Brooks gave a wry smile. “As far as I know, your current situation is worse than most. It’ll be very hard to return.”

　　As he spoke, he began to consider how to distance himself from Eric Carter. Although Eric Carter had just helped him, he didn’t want to tie his future to a deposed prince.

　　Gratitude was one thing, but he couldn’t risk his own future!

　　“What a coincidence, I just killed Henry Clark not long ago. His head is right here.” Eric Carter smiled, touching his storage ring.

　　Henry Clark!

　　Ethan Brooks and Lily Brooks both gasped. Henry Clark was a renowned Golden Core stage expert in the entire Qianyue Kingdom.

　　“That’s right, Henry Clark was no match for Sister Grace Bennett at all!” Emily Cooper chimed in, deliberately exposing Eric Carter, telling the siblings that Henry Clark was killed by Grace Bennett.

　　The siblings instinctively looked at Grace Bennett, shocked that this stunning woman was even stronger than a Golden Core expert!

　　Ethan Brooks suddenly stood up and cupped his hands to Eric Carter, saying, “Greetings, my lord!”

　　Emily Cooper was dumbfounded. He had been so hesitant before—why was he suddenly paying respects?

　　Little did she know, Ethan Brooks never believed Eric Carter could kill Henry Clark alone, but for Eric Carter to command someone stronger than a Golden Core expert was no small feat!

　　He knew the current emperor hated Henry Clark most. If Eric Carter presented Henry Clark’s head to the emperor, even the gravest crimes could be forgiven.

　　It’s best to get on board early!

　　Even if he didn’t pledge allegiance to Eric Carter, he would have to make a choice after earning his title!

　　Without a powerful backer, it was impossible to thrive in the capital!

　　Although he believed knowledge could change his fate, he also understood how valuable a super expert who could easily kill Henry Clark was. It was no exaggeration to say that with Grace Bennett around, Eric Carter’s claim to the throne was basically secure!

　　In this world, the strong were always respected!

　　“Call me ‘young master.’ Until you become the top scorer, our relationship must not be revealed, understand?” Eric Carter said with a smile. As for Emily Cooper nearby, he didn’t worry about her. After so many days together, he knew this girl was pure-hearted and not very scheming.

　　Ethan Brooks took a deep breath and slowly sat down. He understood that Eric Carter was testing him.

　　Instead of being discouraged, he was filled with fighting spirit!

　　If Eric Carter trusted him unconditionally, he would actually be suspicious.

　　“All right, go back and rest.”

　　Eric Carter waved his hand. Unconsciously, he had taken the position of a superior. Ethan Brooks didn’t feel displeased at all; instead, he was excited.

　　After all, he was only the illegitimate son of the lord of Qingtan City, and his status in the city was even lower than that of a commoner. To be able to cling to a prince’s leg—how could he not be excited?

　　“Eric Carter gege, see you tomorrow!”

　　Lily Brooks waved and smiled at Eric Carter. Eric Carter only nodded. He was leaving tomorrow—who wanted to see this little girl again!