Ethan was now 10 years old, and was eager to start his studies at the prestigious magic academy. His parents were initially hesitant to let him go, but after much pleading and convincing, they finally relented. Ethan would embark on a journey to the academy, where he would learn the ways of magic and hopefully achieve his dream of becoming an archmage.

As he set out on his journey, Ethan was filled with excitement and a little bit of nervousness. He had never traveled alone before and was not sure what to expect. However, he was determined to reach his goal, no matter what obstacles lay ahead.

Ethan had only been traveling for a few hours when he encountered his first problem. A group of young nobles, traveling in a carriage, stopped him on the road. They sneered at him and mocked his dream of becoming a magician. Ethan tried to ignore them, but they continued to harass him, calling him names and pushing him around.

Just when Ethan thought things couldn't get any worse, one of the nobles, a tall and arrogant man, drew his sword and challenged him to a duel. Ethan was frightened, but he refused to back down. He had never wielded a sword before, but he had been practicing magic for years and was confident in his abilities.

With a determined look on his face, Ethan summoned a small flame and used it to deflect the noble's sword. The young man was taken aback, and the others looked at Ethan with a mixture of awe and fear. Ethan then used his magic to create a cloud of smoke, and disappeared into the forest, leaving the nobles behind.

From that day on, Ethan was more cautious, avoiding any conflicts and keeping to himself. However, he also learned to be more confident in his abilities, and to not let anyone belittle his dreams. He continued on his journey, determined to reach the magic academy and become the greatest archmage the world had ever seen.