Words of Arthur echoed from within the Messenger Stone.
And Hayes?
His eyes lit up.
Just as Arthur had guessed, the previous inquiry had been an extremely covert probe by Hayes—regardless of Arthur's answer being yes or no, Hayes would choose to stand by Arthur's side.
But in a way that concealed his own brilliance, going with the flow.
After all, Hayes didn't think a person who responded 'along with the thoughts of others' was a suitable leader, someone worth following.
As for Jimte and Kalal?
Hayes was confident that after convincing both that he had dealt with the hidden dangers and became content with enjoyment,
everything would become reasonable, should Manta become pregnant.
And Jimte and Kalal's recognition of Arthur?
What did it matter to him?
He had no idea why Jimte and Kalal needed to recognize Arthur.
However, without passing his test, he would not acknowledge Arthur.
Of course, had he passed...
He would follow wholeheartedly.
