Obviously the noble had no answer for Jonathan's question. If he acknowledges that the students were weak, they might end up getting expelled instead as weak people did not deserve to study in the academy.
On the other hand, if he admitted that Ashton was strong, that would qualify the mutt to get preferential treatment from the king. As it was well known Jonathan did not care able blood and lineage when it came to his soldiers. Sadly, it wasn't true when it came to his family.
Either way, as long as someone could prove their worth to him, their lives were as good as set to drown in a sea of riches and power. Also, judging by the way Jonathan had framed the question, the noble more or less already knew he had taken notice of the mutt's talent.
"The kid... is strong, your highness." The noble mumbled and sat back down.
