Ideology can be simple and uncomplicated, or it can be complex and intricate.
Regardless, attempting to change long-held prejudices is a difficult task to undertake.
"Therefore, you must strive. You must put in more effort than them, perform better than the elven children, to earn their recognition. There is no other way."
"More effort?"
Munching on sugar cubes, Roland didn't immediately grasp Li Lin's demand.
It wasn't about doing as well as his elven peers, but outperforming them, a worthy and mandatory endeavor.
"Instead of a drawn-out debate where no one can persuade the other, a clear demonstration of strength can produce decisive results."
Li Lin's explanation, tinged with authoritarianism and the doctrine of might makes right, made Roland frown. The boy had never been fond of his adoptive father's pragmatic, almost cruel, approach.
"When one possesses power, their words are valued. Without power, mere words... who would consider them of worth?"
