A New "Variable"

"Wait, I have some questions about this plan!" Arthur Weasley suddenly stood up and faced Tierra. "I don't agree with the way we're discussing this plan as though Muggles were objects."

"That seems inconsistent with what you said at the very beginning—that Muggles are beings equal to us." Arthur Weasley seemed frightened, but he stared directly at Tierra.

The wizards below began whispering among themselves. Quite a few seemed shocked by Arthur's behavior and thought it foolish.

And Tierra—

looked at Arthur Weasley with delight.

Because in Tierra's eyes, Arthur Weasley no longer looked like Arthur Weasley. He had become a "variable."

Tierra forced down the twitching in his face caused by his excitement and smiled faintly. "Mr. Weasley, first of all, thank you very much for raising your doubts and suggestions about this plan. What we were just discussing was, in fact, how to achieve equality and harmonious coexistence between Muggles and wizards."

"We certainly cannot regard Muggles as objects, but it cannot be denied that, over the past several centuries, a gulf has indeed existed between wizards and Muggles. The main purpose of this plan is to eliminate that gulf, allowing wizards to enjoy the fruits of Muggle technological development while allowing Muggles to enjoy the wonders brought by wizarding magic," Tierra said with a smile. "It is a fine idea, but contact between two groups that have had no communication for centuries will inevitably lead to a certain degree of sacrifice, and sacrifice..."

Tierra paused, then continued, "Would you rather place the greater share of that sacrifice on our side? Or would you rather place it on the Muggles' side? Hmm?"

"But Muggles are so fragile. They can't even use magic. Shouldn't we wizards protect them?" Arthur Weasley asked in confusion.

"Oh, my Mr. Weasley, that is