Selene Vael

Ethan's frustration mounted, but as he repeated the motions, something clicked. His movements became sharper, more instinctive.

[Crimson Edge Mastery: 100%]

Then it happened.

[Swift Slash Unlocked.]

[Swift Slash: A beginner-level sword technique that enhances speed and precision, allowing for a quick, controlled strike. Ideal for catching opponents off-guard.]

A surge of energy filled Ethan's body, and he executed the move without hesitation. His blade blurred, catching Darius off-guard as it slipped past his defenses, from Darius's view the sword had suddenly developed momentum out of its normal trajectory...

Darius stepped back, his crimson eyes widening in surprise. For a moment, silence hung in the air. Then he laughed, a deep, genuine sound.

"Well, I'll be damned," Darius said, lowering his sword. "You've got talent, Ethan. And if you're this strong now, I can't wait to see what happens when you awaken your talent."

Ethan smiled wryly, the words hitting differently than Darius intended.

'If only you knew…'

---

As they returned their practice swords to the rack, Ethan felt a sense of accomplishment he hadn't experienced in years. The system's hum in his mind was quiet but satisfied.

This was just the beginning.

***

The next day Ethan followed what seemed to be the routine of the previous owner of this body...

It was morning he already awake and prepared on his way to the academy...

The hum of the hovercar was a low, soothing vibration as it glided over the smooth roads of Drakethorne City.

Ethan sat in the back seat, his gaze fixed on the passing scenery, which seamlessly blended futuristic advancements with apocalyptic resilience.

Towering skyscrapers made of reinforced crystal and alloy gleamed in the sunlight, their surfaces etched with intricate rune patterns that pulsed faintly, a reminder of the labyrinth energy that powered much of the city. Hovercars zipped along in neat formations, and drones floated overhead, monitoring traffic and maintaining order.

The streets below bustled with life. Vendors lined the sidewalks, their stalls displaying everything from glowing fruits harvested in dungeons to sleek, rune-imbued gadgets. People of all ages moved about, some carrying weapons and armor, others in elegant robes, the mark of scholars and adventurers. It was a world where strength and survival coexisted with progress and innovation.

Ethan leaned back, glancing at the driver, an elderly butler named Graham, whose neatly combed silver hair and immaculate suit exuded professionalism. The man had been with the family for decades, and his calm demeanor gave off an air of reliability.

"We're almost at the portal, Young Master," Graham said, his voice steady.

Ethan nodded, his thoughts drifting as he stared out the window. This was a far cry from the Earth he remembered, yet it felt oddly familiar.

---

The hovercar slowed as they approached the portal station—a massive structure resembling a coliseum, its walls glowing with shifting runic patterns. The portal itself was a shimmering oval of light, crackling faintly with energy, and surrounded by guards in sleek, rune-enhanced armor. It leads to the second, and larger Labyrinth owned by his father.

Ethan stepped out of the car, the crisp air hitting him as Graham exited as well, bowing slightly. "Safe travels, Young Master. If you require anything, you know how to reach me."

"Thanks, Graham," Ethan said, giving the man a small nod before turning toward the portal.

The guards barely glanced at him as he approached, his identity clearly recognized. Using the memories of the body he now inhabited, Ethan stepped forward and entered the portal.

---

The sensation of stepping through the portal was brief but disorienting, like walking through a gust of wind that left a faint hum in his ears. When Ethan opened his eyes, he was standing in the heart of Aurelian Depths, the labyrinth City owned by his father.

The town was alive with activity. Streets paved with shimmering stone stretched in every direction, lined with shops, training grounds, and homes. Adventurers of all kinds moved about, some preparing for dungeon dives while others returned with spoils. Above, rune-imbued lights floated, casting a gentle glow over the town even in daylight.

Ethan's destination was clear. The Gareth Drakethorne Academy, named after his father, stood only a few blocks away. It was a sprawling structure, a blend of futuristic design and ancient architecture, its spires reaching toward the sky.

As Ethan began walking, he noticed someone approaching him—a girl about his age.

---

She was striking, her long silver hair shimmering like moonlight, cascading down her back in soft waves.

Her violet eyes sparkled with warmth, and her features were delicate but radiated confidence. She was dressed in the academy's uniform—a tailored black and gold outfit that hugged her figure perfectly, the insignia of the Drakethorne family emblazoned on her chest.

Ethan recognized her instantly from his memories. Selene Vael, the academy's undisputed belle. She was brilliant, talented, and had an extraordinary presence that turned heads wherever she went. According to the memories of the previous Ethan, he had harbored strong feelings for her.

"Ethan!" Selene called, her voice bright as she waved at him.

He raised a hand in greeting, his expression calm.

As she reached him, she smiled warmly. "It's been a while. I thought you'd already be at the academy preparing for your Awakening."

Ethan shrugged nonchalantly. "Took my time."

Selene tilted her head, a curious glint in her eyes. "That's new. You're usually more… animated around me."

He smirked. "Guess I'm just tired."

She giggled, brushing off his change in demeanor. "Well, it's good to see you. Are you nervous about the Awakening? Or do you already have a grand plan for when you become a talent user?"

Ethan gave a half-smile. "I'm just taking things as they come."

Selene smiled subtly in return, only someone with a background can afford to be lax like that...

****

A/N:

I'm sorry I wasn't able to update the past few days, if you've read this far and like the book support the book by commenting and voting with powerstones... I'll really appreciate...

50 powerstones - 1 bonus Chapter...