Gareth Drakethorne Academy...

As they walked together, Selene linked her arm with his, her touch casual yet intimate. Ethan noticed the glances they received from passersby—admiration for her, and perhaps a bit of jealousy aimed at him.

The streets leading to the academy were a testament to the town's prosperity. Shops displayed high-tier weapons glowing faintly with enchantments, and merchants sold rare dungeon spoils—beast cores, potion vials, and shimmering crystals. Training grounds buzzed with activity as students sparred under the watchful eyes of instructors.

Hovering platforms zipped above, transporting goods and people across the town. A massive fountain in the center of the street depicted a dragon coiled around a blade, water cascading from its mouth in a sparkling stream.

Selene glanced at him, her violet eyes soft. "You've been really quiet. What's on your mind?"

Ethan shrugged. "Just thinking about everything I need to do after the Awakening. There's a lot to prepare for."

Selene smiled, squeezing his arm gently. "You'll be fine. You've got potential, Ethan. More than you realize."

Her words felt sincere, but Ethan couldn't help noticing how at ease she seemed with him. In his memories, the previous Ethan had always been flustered around her, but she seemed unfazed by his sudden shift in attitude.

As they passed through the final stretch, she leaned closer, her voice soft. "You know, I've always believed you'd do something amazing. Just don't forget me when you're at the top, okay?"

Ethan smirked faintly. "Don't worry, Selene. I'm not going anywhere."

---

The academy loomed before them, its massive gates adorned with intricate carvings of beasts and heroes. The energy radiating from the structure was palpable, a mix of pride and ambition that mirrored its founder's legacy.

Selene stepped ahead, turning to face him with a bright smile. "Come on, slowpoke. Let's see if you're ready to take on the world."

Ethan followed, a small grin tugging at his lips.

As Ethan and Selene stepped through the grand gates of the Gareth Drakethorne Academy, the first thing that caught Ethan's eye was the massive, life-like statue towering in the center of the entrance hall.

The statue depicted Gareth Drakethorne, sword raised high as if challenging the heavens, his majestic cape flowing behind him like a symbol of unyielding authority. Every detail, from the intricate designs etched into his armor to the fierce determination in his carved eyes, was crafted to perfection.

Ethan stared at the statue, the sheer size and presence of it commanding respect. Even with the memories he had inherited, comparing this statue to the real Gareth Drakethorne felt surreal. There's no difference, Ethan thought. In fact, Father looks even more majestic and mysterious in person.

The memories stirred something strange within him. Though he shared these memories with the original Ethan, they felt distant, like he was watching someone else's life unfold. Despite being Gareth's son, and seeing, hearing a few words from him from time to time, neither he nor his siblings had spent much time with the man.

Their father was an enigma—a powerful figure who loomed over their lives, yet remained just out of reach.

"Admiring your old man?" Selene's teasing voice cut through his thoughts.

Ethan blinked, turning to find her grinning at him. She stepped closer, nudging him playfully. "You've been staring at that statue like it holds all the secrets of the world. Didn't you see it every day growing up?"

He smirked, shaking his head. "Guess it just hits differently now."

Selene's grin widened as she looped her arm around his. "Don't tell me you're getting sentimental on me. Come on, we're going to be late!"

Ethan sighed inwardly shrugging the numerous thoughts off his mind, it seems having memories doesn't mean he'll be able to act casually like the former Ethan does, but he doesn't care either way.

---

The halls of the academy were as grand as its entrance. Polished marble floors reflected the warm glow of floating rune lights, their soft hum blending with the murmur of students.

The walls were adorned with banners bearing the Drakethorne family crest—an intricate design of a dragon coiled around a sword.

Massive holographic displays projected the academy's schedule, interspersed with scenes of previous graduates achieving greatness. The entire place felt alive, buzzing with ambition and promise.

As Ethan and Selene walked, passing groups of students chatting or rushing to their classes, he couldn't help but notice how the academy's design merged the ancient and futuristic seamlessly. Ornate pillars inscribed with ancient runes stood beside sleek, glowing panels displaying information in real-time.

"Still daydreaming?" Selene teased, pulling him out of his thoughts again. "You've been quiet today. That's not like you."

Ethan shrugged, his tone casual. "Just thinking about tomorrow."

Selene gave him a soft smile, her violet eyes searching his face. "Don't overthink it. You're going to do amazing. You always do."

---

When they arrived at the classroom, Ethan was greeted by a chorus of friendly voices and warm smiles.

"Hey, Ethan!"

"You're finally here!"

"Thought you'd skip class again."

Ethan responded with a polite nod and a faint smile, taking his seat near the center. Selene sat beside him, the soft skin of her arm brushing his, intentionally or unintentionally, with the memories of his past life as well, Ethan isn't a new Gen to this, he's not some normal teenager anymore so he acted like nothing happened...

Selene at the side stole a glance at his handsome focused face, she didn't know why but she likes this version of Ethan even more...

Unknown to both her and Ethan, her presence was drawing more than a few envious glances from their classmates.

Anyways, the original Ethan had always been popular. As the son of Gareth Drakethorne, the academy's namesake and the owner of this labyrinth dimension, his status alone was enough to command respect.

*****

A/N:

I'm trying to make the chapters best, while things may be a bit slow, you guys should please bear with me things are about to get interesting pretty soon