Chapter 2 – The First Beast

The courtyard of Valmere Academy was bustling with activity. Hundreds of first-year students were walking toward the Binding Sanctuary, a sacred space within the school where new tamers would form contracts with their first beasts.

Ethan walked calmly among them, the strap of his backpack firmly secured on his shoulder. Unlike most, he felt no anxiety or hesitation. He already had his beast.

The Forest Ancestral Deer.

His classmates, however, didn't know that.

As they approached the sanctuary, the atmosphere grew more solemn. The place was a circular stone temple, with tall pillars covered in ancient inscriptions. At its center, a crystal-clear lake reflected the sunlight, and around it, several reinforced cages held beasts of different species and categories.

A tall, stern-faced professor approached the group.

"Welcome to the most important moment of your lives as tamers, young ones. My name is Master Varian, and today you will form a contract with your first beast."

The students held their breath. For many, this was the true beginning of their journey.

"As you know, the academy offers Common and Rare grade beasts. Those who wish may bring their own beasts, provided they have been approved by the school. Now, form lines."

Ethan stepped aside a bit, watching his classmates walk hesitantly toward the cages. Some chose sturdy and aggressive beasts, while others analyzed carefully before deciding.

"What are you going to pick?" asked a boy beside him, noticing Ethan hadn't moved.

He had silver hair and sharp eyes, exuding an air of confidence. Judging by his posture, he wasn't an ordinary student.

"I already have my beast."

The boy raised an eyebrow.

"Really? What kind?"

Before Ethan could answer, a loud roar echoed through the sanctuary.

All the students turned toward the sound. Inside a reinforced cage, a black-furred wolf with red eyes was thrashing against the bars, emitting waves of fierce energy.

"A Shadow Wolf?" someone whispered in the crowd.

A Dark-type creature, known for its speed and stealth in combat. A tamer was approaching the cage with a determined look.

The boy next to Ethan smiled.

"Looks like someone wants to show off."

Ethan kept his expression calm. His beast wasn't as intimidating as a Shadow Wolf… at least not yet.

Suddenly, the sound of footsteps approached, and a teacher looked at him.

"Ethan Valtieri?"

He nodded.

"Your beast has been approved. You may proceed with the contract."

All eyes turned to him.

Ethan walked toward a reserved area in the sanctuary, where a single beast was waiting.

A deer.

At first glance, it seemed like a peaceful creature. Its fur was moss-green, and faint golden patterns shimmered softly on its skin. Its antlers, though still growing, already displayed a subtle glow of natural energy.

Whispers spread among the students.

"A deer?"

"Isn't that a support-type beast?"

"Did he really choose that thing?"

Ethan ignored the comments and knelt before the deer. He extended his hand, feeling the creature's pulsating energy. His eyes met the animal's, and in an instant, a bond was formed.

The mark of the contract glowed on his hand.

The Forest Ancestral Deer lifted its head, and for the first time, the murmurs stopped.

They didn't know yet.

They didn't understand the true potential of this creature.

But Ethan did.

And soon, everyone else would too.