Even with the Drakethorne in his name, it wasn't just his name—he was charismatic, athletic, and naturally talented. It was a life most people could only dream of.
As he scanned the room, Ethan realized something curious: no one seemed to notice the subtle differences in his behavior. While Selene had picked up on his newfound calmness, the rest of his classmates seemed oblivious.
---
Meanwhile, The room fell silent as the door opened, and the academy's instructor stepped in. Instructor Seraphine, a tall, poised woman with sharp features and piercing golden eyes, exuded authority with every step. Her long black coat swayed behind her as she walked to the front of the room, her presence commanding instant attention.
"Good morning, class," she began, her voice firm but not unkind. "As you all know, tomorrow marks two significant events: your graduation from the academy and your Awakening Ceremony."
She paused, letting the weight of her words sink in. "This is the moment your lives truly begin. The talents you awaken will determine your future—your strengths, your opportunities, and your standing in this world."
Ethan leaned back in his chair, his expression calm, though he couldn't help but feel a flicker of curiosity.
---
"To understand the importance of the Awakening," Seraphine continued, "you must understand the history of our world."
A holographic display appeared behind her, showing images of beasts, dungeons, and chaos.
"Centuries ago, the first dungeons appeared, followed by labyrinths. At first, they were seen as mere anomalies—until the beasts began to pour out. Entire cities were wiped out in days, and more than fifty percent of the human population was lost in the initial waves."
The images shifted, showing warriors wielding glowing weapons and unleashing elemental attacks.
"Then, humanity began to awaken. People discovered talents—abilities that allowed them to fight back. These talents were tied to a unique system that displayed their physical stats and capabilities, granting them the tools to survive and thrive."
The hologram transitioned to images of the Great Labyrinth.
"In time, we learned more. Dungeons are temporary, collapsing once cleared. Labyrinths, however, are persistent and far more dangerous. Within the Great Labyrinth, we found not just beasts but other intelligent races, all vying for dominance. They, like us, seek to grow stronger, to climb to the top of the pyramid."
The display faded, and Seraphine's gaze swept across the room. "The Awakening Ceremony is more than a tradition—it is the foundation of your future. Your talent will shape the path you walk. Some of you will awaken abilities tied to combat, others to strategy or support. Whatever you awaken, remember: it is up to you to make the most of it."
---
As the instructor's words echoed in the classroom, a palpable tension filled the air. Some students sat straighter, determination lighting their eyes. Others fidgeted nervously, their thoughts undoubtedly consumed by the uncertainty of what they would awaken.
Ethan remained still, his expression unreadable. Inside, he felt a mixture of curiosity and resolve. I already know what I'm capable of, he thought, the faint hum of his system reassuring him. But tomorrow… tomorrow is when everything truly begins.
Selene leaned closer, whispering, "You ready for this?"
He smirked faintly, his voice low. "Always."
Instructor Seraphine's sharp voice cut through the classroom. "Before we end the day, let me remind you all of something important."
She paused, her golden eyes scanning the room, ensuring every student was paying attention.
"Have you practiced the techniques I assigned?"
The murmurs that followed were filled with nods of confidence and a few nervous glances. Seraphine continued, her tone steady.
"Techniques are not just for those who awaken combat-related talents. They are tools that anyone can use, with or without an affinity. Whether it's sword techniques, grappling, gauntlet combat, or proficiency with other weapons, these skills are what will keep you alive when your talents alone are not enough."
Ethan listened, recalling the sword technique his brother, Darius, had taught him. The Crimson Edge Technique had proven to be a solid choice—simple enough to grasp quickly but powerful when mastered.
"Tomorrow is your Awakening Ceremony,"
Seraphine said, her voice hardening. "But don't think that will make you invincible. To survive in this world, you must be capable even without relying on talent. That's why you'll be tested today."
The class exchanged glances. None of them seemed particularly surprised, but Ethan's brows furrowed slightly. Tested how?
Seraphine motioned for the class to follow her. "We're heading to the arena. Let's see what you've learned."
---
The group filed into a massive underground arena built beneath the academy. The walls were reinforced with glowing runes, and the air was thick with the faint metallic scent of blood. Rows of seats circled the arena, though it was currently empty save for the students and staff.
In the center was a large, enclosed space lined with high, metallic walls. The arena floor was a mix of dirt and stone, with a few faint stains hinting at previous battles. Near the enclosure stood a pair of attendants, one of them a tall, broad-shouldered man holding a clipboard.
Seraphine turned to face the class, her expression stern. "Each of you will demonstrate the technique you've learned by facing an unawakened beast. These beasts are rare in this world, as they don't naturally appear in labyrinths or dungeons. However, their purpose is crucial—they allow you to hone your skills before encountering awakened creatures."
She paced in front of them, her tone growing sharper. "Unawakened beasts are dangerous, but with proper technique, you should be able to defeat one without trouble. If you can't, you've already failed. It's the equivalent of a human being unable to handle a goat. If you're careful and apply what you've learned, the worst you'll get are scratches."
Ethan's eyes narrowed as he processed her words. He'd seen footage of these beasts before but had never encountered one in real life. The memories he had inherited told him that his life had been confined to labyrinth cities, never venturing into the untamed wilds. To him, this would be a first.
Seraphine's voice pulled him back to the present. "Let's begin. Ryker Steelborn, step forward."