Ancestral Lineage

Chapter 82 The Next Day: Arrival and Training

The sun had barely risen over the academy grounds, casting a soft, golden hue across the landscape, as Ethan and his friends arrived early for another grueling day of training. The academy, a blend of sleek futuristic architecture with hints of modern design, was already stirring with activity. Hovering vehicles zipped through the air, while students hurried to their morning routines.

Ethan, Clara, Emily, and Trevor walked together, their steps in sync. Dressed in their standard training attire—a black tracksuit with sleek, sci-fi designs and matching sneakers—they exuded a quiet confidence. The academy's vast training complex loomed ahead, a testament to the academy's rigorous standards.

As they approached the training grounds, Ethan glanced at his friends. "Ready?" he asked, his voice calm but carrying an edge of excitement.

Clara nodded, tightening her ponytail. "Born ready."

Trevor grinned, cracking his knuckles. "Let's show them how it's done."

Emily, ever the cold one, simply gave a thumbs-up.

The group entered the training complex, joining the gathering crowd of second years. The air was thick with anticipation. Everyone knew that today's session was going to be even more intense than yesterday.

Ethan wasted no time. The moment the clock struck six, he stepped forward, his presence commanding immediate attention. "Form up!" he barked, his voice cutting through the morning air like a blade. The second years quickly assembled into lines, their faces a mix of determination and nervous energy.

"Today, we're continuing with the Foundation Strengthening Stage," Ethan announced. "We'll start with the 10-kilometer circuit. Remember—no affinities allowed. This is purely about your physical strength and endurance."

With that, he turned on his heel and started jogging, setting the pace for everyone else. Clara, Emily, and Trevor quickly fell into step beside him, along with the other students. The track wound around the academy, offering a mix of terrains—gravel, grass, and even a few steep inclines.

Despite the early hour, the training was grueling. Sweat poured down their faces as they pushed themselves harder than they ever had. Ethan kept a close eye on everyone, his gaze sharp, noting those who struggled to keep up. His own breath was steady, his pace unwavering.

By the time they finished the circuit, some students were on the verge of collapse, gasping for air. Ethan, barely winded, turned to face the group. "Good. Now that you're warmed up, we move on to strength training."

He led them to the weight training area, where various equipment awaited. "Pair up," he ordered. "You're lifting double your body weight today. And I don't want to see anyone slacking."

Ethan joined in, grabbing weights alongside his peers. He wanted to set an example, to show them that he was not above the training he demanded from them. Clara, Emily, and Trevor matched him rep for rep, their camaraderie evident in the way they encouraged each other.

A tense silence followed, the students watching the exchange with bated breath. Ethan, however, remained unphased. He took a step forward, closing the distance between them, adjusting his spectacles, his eyes steady and glowing a deep red. "If you're here to threaten me, Leon, you'll have to do better than that," he said quietly, but his voice carried a weight that made even Leon pause. "You may have seniority, but respect is earned, not given. I suggest you remember that."

For a moment, it seemed like Leon would lash out, but he merely scoffed, turning away. "Enjoy your training, Smith," he spat, before walking off.

As Leon departed, Ethan turned back to his mates. "Alright, break time is over!" he called out, dismissing the tension that had gripped the air. "Tomorrow, we push even harder. Get some rest. You'll need it."

...

As the sun set, Ethan, Clara, Emily, and Trevor made their way to the academy's locker rooms to change out of their training gear. The exhaustion was evident in their movements, but so was a sense of accomplishment.

Clara bumped her shoulder playfully against Ethan. "Not bad, boss. You really showed Leon up back there."

Ethan shrugged, a small smile playing on his lips. "He'll come around eventually," he replied, though he wasn't entirely convinced. The rivalry between them was far from over and it all started with the beautiful girl teasing him, Clara. But looking at Clara, her silvery blonde hair, blue eyes and sexy figure–the rivalry was worth it! It's not like Leon could ever win back Clara.... He had already marked her.

Talking of mark, it seems she needed a new mark and some punishments. You don't go round calling your boyfriend boss, whatever it meant.

Ethan grabbed her cheeks and pinched it lightly, making her give him a soul shattering pout. He could finish any mission the system gave him in 3 seconds.

Ding!

...

New Quest Initiated!

...

"Oh crap!"