The grand gate of Valmere Academy stood before him, imposing like a fortress. Students in neatly arranged uniforms entered in groups, eager for the start of the new academic year. Ethan walked among them, gripping the strap of his backpack firmly. Despite his calm appearance, his mind was buzzing with expectations. He was not an ordinary student. Since birth, he had carried the memories of a past life. This knowledge made him see the world differently, but at the same time, it isolated him from his peers.

  As he passed through the gates, Ethan took in the vast campus. Valmere Academy was one of the most respected institutions for beast tamers. Its curriculum covered everything from combat to research, attracting young talents from all over the continent. As someone interested in both theory and practice, this was the perfect environment for him.

  Walking through the main corridor, he found his classroom and took a seat by the window. The chatter of students grew louder as more classmates arrived. Some excitedly discussed the beasts they had acquired, while others speculated about the challenges they would face that year.

  Shortly after, the teacher entered the room—a tall man with graying hair and a piercing gaze. His presence immediately silenced the class.

  — Good morning, class. I am Professor Alden. Before we begin our regular lessons, let's review the basic knowledge of this world. It may be elementary for some, but a refresher never hurts.

  He walked to the board and wrote two large words: Beasts and Tamers.

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  — Our world is governed by the relationship between beasts and tamers. Each beast belongs to one of the twelve elemental types: Fire, Water, Earth, Plant, Ice, Air, Metal, Fight, Poison, Thunder, Light, and Shadow. They have unique traits, strengths, and weaknesses compared to one another.

  The professor turned to the class and pointed at a student.

  — You, give me an example of elemental interaction.

  The boy hesitated for a moment before answering:

  — Hm… Water has an advantage over Fire?

  Alden nodded.

  — Correct. But remember: an elemental advantage does not guarantee victory. Factors like training, strategy, and compatibility with the tamer influence the outcome of a battle. Now, about tamers…

  He drew a pyramid on the board.

  — Tamers are divided into three main specializations: Attack, Support, and Strategic. Attack-focused tamers emphasize raw power, Support tamers assist in battle with buffs and healing, and Strategic tamers use tactics to turn the tide of a fight. Additionally, there is a fourth, less common category: Researchers.

  Ethan smiled slightly. This was his area of interest.

  — Researchers study the origin and evolution of beasts, as well as their behavior. Many work for the Guild of Researchers, developing new methods to strengthen beasts and enhance their abilities.

  The professor paused and looked at the students.

  — Any questions so far?

  A student raised his hand.

  — Professor, what about evolution? Can all beasts evolve?

  Alden crossed his arms.

  — Good question. The answer is yes, but the methods vary. Some evolve after reaching a certain level of experience, while others require special catalysts, such as rare minerals, specific fruits, or unique environmental conditions. A successful evolution can completely transform a beast's potential, elevating it to a higher level.

  The students murmured among themselves, excited. For many, that was the ultimate goal—to strengthen their beasts to the limit.

  Ethan leaned back in his chair, deep in thought. He already knew all this information, yet something inside him told him there were more secrets to uncover. His true goal was not just to become strong. He wanted to understand this world in its entirety, to unravel the mysteries no one dared to question.

  And this journey was only beginning