Ethan was like the other two as he offered Gareth a polite, shallow bow — a gesture that Gareth returned with a faint, almost imperceptible smirk of approval — before stepping down quietly.
There was no doubt in anyone's mind.
Ethan Drakethorne was different.
With the prize-giving concluded, the atmosphere shifted.
The students had barely begun to process what had happened when a new voice called out.
Stepping onto the stage with a casual swagger was a handsome young man with dark hair and sharp blue eyes — Darius, his elder brother, working as a Lieutenant under their father...
Ethan's eyes flickered with surprise for the briefest moment upon seeing him.
'Darius is here… which means Mia and the others might be around too.'
He quickly masked his thoughts.
Darius spoke with easy confidence, addressing the crowd,
"As part of the Labyrinth Overlord's initiative, we'll now be extending offers to join the Drakethorne Guild. If you hear your name called, step forward."
