3 Chapter 3 Martial Arts Academy (MAA)

The ripples on the surface of the crystal-clear pond slowly settled as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows that danced across the forest floor. Gratitude welled up within him for the second chance he had been granted in this enchanting world of magic.

As the moon began to rise, Lysandra returned from her brief absence, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. She observed Ego by the pond and offered a knowing smile. "You're beginning to understand the balance of magic and nature, Ego. Your progress is impressive."

Ego nodded, a sense of accomplishment warming his chest. "I've learned so much, thanks to you, Lysandra."

With a gentle pat on his shoulder, Lysandra guided him away from the pond. "But our journey is just beginning, my dear Ego. There is still much to explore and discover in this world."

Their footsteps carried them deeper into the forest, where vibrant flora illuminated their path with bioluminescent hues. It was a place where magic and nature coexisted harmoniously, a testament to the beauty of this world.

However, as they continued, a portal of shimmering light materialized before them, seemingly out of thin air. Ego blinked in surprise as the portal's radiant glow beckoned them closer. Lysandra, her expression intrigued, motioned for him to follow.

With a leap of faith, they stepped through the portal, and in an instant, they found themselves back at a place Ego thought he had left behind forever—his high school. The familiar architecture, the echoing corridors, and the scent of chalk and books filled the air.

Ego's heart raced as he realized where he was, but this was no ordinary return. The school's martial arts teacher, a stern figure with a reputation for toughness, awaited them in the central courtyard. Alongside him were students, their attire a blend of traditional martial arts uniforms and intricate mage robes.

What caught Ego's attention, however, was not the stern instructor or the curious gazes of his fellow students. It was the realization that 80% of the school's population consisted of females, and not just any females, but individuals of extraordinary beauty.

Ego felt a flush of embarrassment as he looked at his reflection in a nearby window. He had inherited the striking features of the body's previous owner, and in this world, his appearance was nothing short of breathtaking. His classmates, though surprised by his return, couldn't help but cast admiring glances in his direction.

Lysandra, her eyes crinkling with amusement, leaned in and whispered, "You seem to have quite the effect on the academy, Ego."

Ego couldn't help but blush. It was a far cry from his previous life, where he had been bullied and unnoticed. Now, he stood out not just for his magical potential but also for his appearance.

The martial arts teacher, a formidable figure with a shaved head and a stern expression, approached them. "Ego," he said with a nod of acknowledgment. "You've returned at a crucial time. We're preparing for the upcoming inter-academy martial arts tournament, and your skills will be valuable to our team."

Ego was taken aback. He had never been skilled in martial arts before, but now, he possessed the combat abilities of the body's previous owner. It seemed that his second chance had brought unexpected talents to the surface.

As he stood among the students, both male and female, Ego couldn't help but wonder about the challenges and adventures that awaited him in this new world. The inter-academy tournament was just the beginning, and he had a feeling that his life in this magical realm would be anything but ordinary.

Ego nodded in acknowledgment as the martial arts teacher spoke of his return and the upcoming tournament. The weight of responsibility settled upon his shoulders, mingling with a sense of excitement at the prospect of showcasing his newfound skills.

"Thank you, sir," Ego replied with newfound confidence, offering a respectful bow.

The teacher regarded him with a scrutinizing gaze but said nothing more for the moment. Instead, he turned and addressed the assembled students, outlining the training regimen and the preparations for the tournament. Ego's attention wavered as his thoughts wandered.

His memories of the past remained fragmented, like shards of a broken mirror, but one thing was clear—his life had taken a dramatic turn since his arrival in this magical realm. Ego's transformation from a bullied teenager to a skilled martial artist had been nothing short of miraculous. He owed much of it to Asmodus and his enigmatic powers.

The martial arts teacher dismissed the students to prepare for the evening training session. Ego was about to follow the others when a nagging thought tugged at his consciousness. He suddenly realized he had no recollection of where his room was or how to get there. Panic seized him briefly as he tried to remember the layout of the academy.

Seeing Ego's momentary confusion, the teacher called out, "Ego, is there something wrong?"

Ego stammered, "I... I can't seem to remember where my room is, sir."

The teacher raised an eyebrow, his stern expression softening with a hint of concern. "That's unusual. You've been here for some time now. Are you feeling unwell?"

Before Ego could respond, Lysandra stepped forward, her voice calm and reassuring. "I'm afraid Ego had a little mishap earlier today. He hit his head, and it seems he may have lost some of his memory."

The teacher's concern deepened, and he approached Ego, examining him closely. "Is that so? Well, we can't have you wandering around lost. Let's get you cleaned up and refreshed. Afterward, we'll talk. Perhaps I can help."

With that, Ego, Lysandra, and the martial arts teacher made their way to a part of the academy designated for personal quarters. Ego couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude toward Lysandra for coming to his aid.

As they entered the room, Ego took in the simple yet comfortable furnishings. Lysandra gestured for him to sit while she

Sets up his bathing tube.

Lysandra smiled warmly, her eyes filled with a kindness that touched his heart. "We're companions, Ego. It's natural to help one another. Now, let's get you cleaned up."

Ego nodded appreciatively and followed Lysandra into the room. The atmosphere was soothing, and the warm water in the tub seemed inviting after the day's events. Lysandra set up the bathing tub with care, making sure the water was just the right temperature.

"Alright, Ego," she said, stepping back to give him some privacy. "I'll wait for you here. Take your time and relax."