Chapter 14: Echoes Beneath the Marble

The ceremony concluded under the shimmer of enchanted chandeliers, and the first-year students of Dorothrel were assigned their dormitories and schedules. Classes would begin in two days. For most, it was a time of wonder and nervous excitement. For Jin Ho, it was reconnaissance.

He wandered the halls, memorizing every corner and every magical inscription etched into the walls. Each sigil told stories—of ancient bloodlines, heroic sacrifices, and the terrifying power this academy had nurtured for centuries. Dorothrel wasn't just an institution; it was a crucible that forged both champions and tyrants.

Outside his dorm, he found a commotion.

"You bumped into me, peasant." A boy with an elaborate silver crest on his robes shoved another student to the ground. His wind aura flared slightly, enough to intimidate but not attract staff attention.

Jin Ho observed silently. The boy on the ground wore patched robes and trembling hands—clearly a commoner.

"I-I'm sorry," he stammered.

"Sorry doesn't fix broken bones. Next time, kneel when I pass."

With a theatrical swirl of his cloak, the noble walked off. Jin Ho helped the commoner to his feet.

"Thank you," the boy muttered. "Name's Rurik."

"Jin," he replied.

He didn't want friends. But tools—tools were necessary.

Flashback: The Future That Was

Jin Ho remembered the same boy. Rurik had once organized a resistance in the second year against the elite factions. Brave but stupid. He died screaming during a failed ambush against Lord Jehnic's apprentices. Maybe this time, he'd survive longer.

Later that evening, Jin Ho sat on his bed in a meditative position. The Veil of Minerva shimmered faintly, cloaking his true mana signature. He activated the hidden interface.

Yggidrasil Sync: 87% Core Pressure Stabilized New Message: [Dormant Trait - Echo Sense Unlocked]

Interesting, he mused. The academy's enchantments must've triggered a resonance.

He focused inward, reaching for the blood-red system that guided him.

Yggidrasil: "Your enemies wear gold and smiles. Become the storm that cannot be chained."

He stood, walking to the window. In the distance, he could see the towering spire of the Academy's Grand Library, where ancient grimoires lay sealed in magical stasis. Knowledge. Secrets. Power.

He would need them all.

Meanwhile, across the courtyard, dormitories for nobles looked more like palaces. Inside one, the Dongjin grandson stood in front of a polished mirror.

"Level 3 already, huh?" he whispered smugly. "Not long before I step into Level 4. And then… I'll make Dorothrel kneel."

He looked up, his golden irises glowing faintly. "Let's see who dares challenge me."