Ethan pressed forward through the dark corridors of the dungeon, his body aching but his determination unwavering. The deeper he ventured, the more he could feel the weight of unseen eyes watching him. He wasn't alone—not just because of the monsters, but because of something far more sinister.
Aldric's Resentment
Meanwhile, in the academy's administrative office, Vice President Aldric seethed with quiet fury. His fingers tapped against his polished desk, his cold gaze locked on the floating screen before him, showing Ethan's progress inside the dungeon.
The sight of that arrogant F-Rank surviving, improving, even thriving—it made Aldric's blood boil. But that wasn't the true source of his hatred.
It was her.
President Sylvia Frostheart.
A woman of unparalleled beauty and strength, revered as the academy's Ice Queen. She was respected, feared, and untouchable. Yet, for the first time, Aldric had seen something in her that shattered his illusion of superiority.
Interest.
And it wasn't directed at him—it was directed at Ethan.
Aldric clenched his fists. For years, he had tried to earn Sylvia's favor, subtly making his moves, proving his worth as a capable leader. But she had always remained indifferent.
Yet, that nobody—that worthless, mana-less insect—had caught her attention.
Why?
What did Ethan have that he didn't?
He exhaled sharply. It didn't matter. If Ethan disappeared, her curiosity would fade.
He turned to the hooded figure kneeling before him. "Ensure Ethan Graves does not return from that dungeon."
The figure bowed. "As you command."
Aldric's lips curled into a smirk. Let's see if you can survive my wrath, Ethan.
Trapped in the Depths
Ethan continued deeper into the dungeon, unaware of the plot against him. His body moved instinctively now, his muscles adapting to the relentless battles. His grip tightened on the rusted sword he had picked up earlier.
Passive Ability Reminder:
Never Give Up (Progress: ???)
Iron Stride (Progress: 79%)
Bloodforged Tenacity (Progress: 50%)
Enduring Will (Progress: 34%)
Unyielding Flesh (Progress: 38%)
He had come a long way, but the true challenge had yet to begin.
A sudden shift in the air made him stop. The temperature dropped, and the stone walls around him seemed to darken. An oppressive aura settled over him.
His instincts screamed—danger.
Then, a voice echoed through the chamber.
"You really are a stubborn rat, aren't you?"
Ethan spun around, sword raised. A shadowed figure emerged from the darkness, their aura radiating killing intent.
This wasn't a monster.
This was an assassin.
And they were here for him.
To be continued…