《Broke to Boss》 Chapter 1: The Journey Begins Part 1: The Dream Realized Kim Ji-hoon¡¯s pulse raced as he clutched the thick, cream-colored envelope in his hands. It was heavier than he expected, the weight of it far more significant than just paper. The envelope was marked with the prestigious Haneul University insignia, and his fingers trembled slightly as he tore it open, almost afraid to look at the words inside. He had worked so hard for this moment, a dream he had cherished since childhood. And now, this was it. His future, in a single letter. The room was small and cluttered, filled with the familiar scent of his mother¡¯s cooking and the worn-out furniture that had seen better days. His parents sat at the small wooden table, both of them too absorbed in their work to notice his entrance. Kim¡¯s heart pounded in his chest as he read the letter silently, the words blurring for a moment as emotion threatened to overwhelm him. It was official¡ªhe had been accepted into one of the most prestigious universities in South Korea. His breath caught in his throat as his eyes refocused. The excitement bubbled up inside him, and before he could stop himself, he rushed into the living room, holding the letter in front of him like a prize. ¡°Mom! Dad!¡± he called out, his voice uncharacteristically loud, filled with excitement. ¡°I got in! I got in!¡± His mother Lee Mi-sook, who had been tending to the stove, turned at the sound of his voice, a look of confusion crossing her face. Her hands quickly wiped the flour off her apron, and she rushed toward him, her eyes wide in disbelief. His father Kim Joon-seok, reading the newspaper in his old armchair, looked up in surprise. ¡°Are you serious?¡± His father¡¯s voice cracked slightly, and Kim could see the emotion behind his eyes. ¡°This is... incredible!¡± Kim¡¯s mother was already on her feet, rushing to embrace him, her arms enveloping him in a tight, warm hug. ¡°You did it, my son! We always believed in you!¡± Her voice was thick with pride, and for a moment, everything in Kim¡¯s world felt right. The room seemed to shrink, the weight of his family¡¯s pride settling heavily on his shoulders. His younger siblings, Kim Ji-sung and Kim Ji-yeon, burst into the room, their faces lighting up as they saw the letter in Kim¡¯s hand.The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. ¡°You really got in, hyung?¡± Kim Ji-sung asked, a wide grin spreading across his face. Kim nodded, unable to contain the joy that bubbled up from within him. ¡°Yeah, I did. I¡¯m going to college.¡± His voice cracked, and his eyes momentarily flickered with unshed tears. It wasn¡¯t just the letter¡ªit was the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and the quiet hopes of his parents that had gotten him here. His mother¡¯s arms were still wrapped around him, her face full of pride and joy. ¡°We always knew you could do it. You¡¯re going to make us all proud, Ji-hoon.¡± Kim¡¯s father stood up from his chair, crossing the room in a few long strides. He placed his hands on Kim¡¯s shoulders and looked into his eyes. ¡°This is the beginning, son. A new chapter. You¡¯ve earned this. We¡¯ll support you, no matter what.¡± Kim felt the weight of their words settle in his heart. It wasn¡¯t just a personal victory. It was for his family, who had sacrificed everything to help him reach this point. The celebration was modest, but it didn¡¯t matter. There was a small cake, some homemade food, and laughter that filled the apartment as his siblings joked around and his parents shared stories of their own struggles. Kim could feel the warmth of their love, and in that moment, it felt as though the weight of the world had been lifted from his shoulders. As the evening wore on, Kim sat quietly in the corner, watching his family. His thoughts wandered, and a feeling of determination began to grow inside him. This wasn¡¯t just an acceptance letter. This was his chance to change everything. It wasn¡¯t just about him anymore¡ªit was about them. His family had worked too hard for him to let this opportunity slip away. Tomorrow, he would begin a new journey. A journey that would take him far beyond the small, cramped apartment that had always been their home. A journey that would take him to a world he had only dreamed of¡ªa world of power, wealth, and success. But for now, in this moment, he allowed himself to savor the victory. He had made it. ¡°We¡¯ll be okay, Mom,¡± he whispered softly, his voice barely audible to anyone but himself. ¡°I¡¯ll make it. I promise.¡± He closed his eyes for a moment, imagining the future that lay ahead. His dreams were just beginning to take shape. Chapter 1: The Journey Begins Part 2: A Glimpse of the Divide The next day, Kim found himself standing at the entrance of a bustling mall. It was a Saturday afternoon, and the place was teeming with people. Families, students, and tourists were all caught up in their own worlds, absorbed in the excitement of shopping and spending. Kim adjusted the strap of his worn-out backpack, the familiar weight comforting in its own way, as he made his way toward the escalators. His purpose was simple: to buy the necessary supplies for college. It felt surreal to even think about¡ªhis first time shopping for school supplies at a store that wasn¡¯t the local convenience shop. But as he moved through the mall, it didn¡¯t take long for him to realize just how much he stood out. Kim had never been one to feel self-conscious about his clothes. After all, his family didn¡¯t have the luxury of affording new outfits every season. But today, as he walked through the shiny mall lined with high-end stores, he couldn¡¯t help but feel the sting of his own poverty. He glanced at the well-dressed students walking past him, their designer clothes and expensive shoes almost mocking him. They moved with an ease that Kim could never afford. The most striking contrast was a young boy, probably about his age, walking alongside his parents. The boy was holding a brand new laptop, the kind that Kim could only dream of owning. The family was happily picking out an array of high-end stationery, chatting excitedly as they added more and more items to their cart. Kim stood frozen for a moment, watching them. He felt a knot form in his stomach as the boy¡¯s father turned to him and smiled. ¡°Make sure you don¡¯t forget the charger, alright? We need everything to be perfect for your first day.¡± Kim swallowed hard, his throat suddenly dry. The disparity between their world and his own felt overwhelming. Here he was, holding a cheap calculator in his hands, eyeing the marked-down notebooks and pens. He quickly shoved the calculator back onto the shelf, trying to ignore the tightness in his chest. The boy¡¯s life seemed so effortless, so far removed from his own struggles. Kim couldn¡¯t help but compare their family to his. His father had been reading the newspaper in the cramped apartment, not talking about college supplies or the future. It was just another day, just another dollar earned to scrape by. Kim¡¯s mother, though proud of him, had always carried a quiet burden of worry about how they would make ends meet.Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. His thoughts drifted as he moved past the rows of college supplies, his eyes landing on another display of fancy backpacks. There was a sleek, black leather one, the kind that screamed ¡°success¡± to anyone who looked at it. Kim¡¯s fingers brushed against the soft fabric, imagining how different his life could be if he didn¡¯t have to think about the price of everything. But then, the thought of his family hit him hard. His mother had sacrificed so much for him to have this chance. They didn¡¯t have the luxury of spending on things they didn¡¯t need. Kim¡¯s stomach twisted at the thought of his younger brother, Ji-sung, who had begged him not to buy anything that wasn¡¯t essential. ¡°I can get cheaper supplies,¡± Kim muttered to himself, turning away from the backpack display. ¡°If I buy better food for Mom and Ji-sung, maybe we can make it another week without worrying.¡± The weight of his thoughts bore down on him as he grabbed a notebook and a set of pens that were well below the price of the designer sets. It wasn¡¯t much, but it was something he could afford. His mind raced as he walked through the aisles, comparing the prices of every item, wondering if he should settle for even cheaper alternatives. He could feel the familiar pressure of the weight of responsibility settling over him, the need to provide for his family even as he was trying to create a future for himself. Kim finally settled on the cheapest calculator, trying not to feel ashamed as he grabbed the simplest supplies. But his mind couldn¡¯t let go of the image of the boy with the shiny new laptop, and the family¡¯s easy smile. That was the world he could never reach. He felt a sudden pang of frustration¡ªa frustration that came from years of struggling to make ends meet, to prove his worth. But it was fleeting. He shoved it aside, replacing it with something stronger: resolve. ¡°No,¡± he whispered to himself, standing in the middle of the store. ¡°This is only temporary. I will make it. I will rise above all of this.¡± With his supplies in hand, Kim headed for the checkout, passing through the store¡¯s sleek, polished aisles. His heart sank with each step as he walked past students who barely glanced at him, lost in their own worlds. The world that would soon be his to conquer. As he paid for his items, the cashier smiled at him, and he forced a smile back, feeling a sense of alienation he couldn¡¯t shake. It wasn¡¯t that anyone had treated him poorly¡ªit was just the overwhelming realization that he wasn¡¯t part of this world yet. Not yet. As Kim walked out of the store, bags in hand, the stark contrast between his life and the lives of the wealthy students at the mall only seemed to grow. He had no idea what it would take to rise above this, but he knew one thing for sure¡ªthis was just the beginning. He would prove that he didn¡¯t belong to the life he was born into. He would create his own destiny. The world was full of divides, but Kim was ready to tear them down, one step at a time. Chapter 1: The Journey Begins Part 3: The Weight of Sacrifice As the heavy weight of the shopping bags pressed against his shoulders, Kim¡¯s thoughts lingered on the hollow ache in his chest. The mall had been a stark reminder of the world he didn¡¯t belong to¡ªat least, not yet. The shiny, polished lives of the people around him felt so far out of reach, like something he could only ever dream about. He couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that he was merely an outsider, watching from the fringes of a world he¡¯d never be able to enter without a fight. His mind kept drifting back to the boy with the brand new laptop, his father¡¯s proud smile, and the easy conversations about what kind of school supplies they¡¯d need. Kim had never experienced that¡ªhad never had the luxury of those little comforts, of making those simple choices without the weight of financial strain crushing every decision. It wasn¡¯t just about the supplies; it was about the divide, the deep chasm between his world and theirs. Kim didn¡¯t want to dwell on it for long. He needed to keep moving forward. He finally reached the corner of the street where he would usually catch the bus. As he approached, his eyes caught sight of Ji-sung up ahead. His younger brother was walking briskly along the sidewalk, carrying a small backpack. Kim slowed his pace and called out, ¡°Ji-sung!¡± The boy turned, his face lighting up when he saw his older brother. He waved his hand and jogged to catch up. ¡°Hyung, you¡¯re done already?¡± Ji-sung asked, his voice filled with excitement, yet something in his eyes told Kim that his brother had been holding something back. Kim smiled warmly, though his mind was still preoccupied. ¡°Yeah, just finished buying the stuff for college,¡± he replied, trying to keep his tone light. ¡°What about you? Why aren¡¯t you on the bus?¡± Ji-sung paused for a moment, looking down at the ground as though debating whether to speak the truth. ¡°Uh, I... I thought I¡¯d walk,¡± he muttered, his voice a little too quiet. Kim raised an eyebrow, sensing that there was more to the story. ¡°Don¡¯t lie, Ji-sung. What¡¯s going on?¡± His younger brother shifted uncomfortably, then gave in with a sigh. ¡°Okay, fine. I¡¯m saving up for a movie. I didn¡¯t want to ask Mom and Dad for money. Things are tight right now.¡± Kim¡¯s heart twisted in his chest at the admission. Ji-sung, who was only twelve, was already making sacrifices for things that should have been simple, like going out with his friends to watch a movie. He was trying to protect their parents from the pressure of another expense, even when they couldn¡¯t afford it. Kim felt a mixture of pride and sorrow in his heart. ¡°You¡¯re a good kid, Ji-sung,¡± Kim said softly, placing a hand on his brother¡¯s shoulder. ¡°But you don¡¯t have to do that. We¡¯ll get through this. I promise. We¡¯ll make it.¡±If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Ji-sung¡¯s eyes flickered with a quiet hope. ¡°I know you will, hyung. You¡¯re going to college. You¡¯re going to make everything better.¡± Kim swallowed hard. His brother¡¯s faith in him was both humbling and heavy. How could he let this innocent hope die? How could he let his family down again? The weight of responsibility settled on Kim¡¯s shoulders more firmly than ever before. He wasn¡¯t just going to college for himself; he was going for Ji-sung, for their parents. This was their chance. This was the path to a life that would no longer be defined by scraping together the bare minimum, living paycheck to paycheck. Kim clenched his fists as a new resolve washed over him. He would make it. He would rise above the circumstances that had bound him for so long. He would take every opportunity, no matter how small, and use it to pull his family out of this life. He couldn¡¯t afford to fail. As they walked side by side, Kim kept his gaze forward, trying to block out the thoughts that had clouded his mind earlier. ¡°You don¡¯t have to save your money for movies, Ji-sung. You can have your fun too. Don¡¯t worry about it.¡± Ji-sung grinned up at him, his eyes sparkling with a quiet optimism that reminded Kim of the boy he used to be. A boy who believed in things like hope and dreams, before the world had taught him the cold lessons of sacrifice. ¡°I¡¯ll make sure to save up for the next one, hyung,¡± Ji-sung replied, his voice filled with that same belief in the future, a future Kim promised himself he¡¯d create. As they reached the small apartment, Kim¡¯s mother was already in the kitchen, her gentle humming filling the air as she prepared their modest meal. Her movements were graceful, even in the face of exhaustion, and Kim knew it wasn¡¯t just the food that kept her going¡ªit was the love for her family, the unspoken promise to make sure they didn¡¯t go hungry, no matter what. His father was sitting at the small table, reading the newspaper, his brow furrowed with the weight of their situation. He didn¡¯t speak much, but Kim could feel the quiet strength in him, the man who had worked his whole life just to provide what little they had. Kim set his bags down and walked over to his mother, who smiled warmly at him. ¡°You look tired, Ji-hoon. How was the shopping?¡± ¡°It was fine, Mom,¡± Kim replied, sitting down at the table. His stomach growled quietly, but it wasn¡¯t hunger that gnawed at him. It was the weight of the promise he¡¯d made¡ªto make everything better. As his mother served dinner, Kim looked at his family. They were so strong, each of them sacrificing in their own way. He had to make sure their sacrifices weren¡¯t in vain. He had to prove that all the hard work, all the struggles, would eventually pay off. The thought of it made his chest tighten, but he kept his focus. ¡°I¡¯ll make it, Mom. I¡¯m going to make sure we don¡¯t have to live like this anymore,¡± he said softly, his voice unwavering despite the doubt that still lingered in the back of his mind. His mother smiled and placed a bowl of rice in front of him. ¡°We know you will, Ji-hoon. We¡¯re proud of you.¡± Kim¡¯s eyes met his father¡¯s, who nodded silently in agreement. In that moment, Kim understood just how much this family believed in him. They didn¡¯t need grand speeches or promises. They needed action. Tomorrow, he would take the first step toward the future. Tomorrow, he would begin his journey, not just as a college student, but as the person who would change everything for them. He wouldn¡¯t let them down. Not this time. Chapter 1: The Journey Begins Part 4: The Promise of Tomorrow As Kim entered the cramped apartment, the familiar hum of the evening settled over him. The soft clatter of utensils in the kitchen, the faint murmur of his younger siblings talking quietly in the next room¡ªthese sounds were the soundtrack of his life. But tonight, something felt different. It wasn¡¯t just another ordinary evening. It was the calm before the storm, the moment before everything changed. And Kim knew that change was coming. He walked through the door and felt the weight of his bags drop to the floor. His body ached from the long day, but it wasn¡¯t the physical fatigue that made his bones feel heavy. It was the emotional toll, the endless pressure of carrying the hopes and dreams of his family on his shoulders. His mother had always been the anchor, the one who kept them grounded. But now, it was his turn to steer the ship, to take them to calmer waters. "Ji-hoon, you¡¯re back,¡± his mother said, her voice soft and welcoming. She was standing at the stove, stirring a pot of soup. Her face glowed with the kind of quiet determination Kim had always admired. Despite their struggles, she had always managed to put a warm meal on the table, to make sure they never went to bed hungry. Kim had watched her do it all his life, and now, it was his turn to give her something better. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m back,¡± Kim replied, smiling as he dropped into a chair at the small wooden table. His mother served him a bowl of soup, and Kim lifted his spoon, the warmth of the meal comforting him for a moment. But as he sat there, his mind wandered. The image of the mall from earlier that day, with the wealthy students and their parents, still lingered in his thoughts. The luxury, the ease, the effortless comfort¡ªthey were worlds apart from his reality. Kim couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that no matter how hard he tried, he would always be an outsider in that world. But something in him resisted the notion. That¡¯s not the life he would have. He refused to accept it. He couldn¡¯t go through life watching others have what he couldn¡¯t. He would rise. He would climb higher than anyone expected, higher than the people who looked down on him. He had to. For his family. For himself. "Mom, Dad," he said after a long silence, his voice steady but filled with an unspoken promise. "I¡¯m going to make it. I¡¯m going to make sure we don¡¯t live like this anymore. I¡¯ll do whatever it takes." His mother paused in her movements, her hands resting on the counter as she turned to look at him. Her eyes were soft, but they held something deeper¡ªsomething akin to understanding, perhaps even resignation. She had always believed in him, had always supported his dreams, but she knew the weight of their reality better than anyone. Kim saw the flicker of worry in her gaze. ¡°You don¡¯t have to do it all at once, Ji-hoon,¡± she said gently, her voice full of quiet wisdom. ¡°Take it step by step. Don¡¯t let the weight of it all crush you.¡±You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story. Kim met her gaze, a fire igniting in his chest. ¡°I know, Mom. But I can¡¯t wait anymore. I can¡¯t keep living like this. I¡¯ve spent too much of my life watching other people live the way they want. It¡¯s my turn now.¡± His father, who had been sitting quietly at the table, looking over the newspaper, lowered it and looked up. His father¡¯s expression was always steady, calm¡ªnever showing much emotion. But Kim could see the pride in his eyes, the unspoken acknowledgment that his son was becoming a man, a leader. ¡°We believe in you, Ji-hoon,¡± his father said quietly. ¡°Just... don¡¯t forget where you came from. Don¡¯t forget that we¡¯re all in this together.¡± Kim nodded, his heart swelling with a mixture of determination and guilt. He couldn¡¯t forget. He wouldn¡¯t forget. But he couldn¡¯t stay here forever either. His father¡¯s words were a reminder that, no matter how far he rose, the past would always be a part of him, grounding him. As they ate dinner together, Kim¡¯s thoughts raced. Tomorrow, he would start college. Tomorrow, he would step into a world of opportunity¡ªof wealth and power¡ªbut also one filled with its own dangers. The students there wouldn¡¯t care about where he came from. To them, he was just another scholarship kid. He would have to fight every step of the way to prove that he belonged. Tomorrow, he would no longer be the quiet boy from the poor family. Tomorrow, he would begin to build his empire. But there was something even more pressing on his mind¡ªsomething deeper. College wasn¡¯t just about getting a degree or even rising to the top. It was about revenge. The people who had mocked him, belittled him, who had laughed at his dreams¡ªthose people were still out there. And he had an undeniable hunger for retribution. Kim had learned early on that the world didn¡¯t care about the dreams of those who had no power. No one would give him anything. He had to take it. Everything he wanted, he would have to seize. And once he had the power, no one would be able to stand in his way. After dinner, Kim retreated to his room, where the dim light of a single desk lamp illuminated his small space. He sat down at his desk, looking out the window at the darkened skyline of Seoul. It was a city that seemed so distant, so unreachable. But that night, as he stared out into the distance, it no longer seemed out of his reach. Tomorrow was the beginning. Tomorrow, he would step into a world where he would no longer be invisible. Tomorrow, he would start the journey to take everything that had once been denied to him. The thought consumed him, filling him with an energy he had never felt before. ¡°Tomorrow,¡± he whispered to himself, a quiet promise to the boy he used to be and the man he was about to become. ¡°Tomorrow, everything changes.¡± As Kim lay down to sleep, his mind was alive with plans and strategies, visions of the future taking shape in his mind. He wasn¡¯t just going to survive this world. He was going to dominate it. And he would do it for his family¡ªfor Ji-sung, for his parents, for the life they deserved. When sleep finally claimed him, Kim knew one thing for sure: the road ahead would be long, but he would never stop fighting. Tomorrow, he would take the first step toward his destiny, and nothing¡ªnothing¡ªcould stop him. Chapter 1: The Journey Begins Part 5: The First Step The moonlight spilled through the thin curtains, casting a pale glow across Kim¡¯s room. The quiet was almost oppressive, but it was a silence that allowed his thoughts to roam freely, as if the stillness of the night gave space for the weight of his ambitions to settle deeper into his mind. He lay still in his bed, the faint rustle of his younger siblings'' breathing filling the room with a sense of calm, but Kim¡¯s mind was far from peaceful. Tonight was different. He wasn¡¯t just lying here, waiting for the morning like every other night. Tonight, he was preparing for something monumental. Kim thought about the world that awaited him at Haneul University. A world where the rich, the powerful, and the elite controlled everything¡ªtheir wealth and influence making them untouchable. He would be one of them. But the path to that world was not easy, and no one had handed him a key to unlock the doors. He would have to fight for every inch. The knowledge, the connections, the respect¡ªhe would have to earn it all. Tomorrow, everything would change. In the quiet darkness, Kim made a vow to himself: He would not be a mere student. He would not blend into the background, forgotten among the others. He would rise above them all, not just as a student, but as someone who would rewrite his fate. His mind drifted back to the mall¡ªthe rich students shopping without a care in the world, their laughter and easy smiles a stark reminder of how far away their lives felt from his. They had no idea what it was like to struggle, to fight for every little scrap. For them, money was a given, a guarantee. But Kim knew better. Nothing in his life had ever been a guarantee. He had worked for every ounce of success he had earned. And now, he was ready to fight for the next step. No more hiding in the shadows. No more being the quiet, humble kid. No more letting others dictate his path. His mind wandered to his parents, the sacrifices they¡¯d made for him to get to this point. His mother¡¯s soft smile, his father¡¯s quiet encouragement¡ªthese were the things that kept him grounded. They believed in him, and that was something Kim would never take for granted. But he knew that belief wasn¡¯t enough. He had to prove that he was worthy of it, that he could live up to the promise of his family¡¯s faith in him. The road ahead was daunting. Kim had always known it would be. But tonight, lying in the dark with nothing but his thoughts, he felt an unfamiliar confidence settle into his bones. This wasn¡¯t just about college anymore. This was about revenge. This was about taking everything that had once been denied to him. Tomorrow, he would step into a new world, one where he had the power to shape his future. But more than that, he would begin to unravel the very fabric of the life that had humiliated him for so long.This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings. The thought made his pulse quicken. His parents had always been there for him, supporting him no matter what. But their lives were never easy, never filled with the opportunities that others took for granted. And that was where the bitterness grew¡ªthe way the world had kept them down. The way his family had been overlooked, forgotten, ignored. No one had ever cared about them. And that was the truth that Kim carried with him, a truth that burned like a fire in his chest. He could still hear the laughter of the rich kids in the mall, the way they spoke in those condescending tones, oblivious to the lives that existed beyond their expensive clothes and perfect smiles. They would never understand what it was like to fight for every little thing. But soon enough, they would. Kim sat up in bed, his eyes wide in the darkness. He could almost feel the weight of it all¡ªthe responsibility, the expectations, and the burning desire to prove everyone wrong. Tomorrow was the first day of a new life. But it was more than that. It was the first step in a plan he had been cultivating for years¡ªa plan that would take him from the depths of poverty to the heights of power. A plan that would give him everything he deserved and more. He thought about the people who had tormented him, who had laughed at him, who had seen him as nothing more than a poor kid with no future. They were nothing to him now. The people who had belittled his dreams¡ªhis professors, his classmates, his childhood peers¡ªthey would all regret underestimating him. Kim¡¯s fingers curled into fists as he thought about the climb ahead. It wasn¡¯t going to be easy. It wasn¡¯t going to be without sacrifice. But nothing worth having ever was. The future felt closer now. The weight of it, the excitement, and the fear all mixed together, propelling him forward. He would step into that world tomorrow, and the first move would be his. He would be noticed, he would stand out, and no one would be able to ignore him anymore. His heart raced. His mind buzzed with plans, with strategies, with the faces of the people who would soon fall under his shadow. The university doors would open to him, but it would be up to him to make them realize he was not just another student. He would be the heir to a legacy¡ªa legacy of power, wealth, and influence. The dynasty would be his. And those who had ridiculed him would soon see just how far he could rise. Kim stood, his body feeling light as the weight of his thoughts fueled him with an energy he hadn¡¯t known before. Tomorrow was the beginning, but it was only the beginning. It would be the first step in a journey that would take him to unimaginable heights. ¡°I won¡¯t forget where I came from,¡± he whispered to himself as he looked at the window, his eyes fixed on the distant city lights. ¡°But I¡¯m going to make sure the world never forgets me.¡± Kim lay back down, the fire inside him burning bright. As sleep finally took him, he knew that tomorrow, he would take the first step in a journey that would change everything. And from that moment on, there would be no turning back. Chapter 2: The Divide Begins Part 1: Preparing for the Journey The holidays had come and gone in a blur, each day blending into the next as Kim found himself working tirelessly to save every possible penny. The promise of a brighter future loomed on the horizon, and it was tied directly to the prestigious university he had been accepted to. But that dream, as tantalizing as it was, had a heavy price tag, one that no scholarship could fully cover. Kim¡¯s mind was consumed with thoughts of how he would manage the financial strain, balancing both his academic responsibilities and the harsh reality of his situation. For weeks, he had been juggling odd jobs¡ªdelivering food during the late hours of the night, waiting tables at a local restaurant, and taking on menial tasks at various places in the city. Every moment he wasn¡¯t studying was spent earning, and it was exhausting. His body ached from long hours, but Kim had learned early on that no one would hand him success. He had to earn it. The sense of pride that came with each dollar he earned was a small comfort, but it was a comfort nonetheless. His family¡¯s modest living situation only added to the pressure. His parents, despite their best efforts, could barely scrape by. His younger siblings looked up to him with hopeful eyes, trusting him to set a better example, to pave the way for a future where they wouldn¡¯t have to struggle the way their parents had. Kim couldn¡¯t afford to disappoint them. His scholarship had been hard-won, but it wasn¡¯t enough to shield him from the reality of the costs¡ªbooks, tuition, living expenses¡ªeverything added up quickly. But Kim was determined. He couldn¡¯t let his dreams fade away because of money. The warnings from people around him echoed in his mind. "Students from backgrounds like yours never last in places like that," they had said. "It¡¯s too hard to fit in, too difficult to keep up." Those words stung, but they also fueled his resolve. Kim wasn¡¯t like the others. He wasn¡¯t going to give up. He would prove them wrong, just like he had proven everyone wrong in the past.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it. There were nights when the exhaustion nearly broke him. The weight of balancing work and study, the uncertainty of what awaited him at the university, the fear that he might not belong¡ªthose thoughts gnawed at him constantly. But every time he felt his resolve falter, he thought about his family, about the sacrifices they¡¯d made so that he could have this chance. It wasn¡¯t just his future at stake¡ªit was theirs, too. On the last night of the holiday break, Kim sat at the small kitchen table, sorting through his earnings for the week. The dim light from the lamp above cast long shadows, making the task seem even more daunting. As he counted the money, he couldn¡¯t help but feel the weight of it all¡ªthe pressure, the responsibility. But as he folded the bills and tucked them into his wallet, he felt something else stir within him¡ªa sense of purpose. No matter how hard the journey would be, he wasn¡¯t backing down. He couldn¡¯t. Tomorrow would mark the first step into his new life. The university was just a bus ride away, but it might as well have been a world away. The rich, the powerful¡ªthey all walked those halls with an air of entitlement, while Kim had to fight for everything. But he was prepared. He had come too far to let anything stop him now. He had a plan, a vision for what he would become, and he wouldn¡¯t let anything get in his way. As he sat back in his chair, staring at the ceiling, Kim reminded himself that this was just the beginning. He wasn¡¯t going to let fear or doubt hold him back. He would walk into that university with his head held high, knowing that every ounce of effort he had put into getting there was worth it. Tomorrow would be the first day of the rest of his life, and Kim was ready. The journey ahead wouldn¡¯t be easy, but he knew one thing for sure: he would make it. Chapter 2: The Divide Begins Part 2: A New Beginning The first day of college arrived with a mix of emotions swirling within Kim. He woke up early, his nerves already starting to tangle with excitement. He had never imagined this moment would come. The fact that he was now standing on the threshold of one of the most prestigious universities in the country, a place that had always seemed so far out of reach, felt surreal. His alarm clock rang at 6 AM, signaling the start of what would be the first day of the rest of his life. But as the day unfolded, it became clear that this new chapter would be far from simple. The bus ride felt like a blur, and as he stepped off at the college stop, his heart began to race. Kim had walked by the grand gates of the university many times before, but now, stepping inside for the first time, he couldn¡¯t help but marvel at its splendor. The campus was more than just a school¡ªit was a world of its own. Massive stone buildings with soaring columns, lush green lawns that stretched for acres, and pathways lined with towering trees. Students walked by in tailored suits, laughing and chatting, their carefree demeanor only amplifying the differences Kim felt. As he entered the main gate, Kim couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that he was an outsider. Everyone around him seemed so confident, so assured, their smiles radiant, as though they belonged here, as if this was just another day in their privileged lives. But for Kim, it was an entirely different experience. The grandeur of the campus both mesmerized and intimidated him. He had never been in a place like this. Everything about it¡ªevery intricate detail¡ªspoke of wealth, power, and legacy. It wasn¡¯t just a college; it was a monument to the elite. Kim felt like a fish out of water. He walked through the gates and stood for a moment, taking in the sweeping view of the campus. It was breathtaking, yes¡ªbut it was also alien. He hadn¡¯t realized how much of a gap there was between the students who had come from wealth and those who hadn¡¯t. Kim¡¯s clothes were modest, his shoes worn from years of use. He didn¡¯t look like he belonged here, and in truth, he wasn¡¯t sure if he did. He had worked tirelessly to get into this place, and yet, the reality of it was overwhelming. Could he really fit in here, among the children of CEOs, politicians, and celebrities? The idea seemed both exhilarating and terrifying at the same time.If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement. Walking along the paths, Kim passed by groups of students chatting, their voices full of casual confidence. They wore designer clothing, held their phones out in the air like a badge of honor, and discussed topics Kim could barely grasp. Their conversations were dominated by expensive brands, extravagant trips, and connections to the most influential people in society. He didn¡¯t belong to their world, and it was painfully obvious. He could almost feel the judgment in the air, the invisible walls that separated him from the others. But Kim refused to let it break him. He had worked too hard to get here, and he wasn¡¯t about to let something like this stand in his way. He had made a promise to himself and to his family that he would succeed here, no matter the cost. At his first class, he sat in the back, quietly absorbing everything, his mind racing with a million thoughts. He barely interacted with anyone, unsure of how to approach the wealthy students around him. Some of them threw him occasional curious glances, but none of them spoke to him. To them, he was just another scholarship student¡ªsomeone who wasn¡¯t meant to be here. But he kept his focus. As the day went on, Kim began to notice the subtle divide that ran through the university, one that no one openly spoke about but that was clear in every corner of the campus. The rich students walked around like they owned the place, moving through the halls with an air of superiority. Their arrogance was apparent in the way they dismissed anyone who wasn¡¯t like them, anyone who didn¡¯t have the same resources or the same background. The scholarship students, like Kim, were kept in the shadows, relegated to the corners of classrooms and the edges of social circles. Kim couldn¡¯t help but wonder: How could he ever break through this divide? How could he ever climb the social ladder here, where the top was already so high, so unreachable? It seemed like an insurmountable task. But as he sat in class, he remembered why he was here in the first place. It wasn¡¯t just about fitting in. It was about proving to himself¡ªand to everyone else¡ªthat he belonged here. That he could make it, no matter what obstacles were placed in his way. By the time the first day came to a close, Kim was exhausted. His head was filled with a whirlwind of thoughts, his mind struggling to reconcile the fantasy he had dreamed about for so long with the harsh reality that he now faced. But no matter how overwhelming the world around him felt, one thing was certain: he wasn¡¯t going to back down. The journey had only just begun, and Kim was determined to carve out a place for himself, no matter how difficult it might be. This was his chance. And he wasn¡¯t going to waste it. Chapter 2: The Divide Begins Part 3: The Divide Among Students Kim couldn¡¯t shake the feeling of being a fish out of water. As the days wore on, he became acutely aware of the divide between the students at the college. It wasn¡¯t just about the wealth and privilege that surrounded him¡ªit was about the way the students moved through their world with a sense of entitlement and ease, while he was constantly reminded of his place at the bottom of the social hierarchy. It was an unspoken rule: the wealthy students had the power, and the rest of them were simply there to observe. Kim quickly noticed that the students on scholarships, like himself, tended to stay together. They were the ones who sat at the back of the lecture halls, who gathered quietly in the corners of the campus, and who kept to themselves in the cafeteria. They didn¡¯t speak much to the wealthy students, who seemed too absorbed in their own world to even acknowledge their existence. It wasn¡¯t as if anyone had explicitly said, ¡°Don¡¯t talk to the scholarship students,¡± but the unspoken tension in the air was enough to keep the two groups apart. The rich students walked around in small, confident groups, their conversations centered on their families¡¯ latest exploits, expensive vacations, or business deals. They were the children of CEOs, politicians, and socialites. It was clear that for them, college was just another stepping stone in a life that had already been paved with success. Kim observed them with a mix of awe and bitterness. They had everything: the status, the connections, the wealth. They were the future leaders of society, while he was just another scholarship kid trying to survive. As he walked across the quad one afternoon, Kim overheard a conversation between two students. They were discussing the upcoming social event for the wealthy students, a lavish party hosted by one of the college¡¯s elite fraternities. The event was to be held in a private ballroom, with a guest list that included some of the most influential names in the country. Kim felt a pang of jealousy. This was a world that was so far out of his reach. A world where he would never belong. But it wasn¡¯t just about the social divide. It was also about the way the wealthier students behaved. They seemed to be untouchable, walking through the halls as if the rules didn¡¯t apply to them. Kim had already seen instances where the professors favored them, giving them higher marks or even bending the rules for their convenience. It was clear to Kim that the college was not just a place of learning; it was a place where the wealthy were groomed to stay in power, while the rest of the students were left to scramble for whatever scraps they could find.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation. Despite all of this, Kim refused to let himself become bitter. He had been raised to believe that hard work and determination could overcome any obstacle. But it was becoming harder and harder to ignore the divide. The wealthier students didn¡¯t need to work¡ªthey already had everything handed to them. And yet, they walked through the halls like they were the ones who deserved to be there, while students like Kim were left to struggle in silence. One day, after a particularly grueling lecture, Kim found himself walking alone through the campus. As he passed by a group of wealthy students sitting outside one of the campus cafes, one of them glanced up and made eye contact with him. For a brief moment, Kim thought that maybe, just maybe, someone was going to acknowledge him. But instead, the student quickly looked away, as if Kim didn¡¯t exist. It stung. Kim tried to push the feeling down, reminding himself that he didn¡¯t need their validation. He wasn¡¯t here to make friends with the elite; he was here to prove that he was just as capable as they were, despite his background. But as the days passed, it became more and more difficult to ignore the divide. The wealthy students had their own groups, their own spaces, and their own networks. They didn¡¯t need anyone else. Kim, on the other hand, had no choice but to rely on the other scholarship students. They were the only ones who truly understood what it was like to fight for a place in this world. But even among them, there was a sense of uncertainty. Everyone was aware of the divide, and everyone knew that no matter how hard they worked, they would always be seen as inferior to the rich students who ruled the campus. Kim began to wonder: was this college truly a place where hard work could level the playing field? Or was it just another system designed to keep the rich at the top and the poor at the bottom? It seemed like every step he took, every effort he made to prove himself, was met with resistance. The divide was deep, and it wasn¡¯t going to be easy to break through. But Kim couldn¡¯t give up. He had already sacrificed too much to let this be the end of his journey. He would find a way to rise above the divide, no matter what it took. After all, this was only the beginning. And he was just getting started. Chapter 2: The Divide Begins Part 4: The Summons The following morning, Kim had barely settled into his routine when a sudden announcement crackled through the intercom during his last class of the day. "All scholarship students are to report to the administration office immediately. Repeat, all scholarship students. Please make your way to the office without delay." The words echoed in Kim¡¯s mind as his heart rate spiked. He glanced around at the other students, but none of them seemed as rattled as he was. His thoughts raced¡ªwhy would the administration want to see the scholarship students? Was it about their grades? Or perhaps there was an issue with his scholarship? Kim had never been a troublemaker, but in a place like this, anything could happen. He quickly packed up his belongings and, trying to mask his nerves, walked with the others toward the administration building. As they entered the grand building, Kim¡¯s anxiety only intensified. The halls were quiet, and the atmosphere felt heavier here than anywhere else on campus. The marble floors gleamed under the overhead lights, and the high ceilings made it feel almost oppressive. This place was a monument to power¡ªmoney, influence, and prestige¡ªand it made him feel smaller than ever. Kim and a few other scholarship students entered the large waiting room, where they were told to wait for further instructions. The room was filled with a mix of nervous students, all of whom shared the same worried expressions. They didn¡¯t know why they were summoned, and it was clear that no one wanted to be the first to ask. It was as if saying the wrong thing might lead to a consequence none of them wanted to face. They stood in silence, the weight of uncertainty hanging over them like a dark cloud. Kim noticed that the other students all seemed to share a similar background¡ªhumble clothes, hesitant body language, and that same look of uncertainty that he had seen in the mirror countless times. They were all scholarship students, and they were all living in a world where they had to fight for every inch of space. Kim could sense that many of them were just as nervous as he was, but they had learned to hide it. Minutes passed, and the door to the office finally opened, revealing a stern-faced man dressed in an expensive suit. He was tall, with sharp features and an air of authority that immediately made the room feel even more tense. Kim couldn¡¯t tell who he was, but his presence commanded attention. Behind the man, a young boy walked in¡ªout of place among the others. He looked no older than Kim, but there was something about him that stood out. His clothes were expensive and meticulously tailored, and his posture was confident, as though he had been raised to walk through life with the utmost certainty. The boy didn¡¯t look nervous at all. In fact, he seemed almost¡­ aloof. The man and the boy took their places in front of the room, and the students instinctively straightened up, unsure of how to act. Kim could feel his palms beginning to sweat, his heart pounding in his chest. What was this all about? What did this boy have to do with anything?If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. The man cleared his throat, breaking the silence. ¡°Thank you all for coming,¡± he began, his voice cold and authoritative. ¡°We called you here because there are certain opportunities we are offering to students of your caliber¡ªstudents who have proven themselves to be hardworking and committed.¡± Kim¡¯s mind raced. Was this a scholarship opportunity? Was this a chance to get ahead? He tried to focus on the man¡¯s words, but they seemed to blur together as his thoughts drifted toward what this might mean for him. ¡°We understand the challenges you all face,¡± the man continued. ¡°However, you must realize that this college is not a place for weakness. It¡¯s a place for the strong, the driven, and the determined. If you want to succeed here, you must embrace those qualities. And some of you have already shown that you possess them. That¡¯s why you¡¯ve been chosen for this special program.¡± Kim couldn¡¯t suppress his curiosity any longer. ¡°What¡¯s the program?¡± he found himself asking, his voice barely a whisper. It was the first time anyone had spoken, and all eyes turned toward him. The man¡¯s gaze shifted to Kim. For a moment, there was a flicker of something¡ªamusement, perhaps¡ªbut it was gone just as quickly. He didn¡¯t answer right away. Instead, he gestured toward the boy who had walked in with him. ¡°This is Lee Seojin,¡± the man introduced with a hint of pride. ¡°He¡¯s a student here, much like yourselves. He has risen to the top because of his commitment to this college and his drive to succeed. And he¡¯s here to share something with you.¡± Kim¡¯s curiosity intensified. Who was this boy? Why was he singled out for such an introduction? The boy, Lee Seojin, stood silently, his eyes scanning the room, but his expression remained unreadable. He didn¡¯t say a word. The man spoke again. ¡°Lee Seojin is part of an elite circle here at the college. He will be offering guidance to those who show promise. He¡¯s looking for individuals who are willing to push beyond their limits, those who are ready to do whatever it takes to succeed.¡± Kim felt a knot form in his stomach. He couldn¡¯t help but wonder what kind of guidance this boy could offer. And what exactly did ¡°whatever it takes¡± mean? The idea of ¡°pushing beyond limits¡± sounded like a dangerous game, one that might require sacrifices he wasn¡¯t willing to make. Lee Seojin finally spoke, his voice smooth and confident. ¡°I¡¯ll be observing you,¡± he said, addressing the group. ¡°I¡¯ll see who is truly capable of making it here. This is your chance to prove yourselves. But know this¡ªonly the strongest will survive.¡± The man nodded approvingly. ¡°You will be contacted soon. For now, you¡¯re free to go. But remember this: those who succeed here don¡¯t do it alone. And if you want to truly succeed, you¡¯ll have to learn that.¡± With that, the man and the boy turned and left the room as abruptly as they had entered. Kim stood frozen, the weight of the encounter settling heavily on him. He didn¡¯t know what to think or what to feel. One thing was certain: whatever this program was, it was going to change everything. As the door clicked shut behind them, the other scholarship students began to murmur amongst themselves, but Kim¡¯s mind was elsewhere. What had just happened? And how was he supposed to navigate this strange new opportunity? He wasn¡¯t sure yet, but he was about to find out. The real journey was just beginning. Chapter 2: The Divide Begins Part 5: A Mysterious Encounter As the door to the administration office closed behind Lee Seojin and the man who had introduced him, the room remained thick with confusion and unspoken questions. Kim¡¯s mind raced, replaying every word, every gesture. This wasn¡¯t just an ordinary scholarship program; something far deeper was at play here. The other students in the room exchanged whispers, some more animated than others, but all of them wore the same anxious expression. It was clear they were as uncertain about what had just happened as Kim. He felt his palms grow clammy, his heart still racing in his chest. What had Lee Seojin meant when he said only the ¡°strongest¡± would survive? Was this some kind of competition, or something more dangerous? Kim didn¡¯t have time to dwell on it as the secretary at the front of the room cleared her throat and stood. Her voice was cold and impersonal. ¡°You¡¯re all dismissed for now,¡± she said briskly. ¡°You¡¯ll receive further instructions soon. Until then, keep up with your classes.¡± The students filed out, most of them walking quickly as if eager to escape the lingering tension in the air. Kim, however, hesitated. His mind was still reeling from the encounter. The program, the boy, the cryptic words¡ªnone of it made sense, and yet, somehow, he felt a strange pull toward it. This could be his opportunity, his way to rise above the suffocating divide that existed between the rich and the poor students at this college. But at what cost? As he stepped out of the administration building and into the bustling campus, Kim took a deep breath, trying to calm himself. The campus was alive with students walking in every direction, laughing, talking, and enjoying the day. But none of that felt real to Kim anymore. It was as if the encounter had shifted everything¡ªhe was no longer a mere scholarship student. He was now a part of something larger, something that could either make or break him. His mind drifted back to Lee Seojin. The boy hadn¡¯t said much, but there was something about him. His confidence, his detached air¡ªit was unsettling, yet oddly captivating. He had walked in with such a sense of authority, and yet he was no different from Kim in terms of age. But the way he had spoken¡­ it was clear he had power, influence, things Kim could only dream of having.Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon. Suddenly, Kim¡¯s thoughts were interrupted by a voice calling his name. ¡°Hey, Kim! Wait up!¡± Kim turned to see his friend, Jiho, jogging toward him. Jiho was another scholarship student, one of the few people Kim had been able to connect with in the sea of strangers. Jiho had always been easygoing, the kind of person who could laugh off almost anything, but even he looked unsettled after what had just happened. ¡°What was that all about?¡± Jiho asked, falling into step beside Kim. ¡°Do you think we¡¯ve been chosen for something special, or is it just a waste of time?¡± Kim shrugged, still lost in thought. ¡°I don¡¯t know. But that boy, Lee Seojin, he¡¯s not like anyone we¡¯ve met before. He looked like he was¡­ testing us, or something.¡± ¡°Yeah, I noticed that too,¡± Jiho said. ¡°But did you see the look on his face when he mentioned being part of an ¡®elite circle¡¯? That sounds pretty exclusive. It¡¯s got me thinking, Kim. Do you think we can make it in?¡± Kim stopped walking and turned to face Jiho, his brow furrowed. ¡°I don¡¯t know. But I¡¯m going to try. If this is some kind of test, I¡¯m not going to back down. We¡¯ve been struggling our whole lives¡ªthis could be our chance to change everything.¡± Jiho nodded, a grin spreading across his face. ¡°That¡¯s the spirit. But just remember, if we get in, things will be different. It¡¯s going to be cutthroat.¡± Kim met his friend¡¯s gaze, a sense of resolve settling in his chest. ¡°I know. But I¡¯m ready for it. I¡¯ve been ready for a long time.¡± As they continued walking through the campus, Kim couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of anticipation building within him. He was no longer just a scholarship student fighting to survive in a world that seemed to reject him. Now, he was on the cusp of something greater. Whatever this opportunity was, it was the break he had been waiting for. But as Kim walked through the campus, a new feeling began to take root¡ªa sense of danger. This was not just an ordinary opportunity. It was a game, and Kim had no idea what the rules were. He had no idea what Lee Seojin¡¯s true intentions were, or how far he was willing to go to win this game. But one thing was clear: if he wanted to rise above, he would have to face whatever challenges lay ahead¡ªno matter the cost. As the sun began to set behind the towering buildings of the college, Kim felt a strange pull in his gut. Something told him that this was only the beginning of a much larger journey¡ªone that would push him to his limits and beyond. The choices he made now would define his future, and he couldn¡¯t afford to hesitate. Chapter 3: The Price of Identity Part 1: The Unexpected Announcement Kim stood among the other scholarship students, his heart racing as he tried to make sense of what was happening. The staff member in front of them¡ªa tall, sharply dressed man¡ªspoke with an air of authority, his words hanging heavy in the room. It was a regular meeting, or so Kim had thought, but this was far from ordinary. The staff member cleared his throat, then began. "There has been an... unexpected situation." His gaze swept across the room, pausing as if he were gauging the reactions of the students. "A wealthy boy, recently admitted to the waiting list, wishes to take the seat of one of you." Kim blinked, unsure if he had heard correctly. He wasn¡¯t the only one¡ªmurmurs of confusion rippled through the room as the other scholarship students exchanged puzzled glances. There was no explanation, no warning, just a sudden statement that had left them all in a state of shock. The staff member went on, outlining the situation. "Because we have reached maximum capacity for the year, this boy cannot join the program unless one of you is willing to give up your seat. There is, however, an offer on the table. The boy is prepared to offer double the amount of tuition you are currently paying." He paused, letting the weight of the offer sink in. Kim felt his breath catch in his throat. Double? The thought was almost too much to comprehend. The scholarship students, most of whom had struggled to afford even a fraction of their tuition, now faced an unimaginable temptation. He glanced around, noticing the shift in the room. Eyes that had once been filled with uncertainty now gleamed with a mix of curiosity and greed. Kim¡¯s own stomach churned as he tried to process the information. The offer was a lifeline to some, but it felt like a betrayal to everything he had fought for. The staff member¡¯s voice broke through Kim¡¯s thoughts. "The rules are simple. The boy will take the seat of whichever student agrees to surrender it. The decision must be made today." Kim¡¯s gaze moved to the boy standing at the back of the room, observing them with a smug, self-assured expression. He was young, no older than Kim, but there was something about him that stood out¡ªan air of confidence that seemed almost unnatural. The boy sat comfortably in a chair while the staff member remained standing, as if his presence alone was enough to command respect. His demeanor exuded power, and it unsettled Kim. This wasn¡¯t just any student. This boy had resources, connections, things Kim could only dream of.This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience. Kim¡¯s heart sank as the staff member continued. "The decision, once made, is final. We understand this is a difficult choice, but the boy¡¯s offer is non-negotiable." Kim could feel the tension in the air, thickening with every word. The other scholarship students fidgeted uncomfortably, their eyes darting between the staff member and the boy. Some were already whispering, leaning toward each other, discussing the possibility of giving up their seat for the promise of wealth. Kim¡¯s stomach twisted at the thought. He couldn¡¯t understand how easily some of them were swayed by the prospect of money. Was that all they cared about? Kim¡¯s gaze returned to the boy, who was watching him now, his smirk widening as if he could already see the outcome. Kim wasn¡¯t like the others. He had earned his place here through hard work, determination, and sacrifice. This was his opportunity, his chance to prove that he was capable of more than what his circumstances had dictated. But the offer was tempting. The thought of doubling his tuition, of never having to worry about money again¡ªit was a dream for most of them. Kim clenched his fists at his sides, trying to block out the growing whispers around him. No matter how hard the temptation pressed on him, he couldn¡¯t lose sight of the truth: his worth was not defined by money. The staff member¡¯s voice cut through his thoughts once again. "You will each be given a moment to consider the offer. The decision is yours to make." Kim stood still, his mind racing. He could feel the eyes of the other students on him, waiting for his reaction. He glanced at them one last time, seeing the hunger in their eyes, the desire to break free from their struggles. It was clear to him now: this wasn¡¯t just a test of money¡ªit was a test of character. But Kim was not about to give in. He would not betray everything he had worked for, not for money. He had a choice to make, and for the first time, he felt the weight of it fully. Would he remain true to himself, or would he let greed shape his future? The tension in the room was palpable as the staff member began to step back, waiting for someone to speak up, to make a decision. Kim¡¯s heart raced, but his resolve was clear: he would not be swayed. Not today. Not ever. Chapter 3: The Price of Identity Part 2: The Bidding War Begins The room had shifted. What had once been a group of scholarship students quietly contemplating their future now felt like a battlefield, one where the cost of their education had become an auction. Kim stood at the center of it all, still grappling with the shock of the announcement, but his mind was already racing with a single thought: This wasn¡¯t how it was supposed to be. As the wealthy boy lounged in his chair, an unsettling calm overtaking him, the staff member repeated the offer. "Double the tuition," he said again, his voice firm. "Anyone willing to give up their seat, take the boy¡¯s offer." For a moment, the room fell silent. The other scholarship students, once standing still in disbelief, now began to murmur among themselves. Some exchanged glances, others quietly weighed the offer in their heads. Kim¡¯s gaze flitted across the room, trying to make sense of it all. The tension in the air was thick, and Kim could feel the weight of every passing second. He had worked so hard to get here¡ªhe couldn¡¯t understand how anyone could consider giving up their place. But then, one of the students, a girl named Joo-eun, spoke up. "What¡¯s stopping us?" she asked, her voice trembling with excitement. "Double the tuition, no more worrying about fees. We could finally have some peace." Kim¡¯s heart skipped a beat. Her words seemed to carry a new wave of understanding for the others. The idea of doubling the tuition, of escaping financial struggles for good, was a siren call to those who had spent years in poverty. The other scholarship students began to murmur their agreement, their faces lighting up as they turned toward each other. A few were nodding, others looked like they were about to speak. The wealthy boy, clearly enjoying the stir he was causing, leaned forward in his chair, folding his arms across his chest with a knowing smile. His eyes scanned the group, as though he was sizing them up, waiting for the inevitable scramble to begin. He had no doubt that someone would take the offer. Kim could feel his stomach twist. He had seen these kinds of situations before, back home, where people would fight for something so trivial, so shallow, that it left no room for dignity. It made him sick to his core. As the murmurs grew louder, the boy leaned back, his voice cutting through the chaos. "I¡¯ll increase the offer," he said, his words dripping with arrogance. "I¡¯ll give triple the tuition. Whoever takes it gets to sit in this college, and all the privileges that come with it."A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation. At that moment, the room went silent again. Kim¡¯s jaw tightened as he stared at the boy. Triple the tuition. It was an offer no one in the room could ignore. He saw the eyes of the students around him flash with a mixture of greed, disbelief, and hope. To some, it was the answer to years of financial struggle. To others, it was the escape they had longed for, the door to a world they had only dreamed of entering. Kim¡¯s hands clenched into fists as he watched some of the other students begin to look at one another, assessing their chances, their lives, and what they could afford to give up. The bidding war had begun. Joo-eun, once the first to speak, hesitated for a moment before nervously raising her hand. "I¡ªI¡¯ll take it," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "Triple the tuition... it¡¯s more than I ever imagined." Kim¡¯s breath caught in his throat as he looked at her. She had made her choice. He didn¡¯t blame her¡ªhe understood her desperation. But the thought of this being the price of her future made him feel sick. How many others would follow? The room was buzzing now, as the others whispered and exchanged glances, trying to outbid one another. Kim could see the fear in their eyes¡ªthe fear that they might lose out. He could hear the tension in their voices as the offer grew higher. And yet, amid the chaos, one person remained quiet. Park Seo-joon, a tall and calm boy from another scholarship, was standing at the back of the room. His face was unreadable, but Kim could sense that he wasn¡¯t caught up in the frenzy like the others. Seo-joon¡¯s eyes were fixed firmly on the boy offering the money, but there was no hint of greed, no sign that he was considering the deal. Kim¡¯s gaze met Seo-joon¡¯s, and for a brief moment, they locked eyes. Seo-joon gave him a small, almost imperceptible nod, as if to say, You¡¯re not alone. Kim felt a surge of relief, but also a strange sense of sadness. How had things come to this? It wasn¡¯t just about money¡ªit was about their dignity, their identities, and what they were willing to sacrifice. And in this room, it seemed that many of his peers had already decided. The bidding continued, faster now, louder, and with more desperation. Kim felt himself becoming more distant, as if he were watching this scene unfold from a place far removed from it all. It was as though the students had forgotten that their education wasn¡¯t something to be bought¡ªit was something to be earned. Yet, they were buying into the lie that money could solve everything. As the final bid was raised, Kim¡¯s resolve hardened. He would not be one of them. He couldn¡¯t be. The wealthy boy looked pleased with himself as the last bids came in, but Kim knew that this was only the beginning of something far more dangerous. What had started as an offer had now turned into a competition¡ªone where the price of identity, of dignity, had been lost in the race to secure a future. Kim had no intention of participating, but he couldn¡¯t help but wonder: how many of his peers had already given up their future for the illusion of security? Chapter 3: The Price of Identity Part 3: Kim’s Stand Against Greed The atmosphere in the room was suffocating now. Kim could feel the weight of every gaze on him, every whisper carrying the stench of desperation. The wealthy boy, his smirk widening with every passing moment, seemed to be feeding off the chaos he¡¯d instigated. The scholarship students had been reduced to mere pawns in his game, and Kim could see it clearly¡ªhe couldn¡¯t be one of them. With his heart pounding, Kim stepped forward, his voice breaking through the murmur of excited conversation. ¡°I won¡¯t sell my seat,¡± he said firmly, his words sharp and direct, carrying more weight than he¡¯d intended. The room fell silent at once, and all eyes turned to him. The wealthy boy¡¯s face shifted from smug amusement to annoyance. His eyebrows furrowed as if he couldn¡¯t quite believe that someone would turn down his offer. Kim could feel the tension rising, thick and suffocating, as the others looked at him like he was a fool for rejecting the money. He held his ground, refusing to be intimidated. The boy tilted his head, studying Kim with a mixture of disbelief and disdain. ¡°You think you''re above this?¡± he sneered. ¡°You think you¡¯re so special that you don¡¯t need what I¡¯m offering?¡± Kim didn¡¯t flinch. His mind was racing, but his feet were planted firmly. He had worked too hard to get here, endured too many struggles to let a single moment of temptation destroy his integrity. He couldn¡¯t let the wealthy boy¡¯s money convince him that this was how life worked. He wasn¡¯t just fighting for a seat¡ªhe was fighting for his pride. ¡°No,¡± Kim said, his voice low but steady. ¡°I don¡¯t need your money. I earned my place here.¡± The wealthy boy¡¯s face flushed with anger. Kim could see his fists clenching at his sides, his lips curling into a snarl. He wasn¡¯t used to being told no, especially by someone like Kim. To him, Kim was just another poor scholarship student, someone whose life had no value outside of what he could offer. ¡°You¡¯ll regret this,¡± the boy hissed, stepping closer. ¡°I can buy your loyalty, your future. You¡¯ll be nothing without me.¡± Kim stood his ground, the fire in his chest burning brighter. ¡°I¡¯d rather be nothing than owe everything to you.¡± The rich boy took another step forward, his eyes narrowed with malice. The tension between them was thick¡ªneither of them willing to back down. The other scholarship students, who had been caught up in the bidding war, watched with wide eyes, as if they were witnessing something far bigger than they had expected.Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon. ¡°I don¡¯t need you, or your money,¡± Kim repeated, louder now, making sure everyone heard. ¡°You can¡¯t buy my future. You can¡¯t buy my dignity.¡± For a moment, it felt as if the room itself held its breath. The wealthy boy was trembling with rage, his expression twisted in fury. Then, in a fit of frustration, he turned on his heel, his voice sharp as he shouted at the staff member, ¡°Get him out of here. I don¡¯t want to deal with this trash anymore!¡± The staff member hesitated, unsure of how to respond. Kim could see the unease in his eyes, the way he was caught between the wealthy boy¡¯s demands and the reality of what had just transpired. But there was no time for hesitation. The wealthy boy stormed out of the room, muttering insults under his breath, his figure disappearing through the door with a final, furious slam. Kim¡¯s heart was still racing, but as the door clicked shut, the weight that had been pressing down on him for what seemed like an eternity lifted, if only for a moment. The silence in the room was deafening. It was over¡ªfor now. But Kim knew this wasn¡¯t the end. The wealthy boy might have walked away, but his words still echoed in Kim¡¯s mind: You¡¯ll regret this. It was clear that the boy wouldn¡¯t forget what had happened, and neither would the others. His refusal had made him a target, a symbol of defiance in a place where money and privilege ruled. Kim turned slowly, his eyes finding Seo-joon across the room. The boy had watched the entire scene unfold, his expression unreadable but steady. Kim felt a strange sense of camaraderie, even though they had barely spoken. Seo-joon gave him a small nod, an unspoken acknowledgment of the stand Kim had just made. It was a silent understanding, a recognition of what it meant to hold onto one¡¯s pride, even when the world seemed to be bending to the will of those who could buy everything. The other students began to murmur among themselves, their voices low and uncertain. Kim felt their eyes on him¡ªsome full of admiration, others filled with judgment. He knew the reality: this was far from over. The world he had entered, a world where privilege held all the power, would not easily forget his defiance. But for now, Kim stood tall. He wasn¡¯t going to back down, not today. And he was beginning to realize that maybe, just maybe, he didn¡¯t have to fight this battle alone. Seo-joon approached him slowly, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. ¡°You¡¯re crazy, you know that?¡± he said, his voice soft but teasing. Kim couldn¡¯t help but smile back. ¡°Maybe,¡± he said, feeling the weight of everything that had happened sink in. ¡°But I think it was worth it.¡± Seo-joon nodded, his eyes glinting with understanding. ¡°It¡¯s not easy to resist temptation. But you did the right thing.¡± Kim¡¯s smile faded slightly as the realization hit him. ¡°I don¡¯t know what¡¯s coming next. But I¡¯ll be ready for it.¡± Seo-joon gave him a supportive pat on the back. ¡°You¡¯re not alone in this. We¡¯ll figure it out together.¡± And in that moment, Kim knew he wasn¡¯t just fighting for himself. He was fighting for something bigger than just a seat in college. He was fighting for his future, his dignity, and for the possibility that maybe, just maybe, there was still hope in a world where money didn¡¯t buy everything. Chapter 3: The Price of Identity Part 4: The Resolution
The door slammed shut with a finality that echoed in the room, and the tension that had gripped the air since the wealthy boy¡¯s arrival seemed to dissipate instantly. The other scholarship students, still caught in the wake of the bidding war, began to murmur among themselves. Some looked at Kim with curiosity, others with disdain, but for the most part, the chaos had ended. Kim¡¯s chest heaved as he tried to steady his breath. He had been prepared for a confrontation, but the weight of the moment had taken more out of him than he expected. His hands, still clenched into fists, slowly relaxed as the adrenaline began to wear off. The staff member who had been caught between the wealthy boy¡¯s demands and the students¡¯ confusion cleared his throat awkwardly. He shot a glance toward the door where the boy had stormed out and then back at the remaining students. ¡°Well, that¡¯s that,¡± he muttered, rubbing the back of his neck. ¡°Everything is settled. No one is required to give up their seat. You¡¯ll continue with the program as planned.¡± Kim didn¡¯t even look at him. He was still trying to process everything that had just happened, the rush of emotion, the clash between dignity and desperation. The wealthy boy had come in expecting to buy his way into whatever he wanted, but Kim had refused. And for now, that felt like a small victory. He felt a tap on his shoulder, and when he turned, Seo-joon was standing beside him. The quiet boy who had said nothing during the commotion now offered a faint smile. It wasn¡¯t much, but it was enough. It was the first time Kim had seen a true expression of understanding from someone else who had witnessed what just transpired. Seo-joon¡¯s voice was low, almost a whisper. ¡°That was bold,¡± he said, his eyes watching the door. ¡°I thought you were going to give in for a moment there, but you didn¡¯t.¡± Kim shook his head, his voice quiet but resolute. ¡°I couldn¡¯t. Not for anything.¡± Seo-joon¡¯s smile widened a little, but there was no judgment in his eyes, only respect. ¡°I get that. It¡¯s hard, you know? The temptation of money¡­ it changes everything.¡± Kim nodded, his mind still processing the exchange. The wealthy boy¡¯s anger, the pressure from the others to sell his seat¡ªeverything had felt so overwhelming. But standing here now, Kim could see that what he had done was right. At least, he hoped it was.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation. ¡°We should get out of here,¡± Seo-joon suggested after a beat, breaking Kim out of his thoughts. ¡°Before someone else tries to start something.¡± Kim agreed, nodding in silent appreciation. The room felt oppressive now, the whispers growing louder. It wasn¡¯t just about the wealthy boy anymore¡ªit was about something much bigger. The power that money had over everyone in this room, the way it could change the course of someone¡¯s life in an instant. But it wasn¡¯t going to change him. Not today. As they left the room together, Kim couldn¡¯t help but feel a small sense of clarity. This world, a world of privilege and power, wasn¡¯t one that could be easily navigated. But he had just taken a small step in asserting that he wouldn¡¯t be another pawn in it. No matter what happened next, he wasn¡¯t going to give in to the temptation. He glanced at Seo-joon, who had fallen into step beside him as they walked down the hallway. Despite the heavy tension of the morning, there was something comforting about having someone with him. Someone who had, in a way, shared the same experience, someone who understood the gravity of what it meant to stand firm in a world where everything could be bought and sold. ¡°You¡¯re different from the rest of them,¡± Seo-joon said, his voice breaking the silence. Kim chuckled softly. ¡°I don¡¯t know about that.¡± ¡°No, really,¡± Seo-joon insisted, his voice earnest. ¡°You¡¯re not like the others who just give in to money. You made a choice. And that¡¯s rare.¡± Kim was silent for a moment, thinking about the day¡¯s events. It hadn¡¯t been easy, resisting the pressure. But he knew he had done the right thing, and for now, that was enough. ¡°I don¡¯t know how long I can keep this up,¡± Kim admitted quietly, his gaze focused on the floor ahead. ¡°This place¡­ it¡¯s different. It¡¯s not like anything I¡¯ve ever known before.¡± Seo-joon¡¯s expression softened, and he gave a small nod. ¡°I get that. But we don¡¯t have to do it alone. Let¡¯s stick together. We¡¯ll figure it out.¡± For the first time since entering the college, Kim felt a small sense of hope. Maybe this wouldn¡¯t be so hard after all. Maybe, with someone by his side, he could navigate this world without losing himself. The two of them continued walking, the silence comfortable between them, and Kim felt the weight of the world lighten just a little. He wasn¡¯t alone. And that was enough for now. As they made their way outside into the bright afternoon sun, Kim¡¯s thoughts began to settle. The world of money, power, and privilege was one he had no desire to be a part of, but there was something else here too. It wasn¡¯t just about resistance. It was about survival, about carving out a space for himself where his values mattered more than the money in someone¡¯s pocket. He couldn¡¯t afford to forget who he was, no matter what. He was ready for whatever came next, knowing that he had found an ally in Seo-joon¡ªand that together, they could face whatever this world of privilege and power had in store for them. Chapter 3: The Price of Identity Part 5: A New Alliance The day had drawn to a close, and the campus was quieter now, the hustle and bustle of the morning¡¯s drama gradually fading into the background. Kim and Seo-joon walked side by side, each absorbed in their thoughts, the weight of the day''s events settling in. It wasn¡¯t just the bidding war that had shaken them; it was the realization that this place was like a pressure cooker, a breeding ground for ambition, greed, and power plays. Kim¡¯s mind kept returning to the rich boy¡ªhow easily he had assumed that money could buy anything, even a place that someone had worked so hard for. The thought still churned in Kim¡¯s stomach, but it wasn¡¯t just about the boy anymore. It was about what he had learned, about standing firm when everything around him tempted him to fold. It was about strength, pride, and self-respect, things he wasn¡¯t willing to sell for anything. As they reached the campus courtyard, Seo-joon broke the silence. ¡°You know,¡± he said thoughtfully, ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking about what happened today. It wasn¡¯t just about the seat, was it? It was about control.¡± Kim glanced at him, intrigued. ¡°Control?¡± Seo-joon nodded. ¡°Yeah. That guy, the rich one¡ªhe wasn¡¯t just offering money for the seat. He wanted control. He wanted to show everyone that if he could buy the seat, he could have power over them, over us. But you didn¡¯t give in. You didn¡¯t let him have that control. That¡¯s something.¡± Kim felt a pang of realization. Seo-joon was right. It wasn¡¯t just about the seat¡ªit was about what giving it up would have meant. Giving in would have meant surrendering his dignity, his pride. It would have meant that money could define his place here, that his worth could be measured by what he could be bought for. But Kim wasn¡¯t willing to let that happen. He was stronger than that. ¡°I didn¡¯t even think about it that way,¡± Kim said, his voice quiet but thoughtful. ¡°But now that you mention it, I guess it was a kind of control. And I¡¯m not going to let anyone take that from me.¡±Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon. Seo-joon smiled, his expression sincere. ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯m glad we met. I¡¯ve been alone here, feeling like I was the only one who saw through the game. But now... now it feels like maybe we can make it through together.¡± Kim looked at him, a weight lifting off his shoulders. He hadn¡¯t realized how much he had needed someone who understood, someone who shared his views. In the midst of a world that thrived on power plays and manipulation, having an ally felt like a lifeline. ¡°I don¡¯t know if I can keep going like this on my own,¡± Kim admitted. ¡°This place¡­ it¡¯s everything I¡¯ve never known. The money, the influence, the manipulation. It¡¯s all new to me.¡± Seo-joon¡¯s eyes softened, and he placed a hand on Kim¡¯s shoulder. ¡°You don¡¯t have to do it alone,¡± he said. ¡°We can support each other. You don¡¯t have to give in to what they expect of us. We don¡¯t have to play by their rules.¡± Kim nodded slowly, feeling a flicker of hope ignite in his chest. ¡°We¡¯ll stick together then,¡± he said, a firm resolve in his voice. ¡°We¡¯ll face this world on our own terms.¡± The two of them stood there for a moment, the weight of the world suddenly feeling a little less heavy, a little more manageable. Together, they could navigate this strange, ruthless new world. Together, they could resist the temptation of power and wealth and stay true to themselves. As the sun began to set behind the towering buildings of the campus, casting long shadows across the courtyard, Kim couldn¡¯t help but feel that this was the beginning of something important. Something bigger than just surviving. It was about building something real, something lasting. For the first time since he had set foot on this campus, Kim felt like he had a purpose that wasn¡¯t defined by money or status. It was defined by something deeper¡ªby the people he chose to stand with, and the strength they found in each other. ¡°I¡¯m glad we met,¡± Kim said quietly, looking at Seo-joon with genuine appreciation. ¡°Me too,¡± Seo-joon replied, his voice warm. ¡°We¡¯ve got this, Kim. We¡¯ll make it.¡± The two of them turned and walked away from the courtyard, ready to face whatever challenges awaited them. The world of privilege and power might be hard to navigate, but they had each other¡ªand that made all the difference. As they walked into the fading light, their footsteps in sync, Kim couldn¡¯t help but feel a quiet sense of hope for the future. With Seo-joon by his side, he wasn¡¯t alone. And that was all he needed to keep going. Chapter 4: The Divide Within Part 1: A Stand and a Friendship Kim stepped out of the administration office, his heart still racing from the confrontation with Han Jae-hyun. The encounter had shaken him, leaving him with a sense of unease he couldn¡¯t shake off. Jae-hyun¡¯s words echoed in his mind, a reminder that at this university, power wasn¡¯t just about grades or intelligence¡ªit was about wealth, influence, and who you knew. Kim could feel the weight of the situation pressing down on him. He had come here with a purpose, determined to prove himself, but now he was forced to confront the harsh reality of the divide between the rich and the scholarship students. He had to tread carefully. He couldn¡¯t afford to make enemies with the powerful students, but at the same time, he couldn¡¯t back down from the opportunities he had worked so hard to earn. As he walked down the corridor, lost in his thoughts, he felt a hand clap gently on his shoulder. Kim turned to see Seo-joon standing behind him, his familiar smile offering a sense of comfort in the midst of his turmoil. ¡°Don¡¯t let him get to you,¡± Seo-joon said, his voice steady and reassuring. ¡°You did the right thing by standing up to him. Not many would have had the courage.¡± Kim felt a small flicker of relief. It was hard to find genuine allies in a place like this, where students were constantly vying for position and favor. But Seo-joon had already shown him that he wasn¡¯t one to back down, no matter the odds. ¡°You really think so?¡± Kim asked, his voice tinged with doubt.The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings. ¡°Of course,¡± Seo-joon replied without hesitation. ¡°You¡¯ve got what it takes to survive here, Kim. Just remember, we¡¯re in this together.¡± With those words, Kim felt a sense of camaraderie that had been absent from his life for so long. In a world that seemed so divided by wealth and status, Seo-joon¡¯s unwavering support felt like a rare and precious thing. Together, they walked through the campus, taking in the opulent surroundings. The university was everything Kim had imagined¡ªgrand, imposing, and beautiful¡ªbut the divisions between the students were impossible to ignore. As they strolled past the various buildings, Kim couldn¡¯t help but notice the subtle cues that signaled where the wealthier students gathered. The cafeteria, for example, was an unmistakable symbol of the divide. There were two distinct lines¡ªone for the scholarship students, where they were given little more than basic meals, and another for the rich students, where gourmet dishes were served with a level of service that felt worlds apart. Kim couldn¡¯t help but feel the sting of that division as they approached the cafeteria. His scholarship card didn¡¯t come close to covering the luxury the wealthier students enjoyed, and he felt a sharp pang of frustration as he realized just how wide the gap truly was. ¡°We¡¯ll get through this,¡± Seo-joon said, seemingly sensing Kim¡¯s unease. ¡°It won¡¯t be easy, but if we stick together, we¡¯ll find a way to make our mark.¡± Kim nodded, but deep down, he knew that the real battle was just beginning. It wasn¡¯t enough to simply survive in this world¡ªhe had to figure out how to navigate it, how to play by the rules while still holding onto his dignity. The road ahead was uncertain, but with a friend like Seo-joon by his side, maybe¡ªjust maybe¡ªhe could start to change the rules of the game. Chapter 4: The Divide Within Part 2: The Divide is Real Kim and Seo-joon continued their tour of the campus, their footsteps echoing in the vast hallways of the university. The grandeur of the place was impossible to ignore¡ªgleaming marble floors, high ceilings, and walls adorned with expensive artwork. But for Kim, the beauty of the buildings felt like a fa?ade, masking the harsh reality that lay beneath. As they walked, Kim couldn''t help but notice the stark contrasts that seemed to be everywhere. It wasn¡¯t just the cafeteria with its separate lines for scholarship students and wealthy students; it was in the very design of the campus itself. The wealthy students had their own section in every facility¡ªthe libraries, the lounges, and even the study halls. Kim could see that they occupied the best spots, their presence almost suffocating in its arrogance. The deeper they ventured into the university, the more the divisions became clear. It wasn¡¯t just the infrastructure that set the rich students apart¡ªit was the way they carried themselves. Groups of them strolled past, laughing and chatting as if they owned the place, their designer clothes and accessories a symbol of the wealth that separated them from everyone else. Kim couldn¡¯t help but feel a growing sense of alienation. The world of the rich students felt so distant, so foreign. It was as if they existed in a bubble, insulated from the struggles of people like him. Even the workers¡ªthe staff who ran the cafeterias, cleaned the classrooms, and maintained the campus¡ªwere divided into two groups: those who served the wealthy students with an eager obedience, and those who were left to fend for themselves, working multiple jobs just to scrape by. ¡°What¡¯s going on here is... brutal,¡± Kim murmured, watching as a group of rich students passed by, flanked by attendants who seemed to hang on their every word. Seo-joon, noticing his discomfort, nudged him gently. ¡°It¡¯s the same everywhere, Kim. But we¡¯re not alone in this. You¡¯ve got me, and I¡¯ve got your back.¡± Kim glanced at his friend, grateful for his words, but the divide felt too wide to bridge with mere friendship. The weight of his scholarship and the limitations it imposed on him were becoming painfully clear. Everywhere he looked, there was a reminder of his place¡ªat the bottom of a system that valued wealth above all else.A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. They reached a nearby courtyard where a few students were lounging on expensive furniture, sipping drinks and enjoying their lunch. The students looked as if they had no cares in the world, their carefree conversations further accentuating the gulf between them and the rest of the campus. Seo-joon seemed to sense the frustration simmering in Kim. ¡°Don¡¯t let them get to you. We¡¯ve got to stay focused on what brought us here. We¡¯re here to study, to make something of ourselves.¡± Kim nodded, though it was clear that the path forward wouldn¡¯t be easy. The more he observed, the more he realized that success at this university wasn¡¯t just about grades¡ªit was about knowing the right people, having the right connections, and above all, having the right amount of money to make things happen. As they passed by a large glass window overlooking the athletic fields, Kim¡¯s eyes caught sight of the wealthier students lounging in the VIP section of the stadium, enjoying a catered lunch while the rest of the students were relegated to the bleachers. ¡°It¡¯s a system designed to keep people like us in our place,¡± Kim said bitterly. ¡°No matter how hard we work, they¡¯ll always have the advantage.¡± Seo-joon shook his head. ¡°Maybe. But we can¡¯t afford to think that way. We¡¯ve got to make our own opportunities. This place is what we make of it.¡± Kim didn¡¯t respond immediately. Instead, he watched as the rich students laughed, their voices full of entitlement, while the scholarship students shuffled along, heads down, trying not to draw attention to themselves. It was a world of silent battles, of quiet struggles, and Kim wasn¡¯t sure how long he could keep fighting without losing himself in the process. But one thing was clear¡ªhe couldn¡¯t let this divide define him. If he was going to survive here, he would need more than just Seo-joon¡¯s friendship. He would need to find a way to rise above the system, to carve out a place for himself where he could fight back against the forces that sought to hold him down. For the first time, Kim realized that this wasn¡¯t just a university¡ªit was a battleground. And he had to be ready for whatever came next. Chapter 4: The Divide Within Part 3: The Cafeteria and a Harsh Realization The day had already felt long, but the weight of the campus¡¯s division pressed harder with every step. Kim and Seo-joon made their way to the cafeteria, which was nothing short of extravagant. The massive space was filled with gleaming marble countertops, polished wood tables, and towering windows that let in streams of sunlight. At first glance, it looked like a luxury hotel¡¯s dining hall, not a university cafeteria. Despite the lavish surroundings, Kim couldn¡¯t ignore the divide that hung in the air. There were two distinct sections in the cafeteria: one for the wealthy students, located at the front, where large tables were arranged in clusters and waitstaff served gourmet meals; and another at the back for the scholarship students, where plain tables and inexpensive meals awaited. Kim and Seo-joon found themselves standing in the second line, the one for students like them. As they shuffled forward, Kim¡¯s eyes wandered to the other side of the cafeteria, where the rich students were seated comfortably. They sipped exotic beverages, laughing and chatting as if the world were their playground. Meanwhile, the scholarship students like Kim and Seo-joon waited patiently in line, their options limited to basic sandwiches, salads, and coffee. ¡°I hate this,¡± Kim muttered under his breath, his frustration boiling over. The unfairness of the situation was unbearable. The world of the rich was so different from his own that it felt impossible to bridge the gap. The separation wasn¡¯t just physical¡ªit was cultural, social, and financial. It was a constant reminder that no matter how hard he worked, he would always be treated differently. Seo-joon glanced at him and gave a small, reassuring smile. ¡°It¡¯s tough, but we¡¯ll find a way. We¡¯re not here to fit in. We¡¯re here to make a difference.¡± Kim tried to force a smile, but it didn¡¯t reach his eyes. As they reached the counter, he swiped his student ID card. He was surprised to see a small balance on it. ¡°The university deposits your scholarship funds onto these cards every week,¡± Seo-joon explained, his voice tinged with the same frustration Kim felt. ¡°It¡¯s all we get to use here.¡±This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there. Kim glanced at the rich side of the cafeteria once more, his eyes lingering on the expensive meals and the drinks that were clearly far out of his reach. A part of him longed for the comfort of that world, but he knew that it would always be just out of his grasp. His frustration grew when he saw one of the wealthy students on the other side of the cafeteria turn and sneer in their direction. ¡°You really think you belong here?¡± the student said, his voice dripping with mockery. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t even be able to afford half of what we have here.¡± The other students around him snickered, and Kim¡¯s anger flared. He clenched his fists, his pulse racing with the urge to snap back, but he knew he couldn¡¯t afford to. In this world, one wrong move could cost him everything. Instead, he gritted his teeth and turned away, heading to the counter to order his meal. The staff behind the counter were efficient, offering Kim a simple coffee and a small snack¡ªa stark contrast to the extravagant offerings across the room. As they found a table in the corner, Kim¡¯s mind raced. How could they all be so blind to the injustice of it all? How could the rich students sit there, enjoying their lives while the scholarship students struggled just to get by? ¡°It¡¯s not just about the food, is it?¡± Seo-joon said, his voice quiet but firm. He had been watching Kim, reading his thoughts. ¡°It¡¯s the way they look at us, like we¡¯re not even supposed to be here. Like we¡¯re invisible.¡± Kim didn¡¯t respond at first. Instead, he stared at the students on the other side, their world so far out of reach. For a moment, it felt like nothing could ever change, like he was trapped in a system designed to keep him at the bottom. But then something inside him shifted. He couldn¡¯t just let this be his life. He couldn¡¯t let these divisions define him. He had already come too far to back down now. ¡°Maybe we don¡¯t belong in their world,¡± Kim said finally, his voice quiet but resolute. ¡°But we can build our own. We just have to make it work.¡± Seo-joon nodded, a flicker of determination in his eyes. ¡°Exactly. We¡¯ll find a way to stand on our own, and when we do, we won¡¯t be looking up at them anymore. They¡¯ll be looking up at us.¡± Kim felt a spark of hope flicker in his chest. Maybe the path ahead wouldn¡¯t be easy, but at least he wasn¡¯t walking it alone. With Seo-joon by his side, he could fight against the tide. He could rise above the divide. But that would take time. And in a world so rigidly divided by wealth and status, time was one thing Kim didn¡¯t have much of. Chapter 4: The Divide Within Part 4: The Close Call and a Dangerous Encounter As Kim and Seo-joon made their way out of the cafeteria, their conversation faded into the background as they navigated the crowded hallways. Kim¡¯s mind was still spinning with the injustice he had witnessed in the cafeteria, but Seo-joon¡¯s words kept replaying in his mind, offering a small but steady source of reassurance. "We¡¯ll make our own way," he had said. "We don¡¯t need them." They reached the main campus exit, the air fresh but carrying a chilly bite. The sight of the campus sprawling ahead of them¡ªa place of wealth, power, and opportunity¡ªfelt both intimidating and alluring. Kim paused for a moment, taking in the view, wondering just how far he could go in this world that seemed so determined to keep him in his place. Suddenly, the ground beneath his feet seemed to tremble. A roar of an engine cut through the air, deafening in its power, and before Kim could even react, a sleek black BMW shot around the corner, heading straight for them at breakneck speed. Time seemed to slow. Kim¡¯s heart slammed in his chest. The car was too close. The headlights bore down on him, and instinctively, he knew he had mere seconds to react. He shoved Seo-joon forward, pushing him out of harm¡¯s way. But in that moment, Kim was left standing frozen, paralyzed by the threat of the vehicle. He barely registered the screech of the tires as the car hurtled toward him, the engine growling like a beast preparing to strike. With a final burst of adrenaline, Kim managed to leap to the side, just barely avoiding the front bumper of the speeding car. He lost his balance, crashing to the ground hard, his arm twisting awkwardly beneath him as he fell. Pain exploded in his shoulder, but it was nothing compared to the terror that still gripped him. Seo-joon¡¯s voice cut through the haze of pain. "Kim! Are you okay?!" He was already at Kim¡¯s side, his hands on him, checking for injuries. Kim winced, pushing through the pain in his arm as he slowly tried to sit up. His heart was still pounding in his chest, and he couldn¡¯t shake the image of the car barreling toward him. He had never been so close to death in his life. As his vision cleared, Kim saw the car slowly coming to a stop, and the door swung open. Han Jae-hyun, the wealthy student who had already shown him so much disdain, stepped out of the vehicle with a smirk plastered across his face.This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work. ¡°Well, well, if it isn¡¯t Kim,¡± Han said, his voice dripping with mock amusement. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect to see you here again. I¡¯m almost impressed you managed to survive that.¡± Kim could feel the anger building within him, but he gritted his teeth and forced himself to stay calm. The last thing he needed was to escalate things further. Seo-joon, however, wasn¡¯t as controlled. ¡°What the hell is wrong with you? You almost killed him!¡± he shouted, stepping forward, fists clenched in fury. ¡°This is a warning. If you ever do something like this again, I¡¯ll report you. You won¡¯t get away with it.¡± Han Jae-hyun laughed, a sound that was cold and dismissive. ¡°Oh, please. If I wanted to kill you, I wouldn¡¯t have bothered stopping. But honestly, you¡¯re not even worth the effort. You¡¯re just a nuisance.¡± He shrugged carelessly, looking down at Kim with disdain. ¡°Consider yourself lucky. I¡¯d hate to waste my time on someone as insignificant as you.¡± With that, Han turned and got back into the car, slamming the door shut. The engine revved, and the car sped off, leaving a trail of dust behind it. Kim stood up slowly, still reeling from the close call. His arm throbbed with pain, but the adrenaline rush hadn¡¯t quite worn off yet. Seo-joon was right by his side, helping him steady himself. ¡°You¡¯re lucky. That was way too close.¡± Kim nodded but didn¡¯t say anything. His thoughts were clouded with anger, frustration, and confusion. How could someone be so careless, so willing to use their power and wealth to play with the lives of others? Han Jae-hyun had made it clear that he could do whatever he wanted without consequences, simply because he had money and influence. And that realization struck Kim harder than anything else. This was the world he was trying to navigate¡ªa world where the powerful could destroy the lives of those beneath them without a second thought. As they walked to the campus health center to get Kim¡¯s arm checked, the nurse there didn¡¯t mince words. ¡°Be careful around the rich students,¡± she warned, her eyes filled with quiet sympathy. ¡°They think they can get away with anything, and they often do. If you cross them, they won¡¯t hesitate to make your life miserable. And no one will stop them. Money buys power in this place, and power buys silence.¡± Kim absorbed the nurse¡¯s words, his anger now mixing with a growing sense of helplessness. How was he supposed to fight against this system when the very people in charge could easily crush him? By the time they left the health center, his arm was in a sling, and his mind was filled with one question: How far was he willing to go to survive in this world? And more importantly, how much of himself would he lose along the way? The path ahead seemed even more treacherous now, but Kim knew one thing for certain: he wasn¡¯t going to back down. Not now. Not ever. Chapter 4: The Divide Within Part 5: The Assembly and the Reality of Power Later that day, the campus was buzzing with anticipation as the first official assembly of the semester was about to begin. Kim had heard the whispers around campus: it was a spectacle, an event where the students were supposed to learn about the university¡¯s plans for the year and, most importantly, where the powerful students got to flaunt their wealth and privilege. Kim and Seo-joon made their way to the grand hall, a place that looked more like a high-end conference center than a university building. The entrance was adorned with golden pillars, and the floor gleamed with polished marble. Students moved in a steady stream, some talking excitedly among themselves, others looking detached, as if they already knew how things worked at the university. The hall was divided into two sections. The VIP area, reserved for the rich and influential students, was at the front, where the best seats were lined with plush velvet chairs. The rest of the students, those on scholarships or from families without the same level of wealth, were relegated to the back, where hard, uncomfortable chairs lined the walls. It was a stark reminder of the separation that existed, of how the wealthier students were treated like royalty while the rest were expected to sit and quietly observe. Kim¡¯s stomach churned as he looked at the seating arrangement. It was impossible to ignore the message it sent: the rich were at the top, and everyone else was beneath them. He could feel the weight of it pressing down on him. He and Seo-joon were ushered toward the back, where the other scholarship students sat, heads lowered, silently accepting their place in the hierarchy. As they made their way through the room, Kim couldn¡¯t help but notice how the rich students moved through the hall. They didn¡¯t walk¡ªthey glided. Each one seemed to carry an air of superiority, their designer clothing and expensive accessories making it clear they belonged to another world. Kim could almost hear the whispers of envy and awe that followed them as they passed by the scholarship students. Seo-joon, sensing Kim¡¯s discomfort, leaned in and whispered, ¡°Don¡¯t let them get to you. We¡¯re here for the same reason they are¡ªto learn. They might have money, but they don¡¯t have everything.¡± Kim nodded but couldn¡¯t shake the feeling of being out of place. He had worked so hard to get here, but now that he was on the campus, he couldn¡¯t help but feel like an outsider in a world he wasn¡¯t meant to be a part of.If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. As the assembly began, the chancellor walked up to the stage, his voice booming through the speakers. ¡°Welcome, students, to a new year at the university. This is a place of excellence, of opportunity, and of growth. We hope you will all take full advantage of the resources available to you.¡± Kim¡¯s attention wandered as the chancellor continued with his speech, talking about the future of the university and its efforts to provide a top-tier education. But Kim¡¯s focus wasn¡¯t on the promises or the platitudes¡ªit was on the glaring disparity that surrounded him. The rich students at the front barely listened, their eyes glued to their phones or engaged in private conversations. It was clear they had already made up their minds about how the year would unfold¡ªthey would continue to dominate, as they always had. And then, amidst the speeches and the grand promises, something changed. Han Jae-hyun, who had been sitting in the front row with a group of his friends, caught Kim¡¯s eye. For a moment, their gazes locked, and Kim saw a flash of something in Han¡¯s eyes¡ªsomething calculating, almost as if he were sizing Kim up, as if this was all a game to him. Kim¡¯s heart raced. It was as if Han knew exactly what he was thinking. But then, just as quickly, the moment passed, and Han turned away, his attention back on the chancellor. Kim¡¯s mind began to race again. How could he survive in this world of privilege and power? How could he climb the ladder when every step seemed to be against him? He had already come so far, but there was so much more to go. The temptation to give in, to let the divide between the rich and the poor dictate his future, was strong. But he wouldn¡¯t let it happen. As the assembly continued, Kim sat silently, his mind a whirlwind of thoughts. The university, with all its grandeur and promise, was built on a foundation of inequality. The rich would always have an advantage, but that didn¡¯t mean Kim had to accept it. He could play the game, too. Maybe it wasn¡¯t about fighting against the system¡ªmaybe it was about working with it, using it to his advantage. And as he sat there, watching the wealthy students laugh and chat among themselves, something inside him hardened. He wasn¡¯t going to let them win. The divide was real. But it wasn¡¯t unbreakable. And Kim was determined to find a way to bridge it¡ªno matter the cost. As the assembly came to a close and the students began filing out, Kim stood up with a renewed sense of purpose. He knew the road ahead would be difficult, that he would face more challenges and obstacles, but he was ready. This was just the beginning.