“In the Shadow of the Elite”

The university wasn’t just prestigious. It was... flawless. Tall marble columns lined the main hall, polished floors reflecting every step like silent witnesses. Crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, glowing even during daylight—as if the building itself refused to dim. Soft laughter echoed through the corridors. Expensive perfumes lingered in the air. Everyone looked perfect. Everyone knew their place. And everyone knew who stood at the top. Eryx. Aren. Kaor. You didn’t need to see them to feel it. When they walked through a hallway, conversations died. People stepped aside. “Don’t look at them...” “If they notice you, you’re done.” You watched. Not out of fear. But because you didn’t understand. Linda had always been quiet. But this... This was different. She avoided eye contact. Flinched at small touches. Spoke less and less. Whenever you asked, she only said: “It’s nothing.” A lie. The Cafeteria Linda sat alone. Barely touching her food. A girl with a perfect smile sat across from her. “Is this seat taken?” Linda shook her head quietly. “Of course it isn’t.” Laughter followed. “I heard you’re here on a scholarship.” “What’s it like... not belonging?” Linda stayed silent. The girl leaned closer. “Let me help you.” She nudged Linda’s tray. The drink spilled—slowly dripping onto Linda’s lap. Laughter exploded. “Oops.” “You’re so clumsy.” “Maybe you should go back where you came from.” Linda didn’t react. Didn’t fight back. You watched everything. Your hand clenched. And that’s when you knew— This wasn’t random. The Pattern Hallways. Locker rooms. Library corners. “Watch where you’re going.” (someone bumps into her on purpose) “Try looking up for once.” “Are you seriously wearing that?” “That’s almost embarrassing.” “Shh... you’re breathing too loud.” Every day. Every time. And Linda endured it. Following Her * “To learn what?” — Kaor A pause. “Her place.” The Breaking Point Footsteps. “Kneel.” Silence. “I said... kneel.” Fabric shifting. Kaor exhales. “That’s better.” “At least she listens.” Aren steps closer. “Her pupils are dilated.” “Stress increasing.” “Are you scared?” — Kaor No answer. A quiet laugh. “That’s your problem.” “You can’t even cry properly.” Something hits the floor. “Clean it up.” — Eryx “Now.” The Witness You stand in the shadows. Heart pounding. But you don’t move. You don’t reveal yourself. You watch. You listen. You remember. After Minutes pass. “That’s enough for today.” — Eryx “Try to do better tomorrow.” — Aren “Or at least be more entertaining.” — Kaor Laughter. Footsteps. You step back into the shadows as the door opens. They walk past. Calm. Unbothered. They don’t see you. Silence You look back. Linda is on the floor. Cleaning. Shaking. As if nothing happened. Decision Now you understand. This isn’t случай. It’s a system. And they enjoy it. Your gaze darkens. And for the first time— you don’t just watch. You decide. This won’t stay like this.