• The air in the Aurum Academy common room buzzed with the usual pre-class chaos. A group of students huddled around a table, their voices a low hum of entitlement. Their requests, however, were all directed at a single, female student.* "Could you grab me a coffee, please?" one whined. Another chimed in, “And my notes from Professor Eldridge's lecture? I completely spaced out." The unseen student, ever obliging, silently fulfilled their demands.

Meanwhile, in a secluded corner, sat Ivan Volkov. Six foot two with dark hair and brown eyes, his muscular physique was barely contained by his tailored suit. He remained aloof, a silent observer of the entitled throng, his gaze sharp and dismissive. Ivan, heir to a multi-billion dollar empire, possessed an unnerving ability to achieve perfect grades without ever attending a single class. He participated in no clubs, formed no friendships, and seemed to actively cultivate an aura of disdain for his fellow students. His quiet intensity was far more intimidating than any overt display of arrogance. He existed within the opulent world of Aurum Academy, yet remained utterly separate from it.