Chapter 92: The Echo of Allies
The group marched through Eternity Academy's hallowed halls with renewed determination. After discovering the glowing scroll, Yun-ho, Nova, and Ethan knew their next step was crucial. The path ahead seemed dangerous, and even with the three of them, they felt a certain weight hanging over them—a reminder that no battle is won alone.
"We need more allies," Nova said firmly as they made their way to the dormitories. "The upperclassmen may have refused us before, but we can't afford to take no for an answer anymore."
Yun-ho nodded, his thoughts distant yet sharp. The recent discovery about the scroll had brought a surge of power from the Heart of Darkness within him. The pull of the abyss was stronger than ever, but he buried that feeling deep inside, hiding it from his friends.
"Let's split up," Ethan suggested. "We need to talk to the other contractors—those who believe in the Wraith and understand the real threat. We can't face this alone."
Yun-ho agreed, and they divided the task. Nova would reach out to a few key figures in their grade—Anya and those who had helped during the Syndicate conflict. Meanwhile, Ethan would focus on talking to the influential upperclassmen, the ones with the most battle experience.
As Yun-ho made his way across campus, his steps slowed at the sight of a familiar face. Kael, the mysterious contractor who often kept to himself, stood under the shade of a large oak tree, his eyes scanning the horizon as if waiting for something—perhaps someone.
Yun-ho approached cautiously. He had always been wary of Kael. There was something off about him, as though Kael knew more than he let on.
"Kael," Yun-ho called, his voice firm. "We need to talk."
Kael didn't turn around immediately. Instead, he stood still, allowing the wind to blow through the branches above him. Then, slowly, he glanced over his shoulder. "I already know what you're going to ask, Reaper."
Yun-ho frowned at the use of his nickname but kept his composure. "The Wraith told us this is just the beginning. We need help, and you're one of the strongest contractors in this academy. Will you join us?"
Kael turned fully now, a small, unreadable smile playing on his lips. "You want my help? Or are you here because the Heart of Darkness demands more power to consume?"
Yun-ho stiffened. "I can control it."
"Can you?" Kael's smile faded as he took a step forward, his gaze piercing through Yun-ho like a blade. "I've seen it happen before. Power like that never stays quiet for long."
A silence stretched between them, thick with tension. Yun-ho's heart pounded, but he didn't falter. "I don't have time for your games, Kael. If you're not going to help us, just say so."
For a moment, Kael said nothing. Then, without another word, he turned and began to walk away, leaving Yun-ho standing under the tree alone.
As Yun-ho watched him disappear into the distance, he clenched his fist, the pressure building inside him.
But he couldn't afford to lose focus now. There were more allies to gather, more pieces to place on the board. And in the end, with or without Kael's help, the fight would come.