Ironclad Academy Of The Sword

Fukurodani Academy is an institution designed for exceptionally gifted individuals with unique abilities, specifically trained to solve mysteries and tackle crimes often rooted in dark intentions. During their first semester, new students embark on their inaugural mission to compete for a place in the TOP 9, known as S・A, which stands for Special A. Each class offers specialized training tailored to the varied talents of the students. As they enter the second semester, students face the daunting task of investigating cases to uncover the truth behind them. However, they must tread carefully, as they risk death or disappearance while exploring these enigmas. What heightens the danger of these cases? The answer is as chilling as the criminals involved: what if they are not human? The term "Yuma" refers to a classification where 80% are demons and 10% are humans, each categorized by the different powers stemming from the energy within their bodies. But what about the remaining 10%? This percentage represents the enigma that S・A is determined to unravel. Fukurodani Academy has been in existence for nearly 200 years. The current 101st generation of S・A has boldly chosen to defy the school's directives by entering the realm of Saranthania, home to 10th-level Yuma, who are regarded as the kings of demons. Their goal is to uncover the secret behind the elusive remaining 10%. However, they are unprepared for the repercussions that await them for revealing this hidden truth. What exactly does the remaining 10% of power entail? Can they solve this mystery?

Katherine Davis awakens as Amira, a noblewoman with Imperial blood and no memory of the life she’s meant to lead. Determined to escape the unseen forces shaping her fate, she fakes her death and vanishes into a quiet life under a new identity. But her disappearance does not go unnoticed. A stranger finds her—someone who stirs emotions she cannot place, as though they were once tied to her forgotten past. Soon, others begin to cross her path: those who speak of duty, secrets, and a purpose she cannot yet comprehend. Beneath their words linger unspoken truths, hinting that her existence is more deeply connected to the empire than she ever imagined. As the pieces of her life begin to resurface, Amira is faced with difficult choices. Unraveled memories and long-buried powers threaten to pull her into a destiny that demands everything. Are these strangers her allies, or will they lead her astray? And in seeking the truth, will she lose the fragile freedom she fought so hard to claim? In a world where hidden forces weave the threads of fate, Amira’s journey could reshape not only her life but the very world she lives in. But at what cost?

Michael only knew the world and societies structure in the academic way, where life seemed to revolve entirely around the structure.
In an academic world, structure societies where one seemed to graduate and continued working within the system, escaping life outside that is near impossible. Michael Walker, a 17-year-old high schooler with an unknown background, was chosen among many students to become one of the potential "Outside Graduates" (OGs). The OG Project was a series of trials designed to create individuals capable of surviving monstrous challenges. Only those who passed could earn the coveted title of OG. Michael dreamed of rising to the top among the OGs, determined to escape what felt like an endless loop of imprisonment.
However, the project was far from simple or easy, despite how it had been presented. ——————————————————— disclaimer: not my art. stay tune! and follow the journey of Mystery alongside the author. thanks. support the author, add to collections it highly appreciated.

Transmigrated in erotic game and having a lot of fun. A lot of R-18 chapter. I have come to know that the grammar and paragraphs sentencing of my novel were not good. So, I have made some updated To chapters. for additional arts and chapters p@treon.com/KLNovel62

--- Title: The Day Everything Changed I’m Takabashi Sakura, just an ordinary girl. But my best friend, Fukuda Tetsuya, is something extraordinary—an Ethereal. I don’t really know what that means, but it sounds so cool, right? Those with this power get to attend the prestigious Ethereals Academy. Amazing, isn’t it? At least, that’s what I thought. After he left, Tetsuya didn’t call me, visit me, or even send a single message for an entire year. It hurt—no, it crushed me. But then, I realized: “No, I shouldn’t be sad. I should make him regret it!” And so, it all began with that decision... --- What do you think? Should we add more drama or a twist?

"So, that's how my life ends, what a waste of time it was...". These were the last thoughts of a young man, shot by accident in a fight between local gangs. Little did he know that he would soon wake up in another world, a world of cultivation! This is the story of the whoreson of a wealthy family, of a transmigrator that had no purpose in his previous life, of a demon that will make power his reason to keep on living. Noah Balvan, after he transmigrated, will have to fight against his social status and the many difficulties of the world he was reborn in to obtain the power to stand free in the sky above anyone! Follow me on twitter: https://twitter.com/EoCNovels Instagram: eocnovels Discord link: https://discord.gg/CNh28NP Cover artist: https://digitalrowye.com/ Fandom: https://botds.fandom.com/wiki/Birth_of_the_Demonic_Sword_Wiki

Sunz was born with an unknown ability given only a sword from birth but had no idea of what to do, until one faithful day his ability got reawakened and it's his choice to live his old life or explore his new one with the help of his friend Jihu. At first, Sunz was invited by Jihu to see his Grandpa's tournament in Korea. But the invitation as a Visitor soon changed to an invitation as a Contestant. Now having a chance to compete at Jihu's Grandpa's tournament to find the next member of the Water Clan. But to have a chance at competing in the tournament Sunz needs to win against one of the Inspector. Even if he can defeat the Inspector, can he defeat the other Contestants, who are there for the same reward? An inexperienced nobody joining the World of Experts. Can he survive or will he die without achieving ANYTHING?

Academy novels. If you take notice, most of them are about nameless characters, professors, and villains. And another aspect is that there is only one academy or that same academy is declared the strongest. However, Aestrea, a successful award-winning actor, actually gets transmigrated into one of those novels. Instead, he finds himself transmigrated into the body of the most powerful student at the Weakest Academy. Just at the time of the academy's competition...

What do the words Third-Rate Villain mean? Doesn't every human being possess their own background story? Just because a game hadn't explored one's background story, does it mean those characters are irrelevant? In a world where video games come to life, Astron Natusalune is introduced as a seemingly insignificant character—a third-rate villain with a minor role. However, this ordinary facade belies a haunting past that has shaped Astron into the vengeful soul he has become. Someone who would do everything for his vengeance. What will occur if Astron's soul combines with one from Earth? Will he relinquish his position as a third-rate villain, or will he forge a new path? Driven by a singular purpose—to avenge his sister's tragic death and bring justice to a cruel world—Astron embarks on a transformative journey. Witness the journey of the Astron as the young boy experiences a profound shift in his own values as he witnesses firsthand the consequences of unchecked vengeance and the true complexities of morality. -----------------------------------0------------------------------------ Chapter length 1750-2500 At least one chapter a day. You can check my discord if you want. You will be able to see the illustrations here and engage in a conversation with me if I am available. https://discord.gg/BQRMhDxZr8

In a world veiled by clouds of mystery and darkness, there existed an ancient sword, devoid of engravings or symbols. Its edge was sharp as knives, and its power was as deadly as a raging storm. It was said that the sword was a tool of destruction, controlling those who wielded it. Yet, what no one knew was that the sword harbored a dark power beyond human comprehension. The sword passed through countless hands over centuries—from one warrior to another, from one killer to the next. Each person who possessed it left behind a trail of blood and death. With every swing, the sword brought chaos and ruin. But it was not just a weapon of death; it carried a dark soul, an unseen spirit lurking deep within its blade. Then came a day that changed everything. A dark entity, unlike any creature known before, entered the sword's world to alter its fate. This being decided to merge the sword with the body of a boy named Yuri, an ordinary boy unaware of the power about to take hold of him. When the sword entered Yuri’s body, strange transformations began. Yuri was no longer just a boy; the sword became a part of him. And the sword, no longer a mere piece of metal, unleashed its deadly spirit to take control of Yuri's body. The sword's power filled his being, while Yuri's soul began to fade into the depths, gradually becoming nothing more than a faint whisper. The more Yuri tried to resist, the stronger the sword became. It dictated every movement, every step, every breath. Yuri fought against the sword's control, but its power was too overwhelming. Over time, Yuri's spirit dwindled until it was barely noticeable, leaving behind a fragile trace. No one knew the true secret of this sword. It remained entirely unknown, and the boy's body it inhabited became shrouded in mystery. The sword had a will of its own and an immense, limitless power. The dark entity, the only one aware of the sword's secret, could not predict what would unfold after the transformation. As time passed, the sword began to undergo yet another change. Yuri continued his struggle, but the sword's power was indomitable. In rare moments when Yuri’s consciousness surfaced, he tried to rebel against the sword. But the sword itself was now embroiled in an internal conflict—between its own dark force and Yuri’s desperate fight to reclaim himself. In the end, the sword became a dark power enveloping the boy’s spirit, yet it also turned into something extraordinary in this world. Those moments of internal struggle would ultimately determine their fate—and the fate of the entire world.

Di planet Akaris, tempat berbagai ras hidup dalam ketegangan, Katashi Yumimito, seorang anak angkat bangsawan Kerajaan Shikimura, tumbuh dengan misteri asal-usulnya. Takdir membawanya ke Academy Of The Gods, sebuah sekolah elit yang melatih para bangsawan dan anak-anak berbakat dari seluruh penjuru alam semesta. Namun, di sana, Katashi kembali dihadapkan pada keraguan orang-orang di sekitarnya. Ia dianggap sebagai anak tanpa garis keturunan yang pantas, diremehkan, dan disisihkan. Segalanya berubah saat sebuah ujian besar mengungkap kekuatan luar biasa yang tersembunyi dalam dirinya, membuat semua orang di akademi terkejut. Dalam perjalanan yang penuh intrik dan bahaya, rahasia besar tentang asal-usulnya perlahan mulai terkuak. Kini, Katashi dihadapkan pada pilihan: menyerah pada takdir yang telah ditentukan untuknya atau melawan arus dan menentukan jalannya sendiri.

In the desolate and barren South, an empire is always in turmoil. The Empire of Dragons.  Majestic and mystical beings, dragons possess a great power that is both astonishing and terrifying. Their voracious flames devour all life in their path. A decade-long conflict between the North and South was ignited by a story that had been long forgotten. A legend born in the dawn of time. The dragons, once ferocious, were now miserable creatures, cursed with a heart of stone, suffering the agony of eternal cold. The torment eats away at their very essence, both body and soul. Even Irish, was no exception. Nightmares slowly gnawed at his sanity as time passed.  Overwhelmed by despair, Irish sought a flicker of hope, a release from his suffering. The moment their eyes met, the world around him seemed to tilt on its axis. A delicate, ethereal creature, its pristine white fur as soft as cloud fluff, carried a sweet, airy fragrance, offered solace to his weary soul.  The journey of a fragile soul through a chaotic world, searching for the radiant light of peace. [slowburn, mid-angst, violence]

Jin, a user of ki and trained by his master, Roshio until a war broke out and his master died due to sacrificing himself to save Jin. Jin who was in tears vowed to get revenge of the bastards who had started this and killed his master, and his clan members. Being the only survivor of the Bone Structure Palace, The master had handed Jin a weapon to form a contract with. Offically being the master of an broken palace that no longer exists. What will he do to get his revenge? What is he willing to sacrifice for it. ------------ 1. I would like to firstly say that this is my first time writing, so don't expect everything to be perfect for a while. 2. This story is a slow/fast-paced reading. It'll have a mix of both. Some chapters will feel slower because it is, and others will feel faster because it is. 3. It does have romance in it and I wasn't sure to add cultivation because it's more like meditation and like ki gathering and things. However, after going through my thoughts, it was basically the same thing, so I just did it. 4. It's a little all over the place for I'd say the first 6–8 chapters maybe more? But It'll will slowly come together, hopefully… 5. If you do enjoy this, make sure to give it a review and ask other people to read! 6. If there are any questions at all, ask in the comments, and I'll be answering questions every 10 chapters. 7. So update to the list above ^ Romance has been removed due to it taking the first slot and having it show up primarily (I think primarily) as romance and not showing the others before you click on the actual book. It'll still have romance, so don't worry. Nothing will change 8. I would also like to clarify that this is an original work by me, and the clothes i decided to use for the characters, "hanfu" mainly, I do not mean any disrespect to anyone by using it as a novel that is made within america if anyone thought anything like that. I'm simply doing it because i like the design and i think they look extremely cool and also beautiful to me. So again i don't mean any disrespect if im wording any of it wrong. I just really like them.

In the realm of Jianghu, where swords reign supreme and legends are forged in blood and steel, stands the humble village of Qingyun. Here, amidst the rolling hills and tranquil streams, resides a young boy named Jian, a soul brimming with an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a yearning for adventure. Jian's life takes a dramatic turn when a mysterious swordsman, a lone wanderer with eyes that hold the wisdom of a thousand battles, arrives in Qingyun. Recognizing the spark of extraordinary potential within the young boy, the enigmatic swordsman takes Jian under his wing, imparting the secrets of the ancient art of swordsmanship. Under the tutelage of his enigmatic master, Jian embarks on a perilous journey of self-discovery, pushing his body and mind to their limits. He trains relentlessly, mastering the intricate movements of swordplay, the subtle shifts of energy, and the unwavering focus required to wield a blade with grace and deadly precision. As Jian's skills grow, so does his understanding of the world around him. He learns that Jianghu is a realm of shadows and secrets, where honor and treachery walk hand in hand. He encounters formidable foes, each with their own unique style and deadly intent, forcing him to confront his own fears and limitations. Along the way, Jian forms unlikely alliances, forging bonds with fellow disciples and enigmatic wanderers who share his passion for the sword. He encounters a cast of unforgettable characters, from the wise and ancient masters to the cunning and treacherous villains, each leaving an indelible mark on his journey. Through trials and tribulations, victories and defeats, Jian's resolve never wavers. He remains steadfast in his pursuit of the ultimate goal: to become a true Sword Saint, a master of the blade whose name will echo through the ages. Key Elements of the Story: * Martial Arts Prowess: The story will delve deep into the intricacies of swordsmanship, showcasing various styles, techniques, and philosophies. Jian will face challenges that test his skills and force him to innovate and adapt. * World-Building: The world of Jianghu will be richly detailed, with distinct regions, cultures, and factions. The story will explore the political landscape, the hidden dangers, and the legends that shape the world. * Character Development: Jian will undergo a profound transformation, evolving from a naive boy to a seasoned warrior. He will face moral dilemmas, make difficult choices, and learn the true meaning of strength and courage. * Epic Battles: The story will feature thrilling and intense sword fights, showcasing the power and beauty of the martial arts. These battles will be more than just physical contests; they will reflect the characters' inner struggles and the stakes of their journey. * Themes of Friendship, Loyalty, and Betrayal: The story will explore the complexities of human relationships, the bonds of friendship, the weight of loyalty, and the consequences of betrayal. Note: This is just a basic framework. You can expand on this idea, adding your own unique twists and turns, creating memorable characters, and weaving a captivating narrative. Additional Ideas: * Introduce a love interest for Jian, adding another layer of emotional depth to the story. * Incorporate supernatural elements, such as ancient spirits or magical artifacts, to enhance the fantasy aspects. * Explore the philosophical underpinnings of martial arts, delving into themes of self-discovery, enlightenment, and the pursuit of inner peace.

In the world of Tianxia, where martial arts and magic reign supreme, Lin Tian, a young and ambitious swordsman, sets out on a journey to become the strongest warrior in the world. With his trusty sword, the Heavenly Sword, by his side, Lin Tian embarks on a quest to master the ancient art of swordsmanship and become the Sovereign of the Heavenly Sword. His ultimate goal is to ascend to a higher world, a realm of true power and divinity, where he will become a god. As he journeys through the cultivation world, Lin Tian is joined by a group of beautiful and powerful women, each with their own unique abilities and strengths. Together, they form a formidable team, taking on the toughest challenges and overcoming incredible odds. With his swordsmanship skills and his harem by his side, Lin Tian battles against powerful enemies, ancient clans, and mysterious organizations. He must navigate the complex web of alliances and rivalries between powerful cultivators, ancient clans, and mysterious organizations. As Lin Tian grows in power and influence, he becomes known as the Sword Emperor, a legendary warrior feared and respected by all. His name becomes synonymous with bravery, strength, and unwavering dedication. But Lin Tian's journey is not without its challenges. He must confront his own limitations, overcome his own doubts and fears, and make impossible choices that will determine the fate of the world. Will Lin Tian be able to overcome the challenges ahead, become the Sovereign of the Heavenly Sword, and ascend to a higher world with his harem? Or will the dangers of the cultivation world prove too great for him to overcome? Sovereign of the Heavenly Sword is a fantasy novel that combines elements of martial arts, magic, and harem romance. With its epic scope, memorable characters, and heart-pumping action sequences, this novel is sure to captivate fans of fantasy and adventure.

In the magical world of Auroria, where every breath hums with enchantment, the balance of power rests on four distinct factions: the visionary Elites, the underestimated yet resilient Fi, the vigilant Guardians, and the secretive Sentinels. Each group wields its unique influence over this mystical realm, but their harmony is fragile, threatened by ambition, secrets, and destiny. For Ahaan, a determined boy from the humble Fi class, the prestigious Sword Ceremony is more than a ritual—it’s his chance to rise above his station and prove that even the so-called weakest can achieve greatness. Armed with dreams of glory and a heart full of resolve, Ahaan embarks on a journey fraught with challenges, where the swords choose their wielder, revealing their true worth. But when Ahaan crosses paths with his childhood friend turned rival, Ishaan, who aligns with a faction at odds with his own, the world of Auroria begins to shift. Their rivalry deepens, fueled by ambition, loyalty, and the enigmatic shadows of the Sentinels, who harbor secrets that could unravel the very fabric of Auroria. As destinies intertwine and betrayals surface, Ahaan must navigate a perilous path to uncover the truth about himself, his world, and the sword that could change everything. With the stakes higher than ever, will he rise to become the hero Auroria needs—or be consumed by the forces that seek to destroy it? The Sword of Auroria is an epic tale of friendship, rivalry, and the pursuit of power in a world where magic thrives, secrets linger, and dreams can shape destinies. Perfect for fans of thrilling fantasy and character-driven adventures, this story promises a journey you won’t forget.

Bercerita tentang kerajaan Zyro yang menaklukkan kerajaan disekelilingnya. Hal itu mengakibatkan seorang anak laki-laki bernama Azuma yang kebahagiaannya direbut bahkan rumah dibakar dan orang tuanya dibunuh. Azuma menjadi dendam kepada kerajaan Zyro yang bertindak kejam dan semena-mena.

Seth Zephyr is the prodigy of the Zephyr Noble Household, who will one day be regarded as the strongest Mage in the entire world. Compared to him, his twin brother Ashfelt Zephyr is completely unimpressive. He is untalented, mediocre at best, and is merely riding on his brother’s coattails as they both manage to get into the Akashic Magus Academy. However, what many don’t know is that Ashfelt is hiding a little secret of his own. … He was reincarnated from Earth into a Fantasy Novel, and now he must see this story to its perfect end if he is ever to return home. How is an Extra supposed to do all of that when he is a completely useless character in a world that cares only about talent and power? It’s simple! “I will use all of my knowledge of this world to the fullest… and make sure you fulfill your destiny, Seth! No matter what!” Tags: Transmigration. Extra. Action. Adventure. Magic. Academy. Antihero. WeaktoStrong. Overpowered. Romance. Superpowers. Strongactingweak. Mystery. BeastTaming.

In a world where power defines existence, where fate is forged through blood and fire, one broken soul rises from the ashes. After the annihilation of the Lou Clan, young Yan Lou is left with nothing but a burning will and a nameless sword art stained with his father’s blood. Cast into the unforgiving world of Murim, where ambition and betrayal intertwine, he seeks strength not for revenge—but for meaning in an existence ruled by chaos. Branded as a dangerous prodigy in a middling martial sect, Yan Lou defies his fate through ruthless cunning, unyielding resolve, and a mastery of the enigmatic Void Blossom Sword Art. As he ascends through the brutal hierarchy of martial arts, he faces enemies far stronger, a corrupt world bent on his destruction, and the dark secrets of his clan’s forgotten past. But in a world where even legends fall, the question remains—will Yan Lou rise beyond mortal limits, or be consumed by the abyss he seeks to conquer? Sword of Transcendence is a gripping dark cultivation epic blending relentless battles, philosophical introspection, and a brutal journey toward ultimate power—where the price of strength may be everything.

An angel, lost on Earth after failing to return to heaven, reincarnated as a human but retained his celestial powers. As he aged, the power became too much for his mortal body, leaving him lonely despite having siblings. He eventually made a close friend and, knowing his time was short, began distributing his powers through injections of his celestial blood. His friend was the first to receive powers, followed by the angel's sister and many others. To help these new power-bearers, the angel created a separate universe above Earth with a school where they could learn to harness their celestial aura. The angel ruled the school until his friend, seeking control, demanded a share. When the angel refused, the friend took over during his absence, ruling with an iron fist and sparking a deadly war. The angel returned to find his friend had married his sister, and they had a daughter. Heartbroken, the angel banished them and their followers to a sealed realm called Terra Firma. Before departing on another journey, he appointed twelve powerful beings to govern his universe and placed his niece and her descendants in charge of the school. Then, the angel disappeared, leaving his legacy behind.

A prestigious private academy nestled in a secluded, picturesque valley, where the elite and exceptionally talented gather. The academy holds a mysterious tradition: every few years, a "Luminary" is chosen—a student said to have a heart that inspires love and unity among others. 5 CHAPTER PER WEEK

Jade Eadwald is a peculiar teenager, living with neglectful, multi-billionaire parents who hoard a load of shady secrets, and a dark past they would do anything to keep their only daughter from finding out. The Eadwald's move from house to house every year, constantly attempting to leave their past behind. But this fall, they have decided to move back to London, where it all began, for reasons unknown, and Jade is in for a school term she might not survive through. Jade is set to join a school called 'Bloodstone Academy' for the fall term, and unknown to her, behind the ancient stone-walls of the castle, lies a whole new, dark and dangerous world she will inevitably come to be a part of. 'The Vampires of Ruin' have come to reside within the walls of Bloodstone Academy, and they seem to be on the hunt for something, or rather, someone important. The Blood Prophecy that was once told a hundred years ago has been retold by another witch from the Almathea coven, and vampires all over the world have grown agitated. Tension that's been building up for a century is at its peak, and The Vampires of Ruin are relentless in their search for the one the Prophecy speaks of. Until Jade walks into the hallways of Bloodstone Academy on an early September autumn morning, with a cold, indifferent expression on her stunning face. Wild-haired, dark-skinned with a mysterious, radiant beauty that makes the world swoon, Jade quickly catches the attention of everyone in Bloodstone Academy. But especially that of two vampires; Vasilis Wang and Roman Augustus. Suddenly finding herself trapped in the webs of a dangerous love triangle, Jade realizes the boys she's falling for are not human, and her new school is no regular high-school either. Something bigger than all of them, and the affections they've come to harbor for one another is brewing just beneath the surface of their collective consciousness, and Jade seems to be the sole catalyst to a disastrous event that will come to threaten the existence of all Vampires. Bloody, dark secrets are suddenly being dug out of graves and tombstones, and the Eadwalds' family secrets seem to be right in the mix, too. Will Jade survive being in the center of so much turmoil and destruction? Or will her heart be able to bear loving two immortals she might end up having to destroy? WARNING: This book contains mature content. [see trigger warnings below!] Trigger warnings: Mature content. Use of profanity, cigarettes, weed and implied alcohol abuse. Strong depictions of mental illnesses [depression, anxiety, undiagnosed bipolar disorder, etc.] Torture. [Explicit descriptions of torture techniques/devices] Explicit and grotesque descriptions of murder/death. Explicit descriptions of blood and gore. Non-explicit mentions of grooming and rape. Mentions of self-harm/suicide. Depictions of self-harm/suicide attempts/suicidal ideations.

Elizabeth Belvoir is over the moon when she opens an admission letter from Duelcrest, the Royal Academy of Magic. Finally she has a chance to escape her boring, mundane life to follow in the footsteps of her idol Aldric, the most powerful mage in the kingdom. But what seemed like an exciting dream soon turns into a terrible waking nightmare. Trapped in a deadly game, Elizabeth will experience fear, doubts and regrets, but also a new feeling, unknown to her. Can love blossom even in a field of death? And is it strong enough to defy a terrible fate?

Mark's world shattered as he witnessed his parents' murder. Adding to his trauma, the murderer of his parents took him in to make him a weapon like his dad. Being weak, he did not resist. His father's dying words ached in his heart: "My son, do whatever you want... You don't owe them anything." Mark struggles through the world, his goal to end the source of strength for this world,sword bonding.

Five of the most prestigious universities in the country are chosen to participate in an unparalleled tournament. Only the best and brightest students are selected to represent their institutions in a series of deadly and intellectual challenges that will test not only their knowledge but also their cunning and fortitude. Each team, composed of four students, must navigate through challenges in virtual worlds, where reality is manipulable and the boundary between victory and defeat is often determined by the ability to influence and deceive others. But there's more at stake. As the challenges grow more intense, secret alliances and dark conspiracies emerge. Academy Games is a tale of fierce competition, strategic intelligence, and the subtle power play that lies behind every decision. Only one team can emerge victorious and bring honor to their university, but at what cost?