Ramon Cruz and the Mysterious System

Chapter 11

The university’s ballroom was a blend of vibrant lights, laughter, and elegance. Ramon and Violet entered arm in arm, casting a ripple of awe and murmurs throughout the crowd.

For Ramon, this was more than just a prom night—it was a declaration of his newfound self. His appearance, confidence, and the car he arrived in had shaken the entire social order on campus.

No one, not even the “kings” and “chiefs” of the university hierarchy, could ignore him now.

The stares came from all directions. Some people whispered in admiration, others in confusion, and a few in resentment. Among those who watched with growing irritation were Xavier, Chloe, and even Mark, who had always considered himself above Ramon.

They had seen him as a weakling, someone they could manipulate and control, but tonight, he looked like a different person altogether.

Xavier leaned against a pillar, his jaw clenched as he watched Ramon and Violet walk past him. Chloe noticed his unease and sidled up beside him, her arm looping around his.

"Looks like Ramon’s trying to be someone he’s not," she sneered, hoping to stoke Xavier’s jealousy.

“He won’t be for long,” Xavier muttered, his eyes narrowing as he observed Ramon’s every move. “Tonight, we’re going to put him back in his place.”

Meanwhile, Violet and Ramon made their way to the dance floor. The warmth in Violet’s gaze kept Ramon’s spirits high as he tried to drown out the memories of past humiliations.

Here, with Violet, he felt invincible. She had believed in him when no one else did, and her encouragement had pushed him to take the leap.

Violet took his hand, and they began to dance, her laughter filling the air as they moved gracefully together. For a moment, the world seemed far away. Ramon was fully present, enjoying the rhythm, the beat, and the joy of being free—free from the fear that had once paralyzed him.

As the music shifted to a slower melody, they stopped to catch their breath. Ramon noticed a flicker of sadness in Violet's eyes.

"Violet," he said, concern lacing his voice, "is something wrong?"

She hesitated, glancing around before responding softly. "Ramon, there’s something I need to tell you. It’s about the hierarchy at this university—the kings, chiefs, and citizens. There’s more to it than just labels."

Ramon’s curiosity piqued. He nodded, silently urging her to continue.

“Most people here don’t know this, but there’s a group—a group that controls everything on campus. They’re the ones who enforce these hierarchies, who make sure that people like you and me stay in our ‘place.’ And Xavier is one of their leaders.”

The revelation hit Ramon hard, though in a way, he wasn’t surprised. He had sensed for a long time that there was something insidious beneath the university’s social structure.

Now, it all made sense—why Xavier and his friends always seemed untouchable, why the administration seemed blind to their actions.

“But why?” he asked, his voice low. “Why do they go to such lengths to keep everyone in line?”

“It’s about power and influence,” Violet replied, glancing around to make sure they weren’t overheard. “The university’s prestige depends on the image of its students—powerful, well-connected people who can bring success and reputation. People like us… we’re just background characters to them.”

Ramon clenched his fists, the frustration building inside him. He had been a pawn, a mere tool in their social game. But not anymore. He met Violet’s gaze, determination hardening his features. “Then we’ll have to change the game, won’t we?”

She nodded, her eyes reflecting the same fierce resolve. "But be careful, Ramon. Xavier and his circle are not just bullies—they’re dangerous."

Ramon gave her a reassuring smile, though he could feel the weight of the risk they were taking.

“I know. But I’m not afraid anymore. I’m ready to face them.”

As they stood together, their resolve strengthened, Ramon felt a sudden buzz in his pocket. Pulling out his phone, he saw a notification from the system:

Task Unlocked: Defeat Xavier’s Pride Reward: Enhanced Strength, 100,000 in-campus currency points

The system had been his ally since the day it appeared on his phone. It had given him the means to change his fate, to rise from nothing. And tonight, it was pushing him to confront the one who had tried to keep him down for so long.

“Ramon, are you okay?” Violet asked, noticing his expression.

He pocketed his phone and nodded. “Yeah. I’m just ready to finally put an end to this.”

Just then, Mark appeared out of the crowd, his face flushed as he approached them. “So, Ramon,” he sneered, his voice dripping with sarcasm, “enjoying the little show you’re putting on?”

Ramon looked at him with calm defiance. “What do you want, Mark?”

Mark’s sneer deepened. “Oh, nothing much. Just a front-row seat to watch you embarrass yourself. You really think you belong here with the rest of us?”

Ramon clenched his jaw, refusing to rise to the bait. “Why don’t you just go back to Xavier and report whatever it is you need to tell him, Mark? I’m sure he’s eagerly waiting for his loyal follower.”

Mark’s smirk faltered, the words clearly hitting a nerve. But he quickly recovered, laughing dismissively. “You’re just a citizen, Ramon. Nothing’s going to change that.”

Ignoring Mark’s taunts, Ramon turned his attention back to Violet, who squeezed his hand in silent support. He didn’t need to justify himself to Mark or anyone else.

But before he could move on, the crowd parted, and Xavier stepped forward, flanked by his group of so-called “chiefs.” His face was a mask of amusement, though his eyes held a glint of malice.

“Ramon,” Xavier greeted with a mock bow. “I must say, you’ve put on quite the act tonight. Really impressive… for someone like you.”

Ramon met his gaze, unflinching. “Save your sarcasm, Xavier. I’m not here for your approval.”

Xavier’s smile faded slightly, replaced by a look of thinly veiled contempt. “You think because you have a fancy car and a new look that you’ve somehow become my equal? You’re nothing, Ramon. Just another citizen trying to play with the kings.”

The words echoed in the air, but they didn’t carry the same power they once did. Ramon could feel the eyes of other students on him, some watching with curiosity, others with surprise, but he no longer felt the urge to shrink back. He had earned his place here, and he was done hiding.

“Maybe you’re right, Xavier,” Ramon replied coolly. “Maybe I’m not a king in your little world. But I don’t need to be. Because unlike you, I don’t need to step on others to feel powerful.”

The crowd murmured in reaction, some students exchanging glances as if seeing Ramon in a new light. Xavier’s face twisted with irritation, clearly unaccustomed to being challenged.

“You think you’re brave, don’t you?” Xavier sneered, stepping closer. “Well, let’s see how brave you are when I put you back in your place.”

In one swift motion, Xavier grabbed Ramon’s collar, pulling him close. The surrounding students gasped, tension thickening the air.

But Ramon remained unfazed, his hand steady as he pushed Xavier’s grip away. “I’m not scared of you anymore, Xavier. You don’t control me.”

Xavier laughed, a cold, empty sound. “That’s where you’re wrong. I control everything here. And I’m going to make sure you remember that.”

Before Ramon could react, Xavier raised his fist, aiming for a punch. But Ramon’s reflexes, honed through the system’s tasks, kicked in. He sidestepped, dodging the blow, and in a single swift movement, twisted Xavier’s arm, forcing him to stumble forward.

The crowd gasped, their eyes wide as they witnessed Ramon’s defiance.

Xavier recovered, his face contorted with rage. He lunged again, but Ramon was ready. With precision and calm, Ramon evaded each attack, his movements smooth and unyielding.

The more Xavier tried, the more he stumbled, his fury turning into humiliation.