Prelude to Destiny

As the summer days stretched lazily ahead of them, Joon-ho and Soo-jin found themselves immersed in the vibrant world of NexaRealm once more. At the age of eighteen, on the cusp of adulthood, they revelled in the freedom and excitement of their newfound acceptance into NexaCorp Korea University. With the weight of exams lifted from their shoulders, they embraced the opportunity to hone their skills in the game that had brought them together so many years ago.

In the virtual realm of NexaRealm, they embarked on thrilling quests, battled formidable foes, and forged new alliances with fellow players. Each victory brought them closer to mastering their chosen classes and unlocking the secrets of the game. Together, they navigated the sprawling landscapes and intricate dungeons, their teamwork and camaraderie stronger than ever.

For Joon-ho, NexaRealm had always been a source of solace and inspiration, a place where he could shed his inhibitions and embrace his true potential. As he fought alongside Soo-jin, he felt a sense of purpose and determination coursing through his veins. No longer held back by self-doubt or uncertainty, he embraced his role as Soo-jin's steadfast ally and confidant, ready to support her on the journey ahead.

Soo-jin, with her infectious enthusiasm and boundless energy, infused their gameplay with a sense of joy and adventure. At eighteen, she radiated confidence and determination, eager to prove herself in the competitive world of NexaCorp Korea University. With Joon-ho by her side, she felt unstoppable, her skills sharpened by their countless hours of practice and strategy.

As they delved deeper into NexaRealm, Joon-ho and Soo-jin found themselves on the brink of discovery, their imaginations ignited by the endless possibilities that lay before them. With each new challenge they faced, they grew stronger, more resilient, and more prepared for the trials that awaited them at university.

But amidst the excitement and anticipation, a sense of bittersweet nostalgia lingered in the air. As they prepared to leave behind the familiar comforts of home and embark on a new chapter of their lives, they couldn't help but reflect on the journey that had brought them to this moment.

From their first meeting as young children to their shared adventures in NexaRealm, their bond had only grown stronger with time, a testament to the enduring power of friendship and the unbreakable ties that bound them together.

As they continued their adventures in NexaRealm, Joon-ho couldn't help but feel a sense of responsibility weighing on his shoulders. With the imminent start of their journey at NexaCorp Korea University, he knew they needed to understand the intricacies of the university's unique system. Turning to Soo-jin, he broached the topic with a mix of excitement and apprehension.

"Hey, Soo-jin, have you thought about what to expect at NexaCorp Korea University?" Joon-ho asked, his tone laced with concern. Soo-jin, lost in the thrill of their virtual conquests, blinked in surprise before shaking her head.

"Not really, Joon-ho. I've been so caught up in the game that I haven't had a chance to think about it," she admitted, her expression sheepish. Joon-ho sighed inwardly, realizing that he would need to fill her in on the details.

Joon-ho took a deep breath, steeling himself to delve into the intricacies of the NCK point system.

"Alright, Soo-jin, let me break it down for you," he began, his voice steady as he launched into an explanation.

"So, at NexaCorp Korea University, everything revolves around the NCK point system. It's like a currency, but it's also a measure of your worth as a student. Think of it as a combination of academic performance and gaming prowess," he elaborated, trying to simplify the complex concept for Soo-jin.

"Your NCK points determine everything from where you live to what you eat. At the basic level, every student is given a shared room in the dormitory for four. But here's the catch: if you want to upgrade to a personal room, you'll need to accumulate enough NCK points," he continued, watching as Soo-jin's expression shifted from curiosity to understanding.

"But it doesn't stop there," Joon-ho added, a note of seriousness creeping into his voice. "Every transaction within the university, whether it's buying food in the cafeteria or participating in extracurricular activities, requires NCK points. And here's the kicker: if you run out of NCK points, you're out. Expelled immediately."

Soo-jin's eyes widened in shock, her mind racing to comprehend the implications of such a system.

"Wait, so you're telling me that our entire existence at NexaCorp Korea University is governed by these NCK points? That's... intense," she remarked, her voice tinged with a hint of disbelief.

Joon-ho nodded gravely.

"Yeah, it's pretty intense. But it's how the university operates. We'll need to stay on top of our game, both academically and in NexaRealm if we want to succeed," he affirmed, knowing that the road ahead would be challenging.

As Soo-jin processed the information, Joon-ho couldn't help but feel a sense of urgency. They were about to embark on a new chapter of their lives, one filled with uncertainty and challenges. But with determination and teamwork, he believed they could overcome whatever obstacles lay in their path.

And just then, Joon-ho had to listen patiently as Soo-jin voiced her concerns, her frustration evident in her tone.

"This is so unfair! If I had known that going to this university would be this intense, I would have refused," she exclaimed, her brows furrowed in frustration.

Placing a comforting hand on her shoulder, Joon-ho offered reassurance.

"I understand it seems overwhelming, Soo-jin, but we'll figure it out together. The NCK point system may sound intense, but as long as we approach it with understanding and determination, we can make it work," he said soothingly, hoping to calm her nerves.

"But what if we mess up? What if we run out of NCK points and get expelled?" Soo-jin fretted, her mind already racing with worst-case scenarios.

"We won't let that happen," Joon-ho replied firmly, his voice unwavering. "We'll support each other, stay focused, and work hard. And besides, we still have some time before the semester starts. We'll use this time to prepare and get ahead," he added, his determination shining through.

Soo-jin sighed, her worries beginning to ease as she looked into Joon-ho's reassuring eyes.

"Okay, I'll trust you on this, Joon-ho. As long as we're in it together, I know we can handle whatever comes our way," she conceded, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips.

With a nod of agreement, Joon-ho squeezed her shoulder gently.

"That's the spirit, Soo-jin. Together, we'll conquer NexaCorp Korea University and everything it throws at us," he declared, a sense of optimism filling the air as they faced the challenges ahead as a team.

As Soo-jin continued to express her concerns, Joon-ho nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation.

"By the way, to maintain the integrity of the NCK point system, the university has implemented strict rules, including restrictions on leaving campus," he explained, his tone sombre.

Soo-jin's eyes widened in surprise as she absorbed this new information.

"Wait, you mean we can't go back home at all?" she asked, a note of disbelief in her voice.

Joon-ho nodded solemnly.

"That's correct. Unless it's an emergency or during designated holiday periods, students are not allowed to leave campus," he clarified, his expression reflecting the seriousness of the rule.

Soo-jin's shoulders slumped slightly, a sense of disappointment washing over her.

"But what about visiting our families or attending important events?" she protested, feeling the weight of the restriction.

"I know it's tough to accept, Soo-jin," Joon-ho replied sympathetically. "But it's all part of the university's efforts to ensure fairness and equality among students. By limiting outside influences, they can better assess each student's progress and contributions within the NCK point system."

Though reluctant to accept this new reality, Soo-jin couldn't deny the logic behind the university's decision.

"I suppose it does make sense," she conceded, though a hint of sadness lingered in her voice. "But it's still hard to imagine being away from home for so long."

Joon-ho nodded in understanding, offering her a supportive smile.

"I know it won't be easy, Soo-jin. But we'll get through it together. And who knows? Maybe we'll find new ways to stay connected with our families and maintain our ties to home," he suggested optimistically, hoping to lighten her mood.

With a shared nod of agreement, Joon-ho and Soo-jin continued their conversation, discussing their hopes and fears for the future as they prepared to embark on this new chapter of their lives at NexaCorp Korea University.

"You know, Joon-ho, one of the things I love most about my house is my mom's homemade kimchi. It's like no other, and I won't be able to have it while we're at the university," she lamented, a hint of sadness in her voice.

Joon-ho nodded sympathetically, understanding her sentiment.

"I know, Soo-jin. It's tough to leave behind the comforts of home, especially when it comes to family traditions and homemade delicacies," he replied, his thoughts drifting to his mother's cooking and the familiar sights and sounds of home.

"And not just that," Soo-jin added, her voice tinged with nostalgia as he confessed, her gaze distant as she recalled the warmth and comfort of her childhood home. "I'll miss the feeling of waking up in my bed, surrounded by the familiar sights and sounds of home. It's where I feel most at ease, and knowing that I won't be able to return whenever I want is... unsettling," s

Joon-ho reached out to gently squeeze her hand, offering a comforting gesture.

"I understand, Soo-jin. It's a big adjustment, leaving behind the comforts of home and venturing into the unknown. But remember, we're embarking on this journey together, and we'll create new memories and experiences that will be just as special," he reassured her, his tone gentle and reassuring.

Taking a deep breath, Soo-jin nodded, a sense of resolve settling over her.

"You're right, Joon-ho. We have each other, and that's what matters most. We'll make the most of our time at NexaCorp Korea University, and who knows? Maybe we'll even learn to make our kimchi," she said with a small smile, the glimmer of hope returning to her eyes.

With a shared smile, Joon-ho and Soo-jin rose to their feet, ready to face the challenges and adventures that awaited them at NexaCorp Korea University. As they walked side by side, their bond stronger than ever, they knew that together, they could overcome any obstacle and seize every opportunity that came their way.