The air in the private conference room was thick with anticipation. The walls, soundproofed to ensure no outside interference, provided an almost suffocating sense of privacy. The only light came from a sleek overhead lamp casting a cold glow on the glossy, dark wood table at the center of the room. Si-woo sat at the head of the table, fingers drumming lightly against the surface as he glanced at the clock on the wall. He was waiting for someone—another mysterious figure in the world of K-pop who, despite being an idol, had managed to maintain an elusive and almost ghostly presence in the industry.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJTkPqXh3kA
The door creaked open, and Si-woo's gaze immediately snapped toward the entrance. Standing there was none other than Tracer, a top-tier K-pop idol with a reputation that made even the most powerful figures in the entertainment industry look over their shoulders. His striking appearance, chiseled features, and air of quiet dominance had made him one of the most sought-after idols in the world. But it wasn't just his fame that made him valuable. Tracer had connections—dangerous ones—and Si-woo needed them if he was going to unravel the tangled conspiracy that had been unfolding behind the scenes.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNMP0o0cJbC
Tracer entered the room without a word, his dark eyes scanning the surroundings before settling on Si-woo. A faint smirk tugged at his lips. "I trust this meeting is as important as you've made it sound, Si-woo," he said in a low, steady voice, his tone filled with quiet authority. "You've called me here for a reason. What is it you want from me?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ903SwrNzRL
Si-woo leaned back in his chair, his expression unreadable. "You could say it's a matter of mutual interest," he replied, his voice calm but laced with an undercurrent of tension. "I've been following your movements, Tracer. You're not as invisible as you think. But I'm sure you know that already. You and I, we're not so different. We both have our secrets."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRzIQhXdWVS
Tracer raised an eyebrow, intrigued but still guarded. "Secrets? Everyone in this industry has secrets, Si-woo. It's part of the game. But that doesn't mean I'm in the habit of sharing them."
Si-woo's lips curled into a small, almost imperceptible smile. "Not sharing, no. But I think you'll be interested in what I have to offer."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8nnfpVNHQX
With a gesture, Si-woo motioned to the other side of the table. "This is Hawk," he said, his tone more formal now, like he was introducing someone of significant importance. "They've been in the shadows, gathering intelligence, tracking the real players behind all the leaks and power struggles within the industry. Hawk is not just any spy, Tracer. They're someone who's been embedded deep within the system, someone who knows what you can't see from the outside."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyxm0J2eiYx
From the shadows across the room, Tracer stepped forward. Their face was mostly obscured by a dark mask, but their posture was fluid, controlled, and exuded the kind of quiet menace Si-woo knew all too well. As they moved toward the table, Tracer's sharp eyes never left them, a flicker of recognition—or perhaps wariness—flashing across his features.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡggwFdJlpWC
"You?" Tracer asked, his voice edged with surprise. "You're the one who's been pulling the strings behind the scenes?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ92Tm5xqNyi
Hawk didn't respond immediately. Instead, they moved to the opposite end of the table, their eyes locked on Tracer's, studying him with an intensity that seemed to strip him of his composure.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvonyzAxJWI
Finally, they spoke, their voices deep and clipped. "I've been watching everything," they said. "The leaks, the manipulations, the alliances forming behind closed doors. Everything. I know who's behind the curtain. And I know how to stop them."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5HCbECF1SW
Si-woo's eyes flicked between the two of them, sensing the tension in the room. This wasn't just a casual meeting. This was a power play. Kai, despite his calm exterior, was sizing up Hawk, evaluating how much trust he could afford to place in them. After all, a spy like Hawk was a double-edged sword—valuable, yes, but just as dangerous if they decided to play their own game.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEOL0rM0rhe
Tracer spoke with his voice cool and calculating. "And what makes you think I need your help, Hawk? I've got my own sources. I don't need some shadow to tell me who's leaking information or sabotaging careers."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqcmTBIs9je
Hawk tilted their head slightly, unfazed by the challenge. "You've got sources, but they're limited. What you don't have are the connections that can take you straight to the core. The ones pulling the strings? They've been operating under the radar for far too long, and you're still hunting for answers. Let me make it simple for you. We either work together, or you keep stumbling in the dark."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3AdLn4PAfl
Tracer's gaze hardened, but there was a flicker of something in his eyes—a realization that perhaps Hawk was right. He had been running in circles, trying to maintain control, but there were deeper forces at play. Forces that Hawk seemed to understand intimately.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbIkEZmuf7I
"Any information?" Tracer repeated, his voice quiet but edged with curiosity.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡArogfTJidc
Si-woo interjected before Hawk could answer, his tone sharp. "Not just any information. This is the kind that could change everything for you. If you want to know who's really pulling the strings in this industry, if you want to be on top of the game instead of buried beneath it, you need to listen."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvr90pOYfdP
Hawk finally spoke again, their eyes unwavering. "I've got the names. The players who think they can control the industry. And if you want them to fall, Tracer, you're going to have to get your hands a little dirty."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGEL4Rg8EFO
The weight of their words settled into the room, and for a long moment, there was silence. Si-woo could feel the tension rising between the two. Tracer was a man of action, and Hawk wasn't offering empty promises. This was a dangerous game, and they were all players in it now.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0ahL8QgA6H
Tracer finally leaned back in his chair, his gaze never leaving Hawk. "Alright," he said, voice low. "I'll hear you out. But know this—if you betray me, you'll regret it."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGcEW6tvhDj
Hawk gave a single nod, their eyes still unreadable behind the mask. "Trust is earned, not given. And right now, we need each other. Let's see where this takes us."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo0TRh0YucI
Si-woo watched as the two of them locked eyes, a new, unspoken understanding passing between them. The alliances were forming, but so were the risks. In this world of hidden power, no one was ever truly safe.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOI68ToBDSC
...
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkER8EvI1yj
...
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLfvE6CjbTZ
...
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGnHjsSuSFW
Three days later, the conference room was filled with the soft hum of conversation as the K-East team gathered for a crucial private meeting. The walls, adorned with promotional posters of the group's past achievements, seemed almost surreal in the tense atmosphere. The staff had been preparing for this moment for days — the team was about to discuss the upcoming changes to their schedule and the postponement of their highly anticipated GO! K-EAST show.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpljfnoIARu
At the head of the table was of course their CEO, Bang Si-woo. His eyes scanned the room, noting the concerned faces of his staff and managers.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYs2MB4iApS
"Alright, everyone," Si-woo began with his voice calm but authoritative. "Thank you for coming on such short notice. We all know what's at stake here. Today, we need to make some important decisions regarding our schedule and GO! K-EAST."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5bZAieBIEC
He paused to let the gravity of the situation sink in, then continued. "First and foremost, we need to address the delays. We have a lot riding on this show, and the fans have been eagerly waiting for its premiere. Unfortunately, external circumstances have forced our hand. We'll need to push back the date, but before we go into details, let's hear from our head of production."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsrWUKyWIEI
Director Seo Mi-Na, a seasoned veteran in the entertainment industry, stood up from her seat. She was well-regarded for her ability to keep things moving smoothly, even in chaotic situations.
"Thank you, sir Bang," she said, adjusting her glasses as she began speaking. "As you all know, the production crew has encountered several setbacks over the past week. Due to some unforeseen issues with our venue and technical difficulties with the live broadcast setup, the GO! K-EAST show simply cannot go ahead as scheduled."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYyQ08TMz2Q
She paused, flipping through a few notes on her tablet. "We were hoping to resolve the issues quickly, but after consulting with the team and analyzing the logistics, it's clear that rushing the show would not only compromise the quality, but it could also affect the safety of our performers and staff. The new target date, after we account for these delays, would be two weeks from the original date."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTNqlF4qKNG
A murmur of understanding passed through the room. Everyone knew how much the show meant to K-East's reputation, as well as to their fans, but there was no question about the necessity of taking the time to do things properly.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡasuQ6yi9zA
Manager Kim Soo-Hyun, one of the top managers at K-East, leaned forward. "I think we're all in agreement that postponing the show is the right move, but we also need to consider the fallout with our fans. We've already promoted the initial release date heavily on social media and through various media outlets. Fans are excited, but they also expect us to deliver."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Gw1FKGzdT
Ji-Hoon nodded thoughtfully. "That's a valid point. Our PR team needs to prepare a statement explaining the reasons behind the delay, and we'll need to apologize for the inconvenience. We can also offer them something to keep their spirits up. Maybe a live broadcast event with a special behind-the-scenes segment in the meantime. Director Seo, can we push forward with that idea?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJxQi2tG8B3
Seo Mi-Na gave a small nod. "Yes, we can arrange a live stream. It would give the fans something exclusive to look forward to while also showing them that we're still working hard behind the scenes."
Public Relations Manager Park Eun-Jeong added in, saying. "We'll need to be transparent about the reasons behind the delay and assure our fans that we are committed to making the show the best it can be. I also recommend we offer a sneak peek into some of the unreleased footage or perhaps an interview with the members to keep the excitement alive."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡodYGjKIFJI
Ji-Hoon raised an eyebrow at Eun-Jeong's suggestion. "I like the idea of a member-focused interview. Let's get them involved in the communication with the fans. We can even include personal messages from the members about their progress in preparing for the show."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ49x1rhdpLJ
Artistic Director Lee Joo-Hee spoke next, her voice laced with concern. "We have to take into account how this will affect the rest of our schedule. If we push GO! K-EAST back, it could interfere with some of our other planned promotions and events. We'll need to adjust our calendar, especially with the holidays coming up."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5bmP0aknsP
Ji-Hoon nodded, deep in thought. "We can work around the schedule. Let's push for a clear timeline for GO! K-EAST and then make the necessary adjustments for everything else. We can move some smaller events to accommodate the new show date."
Manager Kim Soo-Hyun added, "We may also need to consult with the sponsors and partners. They've been expecting the show on the original date, and we don't want to risk losing their support or causing any strain in our business relationships."
"Understood," Ji-Hoon said. "I'll have a team reach out to all of our partners and sponsors. We'll ensure they're kept in the loop and that they fully understand the reason behind the delay."
Seo Mi-Na stood again. "Lastly, we need to prioritize the health and wellbeing of our members. We've been pushing them quite hard to prepare for the show, and they've been under a lot of pressure. Let's make sure they have enough time to rest and refresh before we go live."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsUGgVU3Q7Z
At the mention of the members' well-being, the room fell quiet for a moment. The group's members had been working tirelessly, and there was always the risk that pushing too hard could lead to burnout or injury.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1epKog96wQ
Ji-Hoon sighed, rubbing his chin. "You're right, Mi-Na. Let's ensure that they have a proper break before we ramp up again. We want them to be at their best, physically and mentally."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvAN22m45xY
The room hummed with agreement, as everyone understood the importance of balance in the intense world of K-pop.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpkcSo5DtaT
Finally, Ji-Hoon addressed the room, his tone decisive. "Alright. Here's the plan: We will officially announce the postponement of GO! K-EAST in a statement, ensuring we give the fans a clear understanding of the situation and offering them a sneak peek. We'll schedule the new show date two weeks out. We'll also have smaller fan events and behind-the-scenes content to keep the energy up. The members will take some well-deserved rest, and our production team will double down on ironing out any remaining issues."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuABtJ1gewj
He looked around the room, his expression confident. "This is a temporary setback, but we will turn it into an opportunity. We'll make sure that GO! K-EAST will be the best show we've ever put on. Let's get to work."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsHHmaHruIz
As the team nodded in agreement, the mood in the room shifted. While the postponement was a disappointment, there was a sense of unity and determination. The staff knew that this setback was just a stepping stone toward an even greater success.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMKhAlF4Cxh
After the meeting wrapped up, the K-East staff slowly filed out of the conference room, their minds already racing with the tasks ahead. Jiyoo, who had been listening attentively throughout the entire discussion, lingered for a moment, gathering his things. As he walked toward the exit, one of the assistants, a young staff member named Min-Ji, approached him with a hesitant expression.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9a6L1hghyk
"Jiyoo-ssi," Min-Ji called softly, causing him to pause and look back. "Si-woo sunbaenim would like to see you in the main office."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiGlZEj9eto
Jiyoo raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. Si-woo was also the company's chief strategist, known for his calm demeanor and his knack for managing even the most chaotic situations.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBHjhgYBePS
Although Si-woo wasn't one to call people into his office for no reason, Jiyoo couldn't help but feel a slight sense of unease. He glanced back at his members, who were standing together near the door, still discussing the outcome of the meeting.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXCrALF9Z59
Taeyun, ever the perceptive one, caught Jiyoo's eye. His gaze sharpened with a hint of confusion, and he gave Jiyoo a questioning look. "What's going on, hyung?" he asked with his voice quiet but filled with curiosity. He looked between Jiyoo and Min-Ji, sensing something was up but not quite understanding what.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEywxCHUo7x
Jiyoo gave him a small, reassuring smile. "I'll be fine," he replied, though his tone was slightly uncertain. "It's probably nothing. I'll head over now."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsAoQoOjk9B
With a final glance at his members, Jiyoo nodded, his expression slightly guarded, and walked toward the main office. As he made his way through the hallway, his thoughts drifted briefly to the meeting they had just wrapped up. The postponement of the GO! K-EAST show was certainly a setback, but Jiyoo wasn't one to dwell on things for too long. There was always something else to focus on.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNKp1vze6x5
When he reached the door to the main office, he knocked lightly, and upon hearing the soft words.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF828ItRpp8
"Come in," The CEO said as soon as Jiyoo stepped inside.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4XmU3vb3EZ
The atmosphere in the room was quieter than he expected, and as he closed the door behind him, he found him sitting at his desk, a warm smile playing on his lips.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsw7bspcBiw
"Jiyoo," Si-woo greeted him in a smooth and friendly tone. "Have a seat."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtduZCgH7JL
Jiyoo hesitated for a moment, still unsure why he had been summoned, but his welcoming demeanor made him feel somewhat jittery. As he settled into the chair across from his desk, his posture relaxed but his mind was still curious.
Si-woo gestured forward and compressed the papers by shuffling them altogether, then set them aside and leaned back in his chair, folding his hands thoughtfully. "It looks like you enjoyed your vacation for a week. I wanted to talk to you about the show, about the members, and... well, about the future."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAsbSwy8P4y
Jiyoo raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "The future? What do you mean?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡavDsXPkvz7
Si-woo chuckled softly, his eyes glinting with a mix of kindness and wisdom. "It's no secret that there's been a lot of pressure lately, especially with everything being pushed back. But I've been observing the group, Jiyoo. You and your members... you've been handling things remarkably well, considering how stressful this time has been. But I know it's not always easy."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIB5nMaNDW6
Jiyoo wasn't sure how to respond. He'd always been the type to focus on the task at hand, and while the group had certainly faced challenges before, the uncertainty surrounding GO! K-EAST was something different.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡstnhhkGuSQ
"Have you found them?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPmZWVUHwWJ
Jiyoo looked up at him, blinking in startlement. "Huh? Sorry, I don't get what you mean."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfxeMQohZVZ
"The others have speculated that you visited the Lotte World that is closed and some recent news that you were trying to catch somebody on the highway. Is that true?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpIXILYjXCw
Jiyoo paused and thought of what his friends said. Instead, he uttered in a low tone, saying. "No... I was- I was practicing how to drive."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd3IhZlFL7i
"I see. You know how the netizens are seeing through the media these days. Anything can come out as rumors, evidence, or an issue. Also, I would not mind if you are interested in finding out the vendetta, but since you and the members are performing the next shows, it's unlikely impossible," Si-woo leaned forward slightly, his voice quieter now, as if sharing something more personal. "I just wanted to let you know that I'm proud of the way you've been handling things. I'm sure you feel the weight of everything, especially with your members depending on you, but I believe in you. And I want you to know that you're not in this alone."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnQqjOktycK
Jiyoo blinked, slightly taken aback by Si-woo's unexpected words. The calm yet genuine reassurance in Si-woo's voice caught him off guard. Despite being used to leading in public and maintaining a composed appearance, hearing someone like Si-woo express such support felt strangely comforting.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNHSNWUYivc
"Thank you," Jiyoo said, his voice soft but filled with sincerity. He felt a wave of gratitude toward Si-woo, not just for his words, but for the underlying recognition that, even as a leader, Jiyoo wasn't without his own struggles.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOjftP63Gtx
Si-woo gave him a knowing smile, his gaze warm and encouraging. "Of course. Just remember, it's okay to lean on others when things get tough. That's what we're here for — to support each other."
Jiyoo nodded, a small smile tugging at his lips. He felt lighter now, more grounded, as if the burden he'd been carrying had been shared, even if just a little. "I'll keep that in mind," he replied, his tone firmer, more assured than before.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFHKGl13gEv
Si-woo got a little frustrated at the imposter troubled girl, including the Narrow squad in his own mind. He then informed Jiyoo, saying. "You have an appointment in the evening and I suggest you dress in a formal attire."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIKAqFCmLgC
Jiyoo gulped and stood up from his chair, facing his back. Then, he stopped in his own tracks when he listened to him.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEZvOP1XQrm
"If I ever see you pull another trick by acting so carelessly, you will not like what I'm about to order you. Is that clear, Mr. Park...?" Si-woo said in a light warning, pushing the circular specks forward his nose bridge.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEPsvb0TEdf
Jiyoo nodded silently in agreement. He blinked a few times before he sharpened his gaze in chagrin at the thought of his words to him.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4hIDG4hl27
Si-woo chuckled again, his expression easing into a more relaxed one. "Good. Now, go take a break. You've been working non-stop. The members are probably waiting for you, and I'm sure you could use some time to recharge before we dive back into the craziness. I'm sure your father is going to be happy to see you again."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiMlmgiE4gu
Jiyoo slightly breathed through his nostrils to control his anger that was filling up his clenched fists. Then he slowly glanced over his shoulder at him and said politely. "Alright, I will. Thanks again, sir Bang."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTLlhJuMBaj
"Anytime, Jiyoo. Anytime," Si-woo said with a friendly nod and his smile was still present.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKAoCQgevB4
Once Jiyoo left the office, the door clicking softly behind him, he felt a sense of reassurance that hadn't been there before.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2QBBmzMyXW
There was still much work ahead, but now, with Si-woo's words in his mind, he knew he wasn't carrying it alone.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE9eXrqi1OB
Meanwhile, Jason had been working tirelessly with the squad, putting them through rigorous training sessions that pushed their physical and mental limits. His approach was tough but effective, focusing on hand-to-hand combat, endurance, strategy, and even unorthodox techniques. Today, they were in the gym, with the sound of grunts and the rhythmic thud of fists hitting pads filling the air.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq9dgR8TV03
"Focus, Julong!" Jason shouted, as he sparred with one of the new recruits. "Don't just react—anticipate! Use your opponent's energy against them!"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy77L1ILZV8
Julong dodged a punch and countered with a swift kick, but Jason was already there, stepping in to correct his form. "That's better, but remember—timing over power."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ70o2q5tDab
In a lit room elsewhere in the facility, Kain sat silently in the shadows, watching the training session on a monitor. His face was unreadable, his posture relaxed but poised. He was always observing, always calculating. A soft knock on the door broke the stillness.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjYrr082zXa
"Yes?" Kain's deep voice rumbled as it creaked open.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbw6MgS4VFx
A figure stepped inside—one of the higher-ranking officers in their organization. The officer, who was always brief with words, addressed Kain without ceremony.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOgeUjwnjeD
"Sir, any word on Valerie? Has she decided whether or not to join the squad officially?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFkEl2OG3Wm
Kain didn't immediately respond, his eyes never leaving the screen where Jason was pushing the squad through their grueling drills. His fingers slowly drummed on the armrest of his chair before he spoke in his usual calm, almost cryptic tone.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaW3staFKlI
"Valerie hasn't made a decision yet. She's... torn. There's hesitation, but it's not about her abilities. She's more than capable. It's about her place with us. She's not the type to be easily bound to anything, especially not to an organization like ours."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZfsvN8cJrc
Kain shifted slightly, his eyes narrowing as he spoke, clearly focused on something deeper in Valerie's internal struggle. "She needs to feel something greater than just following orders. She needs a purpose. Until she sees that here, she won't commit. But when she does... she'll be more powerful than we can imagine. If she chooses us."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHOdL298bpz
The officer nodded, understanding the gravity of Kain's words. "Do you want me to encourage her, sir?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfKjoOBzboB
Kain shook his head slowly, his expression unreadable. "No. Let her decide in her own time. Encouraging her might push her away. Valerie will come to us when she's ready—if she ever is."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzcfMLY1XMR
There was a brief pause before the officer spoke again, his voice tinged with uncertainty.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5jCjzeTotO
"Do you think she'll join, sir?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡasST1eWvuu
Kain leaned back in his chair, his eyes drifting from the screen, as if considering the very nature of Valerie's potential allegiance. After a moment, he gave a small, almost imperceptible smirk.
"I never waste my time worrying about what might be. If she joins, she joins. If she doesn't, we will continue forward. But one thing is certain: she won't be easily replaced."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG4dtVc0I5T
The officer took that as his cue to leave, knowing there was little more to be said. As the door closed behind him, Kain sat back, still lost in thought, his fingers now resting lightly on the armrest. It was clear that, for him, the choice of Valerie was far from simple. She was a wild card, and he had no intention of forcing her hand. Whether she chose to join or not, Kain was confident that the squad would remain strong—and if Valerie decided to walk alongside them, they would have someone powerful on their side.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo9QfWBQKYF
Back in the gym, Jason was still training the squad, unaware of the quiet deliberations happening in the shadows. But Kain knew, as he always did, that every decision, no matter how small, could change the course of their mission—and Valerie's decision would be no different.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD0WbQ0WWVv
"We'll start by doing roundhouse kick exercises. Luke Wong, you're up first," Jason commanded lightly.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXKGzRisnIT
Luke nodded silently in obedience and positioned himself to kick the dummy bag.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSwC6TfAXPR
A few minutes had passed and the squad had just finished another intense training session, their muscles aching from the relentless drills. Jason was offering some final corrections and words of encouragement to a few of the members when the heavy door to the gym creaked open.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEHTbzzikDj
Without a word, Kain stepped inside, his presence commanding immediate attention. His dark silhouette framed by the light from the hallway, he surveyed the squad for a moment, his gaze cold and calculating. The room fell silent as Kain's eyes finally locked on Jason, signaling him to stop what he was doing.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbkNIX4Zs8N
"Gather up," Kain ordered in his deep, controlled voice.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUb28PWSPVh
Jason immediately signaled to the others to cease their activities. Within moments, the squad had assembled in front of Kain, standing at attention. His face was as unreadable as always, but there was an edge in his demeanor—something new, something urgent.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIzSVP3j783
"This training session will be cut short," Kain began, his voice even but laced with a certain finality. "We've got bigger problems."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEA1hCGfeUv
A murmur rippled through the squad, but Kain's sharp gaze silenced any further noise. He took a step forward, his expression grim as he surveyed each of them. His next words were deliberate, each one hanging in the air with weight.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsM8BWjrhBA
"We're being hunted again," Kain said flatly, his gaze flicking to the screen embedded in the wall behind him, which displayed an encrypted series of files. "Si-woo has picked up our trail, and the CEO's people are closing in. They're investigating us, looking for weaknesses, trying to find leverage."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzmsm9t7vlz
The room tensed, but Jason was the first to speak up in question.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCPwRDeHngs
"Si-woo again? Damn it, I thought we'd shaken him off after the last mission."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcNtSSaTl7K
Kain's lips barely twitched in what might have been a smirk, but there was no humor behind it. "Si-woo doesn't give up easily. He's relentless. And this time, it's not just him. The other CEO has sent his best trackers and his personal enforcers. They're more skilled, more dangerous. If they catch wind of our location, they'll descend on us like wolves."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAmTy8Tt2VF
A sense of unease spread through the group, but Kain's voice cut through the tension, firm and commanding.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgGurP0nOcg
"Listen carefully. We've been compromised. Their agents have already infiltrated key areas of the city, and they're targeting anyone who's been associated with us. They'll be using every tool at their disposal—surveillance, hacking, human resources, even blackmail. We cannot afford to slip up."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLW0p38Soe5
One of the squad members, Yuki, raised an eyebrow, looking towards Kain with concern. "How much time do we have, sir? Can we outrun them again?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyDxhFOBkqa
Kain's eyes darkened as he met her gaze. "Time is a luxury we no longer have. Si-woo and his men are not like before. They're more organized, and they have resources we haven't faced yet. We need to stay off their radar—and quickly."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE7a6cVqu7R
Max, usually the first to speak up in situations like this, stepped forward. His face was a mixture of disbelief and concern, but there was a flicker of determination in his eyes.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6bBeSafOws
"Kain, how sure are we that Si-woo's already on us? I mean, we've slipped out of his grasp before. He's not exactly... untouchable, right?" He asked, crossing his arms and looking at Kain with a mixture of skepticism and hope. "We've evaded him before. Why is this different?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrIZXt23sbR
Kain's cold gaze settled on Max, unblinking. "This is different because Si-woo isn't working alone anymore. He has access to resources that we don't even know the full extent of. The CEO's people are taking matters into their own hands now, which means we're up against far more than just a former colleague with a grudge. They've got everything we've been trying to hide—technology, surveillance, connections. If we don't act fast, we'll be caught. This isn't a game of cat and mouse anymore."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKH7QNVHFAZ
Julong, his sharp eyes flicking from Kain to Max, stepped forward, his voice tense but calm. "So what do you want us to do? Just run? Split up? Go into hiding until they get bored?" His hands flexed at his sides as he paced, clearly agitated. "We're not exactly a small group to hide in the shadows."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg9CZ4hSrdF
"That's exactly what we're doing. Hiding. For now. We won't stay in one place long enough for them to lock us down. We split up, we stay off the grid, and we avoid making any contact unless it's absolutely necessary. No more playing the hero. This isn't about taking them head-on—this is about surviving long enough to regroup."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfAguwsvpFv
Moonki, who had been quiet up until now, shifted uncomfortably. He ran a hand through his short, messy hair, clearly rattled by the news. "Are we really sure we're ready for this?" he asked, his voice laced with doubt. "I mean, we've always managed to handle ourselves, but these guys sound different. And if they're pulling out all the stops... how do we even fight them without getting caught?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyxOng48qG6
"That's the point," Kain replied, his voice low and controlled. "We're not fighting them head-on right now. We're outnumbered, and they have the advantage of surprise. We'll use our strength in other ways—stealth, speed, and deception. Avoid confrontation until we have no choice. But we're not dead yet, Moonki. We fight smart, not recklessly."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD5pyqTmPDM
Henry, always the one to consider logistics, stepped in with his usual dry tone, though his concern was evident. "So what happens if one of us gets cornered or caught? We're all in this together, but we can't afford to get anyone taken. What's the plan for extraction if things go south?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB7eu0NpbC0
Kain gave Henry a quick, assessing look before answering. "Extraction? There won't be an extraction if you're caught, Henry. If we're compromised that badly, it'll be too late for anything except to get out of the area. The moment they have one of us, we don't make a move. We let them think they have the upper hand, and we use that time to slip through their fingers."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLtBY7ZcR4J
Woonjae, who had been standing a little farther back, stepped forward with a hard expression, his voice cutting through the tension. "What about Sunghoon? He barely made it out. How do we know they didn't follow him here? If they're that close, can we even trust that our location's still safe?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5HAyjmS5sn
Kain paused, eyes narrowing slightly. He was about to speak, but Beom interrupted him, his tone unusually sharp.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF4B1M4jpik
"Wait, Kain," Beom said, raising a hand to stop the conversation. "Before you answer Woonjae's question, there's something else we need to figure out. Are we sure Sunghoon was even followed here? I mean, he might have just been shaken up from running. If they're really closing in on us, how do we know this place isn't compromised already? What if they've been tracking us for days, and we're just walking into a trap?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡohzBMAArfs
Kain's expression darkened, and for a brief moment, it seemed as though he might hesitate. But then his features hardened, and his voice dropped to a dangerous level. "That's exactly why we need to move now, Beom. No more waiting around. Sunghoon might have shaken them for a while, but I trust his instincts. We're not safe here long-term, but we are safe for now. If we waste time second-guessing, we'll be dead before we get the chance to act."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡypGOLDEVjM
Byung-seok, who had been silent for most of the conversation, suddenly spoke up in a low, even tone. "So what's the priority, Kain? Are we going underground, or are we hitting back? Because if we're going to disappear, we need to move fast, and we need to get our gear ready. If we're not prepared to fight, then we need to disappear—and we need to do it now."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYnp5JPb8p2
The room went still again as everyone looked to Kain for the final word. His eyes swept over the squad, his gaze colder than ever.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjOI7CzLzqi
"Get your gear ready. We're not running away—we're going underground," Kain said, his voice steady and unyielding. "This isn't about revenge, it's about survival. And we'll fight when the time is right. For now, we stay out of sight, stay smart, and we wait. But don't mistake this for a retreat. This is just the beginning."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA8EZFAKRFV
The squad exchanged looks, some more confident than others, but each of them understood the stakes. Kain had spoken, and when Kain spoke, there was no room for argument.
Jason stepped forward, already assessing the situation in his mind. "So, what's the plan?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRx9JGniB2M
Kain's voice remained cold, but his words were sharp and direct. "We go underground. I'll make sure all comms are wiped and encrypted. We'll split up for now—keep a low profile, don't make contact unless it's absolutely necessary. Jason, you'll lead one team. Yuki, you take another. I'll keep a watchful eye from here. I'll provide updates as needed."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjDLCrDcuFE
Jason nodded, his expression hardening. "Understood. We'll stay out of sight."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu3BqqD0CJv
Kain's gaze swept over the squad once more, his eyes narrowing with a quiet, deadly intensity. "And remember this: if they find us, it won't be just our heads on the line. The squad stays tight. We survive, or we all go down together."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvlgwv7DlNw
There was a brief pause as everyone processed the gravity of the situation. Jason's jaw clenched, but he knew that Kain's words were a harsh truth. The team had always been in danger, but now, the threat was far more personal—and far more immediate.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8iBIp6zweZ
"Any questions?" Kain asked, his tone suggesting he expected none.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFKOtargrek
No one spoke. The silence in the room was heavy, but there was also an unspoken understanding. This was no longer just about missions and training. It was about survival.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOtONaV6OsC
"Good," Kain muttered, his tone still unwavering. "Get moving. We have a lot of work to do, and not much time to do it."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNIMeHPNmlG
As the squad scattered, preparing for what lay ahead, Kain remained behind. He stared at the screen, the faces of Si-woo and the CEO's henchmen flashing briefly on the monitor before they were replaced by a map of the city. His fingers hovered over the controls for a moment, but then he simply leaned back, the weight of leadership settling back on his shoulders. This was the game they played—and Kain was determined to make sure they were the ones who walked away victorious.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIo4J5F6yTV
The squad had barely begun to settle into their new orders when the door to the gym slammed open with a deafening crash. Everyone immediately turned, weapons instinctively drawn or hands poised to defend themselves. But the figure in the doorway was unmistakable—Sunghoon, one of their own, looking completely out of breath and visibly agitated. His clothes were torn, his hair matted with sweat, and his usually calm demeanor was replaced by a frantic energy that caught everyone off guard.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2fKiIh6dAh
Jason's eyes narrowed in concern and was taken aback. "Sunghoon?! What the hell happened?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS1UeWmJcaS
Sunghoon staggered inside, pressing a hand against the doorframe to steady himself. His breath came in ragged gasps, his chest heaving as he tried to regain control. For a moment, he didn't speak—his eyes scanning the room, his mind racing, no doubt considering what he was about to say.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNTXzAwYRLa
"Sunghoon?" Kain's voice was sharp now, his usual calm demeanor giving way to a flicker of unease. "What's going on?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSJUkCzq59O
He straightened up slowly, wiping a trickle of blood from his lip. His expression was grim, more serious than anyone had ever seen him. He took in a deep breath, then finally spoke, each word heavy with urgency.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq8pl3HWvSK
"They're coming," Sunghoon said, his voice strained but forceful. "The CEO's people... they're already here. They've got eyes everywhere."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHWVTmRJBlM
Jason's jaw tightened. "What do you mean? You're saying they've found us?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgjLjOonazD
Sunghoon nodded, shaking his head in disbelief. "I barely made it out. They've got surveillance teams sweeping the city. I tried to shake them, but I lost them for only a few minutes before they started closing in again. They've set up shop in key locations around the city, pulling strings, watching us... and now they know everything."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi8OQWCkvBc
He wiped the sweat from his brow, his face a mix of frustration and fear. "I saw some of them outside the building I was hiding in. They had these... high-tech drones. They've upgraded their operations. It's not just ground agents anymore, they've got tech that's tracking us."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb7wh3hxY4U
Kain's eyes narrowed dangerously. "So we've been compromised again. This is what I feared. Si-woo's not playing around anymore."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCp6m7oCXJ8
Sunghoon took a slow, deliberate step forward, his voice low but firm. "It's worse than that. They've got information. Not just on us—but on you, Kain. The CEO knows everything about the operation, and they're coming for you specifically." He glanced at the squad, his gaze locking on each of them in turn. "We need to move. Now."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaDQGoJuIB7
The air in the room thickened with tension. Jason exchanged a look with Sarah, his hand still on his weapon but his mind working to assess their options. He turned back to Sunghoon, his voice low but urgent. "How much time do we have? What's our next move?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlKosYCFNEX
Sunghoon's eyes flicked nervously toward the door, as if he could already hear the footsteps of their pursuers closing in. "Not much. They're mobilizing fast. I tried to lead them off, but they're too well-organized. They've already infiltrated some of the city's grids—they could be tracking our every move. We need to disappear and regroup, or we'll be caught in a trap."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzoqOxNl1XH
Kain's gaze was steady as he regarded Sunghoon, his expression unreadable. But there was an unmistakable flicker of calculation in his eyes as he processed the new information. "How many are we talking about, Sunghoon? How many agents?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPHPkndjcZ0
"Too many," Sunghoon replied, frustration creeping into his voice. "It's not just about numbers anymore. They've got high-level operatives—mercenaries, tech specialists, you name it. They're ready for a fight. And they know we're dangerous."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVKX2dxAb8L
Jason's fists clenched, his jaw tight with frustration. "So we go dark, then?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwd3iLh6lgS
"Exactly," Sunghoon confirmed, still trying to catch his breath. "We need to disappear off their radar, but quickly. We can't afford to be careless. I'll give you all the details I know about their movements and the sectors they've been targeting. But we need to move fast. The moment they pinpoint us, it'll be over."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYHSQtBzYUG
Kain's voice cut through the tension like a knife. "Get ready. We split up immediately. We're not giving them a chance to corner us. Jason, you take half the squad. Sunghoon, you stay with me. We're going underground."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdsEXP9Jj8a
"Understood," Jason replied immediately, his eyes already scanning the room, thinking ahead to how best to divide the team.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmJn7e8IPxm
Sunghoon wiped his forehead again, glancing around at the squad. He wasn't usually one to show signs of panic, but the gravity of the situation was starting to weigh heavily on him. The look in his eyes now was one of a man who knew the stakes—and knew they were dangerously high.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpqtliMbERE
"We've always been one step ahead of them," Sunghoon said quietly, meeting Kain's gaze. "But if we don't act now, we won't get a second chance."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW1CRudLIiS
Kain nodded once, his voice cold and commanding. "Then let's not waste it."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRd6Tp26qhT
As the squad swiftly mobilized into action, Sunghoon took a step back, his mind still racing through the details of what he had seen. They were no longer just on the defensive. They were being hunted—and the only way out was to outsmart their enemies before it was too late.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd6lfDerje1
...
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRa94dUnIyA
The trio, consisting of Bryan, Sally, and Ava, had come together with a shared goal: to focus on their respective work tasks and complete the jobs at hand. They were methodical in their approach, each contributing their unique skills and strengths to get the job done efficiently.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjWcDVmRPf9
Bryan, known for his meticulous attention to detail, tackled the more technical aspects of the tasks. Sally, the creative one, brought fresh ideas and innovative solutions to the table, ensuring the work was both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Ava, with her strong organizational skills, kept everyone on track and ensured that deadlines were met, all while maintaining a sense of harmony among the group. Together, they formed a well-balanced and effective team, steadily advancing toward their objectives.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEOYfDgcNui
Meanwhile, K-East, a popular boy group, was off to a different kind of challenge. They attended interviews at KBS, one of South Korea's largest broadcasting stations, where they answered questions, shared insights into their music, and engaged with the media in a charismatic and professional manner. The atmosphere was electric, as fans eagerly followed the event. After the interviews, K-East performed their songs live, showcasing their impressive vocal and dance abilities. The performance was nothing short of spectacular, with high-energy choreography, emotional delivery, and seamless harmony, further cementing their status as rising stars in the music industry. While Bryan, Sally, and Ava focused on their tasks, K-East was shining in the entertainment spotlight, each group excelling in their respective pursuits.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCvUMGHJF5O
After the whirlwind of interviews and live performances, the members of K-East, along with Jiyoo, gathered in their lounge area backstage. They were winding down, exchanging stories from the day, when the conversation turned to a curious encounter they had witnessed earlier.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbs1o2ZqPsa
Jaesang, always the observant one, was the first to bring it up. "Any sign of that girl on the motorcycle?" He asked, leaning forward with a mix of curiosity and amusement in her eyes.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2bizSVFejJ
The K-East members, still buzzing with excitement from their performance, paused and exchanged glances. "So far, there's barely any trace of her. She really caused that flat tire on one of our cars," Ryung, the group's leader, said.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkxybJm1lwO
"Yeah, that was crazy," Min-jun replied, a smile tugging at his lips. "She looked like she was in a rush, but there was something cool about her. Like, she didn't care about anyone or anything around her."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOMDDCRe8mm
"Right?" Jaesang added, chuckling. "She was going way too fast. Almost like she had some secret mission."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRCZrsB8gxU
"She definitely had the vibe of someone who wasn't afraid of anything," Hwan chimed in. "But, I don't know... I couldn't help but think there was a little mystery behind her."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSHwkfareii
"Yeah..." Jiyoo agreed, her tone taking on a more thoughtful quality.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8iajz6YpGz
"I bet she's probably a rebel type," Min-jun mused, leaning back in his chair. "You know, the kind who doesn't follow the rules, lives on her own terms. I'm kind of curious if we'll ever cross paths with her again."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1JcvW1wm5t
"Maybe she's an undercover agent or something," Hwan jokes, leaning forward with a grin. "Imagine her showing up at one of our concerts in disguise."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiWSbZy8ivY
"Or maybe she's just really into motorcycles," Jaesang said with a shrug. "But honestly, she made an impression. I don't think any of us will forget her anytime soon."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx3fvfTbJfr
Jiyoo smiled at the playful banter but seemed lost in thought. "Who knows? Maybe we'll run into her again. It's funny how some people just have that kind of presence. She wasn't just passing through; she left an impression. Maybe she's someone special."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9ENZS3bl0h
The group laughed together, but Jiyoo's lingering curiosity seemed to fuel their collective fascination with the mysterious girl. His lips faltered into a frown at the thought of her, not knowing how they are able to deal with her by the time they see her. The conversation drifted to other topics, but the image of the girl on the motorcycle stayed with them, lingering like an unsolved puzzle—one that would perhaps remain in their minds for much longer than they'd expected.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWCr2mufllj
As the group relaxed after the interviews and performances, the conversation shifted to memories from their past. Jiyoo was casually scrolling through his phone, checking messages, when Taeyun, who had been quietly lost in thought as well, suddenly looked up at him with a hint of uncertainty in his eyes.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXw1EeW8VLb
"Hey, Jiyoo," Taeyun began, rubbing the back of his neck in that familiar way he always did when he was trying to remember something. "Do you... do you ever think about our old high school friend? The one who used to hang out with us all the time? I... I can't seem to remember her name, and it's bugging me."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzKEBujfcm7
Jiyoo paused and looked up, his brow furrowing slightly. He wasn't sure where he was going with this, but he nodded in recognition. "Yeah, I remember her. She was always so cheerful, always got us into trouble with her wild ideas, right?" she said with a nostalgic smile, leaning back in her chair.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrCUNtsd92T
Taeyun's eyes lit up, slightly relieved that Jiyoo shared his memory. "Exactly! She was the one who dragged us into that crazy camping trip where we ended up staying out all night. Remember how we almost got caught by the teachers because we snuck out?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL3WKddAzHe
Jiyoo chuckled faintly at the memory, clearly evoking fondness. "How could I forget? She made us promise to keep it a secret, and we almost failed miserably when you accidentally spilled the beans to Mr. Dong. But the name... you're right. It's on the tip of my tongue. It's like I can see her face, but the name is just slipping away. What was it again?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7FAlkt2JK5
Taeyun tapped his fingers on his knee, trying to jog his memory. "I can picture her too—her laugh, her messy hair, those ridiculous neon-colored sneakers she used to wear—but the name's just not coming to me."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbd5IM5VJnf
Jiyoo tilted his head with his thoughtful expression. "It's strange, isn't it? You spend so much time with someone, and then it's like their name just vanishes one day. I feel like if I heard it, it'd come rushing back."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqYGmis0LYN
For a moment, the two of them sat in silence, each mentally sifting through the haze of their high school days. Then, Taeyun suddenly snapped his fingers, his eyes widening. "Wait, wait! I think I got it! Wasn't it... Hana? Yeah, Hana! That was her name."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSquecHyJN0
Jiyoo's face broke into a smile as if a door had just been unlocked, but he was beginning to doubt a little and sighed. "I guess so. She was such a big part of our group. I wonder what she's up to now. Do you think she's still around?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn5PC95Nnr5
Taeyun leaned back with a contented sigh, clearly relieved that he'd finally solved the puzzle. "I hope so. She was always so full of energy. I bet she's off doing something amazing. Maybe one day we'll run into her again. Wouldn't that be wild?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwMbCALXb3k
Jiyoo nodded, her eyes sparkling with a mix of nostalgia and curiosity. "It would be so good to catch up with her. If we ever find her again, we need to make sure we don't let her drag us into another one of her crazy schemes."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSqkSvAoKRL
The two of them shared a laugh, the memory of Hana and their high school days bringing a sense of warmth and camaraderie. For a brief moment, it felt as though no time had passed at all, as if they could simply pick up where they left off, no matter how much had changed since then.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNqNBEKRoUn
Curiosity still lingering from their conversation about their former high school friend, Jiyoo and the others decided to take matters into their own hands. They weren't about to let the mystery of Hana's whereabouts go unsolved. After all, it had been years since they last saw her, but the memory of her vivacious personality was still fresh in their minds.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlpzCH3BS7z
"Alright," Jiyoo said, tapping his phone screen and turning it toward the group. "Let's see if we can find any trace of her online. Maybe there's a picture or something. I bet if we Google her name, we'll find something."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoyeR08iClP
Taeyun, still looking thoughtful, grabbed his own phone. "I'll help too. I remember Hana was pretty active on social media back then. If she's still around, maybe we can find her profile or an old post."
Hwan leaned in, his curiosity piqued. "I feel like we should search for some of her old interests too. Remember how obsessed she was with music, art, and writing? Maybe those hobbies are still part of her life."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfradtZeWrH
As they began searching, typing in various combinations of her name, past school activities, and hobbies, the group fell into a quiet rhythm. Each of them scanning their screens for any leads. After a few minutes of fruitless searching, Hwan suddenly gasped.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWSMnVXDwgc
"Wait, hold on! I think I found something..." he said, his voice rising with excitement. The others crowded around, peering over his shoulder at the screen. A photo appeared—an old group shot from high school, with their faces obscured by time, but there she was. Hana. Her hair was in a messy ponytail, her signature neon sneakers visible beneath her faded jeans with her eyeglasses on.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5Ddy8jQFe8
"That's definitely her!" Jiyoo exclaimed. "I can't believe it, this is like a time capsule."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7fJIzYLaDf
"But this is just an old picture," Taeyun said, furrowing his brows. "Let's see if there's anything more recent."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOLGpZCDnqr
After more searching, Jiyoo's eyes widened as he came across an article that seemed a bit out of place. It was about a recent award ceremony where a mysterious figure had taken the spotlight, receiving the "Platinum" award from Big Prime, an influential and high-profile company in the music and entertainment industry. The headline immediately caught his eye: "The Imposter Who Took Big Prime's Platinum Award by Storm."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ36wPNm3RKd
As the group huddled around Jiyoo's phone, examining the article about the mysterious imposter and the "Platinum" award, a sudden thought struck Jiyoo—something that had been lingering at the back of his mind ever since their earlier conversation about the girl on the motorcycle. With a small smirk playing on his lips, he reached into his bag, pulling out a small, unassuming device.
The group turned to look at him in puzzlement.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsC1OqQ5rVl
"What's that?" Ryung asked, his eyebrows furrowing as he eyed the object curiously.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfxB6pR2lDi
Jiyoo held it up, letting it glint under the dim backstage lights. "It's a mini dot tracking device. I might have accidentally planted it on the motorcycle earlier today," he said, his tone playful but also a little mischievous. "I figured, why not? If this girl on the motorcycle was really as interesting as we thought, maybe we'd get lucky and track down where she went."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnyR2LpSSLt
The rest of the group stared at her in stunned silence for a moment, before laughter erupted around the room.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYNb978Nmyl
"Wait, you what?" Taeyun asked, shaking his head in disbelief. "You threw a tracker on her motorcycle without telling us? And you're just telling us now?!"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwS4byIUlUm
Jiyoo shrugged nonchalantly. "I mean, I had a feeling there was more to her than just being some random biker. I figured if we were gonna find out anything, we needed to follow the trail. Plus, I didn't think anyone would notice."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2ZakqlCewq
Jaesang's eyes widened as he leaned closer to the device in her hand. "That's... that's actually really clever. But are you sure it's even still there? She could've figured it out by now."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLHKA8Thhw3
Jiyoo sighed, holding up his phone. "I checked earlier, and it's still working perfectly. It's connected to this app. We should be able to track her exact location. Honestly, I didn't expect it to be this easy. I mean, what's the worst that could happen? Either we track her to her destination, or we just chalk it up."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlOdNLBSmgM
Hwan shook his head, still trying to process the situation. "I can't believe you actually did this. It's a little... over the top, don't you think? I mean, tracking someone like that... it's kind of borderline creepy."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiPmuD2CWfj
"I wasn't tracking her for no reason," Jiyoo quickly defended. "I just wanted to understand who she is. After all, she was an interesting part of our day. I mean, come on, she was acting like she had something to prove—or maybe she was running away from something. Either way, it's worth investigating."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnLM15ch5lW
"Besides, we are already involved in this situation, so we might as well just get on with this," Taeyun said in agreement with his best friend.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpa8o8iYmXF
"Right," Min-jun muttered with a nod.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKbLjdwi4yG
The group fell quiet as they stared at the small device, which blinks steadily on Jiyoo's phone, showing the motorcycle's movement across the map. It was a few streets away from the broadcasting station, and the device had been tracking her for the past few hours. The blip on the map seemed to stop near an unfamiliar area—a part of the city none of them recognized.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNaEfD08ckk
"Look," Jiyoo said, zooming in on the map, "it looks like she's stopped near this warehouse area. That's... strange, right? It's not exactly a place where people usually hang out."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHqjPeo3d2g
"I've heard of that part of town," Taeyun said slowly, narrowing his eyes. "It's kind of off the beaten path. A lot of shady stuff happens around there. Maybe she's just keeping it low?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlsZ1cVNJwp
"Maybe," Jiyoo said, his voice trailing off. "But I don't think that's it. Something about this feels intentional. And if Hana is also somehow involved in all of this, it might be exactly where we need to go."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbFMOsfhlXS
Joon-woo leaned back, clearly intrigued, though a little uneasy. "So, we're actually going to check this place out? After everything we've been talking about? What if this is all a huge coincidence?"
"Or maybe," Ryung said thoughtfully. "We've just stumbled on something bigger than we expected. We won't know unless we take the chance."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL6ASifLPxm
The tension in the room was palpable as they all exchanged looks, uncertainty hanging in the air. The device on Jiyoo's phone blinked again, confirming that the motorcycle was still there, stationary. The warehouse district was dark and quiet on the map, giving the group an eerie feeling.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFkbTbaCndo
"Alright," Jiyoo finally said, his voice firm with resolve. "We're doing this. We've come this far, and if this is really connected to Hana—or whatever she's become now—we need to know. Let's go."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTOuw3BBQJe
"Wait," Hwan said, hesitating for a moment. "You're not seriously suggesting we follow her, right? I mean, what if we're walking right into something dangerous? This could be a trap."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH3apTlvxnL
"I didn't think it through," Jiyoo admitted with a slight wince. "But we can't just sit here wondering. I don't know about you guys, but I've got a gut feeling this might be the clue we've been waiting for. Besides, we've faced worse things before. Let's just stick together and be careful."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1MnT4Mvn6i
With that being said, the group stood up from their seats as their minds continued to race with possibilities. They prepared to leave the comfort of their backstage lounge.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmTIJSjRdQA
Jiyoo, holding the tracking device in his hand, felt the pulse of excitement and uncertainty surge through him. Whatever was waiting for them at the warehouse, they would soon find out together.
It was already past 11 pm and the air was already thick with anticipation, just when the K-East members quietly slipped out of the Prime building area. They knew the next steps in their plan wouldn't be easy, but they were committed.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGcHoKPHhJV
With Jiyoo and the others planning to investigate the mysterious location from the tracking device, K-East's role was clear; they needed to cause a distraction. The security guards who patrolled the perimeter of the building were sharp, and if they wanted to make it out unnoticed, they'd have to act fast.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVCzIBEpWrA
Ryung glanced at the others and nodded. "Alright, here's the deal," he whispered, his voice low but confident. "We need to keep the guards occupied while the others head out. We'll create a diversion on the east side of the building to pull them away. The fewer eyes on the exits, the better."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpdK2rBVKIC
Hwan always up for some action, grinned. "I've got an idea. I'll set off some of the alarms in the parking garage. That should get their attention."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOPlvDFnFrH
"Perfect," Jaesang added, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Once they're distracted by that, we can slip out through the loading dock. If we time it right, they won't even know we've gone."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt14W1oPQOf
The plan was simple, but it required precision. Taeyun, who had been keeping watch, gave a quick nod. "There's a guard near the back entrance. I'll make sure he's busy. If anything goes wrong, I'll handle it."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjr2buNc33t
The group split into their roles, moving swiftly through the building's hallways, each member walking with the practiced confidence of those who knew how to blend in. Hwan and Joon-woo slipped down the corridor toward the service elevators, their steps light and quiet.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL6KcZb6zOJ
Meanwhile, Jiyoo and Taeyun headed toward the underground parking garage. Jaesang, already with a gleam in his eyes, pushed open a door that led to a dimly lit stairwell. "Here's where the fun begins," he muttered. As they descended to the lower levels, the sound of muffled conversations and the low hum of machinery echoed off the concrete walls. Ryung's eyes darted to a panel near the garage's entrance—a series of security alarms that could be easily triggered if one knew what they were doing.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ4JR6OpjGL
"I'll hit the button," Ryung said, pulling his hood lower over his head as he neared the panel. "This'll get them running in circles."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡObqIrmioSp
Taeyun kept watch with his eyes trained on the hallway to ensure they weren't spotted. "Make it quick," he urged, his voice tense but controlled.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg0pUHa3F2y
Ryung's fingers went flying over the panel. The alarms blared to life—loud, piercing, and sharp. The sound reverberated through the entire parking structure, instantly alerting every security guard in the area.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5TIupj2CHo
In an instant, the place was in chaos.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN6N0FsKTUo
All the guards went scrambling to identify the cause of the disturbance, shouting to each other as they dashed through the garage.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjUsA8C1yzH
With the alarms ringing in the distance, the tension among the K-East members mounted.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMTBSAR0rLG
Hwan and Joon-woo, now in position by the loading dock, watched as the guards, confused by the sudden noise, moved toward the parking garage. "This is our window," Hwan said under his breath, glancing at Joon-woo, who nodded in agreement.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCWJ8IP8twl
They took a few quick steps toward the exit, the sound of the alarms masking their movements.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdIdyT8dtdV
As the guards were preoccupied, the group moved with fluidity, their actions quick and decisive. They crossed the parking lot unnoticed, slipping out of the building through a side door that led into an alley. The quiet of the night felt like a breath of relief after the chaos they had just set in motion.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7kDCbWhmLR
"Let's go," Hwan said, a hint of excitement in his voice. "We've got just enough time to follow the others before anyone realizes we've left."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡel5FGVYl1L
They moved swiftly through the back streets, their steps light as they made their way toward the rendezvous point. The security disturbance had worked exactly as planned, and now they were on their way to join Jiyoo and the rest, ready to uncover the truth behind the mystery of the girl on the motorcycle and the enigmatic "Platinum" imposter, which is now known to be the suspect.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGeITWpKhpK
An hour later, K-East had been navigating a labyrinth of confusion and uncertainty since the first tracking alert pinged from Jiyoo's phone. They knew they were getting closer to finding out the identity of the mysterious figures who had been making their lives increasingly difficult, but every new piece of information only seemed to raise more questions.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡck5Ntr29Kx
Ryung's knuckles gripped the steering wheel of his car as he maneuvered through the streets. His mind was racing, trying to piece together the puzzle. The suspect, who had been leaving cryptic traces all around, was now heading to another location—likely to hide, possibly to meet someone else.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYs1aZjwAd4
"Do you think it's all the same person?" Joon-woo asked, breaking the silence in the car. His voice was quiet but intense, reflecting the unease they were both feeling.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJM8fdUn3hZ
Hwan's gaze stayed focused on the road ahead. "I don't know, but it doesn't make sense that we're dealing with three different people. Everything lines up too perfectly, almost like they're one step ahead of us." His words were laced with doubt, and yet, deep down, he felt something more sinister was at play—someone pulling the strings.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlxzFhe6jr0
Joon-woo nodded, tapping his fingers against the dashboard. "The 'Platinum' imposter, the girl on the motorcycle, and the other person—if they're all the same person, we're dealing with someone incredibly dangerous, someone who knows how to manipulate everyone around them."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPfsfFEPfQr
Hwan frowned. "But if it's one person, how do you explain the different personalities? Different skill sets? It doesn't add up."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNANlsS6lMd
Joon-woo sighed, leaning back in his seat. "That's the part that scares me. We're not just chasing a person anymore. We might be chasing an entire identity, a fake life."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ41CHJxB6uQ
Concurrently, Min-jun, Jiyoo, and Jaesang were in Taeyun's car, equally tense but determined.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAIAIR9A6vk
Jiyoo kept his eyes trained on the phone, watching the tracking signal pulse on the screen. "The suspect just exited the warehouse," he said, his voice steady but tinged with worry. "We need to move fast."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyMhA3LOM7c
Jaesang, who was sitting behind him, couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. "What if it's not just one person? What if there are multiple imposters working together?" He had been vocal about his suspicions since the beginning, always hinting at the possibility of a larger conspiracy.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNuU2bmhCVN
Min-jun's eyes narrowed as he analyzed the data Jiyoo had just relayed. "We can't assume that. If it's multiple people, we're not just dealing with an imposter—this is a coordinated effort. We need to figure out if we're chasing a single person or if we're up against a bigger web of deception."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgpGoYCLTQn
Jiyoo exchanged a glance with Taeyun, who was focused on driving but visibly tense. "Do you think the girl on the motorcycle could be one of them?" He asked, already knowing the answer but wanting to hear it aloud.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLpivK8TWFb
"I don't think she's connected to the Platinum imposter directly," he said, his tone calm but firm. "But it's possible she's working with them—or at least knows something about them. If she's involved, it's more than just a coincidence. She might be the key to uncovering the entire operation."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmdHBG6XbpW
Jaesang leaned forward and said suspiciously. "What if there's no 'Platinum' imposter? What if we're seeing the same person in different forms? A master of disguise?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRKX4UoyFxw
Jiyoo shook his head and said. "Then, we're dealing with a genius."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDiNjfago0o
They all knew the stakes. The mystery of the Platinum imposter, Hyun-Aera's imposter, and the girl on the motorcycle that leaves warehouse traces was far bigger than any of them had anticipated.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRTkjTqTN8I
The decision was clear now that the group had split up, agreeing that staying together would only increase the risk of being detected. They would have to rely on their individual skills, knowledge, and instincts to track down the mysterious figures. The distance between them felt like it could be a death sentence, but it was the only way forward.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLVqxZSEKws
Hwan and Joon-woo kept their eyes peeled for any sign of the suspect's next move, hoping the trail would lead them to the imposter's true identity. Along with Min-jun, Jiyoo, Taeyun, and Jaesang, they were on a parallel track, hoping to catch any clues that would tie the motorcycle girl to the Platinum imposter—or reveal that they were the same person all along.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgaOkU6OeY7
The tension was palpable in both cars as they sped through the night, each member wondering the same thing: Who was behind all of this?
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTOO9eFMCiQ
They all had just begun to process the information they had gathered when Jiyoo's phone buzzed, signaling another new tracking alert. The notification was a sharp jolt to their already heightened senses. His eyes quickly scanned the message, and he immediately relayed the news to the others, his voice calm but with a trace of urgency.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUS7dg2dLXU
"The suspect just exited the warehouse. They're on the move again. Heading to another location—likely somewhere in hiding," Jiyoo announced, his tone firm as his fingers hovered over the screen, zooming in on the map that showed the suspect's next possible destination.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbC2qtHn9j2
Min-jun was quick to lean forward, his brows furrowed with concern. "Another place? This person's been on the move all night. How long are we going to keep chasing shadows?" His frustration was palpable, but his voice never wavered.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLEt7cUVqPm
Jaesang, sitting behind Jiyoo in the backseat, gave a slight shake of his head. "We can't assume it's just one person anymore. How do they keep getting away? The fact they're using different locations to hide only proves they know we're onto them. We might be dealing with someone who's more than just an imposter."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnRVxUDODh0
Taeyun, focused on the road ahead, threw a quick glance toward the rearview mirror at the others. "We can't afford to second-guess now. We have one chance to catch up to them before they disappear again. No more hesitation."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgDSJFC0TMy
Jiyoo nodded and glanced back at his phone, fingers quickly typing out a message to Ryung and the others in the other car. "We need to move fast. Hyungs, you're not far from the next location. Stay sharp."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Vpo0WYfsn
The silence in the car was thick as they all processed the weight of the moment. It was clear that this wasn't just about finding an imposter anymore—it was about uncovering the tangled web of deception that had been carefully spun around them.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhvQi4dj2Xd
Jiyoo exhaled sharply. "Do you think it's all connected? The two imposters and the girl on the motorcycle... Is it the same person doing all of this?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXGQplAKltE
Min-jun's lips tightened as he thought for a moment. "I can't say for sure, but whoever they are, they're trying to lead us in circles. I'd bet anything they're expecting us to make a mistake, and we can't let that happen." He paused, his expression hardening. "If it's the same person, they're playing us like puppets."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLKLKucdSVG
Jaesang added. "It could be three different people, but at this point, I don't think we can rule anything out. One thing's for sure—whoever this is, they're dangerous."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfAePcU3Jax
Taeyun nodded, keeping his eyes on the road. "We split up. They won't expect that. We'll each head to different points and try to surround the suspect."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvQznhql8EW
The car sped toward the next location as the weight of the chase hung over them. The suspect was slipping through their fingers yet again, but they couldn't afford to lose track of them now. They needed to know who was behind this, and why they were being hunted. The answers felt just out of reach, but the team was determined to get them—no matter what it took.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjZIHiznx3S
As the K-East members drew closer to their destination, they all knew the time for subtlety was over. The moment had come for them to close in on the suspect, and they had no intention of letting anyone escape.
After a quick exchange of messages, they decided to split their efforts further to ensure that no one would escape unnoticed.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjq3iIdstFI
Hwan, Joon-woo, and Ryung's car took up position at the first exit, their eyes scanning the surrounding area with acute focus. The parking garage they were positioned near had only two exits, and they knew the suspect would need to leave through one of them. With their car parked in a narrow lane, they blocked the path without drawing attention. The faint hum of the engine was the only sound that accompanied their tense silence.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGp0V3kg27g
Ryung kept his gaze locked on the exit, every instinct telling him that this would be the moment the suspect would make their move. "We can't let them get away this time," he muttered under his breath, gripping the steering wheel. His voice was low, but determination radiated from him. Joon-woo, sitting in the passenger seat, nodded grimly.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1UnfB1Ykbh
"If they try to leave this way, we're stopping them—no hesitation," Ryung glanced in the rearview mirror, his eyes constantly scanning for movement, hoping that the others on the other side had set up their block too.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC9cOas5jRL
On the other side of the building, Min-jun, Taeyun, and Jaesang were ready to execute their own part of the plan.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB3NqJTPQS9
Their car was parked at the second exit, hidden in the shadows of a nearby building, giving them a clear view of anyone who might attempt to leave. They'd been waiting for what felt like an eternity, but now the final pieces were in place. Min-jun was the first to speak, his voice steady despite the tension in the air. "This is it. No one leaves through here without us knowing. We've got this side covered."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUZa4DhXvTd
Jaesang gave a quick nod and peered out of the window, scanning for any sign of movement. "We've got a clear line of sight. If they try to sneak out, we'll be right on them." His voice was confident, but there was an edge of urgency in it. They knew they couldn't afford any mistakes. Taeyun, always the calm presence in the group, checked his watch before speaking up. "Stay alert. They'll be expecting something, and we need to catch them off guard. If they get away, we're back to square one."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNGfFscDRRw
The minutes had passed and the team was now in position, silently waiting. Each member is aware of the immense pressure to act swiftly and decisively. The exits were covered, and there would be no way for the imposters to escape without facing one of them.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnE6C02i7DN
Jiyoo sat in the backseat of Taeyun's car, his eyes focused on the tracking device in his hand. The steady beeping of the signal was the only sound breaking the tense silence among the team. His mind raced, trying to make sense of the next move. The imposters were close, but they had yet to make any decisive moves. His fingers gently gripped the device as he looked up at the team.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN5p7aMmThm
"I'll go," Jiyoo said, his voice calm but unwavering. It was a decision he had made at that moment, knowing the urgency of their situation. His gaze flickered to each of his teammates, his eyes hardening with resolve. "I'm the one who can track them down. With this device, I can follow their trail without being detected."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDzHXXlMT1d
Taeyun, who had been silent up until then, turned to look at him, his expression both concerned and approving. "Are you sure? It's risky. We don't know what we're walking into."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwubVy7hU8u
Jiyoo gave a small nod, his confidence in his skills shining through despite the stakes. "I'm sure. I can handle it. Besides, it's the best shot we've got." He met Taeyun's gaze firmly, making it clear that this was the right move.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7wjn7gsFGa
Min-jun, sitting beside Jaesang, leaned in forward and his brow furrowed. "We trust you, Jiyoo. Just... be careful. If anything feels off, you come back immediately."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡunmjsiM1WI
Jiyoo's eyes softened, a flicker of gratitude passing through them. "I will. I'll stay in touch. Just keep the exits covered, okay?"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVs5PqhVyiB
With a final look of determination, Jiyoo opened the car door and stepped out into the night air. His team's voices faded as he moved, the sound of the tracking device in his hand now the only constant. The darkness around him felt almost suffocating, but he was used to the shadows. He had always preferred them. With each step, he became more focused on the mission at hand.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv9rMeEgeU7
He carefully made his way through the tall grass and the wind rustling softly around him near the building. His mind racing as the beeping from the tracking device guided him closer to the target. The device vibrates slightly, a signal that they were nearing the source. Jiyoo's eyes narrowed as he approached a massive, seemingly abandoned building up ahead. It looked like an old crack house—abandoned, with no signs of recent activity. But the device was pulsing stronger now.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡITLAKcrdC6
"This is it," he muttered to himself, his voice barely audible above the wind. The crack house stood like a dark sentinel, its walls cracked and covered in grime. The windows were boarded up, and the heavy door hung half open, as if inviting him to step inside.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyQ1ftTHMFd
Jiyoo hesitated for a moment, the hairs on the back of his neck standing on end. Something felt off about this place, but his instincts told him this was where he needed to be. He glanced back at the car, reassuring himself that his team was covering the exits. He had no time to waste.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjKOz5AnDPq
With a final, quiet breath, Jiyoo took a step forward, making his way toward the entrance of the crack house. He was closing in on the truth, and nothing was going to stop him now.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyMIWpdqiHW
The weight of the mission pressed on him, but he was ready. He had always been the one to track and follow the clues, and now, more than ever, he knew that finding the imposters—and exposing their true identities—was a task that fell squarely on his shoulders.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfAxREhRzRY
His footsteps were measured, deliberate, each one bringing him closer to the mysterious building ahead. The structure loomed ominously, a large, abandoned crack house standing like a forgotten relic from a bygone era. There was an unsettling silence around it, the kind that made the hairs on the back of his neck stand up. His tracking device in hand continued to beep, signaling that the suspect was nearby, yet there was something off about this place. It didn't feel right.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0fk7RXFOf8
Jiyoo took a deep breath, steeling himself before moving closer to the cracked door. With a quiet push, he entered, slipping into the shadows without a sound. His footsteps echoed lightly on the floorboards, but he moved with purpose, his eyes scanning the dimly lit interior. Dust particles floated in the air, creating an eerie stillness as if the building hadn't been disturbed in years. It was a strange place to find the truth, but his gut told him that this was where the imposters had been hiding.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcLDJnBvdWt
He made his way deeper into the building, moving cautiously through the rooms. Each step was deliberate, his breathing quiet and controlled as he searched for any sign of life—or any clue that would bring him closer to unraveling the mystery. His heart beat steadily in his chest, but the air was thick with tension, making every creak of the floorboards feel magnified.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZC0WZE3CUy
As he entered a narrow hallway, his foot nudged something small and metallic. It rolled with a soft clink, echoing through the room. Jiyoo froze, his eyes darting toward the sound. A small tin can, old and worn, had moved slightly across the floor. He narrowed his eyes and took a careful step forward, unsure of what he had just triggered. But before he could make another move, the can tipped over, spilling a few small contents as it rolled. Then, without warning, it let out a faint hiss as a haze of smoke began to pour from it.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXsOlu9GFJC
Jiyoo's instincts flared, and he took a sharp breath, eyes widening in realization. *A trap.* He had no time to think. The smoke filled the room quickly, swirling and thickening around him, making it hard to see. He stumbled backward, coughing, his heart racing. The air was heavy, almost suffocating, and the smoke seemed to distort everything around him.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8c9rzHM8H4
"Damn it!" Jiyoo muttered under his breath, his voice strained as he covered his mouth, trying to hold his breath. He had walked straight into a carefully laid trap. Panic surged briefly, but he shook it off, focusing on the mission. He had to stay calm.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGYZ2rjZNhu
The smoke swirled and thickened, reducing visibility to nearly nothing, but Jiyoo was trained for situations like this. He pulled out a small flashlight from his pocket, flicking it on and cutting through the haze. His eyes scanned the room in the dim light, trying to find any clue, any trace of the imposters—anything that could lead him to their true identity.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpIaloV8Ude
"Stay calm, Jiyoo," he whispered to himself, his voice steadier now. "Focus. This is just another obstacle." He stepped forward cautiously, trying to make his way deeper into the house, his flashlight scanning the dark corners. The smoke seemed to be everywhere, growing thicker with every passing second. His fingers tightened around the flashlight, determined not to let the trap defeat him.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeb5s1JYw9v
Then, as the smoke began to clear, Jiyoo's instincts screamed at him—something wasn't right. The building was still silent, but the air felt wrong. He took a slow, deliberate step forward, keeping his eyes peeled for any sign of movement. His hand slid to his side, readying for whatever came next.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpQroXhvj7U
The mystery of the imposters was about to get even more dangerous.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV3YAsNVe4b
Jiyoo's lungs burned as the smoke thickened around him, forcing him to cough violently. His hand shot up to cover his nose, but it didn't help much. The air was dense, and his vision blurred, the flashlight's beam slicing through the haze but revealing little. His mind raced, trying to make sense of what was happening. He had fallen right into their trap, but he couldn't let panic take over. *Stay focused. You're close. Don't let them get away.*
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFXuTjdc2nh
Just as he took another step forward, his head was suddenly struck hard from behind. The force sent a shock of pain through his skull, and his vision blurred for a split second. He stumbled, the impact dizzying him for a moment. But before he could react further, his training kicked in—his body responding instinctively.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE9mCM2GMv6
He spun around sharply, his muscles tense and ready. In one smooth motion, he delivered a spinning kick, his leg slicing through the air with precision. The kick landed solidly, connecting with the chest of his attacker. The force sent the imposter crashing to the floor with a heavy thud. Jiyoo's heart raced, his breath coming in quick bursts, but he didn't stop. He quickly moved into a defensive stance, his eyes scanning the area, searching for any more threats.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmXQRMZ3o45
The figure on the ground groaned, dazed but still conscious. Jiyoo stood over them, his breath steady despite the adrenaline coursing through his veins. The person was dressed in black, their face partially hidden beneath a dark mask, making it hard to tell who they were. The smoke still lingered in the air, but Jiyoo's focus was sharp now, honed in on his fallen attacker.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ00SdnnSFpe
"Who are you?!" Jiyoo demanded, his voice cold as he moved closer, eyes narrowing.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbWCWzS9GVR
The imposter groaned again, but didn't respond, their body still twitching slightly from the impact.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNiCNYe7F2F
Jiyoo's mind continued to race. This wasn't just some random trap—this was the person he had been chasing. He had them now, and he wasn't about to let them slip away, but something didn't sit right. The smoke, the ambush, and the eerie silence of the crack house—everything felt too staged, too deliberate.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2ywqH1URnZ
He knelt down, his hand hovering over the imposter's mask. "If you won't talk, I'll make you," he muttered under his breath, his fingers twitching in anticipation. But before he could pull the mask away, the sound of footsteps echoed in the distance—someone else was coming.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYyfBNXVCVz
Jiyoo's grip tightened, and his mind snapped back into focus. He wasn't alone anymore.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDJIpH536cU
The imposter, still on the ground, managed to regain their bearings faster than Jiyoo had anticipated. In an instant, they lunged at him with their hands grabbing for the Platinum object. They were now locked in a desperate struggle as their bodies twisting and turning as they fought for control of the object. The room around them seemed to spin in a chaotic blur of motion, the thick smoke only adding to the confusion.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBUeXLySCYq
Jiyoo's breath came in sharp gasps as he struggled to keep the suspect pinned down. They were stronger than he expected, especially their movements fueled by a fierce determination.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu6uCDbJtUf
The sound of their struggle echoed throughout the crack house as their bodies crashed into walls. The floor shook beneath them as they tangled. He could feel the cold, hard object slipping through his fingers, but he wasn't about to give up that easily.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcxBPR51j12
"Let go of it!" Jiyoo growled, trying to wrench the Platinum object free from their grip, but they weren't having it.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9Xz9irEBbb
They kicked him by sending him stumbling back, but he quickly regained his stance, stepping forward to wrestle her down once more. The object continued to slide between their hands, rolling off their bodies with every shift and struggle.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgCw6VLysqU
In the heat of the battle, the two of them collided with the wall in the corner of the room. The force of the impact rattled the nearby furniture, and the Platinum object was sent flying, landing with a heavy thud against the ground.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1HJqtTlmze
Both of them stopped for a split second, eyes flicking toward the object, but neither made a move to grab it. The tension in the room was palpable, the fight far from over.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmGUKUBQWHT
With a swift motion, Jiyoo toppled over her, his body pinning hers to the floor. She squirmed underneath him, her hands clawing at his chest as she fought with everything she had.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQpNTmtlFas
As they struggled, something unexpected happened. The helmet that had been so securely fastened to their head slipped free, tumbling off and revealing her face.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyz7deAxjLL
Jiyoo froze for a brief moment, eyes widening in bewilderment and disbelief.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb9rBkxzuQs
Underneath the mask was a woman that he recognized as she stared back at him, full of alarm, timidity, and defiance.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMVEC6qr7fw
The mystery was thickening and the same person he had been expecting, but the situation didn't allow him time to process it.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2vAfPYCe3G
Jiyoo's eyes grew wider at the person that revealed herself, which shook him to the point that he had seen a ghost.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyCMg7x41HQ
"You are...!"
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGcqd1WaYsv
She glistened back and forth at him in astonishment for about a few seconds, then bolted upright by backing away. Her hair swiftly tossed behind her just as she held her gun directly at him before she clicked it and commanded him firmly.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX6EYcOq3aQ
"Stop! Don't come any closer..."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIP7FkBr2Mb
Jiyoo halted on his tracks, so he then glowered at the sight of her bracelet that struck him to a realization by saying slowly. "Valerie.... After all this time..."
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWQcyl2WmyR
She made no response to him whatsoever since she kept her impassive gaze at him fiercely.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDXxy6qDoxZ
"Your name isn't Hana, nor is it Hyun-Aera... it's Yon-hae..." Jiyoo enunciated carefully and repeated in a daze.
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6bgCKq6oAu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNEMhPsQifx
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3LUS4umByj
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCET48ekAMo
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs7DnVW0Tp7
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwOgy5h1jzC
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0SaiaMr99m
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5rkhwGMSOa
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr45cnWmwHF
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkGT4r3aMgK
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt9aTblvDp0
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvzZqEjk200
"Yon-hae Lockhart..."The air in the private conference room was thick with anticipation. The walls, soundproofed to ensure no outside interference, provided an almost suffocating sense of privacy. The only light came from a sleek overhead lamp casting a cold glow on the glossy, dark wood table at the center of the room. Si-woo sat at the head of the table, fingers drumming lightly against the surface as he glanced at the clock on the wall. He was waiting for someone—another mysterious figure in the world of K-pop who, despite being an idol, had managed to maintain an elusive and almost ghostly presence in the industry.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1pWyTy0AfR
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXUBNw5gLv9
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnwlOHoOBmn
The door creaked open, and Si-woo's gaze immediately snapped toward the entrance. Standing there was none other than Tracer, a top-tier K-pop idol with a reputation that made even the most powerful figures in the entertainment industry look over their shoulders. His striking appearance, chiseled features, and air of quiet dominance had made him one of the most sought-after idols in the world. But it wasn't just his fame that made him valuable. Tracer had connections—dangerous ones—and Si-woo needed them if he was going to unravel the tangled conspiracy that had been unfolding behind the scenes.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOWArrXsnlf
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQD2Sbt2J9o
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLOvRbQBQNc
Tracer entered the room without a word, his dark eyes scanning the surroundings before settling on Si-woo. A faint smirk tugged at his lips. "I trust this meeting is as important as you've made it sound, Si-woo," he said in a low, steady voice, his tone filled with quiet authority. "You've called me here for a reason. What is it you want from me?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEJUOycRoQA
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLqmM6b0c34
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0dFTPpPwVK
Si-woo leaned back in his chair, his expression unreadable. "You could say it's a matter of mutual interest," he replied, his voice calm but laced with an undercurrent of tension. "I've been following your movements, Tracer. You're not as invisible as you think. But I'm sure you know that already. You and I, we're not so different. We both have our secrets."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ84mvw7xw0g
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnyPBJhsy00
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCAywaiBuTi
Tracer raised an eyebrow, intrigued but still guarded. "Secrets? Everyone in this industry has secrets, Si-woo. It's part of the game. But that doesn't mean I'm in the habit of sharing them."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZZac5ByYwZ
Si-woo's lips curled into a small, almost imperceptible smile. "Not sharing, no. But I think you'll be interested in what I have to offer."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7eupTNAA2v
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNavjw44hBf
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQDPkPwKNDw
With a gesture, Si-woo motioned to the other side of the table. "This is Hawk," he said, his tone more formal now, like he was introducing someone of significant importance. "They've been in the shadows, gathering intelligence, tracking the real players behind all the leaks and power struggles within the industry. Hawk is not just any spy, Tracer. They're someone who's been embedded deep within the system, someone who knows what you can't see from the outside."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQx2oa6h99a
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6z9LXTZNYK
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeHItXduwKb
From the shadows across the room, Tracer stepped forward. Their face was mostly obscured by a dark mask, but their posture was fluid, controlled, and exuded the kind of quiet menace Si-woo knew all too well. As they moved toward the table, Tracer's sharp eyes never left them, a flicker of recognition—or perhaps wariness—flashing across his features.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz8YtZmFXec
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAuQi91eJf8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnogEUNq01Q
"You?" Tracer asked, his voice edged with surprise. "You're the one who's been pulling the strings behind the scenes?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqQYEiAwrN3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5tSOlfuw1o
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKOPGptVvmb
Hawk didn't respond immediately. Instead, they moved to the opposite end of the table, their eyes locked on Tracer's, studying him with an intensity that seemed to strip him of his composure. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYdeQjcduUk
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXo7fqKOJLQ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuwslxp6duX
Finally, they spoke, their voices deep and clipped. "I've been watching everything," they said. "The leaks, the manipulations, the alliances forming behind closed doors. Everything. I know who's behind the curtain. And I know how to stop them."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNMbpCBzQUd
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2UHurtLBrx
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuVwLdtcFf4
Si-woo's eyes flicked between the two of them, sensing the tension in the room. This wasn't just a casual meeting. This was a power play. Kai, despite his calm exterior, was sizing up Hawk, evaluating how much trust he could afford to place in them. After all, a spy like Hawk was a double-edged sword—valuable, yes, but just as dangerous if they decided to play their own game.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyXq2U4Xdd1
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2xW5vU55OQ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkhbqDXjQs2
Tracer spoke with his voice cool and calculating. "And what makes you think I need your help, Hawk? I've got my own sources. I don't need some shadow to tell me who's leaking information or sabotaging careers."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ68jFLhvUA6
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7FeDELmXSU
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh8nL4Ntium
Hawk tilted their head slightly, unfazed by the challenge. "You've got sources, but they're limited. What you don't have are the connections that can take you straight to the core. The ones pulling the strings? They've been operating under the radar for far too long, and you're still hunting for answers. Let me make it simple for you. We either work together, or you keep stumbling in the dark."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvNaVUPGGSQ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVjQjXjxgvd
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEeyz7IIUtt
Tracer's gaze hardened, but there was a flicker of something in his eyes—a realization that perhaps Hawk was right. He had been running in circles, trying to maintain control, but there were deeper forces at play. Forces that Hawk seemed to understand intimately.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡItLW8PWOTy
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCWeYWnZgmw
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzaePeU1WOw
"Any information?" Tracer repeated, his voice quiet but edged with curiosity. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzPKdeqS89j
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡctOkBFOQSe
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNbi0ZTWHB7
Si-woo interjected before Hawk could answer, his tone sharp. "Not just any information. This is the kind that could change everything for you. If you want to know who's really pulling the strings in this industry, if you want to be on top of the game instead of buried beneath it, you need to listen."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf81lKkwW91
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHGoKBZBwRm
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwzSiXkgB4n
Hawk finally spoke again, their eyes unwavering. "I've got the names. The players who think they can control the industry. And if you want them to fall, Tracer, you're going to have to get your hands a little dirty."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTiT9L1vnmk
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqh7YlB6ojx
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9O7f5XCL3f
The weight of their words settled into the room, and for a long moment, there was silence. Si-woo could feel the tension rising between the two. Tracer was a man of action, and Hawk wasn't offering empty promises. This was a dangerous game, and they were all players in it now.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzHK7sxtKB1
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAceZgBU7QO
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGY2jsVJ5Fi
Tracer finally leaned back in his chair, his gaze never leaving Hawk. "Alright," he said, voice low. "I'll hear you out. But know this—if you betray me, you'll regret it."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡToniC8QZez
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdsmlO3Rzyh
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUgQhF7QQdU
Hawk gave a single nod, their eyes still unreadable behind the mask. "Trust is earned, not given. And right now, we need each other. Let's see where this takes us."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSR30EhRfXa
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOJfxE5X7KT
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAM39hErFOR
Si-woo watched as the two of them locked eyes, a new, unspoken understanding passing between them. The alliances were forming, but so were the risks. In this world of hidden power, no one was ever truly safe.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡve685NtCcx
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT6ZJO8V8Oh
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeivGdWzZ4e
...94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBZcQCNrocZ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9gNZWbuiLO
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVDaVxWtLN9
...94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIjeN2RdC7g
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz4KP7yX5zL
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGeAJsmLikh
...94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJpyNwpjWRd
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHA7fvAPMLM
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPYNCG4VLRe
Three days later, the conference room was filled with the soft hum of conversation as the K-East team gathered for a crucial private meeting. The walls, adorned with promotional posters of the group's past achievements, seemed almost surreal in the tense atmosphere. The staff had been preparing for this moment for days — the team was about to discuss the upcoming changes to their schedule and the postponement of their highly anticipated GO! K-EAST show.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzROfY6mEwY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlCX6SLrWYc
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡymee1cNhh8
At the head of the table was of course their CEO, Bang Si-woo. His eyes scanned the room, noting the concerned faces of his staff and managers.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsKb0o0kxws
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjFn9FJLIla
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAcU50owR7Y
"Alright, everyone," Si-woo began with his voice calm but authoritative. "Thank you for coming on such short notice. We all know what's at stake here. Today, we need to make some important decisions regarding our schedule and GO! K-EAST."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9aiW7tm3M3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd7YOx0dTgR
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0ogxoJFkNL
He paused to let the gravity of the situation sink in, then continued. "First and foremost, we need to address the delays. We have a lot riding on this show, and the fans have been eagerly waiting for its premiere. Unfortunately, external circumstances have forced our hand. We'll need to push back the date, but before we go into details, let's hear from our head of production."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD1c985oLrq
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzn2zWu56iy
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOGFNwHci78
Director Seo Mi-Na, a seasoned veteran in the entertainment industry, stood up from her seat. She was well-regarded for her ability to keep things moving smoothly, even in chaotic situations.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBnTFahbERV
"Thank you, sir Bang," she said, adjusting her glasses as she began speaking. "As you all know, the production crew has encountered several setbacks over the past week. Due to some unforeseen issues with our venue and technical difficulties with the live broadcast setup, the GO! K-EAST show simply cannot go ahead as scheduled."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKD9E7VMeJT
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmlRWmNoPhz
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMQQFPtHfY3
She paused, flipping through a few notes on her tablet. "We were hoping to resolve the issues quickly, but after consulting with the team and analyzing the logistics, it's clear that rushing the show would not only compromise the quality, but it could also affect the safety of our performers and staff. The new target date, after we account for these delays, would be two weeks from the original date."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡipM15ipqou
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbJlU3yjI9A
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ74f8CzAxQw
A murmur of understanding passed through the room. Everyone knew how much the show meant to K-East's reputation, as well as to their fans, but there was no question about the necessity of taking the time to do things properly.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWV8JCn6Ety
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxGloAcuw4f
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqnykBE9SZd
Manager Kim Soo-Hyun, one of the top managers at K-East, leaned forward. "I think we're all in agreement that postponing the show is the right move, but we also need to consider the fallout with our fans. We've already promoted the initial release date heavily on social media and through various media outlets. Fans are excited, but they also expect us to deliver."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiiJb9r8LXY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO56MSzytDG
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuibNJXc6SD
Ji-Hoon nodded thoughtfully. "That's a valid point. Our PR team needs to prepare a statement explaining the reasons behind the delay, and we'll need to apologize for the inconvenience. We can also offer them something to keep their spirits up. Maybe a live broadcast event with a special behind-the-scenes segment in the meantime. Director Seo, can we push forward with that idea?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkvyfd821jo
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9oja6r7f1F
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQLayu3XTal
Seo Mi-Na gave a small nod. "Yes, we can arrange a live stream. It would give the fans something exclusive to look forward to while also showing them that we're still working hard behind the scenes."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡemMyezffmk
Public Relations Manager Park Eun-Jeong added in, saying. "We'll need to be transparent about the reasons behind the delay and assure our fans that we are committed to making the show the best it can be. I also recommend we offer a sneak peek into some of the unreleased footage or perhaps an interview with the members to keep the excitement alive."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkxREBwvA79
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy1Z0cdgw6n
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH5KZJKXGZx
Ji-Hoon raised an eyebrow at Eun-Jeong's suggestion. "I like the idea of a member-focused interview. Let's get them involved in the communication with the fans. We can even include personal messages from the members about their progress in preparing for the show."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1qwYH7vGJ5
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSVZvPVdzVp
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ94jBRSpUz8
Artistic Director Lee Joo-Hee spoke next, her voice laced with concern. "We have to take into account how this will affect the rest of our schedule. If we push GO! K-EAST back, it could interfere with some of our other planned promotions and events. We'll need to adjust our calendar, especially with the holidays coming up."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvil3yfA1jT
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5y3URpqfw3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLWYhlVgnuO
Ji-Hoon nodded, deep in thought. "We can work around the schedule. Let's push for a clear timeline for GO! K-EAST and then make the necessary adjustments for everything else. We can move some smaller events to accommodate the new show date."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzBehnUv8ZT
Manager Kim Soo-Hyun added, "We may also need to consult with the sponsors and partners. They've been expecting the show on the original date, and we don't want to risk losing their support or causing any strain in our business relationships."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW0fnpRSf1D
"Understood," Ji-Hoon said. "I'll have a team reach out to all of our partners and sponsors. We'll ensure they're kept in the loop and that they fully understand the reason behind the delay."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlTyjW61B1s
Seo Mi-Na stood again. "Lastly, we need to prioritize the health and wellbeing of our members. We've been pushing them quite hard to prepare for the show, and they've been under a lot of pressure. Let's make sure they have enough time to rest and refresh before we go live."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXMDimBf435
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiY5bVO7wCt
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡscTv0u7OXS
At the mention of the members' well-being, the room fell quiet for a moment. The group's members had been working tirelessly, and there was always the risk that pushing too hard could lead to burnout or injury.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwhcGHkC6U9
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8KqSaBIdeY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf222KaEZOw
Ji-Hoon sighed, rubbing his chin. "You're right, Mi-Na. Let's ensure that they have a proper break before we ramp up again. We want them to be at their best, physically and mentally."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAygIlUQstX
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuYOo5vW9FH
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRBgfQSzces
The room hummed with agreement, as everyone understood the importance of balance in the intense world of K-pop.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnkvbaLEaPu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyhU6PBRpl7
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2g70D6PO4b
Finally, Ji-Hoon addressed the room, his tone decisive. "Alright. Here's the plan: We will officially announce the postponement of GO! K-EAST in a statement, ensuring we give the fans a clear understanding of the situation and offering them a sneak peek. We'll schedule the new show date two weeks out. We'll also have smaller fan events and behind-the-scenes content to keep the energy up. The members will take some well-deserved rest, and our production team will double down on ironing out any remaining issues."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU6M9VkK3Dw
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡawD3FqNuAa
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzTF9P0e8Rd
He looked around the room, his expression confident. "This is a temporary setback, but we will turn it into an opportunity. We'll make sure that GO! K-EAST will be the best show we've ever put on. Let's get to work."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ2lm58Degr
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDwM33Tpy6c
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx3mhXpE206
As the team nodded in agreement, the mood in the room shifted. While the postponement was a disappointment, there was a sense of unity and determination. The staff knew that this setback was just a stepping stone toward an even greater success.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHQprXUfVQv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP3CuVUcXq2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj81NQ7blNO
After the meeting wrapped up, the K-East staff slowly filed out of the conference room, their minds already racing with the tasks ahead. Jiyoo, who had been listening attentively throughout the entire discussion, lingered for a moment, gathering his things. As he walked toward the exit, one of the assistants, a young staff member named Min-Ji, approached him with a hesitant expression.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6onnA0ofsn
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiMW8JIjpCP
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwHRtpLLU5n
"Jiyoo-ssi," Min-Ji called softly, causing him to pause and look back. "Si-woo sunbaenim would like to see you in the main office."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeBbRkfbkWV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnkONIpPW7V
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtb7sxWeLk5
Jiyoo raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. Si-woo was also the company's chief strategist, known for his calm demeanor and his knack for managing even the most chaotic situations. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1yCfQFsW23
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN16LB8Uafo
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3w4eMlODAi
Although Si-woo wasn't one to call people into his office for no reason, Jiyoo couldn't help but feel a slight sense of unease. He glanced back at his members, who were standing together near the door, still discussing the outcome of the meeting.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzlTABWWx2x
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIoQRUPbYe5
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0ApiE2BlkT
Taeyun, ever the perceptive one, caught Jiyoo's eye. His gaze sharpened with a hint of confusion, and he gave Jiyoo a questioning look. "What's going on, hyung?" he asked with his voice quiet but filled with curiosity. He looked between Jiyoo and Min-Ji, sensing something was up but not quite understanding what.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHzKhDE3voO
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Z6hPYEcnZ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxk1cRxSlaK
Jiyoo gave him a small, reassuring smile. "I'll be fine," he replied, though his tone was slightly uncertain. "It's probably nothing. I'll head over now."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvRmW5ypUbu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2lcHJwTjUC
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeo1LwMpEvR
With a final glance at his members, Jiyoo nodded, his expression slightly guarded, and walked toward the main office. As he made his way through the hallway, his thoughts drifted briefly to the meeting they had just wrapped up. The postponement of the GO! K-EAST show was certainly a setback, but Jiyoo wasn't one to dwell on things for too long. There was always something else to focus on.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCCN75SLRa8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoCy438EKQR
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmbByUNj3Ui
When he reached the door to the main office, he knocked lightly, and upon hearing the soft words. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG2dn1D5rw8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5fGnYlU5T5
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyAge6qi0vX
"Come in," The CEO said as soon as Jiyoo stepped inside. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvDCHmAGEaM
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK0rTTp1zuY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm2i7tUfOHm
The atmosphere in the room was quieter than he expected, and as he closed the door behind him, he found him sitting at his desk, a warm smile playing on his lips.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYFTiDf1xmn
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGlKFXw5iHL
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc9BgWul30l
"Jiyoo," Si-woo greeted him in a smooth and friendly tone. "Have a seat."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnTzGFmpJYD
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvBWYxwYBFE
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2GXRBrTzL4
Jiyoo hesitated for a moment, still unsure why he had been summoned, but his welcoming demeanor made him feel somewhat jittery. As he settled into the chair across from his desk, his posture relaxed but his mind was still curious.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3l73tZRBAD
Si-woo gestured forward and compressed the papers by shuffling them altogether, then set them aside and leaned back in his chair, folding his hands thoughtfully. "It looks like you enjoyed your vacation for a week. I wanted to talk to you about the show, about the members, and... well, about the future."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqcADQQFKmI
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiz32AamUBZ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnL2iHQLHoS
Jiyoo raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "The future? What do you mean?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYW00lOakKA
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEeDsYarMZP
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEe2nLuOWpk
Si-woo chuckled softly, his eyes glinting with a mix of kindness and wisdom. "It's no secret that there's been a lot of pressure lately, especially with everything being pushed back. But I've been observing the group, Jiyoo. You and your members... you've been handling things remarkably well, considering how stressful this time has been. But I know it's not always easy."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQtDesHpzvJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM4PMud5abu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQcL7M9zy5z
Jiyoo wasn't sure how to respond. He'd always been the type to focus on the task at hand, and while the group had certainly faced challenges before, the uncertainty surrounding GO! K-EAST was something different.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOfjosZbn7G
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa7y3HqlggP
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbRUXHWT6kt
"Have you found them?" 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwpr8cfuahx
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0s7g4hcZWY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3MvwGpM673
Jiyoo looked up at him, blinking in startlement. "Huh? Sorry, I don't get what you mean."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5qANiuCMpt
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvnB16Kc2H6
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpSpz07VlTh
"The others have speculated that you visited the Lotte World that is closed and some recent news that you were trying to catch somebody on the highway. Is that true?" 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaxPci9VTEp
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrHtnFhk2bp
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW6obe76VTJ
Jiyoo paused and thought of what his friends said. Instead, he uttered in a low tone, saying. "No... I was- I was practicing how to drive." 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtj7fRyM2JY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPgAUUaFfj6
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6tlbBEvzox
"I see. You know how the netizens are seeing through the media these days. Anything can come out as rumors, evidence, or an issue. Also, I would not mind if you are interested in finding out the vendetta, but since you and the members are performing the next shows, it's unlikely impossible," Si-woo leaned forward slightly, his voice quieter now, as if sharing something more personal. "I just wanted to let you know that I'm proud of the way you've been handling things. I'm sure you feel the weight of everything, especially with your members depending on you, but I believe in you. And I want you to know that you're not in this alone."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXTjLVP1Jtu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUwVcoCTpv4
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7RwRehO49U
Jiyoo blinked, slightly taken aback by Si-woo's unexpected words. The calm yet genuine reassurance in Si-woo's voice caught him off guard. Despite being used to leading in public and maintaining a composed appearance, hearing someone like Si-woo express such support felt strangely comforting.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2Y0QRD2ulV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdjfJ99Jluv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqOjMmDTrja
"Thank you," Jiyoo said, his voice soft but filled with sincerity. He felt a wave of gratitude toward Si-woo, not just for his words, but for the underlying recognition that, even as a leader, Jiyoo wasn't without his own struggles.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb5rZfGkYr7
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPpG9iGlhmJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX5bgFHTsPr
Si-woo gave him a knowing smile, his gaze warm and encouraging. "Of course. Just remember, it's okay to lean on others when things get tough. That's what we're here for — to support each other."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1DHGP1MGd7
Jiyoo nodded, a small smile tugging at his lips. He felt lighter now, more grounded, as if the burden he'd been carrying had been shared, even if just a little. "I'll keep that in mind," he replied, his tone firmer, more assured than before.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHvc1Ws0af5
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUsbUdApWSN
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOgwycaHoaF
Si-woo got a little frustrated at the imposter troubled girl, including the Narrow squad in his own mind. He then informed Jiyoo, saying. "You have an appointment in the evening and I suggest you dress in a formal attire." 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNDs1NeZRwg
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHcaVvwP63j
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNOjcplkT9M
Jiyoo gulped and stood up from his chair, facing his back. Then, he stopped in his own tracks when he listened to him. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBFoWaJbraG
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9IYQyTtbj9
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPDwMyuC2pp
"If I ever see you pull another trick by acting so carelessly, you will not like what I'm about to order you. Is that clear, Mr. Park...?" Si-woo said in a light warning, pushing the circular specks forward his nose bridge. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrfJCLMFXjv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC9SUrfxioI
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ85QCZL8eHG
Jiyoo nodded silently in agreement. He blinked a few times before he sharpened his gaze in chagrin at the thought of his words to him. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuG9ZJezYDX
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSmVamMPeS8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMxK7MEN7Ts
Si-woo chuckled again, his expression easing into a more relaxed one. "Good. Now, go take a break. You've been working non-stop. The members are probably waiting for you, and I'm sure you could use some time to recharge before we dive back into the craziness. I'm sure your father is going to be happy to see you again." 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0BV69B1A1R
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWBWiStucCi
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzKO1wQUjxz
Jiyoo slightly breathed through his nostrils to control his anger that was filling up his clenched fists. Then he slowly glanced over his shoulder at him and said politely. "Alright, I will. Thanks again, sir Bang."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe1UTKG2Exu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡitWP4F06At
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqVw3EmRQRc
"Anytime, Jiyoo. Anytime," Si-woo said with a friendly nod and his smile was still present.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4FYUgPS7JV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYzLGgtfPlH
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkVGgsPFn8o
Once Jiyoo left the office, the door clicking softly behind him, he felt a sense of reassurance that hadn't been there before. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOFStShstAp
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ186C2hAFsp
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJBWXhDG6t1
There was still much work ahead, but now, with Si-woo's words in his mind, he knew he wasn't carrying it alone.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUAoNnycRZb
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlhKAskTLtE
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGCGL0JpXee
Meanwhile, Jason had been working tirelessly with the squad, putting them through rigorous training sessions that pushed their physical and mental limits. His approach was tough but effective, focusing on hand-to-hand combat, endurance, strategy, and even unorthodox techniques. Today, they were in the gym, with the sound of grunts and the rhythmic thud of fists hitting pads filling the air.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡapRKPE5Kve
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4zPV3zBhKE
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJPIuqQonXH
"Focus, Julong!" Jason shouted, as he sparred with one of the new recruits. "Don't just react—anticipate! Use your opponent's energy against them!"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCyKHBXQizQ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡva4gUHCmoZ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUTrGj32xRm
Julong dodged a punch and countered with a swift kick, but Jason was already there, stepping in to correct his form. "That's better, but remember—timing over power."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkkDNLobh6h
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9p47xESYqG
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5oAdrsnuLx
In a lit room elsewhere in the facility, Kain sat silently in the shadows, watching the training session on a monitor. His face was unreadable, his posture relaxed but poised. He was always observing, always calculating. A soft knock on the door broke the stillness.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡivXrPtOyXr
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡduqiIDAJUp
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw5rBYhlR1y
"Yes?" Kain's deep voice rumbled as it creaked open.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCDeUuAQoVH
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTfjqRCj7v4
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSbNL9H0CGe
A figure stepped inside—one of the higher-ranking officers in their organization. The officer, who was always brief with words, addressed Kain without ceremony.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFQ4qfBJrGN
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDBeEZ8X4mJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzZW6vAuO3w
"Sir, any word on Valerie? Has she decided whether or not to join the squad officially?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm2TzI2NMgN
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLibnEU1XVc
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWgPoo2SQzn
Kain didn't immediately respond, his eyes never leaving the screen where Jason was pushing the squad through their grueling drills. His fingers slowly drummed on the armrest of his chair before he spoke in his usual calm, almost cryptic tone.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhNvho5EKv2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOQMcrTJiFE
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPdnOHuZUbB
"Valerie hasn't made a decision yet. She's... torn. There's hesitation, but it's not about her abilities. She's more than capable. It's about her place with us. She's not the type to be easily bound to anything, especially not to an organization like ours."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Ye6rpJWn3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6XPrjp0B89
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡufbSdfeJL9
Kain shifted slightly, his eyes narrowing as he spoke, clearly focused on something deeper in Valerie's internal struggle. "She needs to feel something greater than just following orders. She needs a purpose. Until she sees that here, she won't commit. But when she does... she'll be more powerful than we can imagine. If she chooses us."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqzJSr5Swvb
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXhYakRoymp
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ36iWnKAVHH
The officer nodded, understanding the gravity of Kain's words. "Do you want me to encourage her, sir?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhIINLNhMp9
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuOqTDvtqxv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyMaOZRtsg6
Kain shook his head slowly, his expression unreadable. "No. Let her decide in her own time. Encouraging her might push her away. Valerie will come to us when she's ready—if she ever is."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGmGHyXh9x7
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1dl3Qo8TNS
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhBiNC8xTxU
There was a brief pause before the officer spoke again, his voice tinged with uncertainty.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSTtAbz7J29
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJuBTf1YDwx
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzik6am1b9k
"Do you think she'll join, sir?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUGk9Edxel0
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx6DvXrUvnr
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVrHQKcyeJ5
Kain leaned back in his chair, his eyes drifting from the screen, as if considering the very nature of Valerie's potential allegiance. After a moment, he gave a small, almost imperceptible smirk.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1j7318HYB1
"I never waste my time worrying about what might be. If she joins, she joins. If she doesn't, we will continue forward. But one thing is certain: she won't be easily replaced."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQzfbdI48W3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTjpQenT0kK
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRvFgoYJVk0
The officer took that as his cue to leave, knowing there was little more to be said. As the door closed behind him, Kain sat back, still lost in thought, his fingers now resting lightly on the armrest. It was clear that, for him, the choice of Valerie was far from simple. She was a wild card, and he had no intention of forcing her hand. Whether she chose to join or not, Kain was confident that the squad would remain strong—and if Valerie decided to walk alongside them, they would have someone powerful on their side.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLafr8xmukt
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvNtUxjeKQ0
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzqZe4BGMUA
Back in the gym, Jason was still training the squad, unaware of the quiet deliberations happening in the shadows. But Kain knew, as he always did, that every decision, no matter how small, could change the course of their mission—and Valerie's decision would be no different.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRgJhH2dwQO
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoBuMqDqIwE
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf8A31gf0Mj
"We'll start by doing roundhouse kick exercises. Luke Wong, you're up first," Jason commanded lightly.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLFU4z5HW3e
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuUkEAKw9rM
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkcFK2y5Bcq
Luke nodded silently in obedience and positioned himself to kick the dummy bag. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa13iSkdzP1
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMVNcsp8Gsn
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV25B5HkN2R
A few minutes had passed and the squad had just finished another intense training session, their muscles aching from the relentless drills. Jason was offering some final corrections and words of encouragement to a few of the members when the heavy door to the gym creaked open. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡASEkqKsIGO
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWEBbUmmbIK
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIZ5s2i7PWo
Without a word, Kain stepped inside, his presence commanding immediate attention. His dark silhouette framed by the light from the hallway, he surveyed the squad for a moment, his gaze cold and calculating. The room fell silent as Kain's eyes finally locked on Jason, signaling him to stop what he was doing.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNPKqEl2Xut
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMAyZ9S67CK
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ29LcdeEfOm
"Gather up," Kain ordered in his deep, controlled voice.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Nl0jidEqa
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOW2a7uVu9I
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6oNLMl9Ufe
Jason immediately signaled to the others to cease their activities. Within moments, the squad had assembled in front of Kain, standing at attention. His face was as unreadable as always, but there was an edge in his demeanor—something new, something urgent.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmiRcHzXT88
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBQ9e3CKesJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjjaueloWFj
"This training session will be cut short," Kain began, his voice even but laced with a certain finality. "We've got bigger problems."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBB1dXb9ZTY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYDd6mIe1zV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK62iiKQWMf
A murmur rippled through the squad, but Kain's sharp gaze silenced any further noise. He took a step forward, his expression grim as he surveyed each of them. His next words were deliberate, each one hanging in the air with weight.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFe6FliCl6V
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4B0R6913Uw
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8A8lDFLBOc
"We're being hunted again," Kain said flatly, his gaze flicking to the screen embedded in the wall behind him, which displayed an encrypted series of files. "Si-woo has picked up our trail, and the CEO's people are closing in. They're investigating us, looking for weaknesses, trying to find leverage."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyD9gYcBQbD
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYrQoQGSgyO
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqVRwUu6XiA
The room tensed, but Jason was the first to speak up in question.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUFL6oSnEpt
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKJp3gEhZbA
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ91z3DNEo7V
"Si-woo again? Damn it, I thought we'd shaken him off after the last mission."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoVHrx3LyNU
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKi5YqbOkMV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdY3OgEqVTK
Kain's lips barely twitched in what might have been a smirk, but there was no humor behind it. "Si-woo doesn't give up easily. He's relentless. And this time, it's not just him. The other CEO has sent his best trackers and his personal enforcers. They're more skilled, more dangerous. If they catch wind of our location, they'll descend on us like wolves."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9OEBadnt3Y
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrnQjd87ETw
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeJDwgqfh0v
A sense of unease spread through the group, but Kain's voice cut through the tension, firm and commanding.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMZyJPLZjgE
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh94InBYnxk
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLSoV2HUixV
"Listen carefully. We've been compromised. Their agents have already infiltrated key areas of the city, and they're targeting anyone who's been associated with us. They'll be using every tool at their disposal—surveillance, hacking, human resources, even blackmail. We cannot afford to slip up."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaRmLLN1cc0
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1bjFhUEfW2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkDhK2eL4kK
One of the squad members, Yuki, raised an eyebrow, looking towards Kain with concern. "How much time do we have, sir? Can we outrun them again?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZqo3g5N0e7
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8I6JCQnCSD
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuHL5PBRcvQ
Kain's eyes darkened as he met her gaze. "Time is a luxury we no longer have. Si-woo and his men are not like before. They're more organized, and they have resources we haven't faced yet. We need to stay off their radar—and quickly."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBjxitIP7ke
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY5nkXGpnMO
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEJHazRKu6J
Max, usually the first to speak up in situations like this, stepped forward. His face was a mixture of disbelief and concern, but there was a flicker of determination in his eyes.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz8nav7mMc9
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDirRRZt3rS
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKeRr9N0Qwa
"Kain, how sure are we that Si-woo's already on us? I mean, we've slipped out of his grasp before. He's not exactly... untouchable, right?" He asked, crossing his arms and looking at Kain with a mixture of skepticism and hope. "We've evaded him before. Why is this different?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡODCct13DhL
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi2BlfXjY5c
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ48ZYQy15HT
Kain's cold gaze settled on Max, unblinking. "This is different because Si-woo isn't working alone anymore. He has access to resources that we don't even know the full extent of. The CEO's people are taking matters into their own hands now, which means we're up against far more than just a former colleague with a grudge. They've got everything we've been trying to hide—technology, surveillance, connections. If we don't act fast, we'll be caught. This isn't a game of cat and mouse anymore."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvuOMTKGa0g
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsUatPZWsia
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ115AQaFNfY
Julong, his sharp eyes flicking from Kain to Max, stepped forward, his voice tense but calm. "So what do you want us to do? Just run? Split up? Go into hiding until they get bored?" His hands flexed at his sides as he paced, clearly agitated. "We're not exactly a small group to hide in the shadows."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI4dscqSnqI
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSUrBD1EDmM
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVXHKMYGdyQ
"That's exactly what we're doing. Hiding. For now. We won't stay in one place long enough for them to lock us down. We split up, we stay off the grid, and we avoid making any contact unless it's absolutely necessary. No more playing the hero. This isn't about taking them head-on—this is about surviving long enough to regroup."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNH9IGVWTl3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHIJbqGAwrk
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3XsG5BdvPx
Moonki, who had been quiet up until now, shifted uncomfortably. He ran a hand through his short, messy hair, clearly rattled by the news. "Are we really sure we're ready for this?" he asked, his voice laced with doubt. "I mean, we've always managed to handle ourselves, but these guys sound different. And if they're pulling out all the stops... how do we even fight them without getting caught?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ4me2XKnNf
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmVzpeyfipb
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0uokWJUm6X
"That's the point," Kain replied, his voice low and controlled. "We're not fighting them head-on right now. We're outnumbered, and they have the advantage of surprise. We'll use our strength in other ways—stealth, speed, and deception. Avoid confrontation until we have no choice. But we're not dead yet, Moonki. We fight smart, not recklessly."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4PUXllkdHt
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDGZUj4KlXT
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmZxoftnjsh
Henry, always the one to consider logistics, stepped in with his usual dry tone, though his concern was evident. "So what happens if one of us gets cornered or caught? We're all in this together, but we can't afford to get anyone taken. What's the plan for extraction if things go south?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfThaKj7EXf
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjnkMKNVXal
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiVVqENKr6z
Kain gave Henry a quick, assessing look before answering. "Extraction? There won't be an extraction if you're caught, Henry. If we're compromised that badly, it'll be too late for anything except to get out of the area. The moment they have one of us, we don't make a move. We let them think they have the upper hand, and we use that time to slip through their fingers."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ9loGkxuqQ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡijTkM2hwNM
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGMsPeL1Jcm
Woonjae, who had been standing a little farther back, stepped forward with a hard expression, his voice cutting through the tension. "What about Sunghoon? He barely made it out. How do we know they didn't follow him here? If they're that close, can we even trust that our location's still safe?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFnfj5DqE1R
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm1n2K9wycr
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbReMV9Kud8
Kain paused, eyes narrowing slightly. He was about to speak, but Beom interrupted him, his tone unusually sharp.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Em5bySG4X
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡenLctPXVCH
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7ih9jthVBf
"Wait, Kain," Beom said, raising a hand to stop the conversation. "Before you answer Woonjae's question, there's something else we need to figure out. Are we sure Sunghoon was even followed here? I mean, he might have just been shaken up from running. If they're really closing in on us, how do we know this place isn't compromised already? What if they've been tracking us for days, and we're just walking into a trap?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡngKn6gCYyb
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDySiqt3mXd
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBl1h5kwQdN
Kain's expression darkened, and for a brief moment, it seemed as though he might hesitate. But then his features hardened, and his voice dropped to a dangerous level. "That's exactly why we need to move now, Beom. No more waiting around. Sunghoon might have shaken them for a while, but I trust his instincts. We're not safe here long-term, but we are safe for now. If we waste time second-guessing, we'll be dead before we get the chance to act."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡipvwwA4wF3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnTSBEsju0O
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB77UTOKYA7
Byung-seok, who had been silent for most of the conversation, suddenly spoke up in a low, even tone. "So what's the priority, Kain? Are we going underground, or are we hitting back? Because if we're going to disappear, we need to move fast, and we need to get our gear ready. If we're not prepared to fight, then we need to disappear—and we need to do it now."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5dCn08ZHbn
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡia9aNxt7bF
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTqAWxr7pHG
The room went still again as everyone looked to Kain for the final word. His eyes swept over the squad, his gaze colder than ever.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7egQ88njh3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOEuNDJvu0E
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBTXjkF5aOG
"Get your gear ready. We're not running away—we're going underground," Kain said, his voice steady and unyielding. "This isn't about revenge, it's about survival. And we'll fight when the time is right. For now, we stay out of sight, stay smart, and we wait. But don't mistake this for a retreat. This is just the beginning."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNsZlIeNTeJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbJDjdWoCVr
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0Cl7U7I0kj
The squad exchanged looks, some more confident than others, but each of them understood the stakes. Kain had spoken, and when Kain spoke, there was no room for argument.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPaSmiT8laA
Jason stepped forward, already assessing the situation in his mind. "So, what's the plan?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ0Fou5BCA3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0VBs5IYNvV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWSHaZ6yrxi
Kain's voice remained cold, but his words were sharp and direct. "We go underground. I'll make sure all comms are wiped and encrypted. We'll split up for now—keep a low profile, don't make contact unless it's absolutely necessary. Jason, you'll lead one team. Yuki, you take another. I'll keep a watchful eye from here. I'll provide updates as needed."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡquh0wkyEzr
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpAzlFXcQIL
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbc8dnK1eZP
Jason nodded, his expression hardening. "Understood. We'll stay out of sight."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6VAot5AfD6
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5LF1Pftw9C
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBOw33kpEGe
Kain's gaze swept over the squad once more, his eyes narrowing with a quiet, deadly intensity. "And remember this: if they find us, it won't be just our heads on the line. The squad stays tight. We survive, or we all go down together."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtYBHCxhV0A
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi05bRDNIIy
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8EUIbi3EDy
There was a brief pause as everyone processed the gravity of the situation. Jason's jaw clenched, but he knew that Kain's words were a harsh truth. The team had always been in danger, but now, the threat was far more personal—and far more immediate.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Z2sSiCR7M
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCV0o8k6SPp
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0RKUUXrVNK
"Any questions?" Kain asked, his tone suggesting he expected none.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMIwly6A6K1
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq3cNFj578K
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTMsQnC3DtX
No one spoke. The silence in the room was heavy, but there was also an unspoken understanding. This was no longer just about missions and training. It was about survival.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs93P48MUpf
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcYFv3P6PXX
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHLBkg4aeEB
"Good," Kain muttered, his tone still unwavering. "Get moving. We have a lot of work to do, and not much time to do it."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbOiO90tQzw
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfWaWDpHSHv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3rMbcRvMjL
As the squad scattered, preparing for what lay ahead, Kain remained behind. He stared at the screen, the faces of Si-woo and the CEO's henchmen flashing briefly on the monitor before they were replaced by a map of the city. His fingers hovered over the controls for a moment, but then he simply leaned back, the weight of leadership settling back on his shoulders. This was the game they played—and Kain was determined to make sure they were the ones who walked away victorious.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsiPuKuiq75
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF4FsS5Oikd
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNg9unexPnI
The squad had barely begun to settle into their new orders when the door to the gym slammed open with a deafening crash. Everyone immediately turned, weapons instinctively drawn or hands poised to defend themselves. But the figure in the doorway was unmistakable—Sunghoon, one of their own, looking completely out of breath and visibly agitated. His clothes were torn, his hair matted with sweat, and his usually calm demeanor was replaced by a frantic energy that caught everyone off guard.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzQWK30Vohr
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEqS9Tg11Rq
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡViDUqK1Nv2
Jason's eyes narrowed in concern and was taken aback. "Sunghoon?! What the hell happened?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfow1XVCmm6
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKiB660QSYU
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFMHZ9nP4He
Sunghoon staggered inside, pressing a hand against the doorframe to steady himself. His breath came in ragged gasps, his chest heaving as he tried to regain control. For a moment, he didn't speak—his eyes scanning the room, his mind racing, no doubt considering what he was about to say.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEOVV2tqPif
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKmMnuraqn5
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdN52T02Fyx
"Sunghoon?" Kain's voice was sharp now, his usual calm demeanor giving way to a flicker of unease. "What's going on?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKDZE2qLhzr
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcWUY0BUZkr
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA1C85485Vo
He straightened up slowly, wiping a trickle of blood from his lip. His expression was grim, more serious than anyone had ever seen him. He took in a deep breath, then finally spoke, each word heavy with urgency.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzShlguYvlp
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUhbGzYmc3u
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeqBSDT1lVY
"They're coming," Sunghoon said, his voice strained but forceful. "The CEO's people... they're already here. They've got eyes everywhere."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPKcB4OC2ED
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfDtOH6nfFx
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcqc0RcqisH
Jason's jaw tightened. "What do you mean? You're saying they've found us?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo05YUiRWtx
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5UK40xCkRb
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNB2wxMI89X
Sunghoon nodded, shaking his head in disbelief. "I barely made it out. They've got surveillance teams sweeping the city. I tried to shake them, but I lost them for only a few minutes before they started closing in again. They've set up shop in key locations around the city, pulling strings, watching us... and now they know everything."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWOdX4T3euo
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkWils2snjO
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡglGd601SiM
He wiped the sweat from his brow, his face a mix of frustration and fear. "I saw some of them outside the building I was hiding in. They had these... high-tech drones. They've upgraded their operations. It's not just ground agents anymore, they've got tech that's tracking us."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2yuqm4ucbJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1RDF4Xz1nW
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrC6dCm2QGC
Kain's eyes narrowed dangerously. "So we've been compromised again. This is what I feared. Si-woo's not playing around anymore."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVUScgGAGH9
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIPPH7KgzNi
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx3UxonDR9t
Sunghoon took a slow, deliberate step forward, his voice low but firm. "It's worse than that. They've got information. Not just on us—but on you, Kain. The CEO knows everything about the operation, and they're coming for you specifically." He glanced at the squad, his gaze locking on each of them in turn. "We need to move. Now."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRBcsV7wLgX
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxTQ7cCqCIG
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNJYJHi9Ore
The air in the room thickened with tension. Jason exchanged a look with Sarah, his hand still on his weapon but his mind working to assess their options. He turned back to Sunghoon, his voice low but urgent. "How much time do we have? What's our next move?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGgBSAYAuZc
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL9HmYu1lch
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUmntv37uzw
Sunghoon's eyes flicked nervously toward the door, as if he could already hear the footsteps of their pursuers closing in. "Not much. They're mobilizing fast. I tried to lead them off, but they're too well-organized. They've already infiltrated some of the city's grids—they could be tracking our every move. We need to disappear and regroup, or we'll be caught in a trap."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡveIFF0sKMM
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE2cw2eLPr2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4QqhdyLket
Kain's gaze was steady as he regarded Sunghoon, his expression unreadable. But there was an unmistakable flicker of calculation in his eyes as he processed the new information. "How many are we talking about, Sunghoon? How many agents?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ73A5eO3STV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7CFAMTEs99
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ65Q8Bv6cD
"Too many," Sunghoon replied, frustration creeping into his voice. "It's not just about numbers anymore. They've got high-level operatives—mercenaries, tech specialists, you name it. They're ready for a fight. And they know we're dangerous."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOlvVprvGYv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdLsL9Wi6FF
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡowvp5Hy10g
Jason's fists clenched, his jaw tight with frustration. "So we go dark, then?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcuKoK3K62v
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMhjqbNn8IQ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKkscmLhcZ4
"Exactly," Sunghoon confirmed, still trying to catch his breath. "We need to disappear off their radar, but quickly. We can't afford to be careless. I'll give you all the details I know about their movements and the sectors they've been targeting. But we need to move fast. The moment they pinpoint us, it'll be over."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAvVkG7TtGa
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvXNmL93Qfw
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR88mWW7Sw3
Kain's voice cut through the tension like a knife. "Get ready. We split up immediately. We're not giving them a chance to corner us. Jason, you take half the squad. Sunghoon, you stay with me. We're going underground."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5jclFopRrY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQYxoJgUAUv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6pUXpzc2Ni
"Understood," Jason replied immediately, his eyes already scanning the room, thinking ahead to how best to divide the team.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAEbBTbmkRx
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6uRS0zrquB
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFrsvfcFJJH
Sunghoon wiped his forehead again, glancing around at the squad. He wasn't usually one to show signs of panic, but the gravity of the situation was starting to weigh heavily on him. The look in his eyes now was one of a man who knew the stakes—and knew they were dangerously high.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqn5pqnFjYh
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMC4Ov9VMEX
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkRZUsS0f5w
"We've always been one step ahead of them," Sunghoon said quietly, meeting Kain's gaze. "But if we don't act now, we won't get a second chance."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIZ00FAB9QS
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv3HfwfX4Rr
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIZUBA2D600
Kain nodded once, his voice cold and commanding. "Then let's not waste it."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡROKPCtwwUN
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqr07BOnV4W
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMLkBXs1I83
As the squad swiftly mobilized into action, Sunghoon took a step back, his mind still racing through the details of what he had seen. They were no longer just on the defensive. They were being hunted—and the only way out was to outsmart their enemies before it was too late.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7h41xRVsx1
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjS1U0WEGqk
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgHxL4JpHvu
... 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj8fPC4VzBu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxjoubnMFx5
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt8ydT0GYuE
The trio, consisting of Bryan, Sally, and Ava, had come together with a shared goal: to focus on their respective work tasks and complete the jobs at hand. They were methodical in their approach, each contributing their unique skills and strengths to get the job done efficiently. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl3ltaoB0TS
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ81JhzuHtTj
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmwBFgjcRsO
Bryan, known for his meticulous attention to detail, tackled the more technical aspects of the tasks. Sally, the creative one, brought fresh ideas and innovative solutions to the table, ensuring the work was both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Ava, with her strong organizational skills, kept everyone on track and ensured that deadlines were met, all while maintaining a sense of harmony among the group. Together, they formed a well-balanced and effective team, steadily advancing toward their objectives.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYoYOzPHQC9
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDFcKPVWwRJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPzPmQC8WGC
Meanwhile, K-East, a popular boy group, was off to a different kind of challenge. They attended interviews at KBS, one of South Korea's largest broadcasting stations, where they answered questions, shared insights into their music, and engaged with the media in a charismatic and professional manner. The atmosphere was electric, as fans eagerly followed the event. After the interviews, K-East performed their songs live, showcasing their impressive vocal and dance abilities. The performance was nothing short of spectacular, with high-energy choreography, emotional delivery, and seamless harmony, further cementing their status as rising stars in the music industry. While Bryan, Sally, and Ava focused on their tasks, K-East was shining in the entertainment spotlight, each group excelling in their respective pursuits.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC8Peen4EMR
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe7UPaRqOma
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ61KaYk3WV
After the whirlwind of interviews and live performances, the members of K-East, along with Jiyoo, gathered in their lounge area backstage. They were winding down, exchanging stories from the day, when the conversation turned to a curious encounter they had witnessed earlier.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZUfdStb4Nk
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp8Ae05J2MA
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb53zkOgVQn
Jaesang, always the observant one, was the first to bring it up. "Any sign of that girl on the motorcycle?" He asked, leaning forward with a mix of curiosity and amusement in her eyes.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ1cc67elKP
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Tt4jeDk7r
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMKbTWkr6Ua
The K-East members, still buzzing with excitement from their performance, paused and exchanged glances. "So far, there's barely any trace of her. She really caused that flat tire on one of our cars," Ryung, the group's leader, said. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrWEhOxEdpf
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoWrzwai55a
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNgLyxhTAVc
"Yeah, that was crazy," Min-jun replied, a smile tugging at his lips. "She looked like she was in a rush, but there was something cool about her. Like, she didn't care about anyone or anything around her."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmoqfJOMV8M
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ27ND992T1h
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuVKFHUPGpE
"Right?" Jaesang added, chuckling. "She was going way too fast. Almost like she had some secret mission."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPIfzST6twP
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5exrKioTd5
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAig7bDwxQJ
"She definitely had the vibe of someone who wasn't afraid of anything," Hwan chimed in. "But, I don't know... I couldn't help but think there was a little mystery behind her."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdDIVVLxGz4
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTICmORYHPH
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuLwRjU77mB
"Yeah..." Jiyoo agreed, her tone taking on a more thoughtful quality. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyNZOSvodk9
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡviPe6524cG
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRoPARDameA
"I bet she's probably a rebel type," Min-jun mused, leaning back in his chair. "You know, the kind who doesn't follow the rules, lives on her own terms. I'm kind of curious if we'll ever cross paths with her again."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJMHYtg9J9G
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV75flNzDCO
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqJNGwDm5oN
"Maybe she's an undercover agent or something," Hwan jokes, leaning forward with a grin. "Imagine her showing up at one of our concerts in disguise."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ9RdGptA1Y
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZM4j7aiWFr
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsG1diF6RTq
"Or maybe she's just really into motorcycles," Jaesang said with a shrug. "But honestly, she made an impression. I don't think any of us will forget her anytime soon."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjljOCgYuGL
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqMDlhCikLZ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLncgsqTCDe
Jiyoo smiled at the playful banter but seemed lost in thought. "Who knows? Maybe we'll run into her again. It's funny how some people just have that kind of presence. She wasn't just passing through; she left an impression. Maybe she's someone special."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGeKuP6byL3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd6BrNlKg2e
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5HA7MSSjAQ
The group laughed together, but Jiyoo's lingering curiosity seemed to fuel their collective fascination with the mysterious girl. His lips faltered into a frown at the thought of her, not knowing how they are able to deal with her by the time they see her. The conversation drifted to other topics, but the image of the girl on the motorcycle stayed with them, lingering like an unsolved puzzle—one that would perhaps remain in their minds for much longer than they'd expected.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXbsBf1B5bW
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL1raG0wQ5g
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2EJcxZ9ENZ
As the group relaxed after the interviews and performances, the conversation shifted to memories from their past. Jiyoo was casually scrolling through his phone, checking messages, when Taeyun, who had been quietly lost in thought as well, suddenly looked up at him with a hint of uncertainty in his eyes.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiY2fHkxJrI
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡumt3ho1gDJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp787AJLO0o
"Hey, Jiyoo," Taeyun began, rubbing the back of his neck in that familiar way he always did when he was trying to remember something. "Do you... do you ever think about our old high school friend? The one who used to hang out with us all the time? I... I can't seem to remember her name, and it's bugging me."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6RF1zy6Dmx
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ27w3gHODlb
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6WAWMJXdGx
Jiyoo paused and looked up, his brow furrowing slightly. He wasn't sure where he was going with this, but he nodded in recognition. "Yeah, I remember her. She was always so cheerful, always got us into trouble with her wild ideas, right?" she said with a nostalgic smile, leaning back in her chair.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbT95vjjZhZ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM3NpP3n8u8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoIGmxeN7HS
Taeyun's eyes lit up, slightly relieved that Jiyoo shared his memory. "Exactly! She was the one who dragged us into that crazy camping trip where we ended up staying out all night. Remember how we almost got caught by the teachers because we snuck out?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkXEHCyDYqt
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHicFeaUx6w
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRIBLdXF2Hz
Jiyoo chuckled faintly at the memory, clearly evoking fondness. "How could I forget? She made us promise to keep it a secret, and we almost failed miserably when you accidentally spilled the beans to Mr. Dong. But the name... you're right. It's on the tip of my tongue. It's like I can see her face, but the name is just slipping away. What was it again?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhvVqRq32Xc
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9SUZTWC577
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4LhgHwophR
Taeyun tapped his fingers on his knee, trying to jog his memory. "I can picture her too—her laugh, her messy hair, those ridiculous neon-colored sneakers she used to wear—but the name's just not coming to me."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU0YFhZeYk2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuiwbOqoEIQ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBKtFJ6pXXZ
Jiyoo tilted his head with his thoughtful expression. "It's strange, isn't it? You spend so much time with someone, and then it's like their name just vanishes one day. I feel like if I heard it, it'd come rushing back."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyuyWk58rNy
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdAKdvGIGSH
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTSCYWCwbtZ
For a moment, the two of them sat in silence, each mentally sifting through the haze of their high school days. Then, Taeyun suddenly snapped his fingers, his eyes widening. "Wait, wait! I think I got it! Wasn't it... Hana? Yeah, Hana! That was her name."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLUi9ZnYWld
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAvE6vK463O
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡereqWHDnGr
Jiyoo's face broke into a smile as if a door had just been unlocked, but he was beginning to doubt a little and sighed. "I guess so. She was such a big part of our group. I wonder what she's up to now. Do you think she's still around?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgC96ICLOId
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjVr9AXydS5
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡArwp16C45y
Taeyun leaned back with a contented sigh, clearly relieved that he'd finally solved the puzzle. "I hope so. She was always so full of energy. I bet she's off doing something amazing. Maybe one day we'll run into her again. Wouldn't that be wild?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzpJ9dO1trg
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1LcLipx4lB
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmdtTaUWq2X
Jiyoo nodded, her eyes sparkling with a mix of nostalgia and curiosity. "It would be so good to catch up with her. If we ever find her again, we need to make sure we don't let her drag us into another one of her crazy schemes."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCKbQ0fXm3d
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcAm2gsRGy5
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRdUTS7xx6l
The two of them shared a laugh, the memory of Hana and their high school days bringing a sense of warmth and camaraderie. For a brief moment, it felt as though no time had passed at all, as if they could simply pick up where they left off, no matter how much had changed since then.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1vwUzyEDjc
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ7YbCMlAR8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx9HZ8S2z4M
Curiosity still lingering from their conversation about their former high school friend, Jiyoo and the others decided to take matters into their own hands. They weren't about to let the mystery of Hana's whereabouts go unsolved. After all, it had been years since they last saw her, but the memory of her vivacious personality was still fresh in their minds.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqlBTwTZnUU
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaq2QyqLfoU
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5FUG8VhZgn
"Alright," Jiyoo said, tapping his phone screen and turning it toward the group. "Let's see if we can find any trace of her online. Maybe there's a picture or something. I bet if we Google her name, we'll find something."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlaMYT7Jgko
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF8GrjuATvU
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD7Gdk5P1po
Taeyun, still looking thoughtful, grabbed his own phone. "I'll help too. I remember Hana was pretty active on social media back then. If she's still around, maybe we can find her profile or an old post."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgxqCPPclH4
Hwan leaned in, his curiosity piqued. "I feel like we should search for some of her old interests too. Remember how obsessed she was with music, art, and writing? Maybe those hobbies are still part of her life."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpLzERSn4Vg
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQV3Sltym54
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvXkvloI1ph
As they began searching, typing in various combinations of her name, past school activities, and hobbies, the group fell into a quiet rhythm. Each of them scanning their screens for any leads. After a few minutes of fruitless searching, Hwan suddenly gasped.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2mDPkFqQTq
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡruYXCsXWFA
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4UJXWg8WRB
"Wait, hold on! I think I found something..." he said, his voice rising with excitement. The others crowded around, peering over his shoulder at the screen. A photo appeared—an old group shot from high school, with their faces obscured by time, but there she was. Hana. Her hair was in a messy ponytail, her signature neon sneakers visible beneath her faded jeans with her eyeglasses on.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBdNhd7Bpmj
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkxerBsK7kU
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2BtKrwm8wV
"That's definitely her!" Jiyoo exclaimed. "I can't believe it, this is like a time capsule."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiucaSoVjba
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhOMcrz4u6z
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ80xAIRC3mn
"But this is just an old picture," Taeyun said, furrowing his brows. "Let's see if there's anything more recent."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡokhcv6Bvs1
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNNa4eAX7Ua
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡscTZK6fO6Q
After more searching, Jiyoo's eyes widened as he came across an article that seemed a bit out of place. It was about a recent award ceremony where a mysterious figure had taken the spotlight, receiving the "Platinum" award from Big Prime, an influential and high-profile company in the music and entertainment industry. The headline immediately caught his eye: "The Imposter Who Took Big Prime's Platinum Award by Storm."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaNnR9wFYMz
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRVzDWuCXuM
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKTPiy44sgT
As the group huddled around Jiyoo's phone, examining the article about the mysterious imposter and the "Platinum" award, a sudden thought struck Jiyoo—something that had been lingering at the back of his mind ever since their earlier conversation about the girl on the motorcycle. With a small smirk playing on his lips, he reached into his bag, pulling out a small, unassuming device.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCkcikLvqLA
The group turned to look at him in puzzlement.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOBh7KkftZC
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdPNLo1C1HW
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHF6lTrQoOu
"What's that?" Ryung asked, his eyebrows furrowing as he eyed the object curiously.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP5XVXd6Yqu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhs7SN3yft4
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzCykiuxtCK
Jiyoo held it up, letting it glint under the dim backstage lights. "It's a mini dot tracking device. I might have accidentally planted it on the motorcycle earlier today," he said, his tone playful but also a little mischievous. "I figured, why not? If this girl on the motorcycle was really as interesting as we thought, maybe we'd get lucky and track down where she went."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ232sPlmI3K
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFjM9RbvKXE
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHN9tKHFtbe
The rest of the group stared at her in stunned silence for a moment, before laughter erupted around the room.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYKbGfWzaM8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbO6xziSUTg
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYAZpqXpsND
"Wait, you what?" Taeyun asked, shaking his head in disbelief. "You threw a tracker on her motorcycle without telling us? And you're just telling us now?!"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJr0sqYVdQW
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDW2qyrqjJQ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjJJ55GJ8vp
Jiyoo shrugged nonchalantly. "I mean, I had a feeling there was more to her than just being some random biker. I figured if we were gonna find out anything, we needed to follow the trail. Plus, I didn't think anyone would notice."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1TsciElREp
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTM3gdKoPYV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgh70RUh00j
Jaesang's eyes widened as he leaned closer to the device in her hand. "That's... that's actually really clever. But are you sure it's even still there? She could've figured it out by now."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlAELl34fpr
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwVdyYtvPGN
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj9mAYFUAil
Jiyoo sighed, holding up his phone. "I checked earlier, and it's still working perfectly. It's connected to this app. We should be able to track her exact location. Honestly, I didn't expect it to be this easy. I mean, what's the worst that could happen? Either we track her to her destination, or we just chalk it up."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1yOsw4R1bf
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzWk9SSn0HP
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4eiPRiACsZ
Hwan shook his head, still trying to process the situation. "I can't believe you actually did this. It's a little... over the top, don't you think? I mean, tracking someone like that... it's kind of borderline creepy."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzSdHM0hEsm
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9UoEIMNJkq
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5TgLyXabjd
"I wasn't tracking her for no reason," Jiyoo quickly defended. "I just wanted to understand who she is. After all, she was an interesting part of our day. I mean, come on, she was acting like she had something to prove—or maybe she was running away from something. Either way, it's worth investigating."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz7xftm78ZF
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAWzkefezny
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWhl9Bbe2VJ
"Besides, we are already involved in this situation, so we might as well just get on with this," Taeyun said in agreement with his best friend.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡge0Ulwl0sm
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjigTI6xYwL
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlGvatcGgQi
"Right," Min-jun muttered with a nod.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIpamon4XHJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ56yJGF4dd0
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPdWErfjmRD
The group fell quiet as they stared at the small device, which blinks steadily on Jiyoo's phone, showing the motorcycle's movement across the map. It was a few streets away from the broadcasting station, and the device had been tracking her for the past few hours. The blip on the map seemed to stop near an unfamiliar area—a part of the city none of them recognized.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUxX166ccwu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBZgIuD1gJS
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC7TdWN5UNg
"Look," Jiyoo said, zooming in on the map, "it looks like she's stopped near this warehouse area. That's... strange, right? It's not exactly a place where people usually hang out."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZHsJ9PieeD
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxSpZdNQru6
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlMFwYJKnFZ
"I've heard of that part of town," Taeyun said slowly, narrowing his eyes. "It's kind of off the beaten path. A lot of shady stuff happens around there. Maybe she's just keeping it low?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHMoYEYOmKN
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK8yNU3R7Wq
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡigxdcCy3Kg
"Maybe," Jiyoo said, his voice trailing off. "But I don't think that's it. Something about this feels intentional. And if Hana is also somehow involved in all of this, it might be exactly where we need to go."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd1aZa245qU
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7kz2LaEusT
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvHAVAim8yG
Joon-woo leaned back, clearly intrigued, though a little uneasy. "So, we're actually going to check this place out? After everything we've been talking about? What if this is all a huge coincidence?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCknsLdO3c7
"Or maybe," Ryung said thoughtfully. "We've just stumbled on something bigger than we expected. We won't know unless we take the chance."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqPg6C7bw8e
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8jdKWBfDX8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡArckEv1EuA
The tension in the room was palpable as they all exchanged looks, uncertainty hanging in the air. The device on Jiyoo's phone blinked again, confirming that the motorcycle was still there, stationary. The warehouse district was dark and quiet on the map, giving the group an eerie feeling.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIKx3P1lkVc
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIpT9UTEpZ0
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9FRetNQMpW
"Alright," Jiyoo finally said, his voice firm with resolve. "We're doing this. We've come this far, and if this is really connected to Hana—or whatever she's become now—we need to know. Let's go."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡguNHRPfb1C
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxmuOHAH3eS
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYYKAWplWXi
"Wait," Hwan said, hesitating for a moment. "You're not seriously suggesting we follow her, right? I mean, what if we're walking right into something dangerous? This could be a trap."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡInkC057zQh
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGtGFDoMUXy
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5MizNEtQ6F
"I didn't think it through," Jiyoo admitted with a slight wince. "But we can't just sit here wondering. I don't know about you guys, but I've got a gut feeling this might be the clue we've been waiting for. Besides, we've faced worse things before. Let's just stick together and be careful."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVHMUgamoNe
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS1madyfxW4
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDogciuQyZe
With that being said, the group stood up from their seats as their minds continued to race with possibilities. They prepared to leave the comfort of their backstage lounge.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxlgf3Xi29q
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI2B7nbU2Vz
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPgzsaRymoN
Jiyoo, holding the tracking device in his hand, felt the pulse of excitement and uncertainty surge through him. Whatever was waiting for them at the warehouse, they would soon find out together.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsNXkGN5V68
It was already past 11 pm and the air was already thick with anticipation, just when the K-East members quietly slipped out of the Prime building area. They knew the next steps in their plan wouldn't be easy, but they were committed. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8CCfmZsZNW
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCL2RKVSmv1
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3oNPkVrTza
With Jiyoo and the others planning to investigate the mysterious location from the tracking device, K-East's role was clear; they needed to cause a distraction. The security guards who patrolled the perimeter of the building were sharp, and if they wanted to make it out unnoticed, they'd have to act fast.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhSHGvGQVZz
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq0nHMoGUt3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm3Tn59NfGa
Ryung glanced at the others and nodded. "Alright, here's the deal," he whispered, his voice low but confident. "We need to keep the guards occupied while the others head out. We'll create a diversion on the east side of the building to pull them away. The fewer eyes on the exits, the better."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWYXb0aOzWT
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPZtigG2a8q
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUfXkw0ziG9
Hwan always up for some action, grinned. "I've got an idea. I'll set off some of the alarms in the parking garage. That should get their attention."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfXAT7O9l9f
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy2sszImiFD
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHBEPS5TQHl
"Perfect," Jaesang added, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Once they're distracted by that, we can slip out through the loading dock. If we time it right, they won't even know we've gone."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0qPkoJU5We
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYJaoDXeL2B
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLFIkDFuCF2
The plan was simple, but it required precision. Taeyun, who had been keeping watch, gave a quick nod. "There's a guard near the back entrance. I'll make sure he's busy. If anything goes wrong, I'll handle it."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt8h7FYVod3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvD3xcG7prm
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZDxlGjb0z4
The group split into their roles, moving swiftly through the building's hallways, each member walking with the practiced confidence of those who knew how to blend in. Hwan and Joon-woo slipped down the corridor toward the service elevators, their steps light and quiet.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0NMyC4Pl2I
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjkdZMfusYK
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQM07rXYfaS
Meanwhile, Jiyoo and Taeyun headed toward the underground parking garage. Jaesang, already with a gleam in his eyes, pushed open a door that led to a dimly lit stairwell. "Here's where the fun begins," he muttered. As they descended to the lower levels, the sound of muffled conversations and the low hum of machinery echoed off the concrete walls. Ryung's eyes darted to a panel near the garage's entrance—a series of security alarms that could be easily triggered if one knew what they were doing.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjX5Re7ZDmw
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxYnd9Q0GRg
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjMGISwtLF6
"I'll hit the button," Ryung said, pulling his hood lower over his head as he neared the panel. "This'll get them running in circles."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOKuwRI1Wmx
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvF0GqXhkTw
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW9EcLNdb3t
Taeyun kept watch with his eyes trained on the hallway to ensure they weren't spotted. "Make it quick," he urged, his voice tense but controlled.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡReYG5INsZX
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhP2bqjZrH2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDFhcqxk00u
Ryung's fingers went flying over the panel. The alarms blared to life—loud, piercing, and sharp. The sound reverberated through the entire parking structure, instantly alerting every security guard in the area. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTwWkGt60XS
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYxD0v6ijDn
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf85QpF8pzq
In an instant, the place was in chaos. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjsSaDQfWnM
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡapAZxoEXzg
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMrgTlzGAF1
All the guards went scrambling to identify the cause of the disturbance, shouting to each other as they dashed through the garage.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡneGza5iKt3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlQQ8S88A9f
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTgPa9aJXFu
With the alarms ringing in the distance, the tension among the K-East members mounted. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1TPCON3Vgr
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDYih8gLFvO
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiUjaDcPaIl
Hwan and Joon-woo, now in position by the loading dock, watched as the guards, confused by the sudden noise, moved toward the parking garage. "This is our window," Hwan said under his breath, glancing at Joon-woo, who nodded in agreement. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOF1rWGANab
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ33E7kvvPhH
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq7eXXyv0xn
They took a few quick steps toward the exit, the sound of the alarms masking their movements.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDbyFTvo7As
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrfNaqCtdHG
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs7lHQcKao1
As the guards were preoccupied, the group moved with fluidity, their actions quick and decisive. They crossed the parking lot unnoticed, slipping out of the building through a side door that led into an alley. The quiet of the night felt like a breath of relief after the chaos they had just set in motion.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx0k0R0jvsw
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDK57C69t7H
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRkMGSYPuGp
"Let's go," Hwan said, a hint of excitement in his voice. "We've got just enough time to follow the others before anyone realizes we've left."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtn0twJQiA6
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9VyYbDG8zq
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡonFlSJIXJ0
They moved swiftly through the back streets, their steps light as they made their way toward the rendezvous point. The security disturbance had worked exactly as planned, and now they were on their way to join Jiyoo and the rest, ready to uncover the truth behind the mystery of the girl on the motorcycle and the enigmatic "Platinum" imposter, which is now known to be the suspect. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxWdfpskk6K
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPRvfo7bpSR
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb4qw1DRu9g
An hour later, K-East had been navigating a labyrinth of confusion and uncertainty since the first tracking alert pinged from Jiyoo's phone. They knew they were getting closer to finding out the identity of the mysterious figures who had been making their lives increasingly difficult, but every new piece of information only seemed to raise more questions.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJORsBbiFcK
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5B9dgcMoEM
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa4QdMSuGXy
Ryung's knuckles gripped the steering wheel of his car as he maneuvered through the streets. His mind was racing, trying to piece together the puzzle. The suspect, who had been leaving cryptic traces all around, was now heading to another location—likely to hide, possibly to meet someone else.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL766MmMGhd
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuSpSm9zuMN
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtTA5Pz04U4
"Do you think it's all the same person?" Joon-woo asked, breaking the silence in the car. His voice was quiet but intense, reflecting the unease they were both feeling.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDCasfLZo8f
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlxhypmgyK9
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyqRQz8f24j
Hwan's gaze stayed focused on the road ahead. "I don't know, but it doesn't make sense that we're dealing with three different people. Everything lines up too perfectly, almost like they're one step ahead of us." His words were laced with doubt, and yet, deep down, he felt something more sinister was at play—someone pulling the strings.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn5I7Om1c9e
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq9w37pRUs9
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5o68bbREOD
Joon-woo nodded, tapping his fingers against the dashboard. "The 'Platinum' imposter, the girl on the motorcycle, and the other person—if they're all the same person, we're dealing with someone incredibly dangerous, someone who knows how to manipulate everyone around them."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSeGq4o2VRv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPuh38jNNOe
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0x29hYDyeV
Hwan frowned. "But if it's one person, how do you explain the different personalities? Different skill sets? It doesn't add up."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO6QDKpF87l
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3egL4yg9Eb
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4ymivfqDMQ
Joon-woo sighed, leaning back in his seat. "That's the part that scares me. We're not just chasing a person anymore. We might be chasing an entire identity, a fake life."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu91kI8nnk1
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡghzELqfCTh
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGbOJBkcevK
Concurrently, Min-jun, Jiyoo, and Jaesang were in Taeyun's car, equally tense but determined. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLYJwcCC3hn
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2TPb0RmRK2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtxd38mjzvx
Jiyoo kept his eyes trained on the phone, watching the tracking signal pulse on the screen. "The suspect just exited the warehouse," he said, his voice steady but tinged with worry. "We need to move fast."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ22YZzDAry6
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ449ydXQxoH
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgBbz56D7Np
Jaesang, who was sitting behind him, couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. "What if it's not just one person? What if there are multiple imposters working together?" He had been vocal about his suspicions since the beginning, always hinting at the possibility of a larger conspiracy.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhaJ7H4dHYT
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUK640wMA6f
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2SPfm5zIAT
Min-jun's eyes narrowed as he analyzed the data Jiyoo had just relayed. "We can't assume that. If it's multiple people, we're not just dealing with an imposter—this is a coordinated effort. We need to figure out if we're chasing a single person or if we're up against a bigger web of deception."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuLQyN1xETV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJOYSp8lLtQ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0LFNNcz9Tj
Jiyoo exchanged a glance with Taeyun, who was focused on driving but visibly tense. "Do you think the girl on the motorcycle could be one of them?" He asked, already knowing the answer but wanting to hear it aloud.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH9wmkWUlg7
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRly12swR09
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsYd8OtrHRJ
"I don't think she's connected to the Platinum imposter directly," he said, his tone calm but firm. "But it's possible she's working with them—or at least knows something about them. If she's involved, it's more than just a coincidence. She might be the key to uncovering the entire operation."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaI1TyKyp0M
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkRb2IDyveS
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6WmRpxEZWk
Jaesang leaned forward and said suspiciously. "What if there's no 'Platinum' imposter? What if we're seeing the same person in different forms? A master of disguise?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgsgCYtYkS7
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJC0FFCCqh5
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9VP1Nn5uOq
Jiyoo shook his head and said. "Then, we're dealing with a genius."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzQvlU3Q0Qj
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZpTLlkREdC
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtIW0mWzXV6
They all knew the stakes. The mystery of the Platinum imposter, Hyun-Aera's imposter, and the girl on the motorcycle that leaves warehouse traces was far bigger than any of them had anticipated.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt9Twg7PxFJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9aur4DXrd5
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2gU6pVJw80
The decision was clear now that the group had split up, agreeing that staying together would only increase the risk of being detected. They would have to rely on their individual skills, knowledge, and instincts to track down the mysterious figures. The distance between them felt like it could be a death sentence, but it was the only way forward.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2caw9Rrreu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRHBMTDnBsF
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU5dPa5XSUv
Hwan and Joon-woo kept their eyes peeled for any sign of the suspect's next move, hoping the trail would lead them to the imposter's true identity. Along with Min-jun, Jiyoo, Taeyun, and Jaesang, they were on a parallel track, hoping to catch any clues that would tie the motorcycle girl to the Platinum imposter—or reveal that they were the same person all along.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXtJZs2zYan
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX5gvgJIOl7
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfSuKcVKboP
The tension was palpable in both cars as they sped through the night, each member wondering the same thing: Who was behind all of this?94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ37hIntJDgn
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6vbcGbkM30
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPKvICuslfc
They all had just begun to process the information they had gathered when Jiyoo's phone buzzed, signaling another new tracking alert. The notification was a sharp jolt to their already heightened senses. His eyes quickly scanned the message, and he immediately relayed the news to the others, his voice calm but with a trace of urgency. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkI7gDhLi9S
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJN63bCf7T9
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNLc1JLl282
"The suspect just exited the warehouse. They're on the move again. Heading to another location—likely somewhere in hiding," Jiyoo announced, his tone firm as his fingers hovered over the screen, zooming in on the map that showed the suspect's next possible destination.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZGT5StniYW
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKZqJOJHyWs
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWLIAiyT6Vf
Min-jun was quick to lean forward, his brows furrowed with concern. "Another place? This person's been on the move all night. How long are we going to keep chasing shadows?" His frustration was palpable, but his voice never wavered. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuEdCX0lprQ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUqYukgkXEA
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcO01pNioez
Jaesang, sitting behind Jiyoo in the backseat, gave a slight shake of his head. "We can't assume it's just one person anymore. How do they keep getting away? The fact they're using different locations to hide only proves they know we're onto them. We might be dealing with someone who's more than just an imposter."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuC6zClzw7M
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbNNjmWdQ7n
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6VfhL2U3pB
Taeyun, focused on the road ahead, threw a quick glance toward the rearview mirror at the others. "We can't afford to second-guess now. We have one chance to catch up to them before they disappear again. No more hesitation."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡClknztZwY8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGUv3vaChYh
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDT4NOs7bKs
Jiyoo nodded and glanced back at his phone, fingers quickly typing out a message to Ryung and the others in the other car. "We need to move fast. Hyungs, you're not far from the next location. Stay sharp." 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU6aAGPzj33
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4qNtHHHPPy
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ96XUEZl9kC
The silence in the car was thick as they all processed the weight of the moment. It was clear that this wasn't just about finding an imposter anymore—it was about uncovering the tangled web of deception that had been carefully spun around them. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfErzuDJ9TY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYhJWBWm4Ou
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXLdCahL5vK
Jiyoo exhaled sharply. "Do you think it's all connected? The two imposters and the girl on the motorcycle... Is it the same person doing all of this?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrxb4YecCvw
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgAKzhVp9fh
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIWSyMLQRac
Min-jun's lips tightened as he thought for a moment. "I can't say for sure, but whoever they are, they're trying to lead us in circles. I'd bet anything they're expecting us to make a mistake, and we can't let that happen." He paused, his expression hardening. "If it's the same person, they're playing us like puppets."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwsXyKSs744
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzYZVjGKuIu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTWYuLdGS97
Jaesang added. "It could be three different people, but at this point, I don't think we can rule anything out. One thing's for sure—whoever this is, they're dangerous."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaoz6MYqbp6
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqhl7FCp4eo
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpcP4EgZnAH
Taeyun nodded, keeping his eyes on the road. "We split up. They won't expect that. We'll each head to different points and try to surround the suspect."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhpFZ06IKPh
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeVKvxQGyq7
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCuPqFbEQlX
The car sped toward the next location as the weight of the chase hung over them. The suspect was slipping through their fingers yet again, but they couldn't afford to lose track of them now. They needed to know who was behind this, and why they were being hunted. The answers felt just out of reach, but the team was determined to get them—no matter what it took.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2RoolLXYL0
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqiZNmXMihh
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ361xbLE2yC
As the K-East members drew closer to their destination, they all knew the time for subtlety was over. The moment had come for them to close in on the suspect, and they had no intention of letting anyone escape.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqVqFMfsJMl
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd7YlgcIES5
After a quick exchange of messages, they decided to split their efforts further to ensure that no one would escape unnoticed. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9kpW9h5VL3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9mYyyj4tT1
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFQOwSCr506
Hwan, Joon-woo, and Ryung's car took up position at the first exit, their eyes scanning the surrounding area with acute focus. The parking garage they were positioned near had only two exits, and they knew the suspect would need to leave through one of them. With their car parked in a narrow lane, they blocked the path without drawing attention. The faint hum of the engine was the only sound that accompanied their tense silence. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvMSFAki6fu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6vaQKMIyqH
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIXIkMs6j4X
Ryung kept his gaze locked on the exit, every instinct telling him that this would be the moment the suspect would make their move. "We can't let them get away this time," he muttered under his breath, gripping the steering wheel. His voice was low, but determination radiated from him. Joon-woo, sitting in the passenger seat, nodded grimly. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWWQOvtOX2X
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5CLXaCxESZ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7TiSWhUbwC
"If they try to leave this way, we're stopping them—no hesitation," Ryung glanced in the rearview mirror, his eyes constantly scanning for movement, hoping that the others on the other side had set up their block too.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ3B33uIDXE
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFKzrX3hc2A
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlLlBCsuTRV
On the other side of the building, Min-jun, Taeyun, and Jaesang were ready to execute their own part of the plan. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAdnI9nPT6a
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtU9LLIHAqN
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcWM570gaP7
Their car was parked at the second exit, hidden in the shadows of a nearby building, giving them a clear view of anyone who might attempt to leave. They'd been waiting for what felt like an eternity, but now the final pieces were in place. Min-jun was the first to speak, his voice steady despite the tension in the air. "This is it. No one leaves through here without us knowing. We've got this side covered."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqm9rhWPQMU
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2WdUHuQBnQ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUxULDLXN0N
Jaesang gave a quick nod and peered out of the window, scanning for any sign of movement. "We've got a clear line of sight. If they try to sneak out, we'll be right on them." His voice was confident, but there was an edge of urgency in it. They knew they couldn't afford any mistakes. Taeyun, always the calm presence in the group, checked his watch before speaking up. "Stay alert. They'll be expecting something, and we need to catch them off guard. If they get away, we're back to square one."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZai88bGoBk
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS8GEvnjxTY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh58NxKMkRq
The minutes had passed and the team was now in position, silently waiting. Each member is aware of the immense pressure to act swiftly and decisively. The exits were covered, and there would be no way for the imposters to escape without facing one of them.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTWySDv0bHa
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTgvjjvxbuA
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX8w7jOvj5o
Jiyoo sat in the backseat of Taeyun's car, his eyes focused on the tracking device in his hand. The steady beeping of the signal was the only sound breaking the tense silence among the team. His mind raced, trying to make sense of the next move. The imposters were close, but they had yet to make any decisive moves. His fingers gently gripped the device as he looked up at the team.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFl2GkbRPUD
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrVyCY9JnJ0
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs9Elkq7IHP
"I'll go," Jiyoo said, his voice calm but unwavering. It was a decision he had made at that moment, knowing the urgency of their situation. His gaze flickered to each of his teammates, his eyes hardening with resolve. "I'm the one who can track them down. With this device, I can follow their trail without being detected."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM4obROSNbU
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSWD56cOVwN
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡURw7EeY2aU
Taeyun, who had been silent up until then, turned to look at him, his expression both concerned and approving. "Are you sure? It's risky. We don't know what we're walking into."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfkfz6z9IrP
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsBO6rbIikC
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8FlL0C995g
Jiyoo gave a small nod, his confidence in his skills shining through despite the stakes. "I'm sure. I can handle it. Besides, it's the best shot we've got." He met Taeyun's gaze firmly, making it clear that this was the right move.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDB2Kw2n2lJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGfdmRwtC2I
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd3oYwt2fQi
Min-jun, sitting beside Jaesang, leaned in forward and his brow furrowed. "We trust you, Jiyoo. Just... be careful. If anything feels off, you come back immediately."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2sQUUKBD2o
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSTFbcn5LX6
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLfAyxNXetr
Jiyoo's eyes softened, a flicker of gratitude passing through them. "I will. I'll stay in touch. Just keep the exits covered, okay?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLICeujuK83
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlaV3Vr5XGY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaHehIqsQ2f
With a final look of determination, Jiyoo opened the car door and stepped out into the night air. His team's voices faded as he moved, the sound of the tracking device in his hand now the only constant. The darkness around him felt almost suffocating, but he was used to the shadows. He had always preferred them. With each step, he became more focused on the mission at hand.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxnxe34Q4Ph
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNwdTZjAUvF
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa3XKvUqZfj
He carefully made his way through the tall grass and the wind rustling softly around him near the building. His mind racing as the beeping from the tracking device guided him closer to the target. The device vibrates slightly, a signal that they were nearing the source. Jiyoo's eyes narrowed as he approached a massive, seemingly abandoned building up ahead. It looked like an old crack house—abandoned, with no signs of recent activity. But the device was pulsing stronger now. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡreRJa3ZU13
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVDgPgTzBHg
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6EqRScqPkU
"This is it," he muttered to himself, his voice barely audible above the wind. The crack house stood like a dark sentinel, its walls cracked and covered in grime. The windows were boarded up, and the heavy door hung half open, as if inviting him to step inside. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ7If18GN5G
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4ZxFsoXbF2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIv8X5cYpl3
Jiyoo hesitated for a moment, the hairs on the back of his neck standing on end. Something felt off about this place, but his instincts told him this was where he needed to be. He glanced back at the car, reassuring himself that his team was covering the exits. He had no time to waste.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsOxMocfESf
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt1D69Qk5vR
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY4m8qHJ1Cr
With a final, quiet breath, Jiyoo took a step forward, making his way toward the entrance of the crack house. He was closing in on the truth, and nothing was going to stop him now.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEsKbX421e4
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzRQiSGjdJL
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFNAx23NADV
The weight of the mission pressed on him, but he was ready. He had always been the one to track and follow the clues, and now, more than ever, he knew that finding the imposters—and exposing their true identities—was a task that fell squarely on his shoulders.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy7WRThkAUv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfSb9X9FxD2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmZptG61RYz
His footsteps were measured, deliberate, each one bringing him closer to the mysterious building ahead. The structure loomed ominously, a large, abandoned crack house standing like a forgotten relic from a bygone era. There was an unsettling silence around it, the kind that made the hairs on the back of his neck stand up. His tracking device in hand continued to beep, signaling that the suspect was nearby, yet there was something off about this place. It didn't feel right.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzqL2dKFVMF
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJEMgqpJaD7
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNXrmck52sw
Jiyoo took a deep breath, steeling himself before moving closer to the cracked door. With a quiet push, he entered, slipping into the shadows without a sound. His footsteps echoed lightly on the floorboards, but he moved with purpose, his eyes scanning the dimly lit interior. Dust particles floated in the air, creating an eerie stillness as if the building hadn't been disturbed in years. It was a strange place to find the truth, but his gut told him that this was where the imposters had been hiding.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLkSgFlB7uw
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhtrC0l5D8p
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT5d4gdTEMJ
He made his way deeper into the building, moving cautiously through the rooms. Each step was deliberate, his breathing quiet and controlled as he searched for any sign of life—or any clue that would bring him closer to unraveling the mystery. His heart beat steadily in his chest, but the air was thick with tension, making every creak of the floorboards feel magnified.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYIhZLvFfOL
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB75uPTIQKf
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDJEqFOTmMt
As he entered a narrow hallway, his foot nudged something small and metallic. It rolled with a soft clink, echoing through the room. Jiyoo froze, his eyes darting toward the sound. A small tin can, old and worn, had moved slightly across the floor. He narrowed his eyes and took a careful step forward, unsure of what he had just triggered. But before he could make another move, the can tipped over, spilling a few small contents as it rolled. Then, without warning, it let out a faint hiss as a haze of smoke began to pour from it. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgjXAMT8qOu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡURzAIkRWTX
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4DlXFAlTvu
Jiyoo's instincts flared, and he took a sharp breath, eyes widening in realization. *A trap.* He had no time to think. The smoke filled the room quickly, swirling and thickening around him, making it hard to see. He stumbled backward, coughing, his heart racing. The air was heavy, almost suffocating, and the smoke seemed to distort everything around him. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV8HcVW3QJz
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr43q1ZejX3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4FTDdcM8RX
"Damn it!" Jiyoo muttered under his breath, his voice strained as he covered his mouth, trying to hold his breath. He had walked straight into a carefully laid trap. Panic surged briefly, but he shook it off, focusing on the mission. He had to stay calm.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTixGnZbwSj
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBHGLRCduYX
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlNJWHviPUz
The smoke swirled and thickened, reducing visibility to nearly nothing, but Jiyoo was trained for situations like this. He pulled out a small flashlight from his pocket, flicking it on and cutting through the haze. His eyes scanned the room in the dim light, trying to find any clue, any trace of the imposters—anything that could lead him to their true identity.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5kmsSmqDaB
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN33TgoZ6VY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlebRrw3lSv
"Stay calm, Jiyoo," he whispered to himself, his voice steadier now. "Focus. This is just another obstacle." He stepped forward cautiously, trying to make his way deeper into the house, his flashlight scanning the dark corners. The smoke seemed to be everywhere, growing thicker with every passing second. His fingers tightened around the flashlight, determined not to let the trap defeat him. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyonxe0UY5T
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡivnqa5RpgT
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrGDz1HaVuz
Then, as the smoke began to clear, Jiyoo's instincts screamed at him—something wasn't right. The building was still silent, but the air felt wrong. He took a slow, deliberate step forward, keeping his eyes peeled for any sign of movement. His hand slid to his side, readying for whatever came next.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvnBYXAC9jt
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTvGxZdrJih
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOfqDmov2hD
The mystery of the imposters was about to get even more dangerous.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwxmUZV080Q
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdLAr3DIEHA
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmAD1Iq3Rz6
Jiyoo's lungs burned as the smoke thickened around him, forcing him to cough violently. His hand shot up to cover his nose, but it didn't help much. The air was dense, and his vision blurred, the flashlight's beam slicing through the haze but revealing little. His mind raced, trying to make sense of what was happening. He had fallen right into their trap, but he couldn't let panic take over. *Stay focused. You're close. Don't let them get away.*94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9MKjCDirrb
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkxn6LtsdI4
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEuE2UpPQAF
Just as he took another step forward, his head was suddenly struck hard from behind. The force sent a shock of pain through his skull, and his vision blurred for a split second. He stumbled, the impact dizzying him for a moment. But before he could react further, his training kicked in—his body responding instinctively. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpOdilVHdYG
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq1IxFYc1PM
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYNiHythv1B
He spun around sharply, his muscles tense and ready. In one smooth motion, he delivered a spinning kick, his leg slicing through the air with precision. The kick landed solidly, connecting with the chest of his attacker. The force sent the imposter crashing to the floor with a heavy thud. Jiyoo's heart raced, his breath coming in quick bursts, but he didn't stop. He quickly moved into a defensive stance, his eyes scanning the area, searching for any more threats. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUZu9R4KKQu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFWlFSn5A5S
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwpOMbo2Lmg
The figure on the ground groaned, dazed but still conscious. Jiyoo stood over them, his breath steady despite the adrenaline coursing through his veins. The person was dressed in black, their face partially hidden beneath a dark mask, making it hard to tell who they were. The smoke still lingered in the air, but Jiyoo's focus was sharp now, honed in on his fallen attacker.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaaKpn6GSBm
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJPXqCesOPG
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyGTqn9bnMT
"Who are you?!" Jiyoo demanded, his voice cold as he moved closer, eyes narrowing. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXKZzca98ud
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnEeOPv5C12
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbOptQyJaRy
The imposter groaned again, but didn't respond, their body still twitching slightly from the impact. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ72w74ojQ5R
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFpP0lFQKRj
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoBlwh8v2YN
Jiyoo's mind continued to race. This wasn't just some random trap—this was the person he had been chasing. He had them now, and he wasn't about to let them slip away, but something didn't sit right. The smoke, the ambush, and the eerie silence of the crack house—everything felt too staged, too deliberate. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHTHjzctR2z
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4s3t5PeuiI
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnD5WEd9gnJ
He knelt down, his hand hovering over the imposter's mask. "If you won't talk, I'll make you," he muttered under his breath, his fingers twitching in anticipation. But before he could pull the mask away, the sound of footsteps echoed in the distance—someone else was coming.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzNps4kdE7h
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmYgtYxUXfG
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMM8JVKrPLD
Jiyoo's grip tightened, and his mind snapped back into focus. He wasn't alone anymore.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQc0Qprr0NR
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6P1OEuscfg
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡehRdnu3J70
The imposter, still on the ground, managed to regain their bearings faster than Jiyoo had anticipated. In an instant, they lunged at him with their hands grabbing for the Platinum object. They were now locked in a desperate struggle as their bodies twisting and turning as they fought for control of the object. The room around them seemed to spin in a chaotic blur of motion, the thick smoke only adding to the confusion.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHQ6BrYOpjs
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpPtEOwSxg7
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwtF0RXocYo
Jiyoo's breath came in sharp gasps as he struggled to keep the suspect pinned down. They were stronger than he expected, especially their movements fueled by a fierce determination. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkD3inwfrvz
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXUydpTl5Eh
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWRZfleA1Qc
The sound of their struggle echoed throughout the crack house as their bodies crashed into walls. The floor shook beneath them as they tangled. He could feel the cold, hard object slipping through his fingers, but he wasn't about to give up that easily. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj1AVOI58Xk
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFeKKMJTxDB
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡctuyxrFjXS
"Let go of it!" Jiyoo growled, trying to wrench the Platinum object free from their grip, but they weren't having it. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7YXf5zTnvo
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO9EVIVHOVw
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjzKcG9FWwV
They kicked him by sending him stumbling back, but he quickly regained his stance, stepping forward to wrestle her down once more. The object continued to slide between their hands, rolling off their bodies with every shift and struggle.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNxcOuZX8E3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjCahrc2tYb
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3IlvGxjMxN
In the heat of the battle, the two of them collided with the wall in the corner of the room. The force of the impact rattled the nearby furniture, and the Platinum object was sent flying, landing with a heavy thud against the ground. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh0WeWu3qkJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEC6RkMhpB8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqtr7VhrCks
Both of them stopped for a split second, eyes flicking toward the object, but neither made a move to grab it. The tension in the room was palpable, the fight far from over.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK3E2s6EBKJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmWAXWvGMfG
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfEgvm5GEN4
With a swift motion, Jiyoo toppled over her, his body pinning hers to the floor. She squirmed underneath him, her hands clawing at his chest as she fought with everything she had. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFKqIPhgFLt
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5ckFzdXNf7
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLK8GLG6L6U
As they struggled, something unexpected happened. The helmet that had been so securely fastened to their head slipped free, tumbling off and revealing her face.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7r9v0qfGtv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Zvou0EZj7
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSwHTIceqsN
Jiyoo froze for a brief moment, eyes widening in bewilderment and disbelief. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8NngbJQSr3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCdeIS9mP2r
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUYL5YeRUQ6
Underneath the mask was a woman that he recognized as she stared back at him, full of alarm, timidity, and defiance. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzxP1hNQjbF
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtb4bRL4qcS
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8r1Ssf30P7
The mystery was thickening and the same person he had been expecting, but the situation didn't allow him time to process it. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh6ujRwEPnL
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡto36goSUAK
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ2xhrNpaCX
Jiyoo's eyes grew wider at the person that revealed herself, which shook him to the point that he had seen a ghost. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgsyR6YvMi4
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd1DQBzohEm
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfc2Gmv7zzF
"You are...!"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT1IJB2wral
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb4plBruUmh
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPD2fJbDoNq
She glistened back and forth at him in astonishment for about a few seconds, then bolted upright by backing away. Her hair swiftly tossed behind her just as she held her gun directly at him before she clicked it and commanded him firmly. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡruO1rRzUGb
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡniPlpD2Fvj
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGVApftYRje
"Stop! Don't come any closer..."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHBrE9qYcSG
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCBiPcQuowx
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHuzPvgFn4k
Jiyoo halted on his tracks, so he then glowered at the sight of her bracelet that struck him to a realization by saying slowly. "Valerie.... After all this time..." 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjoPkqohQNA
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmk30Gyrvas
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBvPqsCnlB4
She made no response to him whatsoever since she kept her impassive gaze at him fiercely.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfHcPv15ahr
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpMqOltY7lu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡanhtzMFCuQ
"Your name isn't Hana, nor is it Hyun-Aera... it's Yon-hae..." Jiyoo enunciated carefully and repeated in a daze.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmvLD9oyCwD
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5Zna3ZLzU9
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr7pFzrwQ5u
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ26XwFianMa
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkPH0hydIMb
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUr4mJAupOA
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlBfg7aheNM
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgPuteaNz6Y
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb4R7pTkHIo
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS3ZMvYP8TS
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3EvKfD1DSF
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡamax3JDbUs
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWeGLD47yuw
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtiicnGEydu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSC1vM3nTja
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI9TOWehc6z
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu3FuqMhRCS
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxmqidQazrO
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoseV5D0fHq
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ27OgKfNxU9
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0r7CaevJdx
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRrCDqyvtrg
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡliquKvzXLg
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq2Ytwe1Ki1
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEyQ7TTtKJH
"Yon-hae Lockhart..."The air in the private conference room was thick with anticipation. The walls, soundproofed to ensure no outside interference, provided an almost suffocating sense of privacy. The only light came from a sleek overhead lamp casting a cold glow on the glossy, dark wood table at the center of the room. Si-woo sat at the head of the table, fingers drumming lightly against the surface as he glanced at the clock on the wall. He was waiting for someone—another mysterious figure in the world of K-pop who, despite being an idol, had managed to maintain an elusive and almost ghostly presence in the industry.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJVXLpu9jkm
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsYkyBm3bTD
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeRpAZhG81z
The door creaked open, and Si-woo's gaze immediately snapped toward the entrance. Standing there was none other than Tracer, a top-tier K-pop idol with a reputation that made even the most powerful figures in the entertainment industry look over their shoulders. His striking appearance, chiseled features, and air of quiet dominance had made him one of the most sought-after idols in the world. But it wasn't just his fame that made him valuable. Tracer had connections—dangerous ones—and Si-woo needed them if he was going to unravel the tangled conspiracy that had been unfolding behind the scenes.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQPw3bAq8gC
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfjzerYcsRd
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeiCT7Qs9z2
Tracer entered the room without a word, his dark eyes scanning the surroundings before settling on Si-woo. A faint smirk tugged at his lips. "I trust this meeting is as important as you've made it sound, Si-woo," he said in a low, steady voice, his tone filled with quiet authority. "You've called me here for a reason. What is it you want from me?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡABFWYVY8Ew
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQLaCN3pmTO
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNxVFGPiBWH
Si-woo leaned back in his chair, his expression unreadable. "You could say it's a matter of mutual interest," he replied, his voice calm but laced with an undercurrent of tension. "I've been following your movements, Tracer. You're not as invisible as you think. But I'm sure you know that already. You and I, we're not so different. We both have our secrets."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC07xFJdQ8d
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0aqx2YjBfJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTyPMz4oTOo
Tracer raised an eyebrow, intrigued but still guarded. "Secrets? Everyone in this industry has secrets, Si-woo. It's part of the game. But that doesn't mean I'm in the habit of sharing them."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRI3IH17nF4
Si-woo's lips curled into a small, almost imperceptible smile. "Not sharing, no. But I think you'll be interested in what I have to offer."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPVzikkoTe4
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9klTaIW7fu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz02wiS8w6W
With a gesture, Si-woo motioned to the other side of the table. "This is Hawk," he said, his tone more formal now, like he was introducing someone of significant importance. "They've been in the shadows, gathering intelligence, tracking the real players behind all the leaks and power struggles within the industry. Hawk is not just any spy, Tracer. They're someone who's been embedded deep within the system, someone who knows what you can't see from the outside."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl4LzaBddl8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡck80Zy8PIi
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhK7HEaWLF2
From the shadows across the room, Tracer stepped forward. Their face was mostly obscured by a dark mask, but their posture was fluid, controlled, and exuded the kind of quiet menace Si-woo knew all too well. As they moved toward the table, Tracer's sharp eyes never left them, a flicker of recognition—or perhaps wariness—flashing across his features.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD3PH0K6Asd
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH7j2mcceob
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZuvTlgIUnL
"You?" Tracer asked, his voice edged with surprise. "You're the one who's been pulling the strings behind the scenes?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4LocoR4pRn
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoK6oDVbpkV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjUk0eNzTBp
Hawk didn't respond immediately. Instead, they moved to the opposite end of the table, their eyes locked on Tracer's, studying him with an intensity that seemed to strip him of his composure. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡja3A72ooMd
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjkmw7n56oJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZcoEy5OseL
Finally, they spoke, their voices deep and clipped. "I've been watching everything," they said. "The leaks, the manipulations, the alliances forming behind closed doors. Everything. I know who's behind the curtain. And I know how to stop them."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8XGeKlrsb8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1GHGljxoMN
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrf50UyNFE3
Si-woo's eyes flicked between the two of them, sensing the tension in the room. This wasn't just a casual meeting. This was a power play. Kai, despite his calm exterior, was sizing up Hawk, evaluating how much trust he could afford to place in them. After all, a spy like Hawk was a double-edged sword—valuable, yes, but just as dangerous if they decided to play their own game.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWYmLdqsth1
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTRfWcPpnj1
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcXI8QEsz6w
Tracer spoke with his voice cool and calculating. "And what makes you think I need your help, Hawk? I've got my own sources. I don't need some shadow to tell me who's leaking information or sabotaging careers."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtwWTzO1zQc
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKVrpLmZIV2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnrzTYHMVOz
Hawk tilted their head slightly, unfazed by the challenge. "You've got sources, but they're limited. What you don't have are the connections that can take you straight to the core. The ones pulling the strings? They've been operating under the radar for far too long, and you're still hunting for answers. Let me make it simple for you. We either work together, or you keep stumbling in the dark."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0UKJ3DhS0F
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtYuuEPnnB0
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf9P4KHMFH8
Tracer's gaze hardened, but there was a flicker of something in his eyes—a realization that perhaps Hawk was right. He had been running in circles, trying to maintain control, but there were deeper forces at play. Forces that Hawk seemed to understand intimately.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxMUWqIBaAM
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZZI2Y8Gxte
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhm6xumRSas
"Any information?" Tracer repeated, his voice quiet but edged with curiosity. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡISd1qZ0v2d
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAZv1p5ipWV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV8C5oUby1N
Si-woo interjected before Hawk could answer, his tone sharp. "Not just any information. This is the kind that could change everything for you. If you want to know who's really pulling the strings in this industry, if you want to be on top of the game instead of buried beneath it, you need to listen."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmTbXTXo6sq
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUza2zXsDwJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiBDdBf7E2S
Hawk finally spoke again, their eyes unwavering. "I've got the names. The players who think they can control the industry. And if you want them to fall, Tracer, you're going to have to get your hands a little dirty."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSGkgBuLOFi
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdu2ieIQaXw
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡufObl0bTSl
The weight of their words settled into the room, and for a long moment, there was silence. Si-woo could feel the tension rising between the two. Tracer was a man of action, and Hawk wasn't offering empty promises. This was a dangerous game, and they were all players in it now.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV2NkPq90jZ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ46nh7FJJT1
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjauDZD9LJP
Tracer finally leaned back in his chair, his gaze never leaving Hawk. "Alright," he said, voice low. "I'll hear you out. But know this—if you betray me, you'll regret it."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr9pDuHNBz8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwHQ1aPWAPE
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdrjNTGAd91
Hawk gave a single nod, their eyes still unreadable behind the mask. "Trust is earned, not given. And right now, we need each other. Let's see where this takes us."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfT75TQNLam
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWJCbGOo8Mb
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQunjPR6sQE
Si-woo watched as the two of them locked eyes, a new, unspoken understanding passing between them. The alliances were forming, but so were the risks. In this world of hidden power, no one was ever truly safe.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHqFVmpFfpR
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3dwNBEgfME
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0J7NZq0Kdd
...94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlywlnNwgT7
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg3ndAvUrgV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMb4aPA5MUP
...94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0IVhO4UTKH
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu3spT1OMps
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCSExMDdoCU
...94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZjZhJ3Kphp
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq7hluTWJA0
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4ufIsR88p6
Three days later, the conference room was filled with the soft hum of conversation as the K-East team gathered for a crucial private meeting. The walls, adorned with promotional posters of the group's past achievements, seemed almost surreal in the tense atmosphere. The staff had been preparing for this moment for days — the team was about to discuss the upcoming changes to their schedule and the postponement of their highly anticipated GO! K-EAST show.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN2SuMV1Mzk
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdLuza1mdls
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3SKPAXdb3D
At the head of the table was of course their CEO, Bang Si-woo. His eyes scanned the room, noting the concerned faces of his staff and managers.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNKLww5B3lw
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyrLZH5mcgV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE8qWHHVaZP
"Alright, everyone," Si-woo began with his voice calm but authoritative. "Thank you for coming on such short notice. We all know what's at stake here. Today, we need to make some important decisions regarding our schedule and GO! K-EAST."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCNViXYPq0C
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvgk3CmG0HZ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3zARGLHZCp
He paused to let the gravity of the situation sink in, then continued. "First and foremost, we need to address the delays. We have a lot riding on this show, and the fans have been eagerly waiting for its premiere. Unfortunately, external circumstances have forced our hand. We'll need to push back the date, but before we go into details, let's hear from our head of production."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIXVcISWsw5
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaTHmfO40Il
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4IvDvuvM2G
Director Seo Mi-Na, a seasoned veteran in the entertainment industry, stood up from her seat. She was well-regarded for her ability to keep things moving smoothly, even in chaotic situations.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjKPmk9F8zI
"Thank you, sir Bang," she said, adjusting her glasses as she began speaking. "As you all know, the production crew has encountered several setbacks over the past week. Due to some unforeseen issues with our venue and technical difficulties with the live broadcast setup, the GO! K-EAST show simply cannot go ahead as scheduled."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaIaOTqrBVx
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6a9TIM6WJs
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkZ2gqTFXwX
She paused, flipping through a few notes on her tablet. "We were hoping to resolve the issues quickly, but after consulting with the team and analyzing the logistics, it's clear that rushing the show would not only compromise the quality, but it could also affect the safety of our performers and staff. The new target date, after we account for these delays, would be two weeks from the original date."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2WuGySNINO
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡawJwX0HSdL
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5Hh6wjatzv
A murmur of understanding passed through the room. Everyone knew how much the show meant to K-East's reputation, as well as to their fans, but there was no question about the necessity of taking the time to do things properly.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRSCnQtKdAW
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5e4cXLBweF
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡklRbaoMRWX
Manager Kim Soo-Hyun, one of the top managers at K-East, leaned forward. "I think we're all in agreement that postponing the show is the right move, but we also need to consider the fallout with our fans. We've already promoted the initial release date heavily on social media and through various media outlets. Fans are excited, but they also expect us to deliver."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡluHJ8zrOsD
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgwRgcftcNy
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXG0DYYJgz1
Ji-Hoon nodded thoughtfully. "That's a valid point. Our PR team needs to prepare a statement explaining the reasons behind the delay, and we'll need to apologize for the inconvenience. We can also offer them something to keep their spirits up. Maybe a live broadcast event with a special behind-the-scenes segment in the meantime. Director Seo, can we push forward with that idea?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBFadPAK4e5
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXkedKLN4L5
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYZCf9wWRVx
Seo Mi-Na gave a small nod. "Yes, we can arrange a live stream. It would give the fans something exclusive to look forward to while also showing them that we're still working hard behind the scenes."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡafH8Uy5b3U
Public Relations Manager Park Eun-Jeong added in, saying. "We'll need to be transparent about the reasons behind the delay and assure our fans that we are committed to making the show the best it can be. I also recommend we offer a sneak peek into some of the unreleased footage or perhaps an interview with the members to keep the excitement alive."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmKjetHovVS
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxTxkCLlZQ3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJSMlA9ZxOX
Ji-Hoon raised an eyebrow at Eun-Jeong's suggestion. "I like the idea of a member-focused interview. Let's get them involved in the communication with the fans. We can even include personal messages from the members about their progress in preparing for the show."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr9qMzu2e3S
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV9Tj4Xlxr6
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRFUNk6MaU2
Artistic Director Lee Joo-Hee spoke next, her voice laced with concern. "We have to take into account how this will affect the rest of our schedule. If we push GO! K-EAST back, it could interfere with some of our other planned promotions and events. We'll need to adjust our calendar, especially with the holidays coming up."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7lBs1fb0WR
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3IMhEwEPYn
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSK4nliJ5sr
Ji-Hoon nodded, deep in thought. "We can work around the schedule. Let's push for a clear timeline for GO! K-EAST and then make the necessary adjustments for everything else. We can move some smaller events to accommodate the new show date."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡevmuqQwyxz
Manager Kim Soo-Hyun added, "We may also need to consult with the sponsors and partners. They've been expecting the show on the original date, and we don't want to risk losing their support or causing any strain in our business relationships."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9Le37IHUZq
"Understood," Ji-Hoon said. "I'll have a team reach out to all of our partners and sponsors. We'll ensure they're kept in the loop and that they fully understand the reason behind the delay."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmp6KqWr06g
Seo Mi-Na stood again. "Lastly, we need to prioritize the health and wellbeing of our members. We've been pushing them quite hard to prepare for the show, and they've been under a lot of pressure. Let's make sure they have enough time to rest and refresh before we go live."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWCZAb6oJxh
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyJurD7wHqk
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4halNR3ghN
At the mention of the members' well-being, the room fell quiet for a moment. The group's members had been working tirelessly, and there was always the risk that pushing too hard could lead to burnout or injury.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ90vAOMHqny
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzcKAUOzQHV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ99GEZetUQx
Ji-Hoon sighed, rubbing his chin. "You're right, Mi-Na. Let's ensure that they have a proper break before we ramp up again. We want them to be at their best, physically and mentally."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc0rxkzbmBd
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUIDfy5GXov
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo5exYMOi4E
The room hummed with agreement, as everyone understood the importance of balance in the intense world of K-pop.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNXH5lHmQ9e
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg7MnVgohgL
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuSjXw1MtWr
Finally, Ji-Hoon addressed the room, his tone decisive. "Alright. Here's the plan: We will officially announce the postponement of GO! K-EAST in a statement, ensuring we give the fans a clear understanding of the situation and offering them a sneak peek. We'll schedule the new show date two weeks out. We'll also have smaller fan events and behind-the-scenes content to keep the energy up. The members will take some well-deserved rest, and our production team will double down on ironing out any remaining issues."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA7tKqk3LvW
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPyvgVjIvF6
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkg899FIyZX
He looked around the room, his expression confident. "This is a temporary setback, but we will turn it into an opportunity. We'll make sure that GO! K-EAST will be the best show we've ever put on. Let's get to work."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOmvMHgQ19r
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz0lx5G0nAh
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZX5mqNdlug
As the team nodded in agreement, the mood in the room shifted. While the postponement was a disappointment, there was a sense of unity and determination. The staff knew that this setback was just a stepping stone toward an even greater success.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡovNcRS1shc
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhHIqtcrIXR
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTNHF0Qf2KK
After the meeting wrapped up, the K-East staff slowly filed out of the conference room, their minds already racing with the tasks ahead. Jiyoo, who had been listening attentively throughout the entire discussion, lingered for a moment, gathering his things. As he walked toward the exit, one of the assistants, a young staff member named Min-Ji, approached him with a hesitant expression.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdbVrgDqbXP
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7SLT4G3ipk
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ1DFdBFEzJ
"Jiyoo-ssi," Min-Ji called softly, causing him to pause and look back. "Si-woo sunbaenim would like to see you in the main office."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWN8e1lIf01
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBV5eIqHax8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡndZizoxDLG
Jiyoo raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. Si-woo was also the company's chief strategist, known for his calm demeanor and his knack for managing even the most chaotic situations. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzKg7IDSclJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOgoChdRemN
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoHfLfziBE1
Although Si-woo wasn't one to call people into his office for no reason, Jiyoo couldn't help but feel a slight sense of unease. He glanced back at his members, who were standing together near the door, still discussing the outcome of the meeting.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPvbaJZ9lPl
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLmsGCXnQFe
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwGbHBvn3BL
Taeyun, ever the perceptive one, caught Jiyoo's eye. His gaze sharpened with a hint of confusion, and he gave Jiyoo a questioning look. "What's going on, hyung?" he asked with his voice quiet but filled with curiosity. He looked between Jiyoo and Min-Ji, sensing something was up but not quite understanding what.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrNGzgfL7Zu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtdmPDdEKGY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4iHmo940sl
Jiyoo gave him a small, reassuring smile. "I'll be fine," he replied, though his tone was slightly uncertain. "It's probably nothing. I'll head over now."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWm4zAlta0U
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCwNMKiKouO
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtCcgddWYHc
With a final glance at his members, Jiyoo nodded, his expression slightly guarded, and walked toward the main office. As he made his way through the hallway, his thoughts drifted briefly to the meeting they had just wrapped up. The postponement of the GO! K-EAST show was certainly a setback, but Jiyoo wasn't one to dwell on things for too long. There was always something else to focus on.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2tjYKMYsHv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvkRZ7PjjTA
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOdOyAevpQr
When he reached the door to the main office, he knocked lightly, and upon hearing the soft words. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6YR57JuCcY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi1uHGy3tQY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC9uF3CC0Xi
"Come in," The CEO said as soon as Jiyoo stepped inside. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtiWHDpgDjI
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhuoVVecetv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo9CUwIAGe9
The atmosphere in the room was quieter than he expected, and as he closed the door behind him, he found him sitting at his desk, a warm smile playing on his lips.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDmNn1cr4Cn
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡArh95PqRK7
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm8XUMNi95A
"Jiyoo," Si-woo greeted him in a smooth and friendly tone. "Have a seat."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjZRxquJLny
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDnfJe7DSid
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN0DMcOS7ua
Jiyoo hesitated for a moment, still unsure why he had been summoned, but his welcoming demeanor made him feel somewhat jittery. As he settled into the chair across from his desk, his posture relaxed but his mind was still curious.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYHb9O7sbnK
Si-woo gestured forward and compressed the papers by shuffling them altogether, then set them aside and leaned back in his chair, folding his hands thoughtfully. "It looks like you enjoyed your vacation for a week. I wanted to talk to you about the show, about the members, and... well, about the future."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3wjPDc1SBV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5utTQYQjqA
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJkDIJm3NlB
Jiyoo raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "The future? What do you mean?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP1952dg4oj
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGnFWWwi8CV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNRlTGLPGt4
Si-woo chuckled softly, his eyes glinting with a mix of kindness and wisdom. "It's no secret that there's been a lot of pressure lately, especially with everything being pushed back. But I've been observing the group, Jiyoo. You and your members... you've been handling things remarkably well, considering how stressful this time has been. But I know it's not always easy."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIr89JiXgVe
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvIhPLaeHr1
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgC0zn5H47U
Jiyoo wasn't sure how to respond. He'd always been the type to focus on the task at hand, and while the group had certainly faced challenges before, the uncertainty surrounding GO! K-EAST was something different.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡddGWNhn8xE
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWgYIzXuBJg
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTquEuPjpX7
"Have you found them?" 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ01Ye33vzo8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCTAZIx710J
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKDJ1ayQKNF
Jiyoo looked up at him, blinking in startlement. "Huh? Sorry, I don't get what you mean."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWmPuZQO3aF
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb92pQu832A
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvXxKBKNEf7
"The others have speculated that you visited the Lotte World that is closed and some recent news that you were trying to catch somebody on the highway. Is that true?" 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxoG8jwdnoc
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGLyAg3ZaR7
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHIaOngJMNY
Jiyoo paused and thought of what his friends said. Instead, he uttered in a low tone, saying. "No... I was- I was practicing how to drive." 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeAcv1k71Bl
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEby7ly9p6e
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4caklA5bVj
"I see. You know how the netizens are seeing through the media these days. Anything can come out as rumors, evidence, or an issue. Also, I would not mind if you are interested in finding out the vendetta, but since you and the members are performing the next shows, it's unlikely impossible," Si-woo leaned forward slightly, his voice quieter now, as if sharing something more personal. "I just wanted to let you know that I'm proud of the way you've been handling things. I'm sure you feel the weight of everything, especially with your members depending on you, but I believe in you. And I want you to know that you're not in this alone."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrQtTSVu6Xc
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmxIu446Bn5
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMvYAvaj6de
Jiyoo blinked, slightly taken aback by Si-woo's unexpected words. The calm yet genuine reassurance in Si-woo's voice caught him off guard. Despite being used to leading in public and maintaining a composed appearance, hearing someone like Si-woo express such support felt strangely comforting.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn80m24A8zl
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡilRusJVzVA
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrLAWiB4WHg
"Thank you," Jiyoo said, his voice soft but filled with sincerity. He felt a wave of gratitude toward Si-woo, not just for his words, but for the underlying recognition that, even as a leader, Jiyoo wasn't without his own struggles.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ38AowTcOzN
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDXc9aILuTc
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsEBqw6AJXs
Si-woo gave him a knowing smile, his gaze warm and encouraging. "Of course. Just remember, it's okay to lean on others when things get tough. That's what we're here for — to support each other."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡePt2lM9cqY
Jiyoo nodded, a small smile tugging at his lips. He felt lighter now, more grounded, as if the burden he'd been carrying had been shared, even if just a little. "I'll keep that in mind," he replied, his tone firmer, more assured than before.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTVUoKtYOof
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC0bmruecUx
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQcrqIvFvTV
Si-woo got a little frustrated at the imposter troubled girl, including the Narrow squad in his own mind. He then informed Jiyoo, saying. "You have an appointment in the evening and I suggest you dress in a formal attire." 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlDllAXxaM0
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8o2MD72KZ0
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY2mRZ0M2dR
Jiyoo gulped and stood up from his chair, facing his back. Then, he stopped in his own tracks when he listened to him. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOO9E9lPjnE
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKhGTf1sFqt
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbS9XxuUMHN
"If I ever see you pull another trick by acting so carelessly, you will not like what I'm about to order you. Is that clear, Mr. Park...?" Si-woo said in a light warning, pushing the circular specks forward his nose bridge. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwDLAoID2hA
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7dH2ML9bqr
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQoasdKTfzo
Jiyoo nodded silently in agreement. He blinked a few times before he sharpened his gaze in chagrin at the thought of his words to him. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTozvMRyatA
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWHcgkYcTxO
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQvV7pNFn5X
Si-woo chuckled again, his expression easing into a more relaxed one. "Good. Now, go take a break. You've been working non-stop. The members are probably waiting for you, and I'm sure you could use some time to recharge before we dive back into the craziness. I'm sure your father is going to be happy to see you again." 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeapNCZEBPN
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4EOD0EznU4
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6y4Apw2eIa
Jiyoo slightly breathed through his nostrils to control his anger that was filling up his clenched fists. Then he slowly glanced over his shoulder at him and said politely. "Alright, I will. Thanks again, sir Bang."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡryG3vOKU7G
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYTCyRgFBi8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoERKuhDjai
"Anytime, Jiyoo. Anytime," Si-woo said with a friendly nod and his smile was still present.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt6CAlOwbCm
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqkSVVMMob2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ49fnJ9mwoF
Once Jiyoo left the office, the door clicking softly behind him, he felt a sense of reassurance that hadn't been there before. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIy5XBa4z24
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjCcncfoYnq
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTTkHXmx45L
There was still much work ahead, but now, with Si-woo's words in his mind, he knew he wasn't carrying it alone.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEIcInRhFYC
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcnX4R07X8M
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRTKM1lSTte
Meanwhile, Jason had been working tirelessly with the squad, putting them through rigorous training sessions that pushed their physical and mental limits. His approach was tough but effective, focusing on hand-to-hand combat, endurance, strategy, and even unorthodox techniques. Today, they were in the gym, with the sound of grunts and the rhythmic thud of fists hitting pads filling the air.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnVPEggErvx
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdgJaAbHyO8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHjkL50WqCf
"Focus, Julong!" Jason shouted, as he sparred with one of the new recruits. "Don't just react—anticipate! Use your opponent's energy against them!"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMHQfTOpj3J
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡETDZqfd6Xu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdOhxSr7s3Q
Julong dodged a punch and countered with a swift kick, but Jason was already there, stepping in to correct his form. "That's better, but remember—timing over power."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiiaYihp3jJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUA7oIRpJBZ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrF1xTRgvIp
In a lit room elsewhere in the facility, Kain sat silently in the shadows, watching the training session on a monitor. His face was unreadable, his posture relaxed but poised. He was always observing, always calculating. A soft knock on the door broke the stillness.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWGeBkwO2DI
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVBg70J2iDs
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzDGwa8ck5m
"Yes?" Kain's deep voice rumbled as it creaked open.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRheVQCvo6K
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYQHGOhLMco
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWmeZ0LGI0o
A figure stepped inside—one of the higher-ranking officers in their organization. The officer, who was always brief with words, addressed Kain without ceremony.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡojkxSbiMnB
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBgDzFpIFmI
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2xgyGZCoDJ
"Sir, any word on Valerie? Has she decided whether or not to join the squad officially?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgZRLY3fAtZ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlOo4VHnNqv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQsr0nXY4ht
Kain didn't immediately respond, his eyes never leaving the screen where Jason was pushing the squad through their grueling drills. His fingers slowly drummed on the armrest of his chair before he spoke in his usual calm, almost cryptic tone.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTuK2RS2h1j
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZsSlKQ6t32
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW6sF5opUlC
"Valerie hasn't made a decision yet. She's... torn. There's hesitation, but it's not about her abilities. She's more than capable. It's about her place with us. She's not the type to be easily bound to anything, especially not to an organization like ours."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoZoBSidXcM
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgN9OxuLpV4
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAeqbN206Jm
Kain shifted slightly, his eyes narrowing as he spoke, clearly focused on something deeper in Valerie's internal struggle. "She needs to feel something greater than just following orders. She needs a purpose. Until she sees that here, she won't commit. But when she does... she'll be more powerful than we can imagine. If she chooses us."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvF12JTmX9U
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5D2qY9pIe7
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbTsuerbRFL
The officer nodded, understanding the gravity of Kain's words. "Do you want me to encourage her, sir?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeZOQGjQ4Ks
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY4ql5K2tNw
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡabBsBikGSM
Kain shook his head slowly, his expression unreadable. "No. Let her decide in her own time. Encouraging her might push her away. Valerie will come to us when she's ready—if she ever is."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG0OWt6C2HK
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBm0nRYiNXS
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWvNITtU88L
There was a brief pause before the officer spoke again, his voice tinged with uncertainty.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdIWblrg9y6
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkEVu8rczrY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡehU04cR4YI
"Do you think she'll join, sir?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF2T3jYB2PT
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr8FyTTxQj1
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnPcbwwazWW
Kain leaned back in his chair, his eyes drifting from the screen, as if considering the very nature of Valerie's potential allegiance. After a moment, he gave a small, almost imperceptible smirk.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLLXv33ohs6
"I never waste my time worrying about what might be. If she joins, she joins. If she doesn't, we will continue forward. But one thing is certain: she won't be easily replaced."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSLjpz6k94d
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2dHJHwufNZ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ883ADDOmYa
The officer took that as his cue to leave, knowing there was little more to be said. As the door closed behind him, Kain sat back, still lost in thought, his fingers now resting lightly on the armrest. It was clear that, for him, the choice of Valerie was far from simple. She was a wild card, and he had no intention of forcing her hand. Whether she chose to join or not, Kain was confident that the squad would remain strong—and if Valerie decided to walk alongside them, they would have someone powerful on their side.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr269WBEWcI
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZF9z80wQgk
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgAoQSltvnu
Back in the gym, Jason was still training the squad, unaware of the quiet deliberations happening in the shadows. But Kain knew, as he always did, that every decision, no matter how small, could change the course of their mission—and Valerie's decision would be no different.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFBUJwzoWxf
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV2cpNXkGmz
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrqv0cnrave
"We'll start by doing roundhouse kick exercises. Luke Wong, you're up first," Jason commanded lightly.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaHN06ksuEB
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8r9p6zW8iN
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz5O34JSkzm
Luke nodded silently in obedience and positioned himself to kick the dummy bag. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpFEJpr7nHA
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVmDp4P1QZa
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrNE9xmSnbw
A few minutes had passed and the squad had just finished another intense training session, their muscles aching from the relentless drills. Jason was offering some final corrections and words of encouragement to a few of the members when the heavy door to the gym creaked open. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVTEvfqMMdG
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpnpCcVoKIk
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSkD12DLDfq
Without a word, Kain stepped inside, his presence commanding immediate attention. His dark silhouette framed by the light from the hallway, he surveyed the squad for a moment, his gaze cold and calculating. The room fell silent as Kain's eyes finally locked on Jason, signaling him to stop what he was doing.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ11hIpR5d9x
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡicV7Rxke6P
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdprRvrTJeC
"Gather up," Kain ordered in his deep, controlled voice.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDASQXAKJOm
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGwMVQveL0P
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgdK5JsJJbD
Jason immediately signaled to the others to cease their activities. Within moments, the squad had assembled in front of Kain, standing at attention. His face was as unreadable as always, but there was an edge in his demeanor—something new, something urgent.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡje3UxepgoP
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLpG9Mav1OO
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWPG7Oak6tp
"This training session will be cut short," Kain began, his voice even but laced with a certain finality. "We've got bigger problems."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7opyaxjwIV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7cWicLHHd6
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIDrVfVO5wz
A murmur rippled through the squad, but Kain's sharp gaze silenced any further noise. He took a step forward, his expression grim as he surveyed each of them. His next words were deliberate, each one hanging in the air with weight.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnB8exWXjcj
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUVbgxmCx65
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8ZFyiAsf10
"We're being hunted again," Kain said flatly, his gaze flicking to the screen embedded in the wall behind him, which displayed an encrypted series of files. "Si-woo has picked up our trail, and the CEO's people are closing in. They're investigating us, looking for weaknesses, trying to find leverage."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡelULBbs2TK
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ01DF2IoD5v
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7tAaQFF9xg
The room tensed, but Jason was the first to speak up in question.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsJN7fltPs9
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqUzgsVrMmh
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuWQtiMh1eu
"Si-woo again? Damn it, I thought we'd shaken him off after the last mission."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS1oMW46Z4R
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMtGjwZAJZ0
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaUodK4VgGm
Kain's lips barely twitched in what might have been a smirk, but there was no humor behind it. "Si-woo doesn't give up easily. He's relentless. And this time, it's not just him. The other CEO has sent his best trackers and his personal enforcers. They're more skilled, more dangerous. If they catch wind of our location, they'll descend on us like wolves."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJWN63ugvrE
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIi1e6gxwS2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWgBgSTn4m3
A sense of unease spread through the group, but Kain's voice cut through the tension, firm and commanding.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxmvLmbvNqa
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCoGvJPG8Lc
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOMDzBzynci
"Listen carefully. We've been compromised. Their agents have already infiltrated key areas of the city, and they're targeting anyone who's been associated with us. They'll be using every tool at their disposal—surveillance, hacking, human resources, even blackmail. We cannot afford to slip up."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4TVuDHyHlP
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyBlYIiRiif
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEgzzHkgZSw
One of the squad members, Yuki, raised an eyebrow, looking towards Kain with concern. "How much time do we have, sir? Can we outrun them again?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA8lC5vPPQx
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOhgdoVrvlx
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDJ50XjrKYa
Kain's eyes darkened as he met her gaze. "Time is a luxury we no longer have. Si-woo and his men are not like before. They're more organized, and they have resources we haven't faced yet. We need to stay off their radar—and quickly."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡszYPbgnISM
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG93mDDnCds
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ59Vjba9Qyy
Max, usually the first to speak up in situations like this, stepped forward. His face was a mixture of disbelief and concern, but there was a flicker of determination in his eyes.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1U9wcwr75x
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9DKP8I2uhb
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ21kH84Pqi1
"Kain, how sure are we that Si-woo's already on us? I mean, we've slipped out of his grasp before. He's not exactly... untouchable, right?" He asked, crossing his arms and looking at Kain with a mixture of skepticism and hope. "We've evaded him before. Why is this different?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7ElubDp8ln
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8519yS35I7
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJkhqH6vwqD
Kain's cold gaze settled on Max, unblinking. "This is different because Si-woo isn't working alone anymore. He has access to resources that we don't even know the full extent of. The CEO's people are taking matters into their own hands now, which means we're up against far more than just a former colleague with a grudge. They've got everything we've been trying to hide—technology, surveillance, connections. If we don't act fast, we'll be caught. This isn't a game of cat and mouse anymore."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5V9PWQIchQ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOOGNmNRqiH
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKtwYMuj5A6
Julong, his sharp eyes flicking from Kain to Max, stepped forward, his voice tense but calm. "So what do you want us to do? Just run? Split up? Go into hiding until they get bored?" His hands flexed at his sides as he paced, clearly agitated. "We're not exactly a small group to hide in the shadows."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTaJaQJL85J
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrcmyISbQvK
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxtDfhyAm3L
"That's exactly what we're doing. Hiding. For now. We won't stay in one place long enough for them to lock us down. We split up, we stay off the grid, and we avoid making any contact unless it's absolutely necessary. No more playing the hero. This isn't about taking them head-on—this is about surviving long enough to regroup."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYMK4STta8I
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsaa5MjCG2F
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtDF3HRp08P
Moonki, who had been quiet up until now, shifted uncomfortably. He ran a hand through his short, messy hair, clearly rattled by the news. "Are we really sure we're ready for this?" he asked, his voice laced with doubt. "I mean, we've always managed to handle ourselves, but these guys sound different. And if they're pulling out all the stops... how do we even fight them without getting caught?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX0xCozldhc
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKH7n9nVk59
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSTuSj4cUgw
"That's the point," Kain replied, his voice low and controlled. "We're not fighting them head-on right now. We're outnumbered, and they have the advantage of surprise. We'll use our strength in other ways—stealth, speed, and deception. Avoid confrontation until we have no choice. But we're not dead yet, Moonki. We fight smart, not recklessly."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxkMujFCycC
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhLhPXJ67Gn
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGirhsBfIsM
Henry, always the one to consider logistics, stepped in with his usual dry tone, though his concern was evident. "So what happens if one of us gets cornered or caught? We're all in this together, but we can't afford to get anyone taken. What's the plan for extraction if things go south?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5k7SMv2wzh
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡovLYlY0nw2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCNY9F3qXzp
Kain gave Henry a quick, assessing look before answering. "Extraction? There won't be an extraction if you're caught, Henry. If we're compromised that badly, it'll be too late for anything except to get out of the area. The moment they have one of us, we don't make a move. We let them think they have the upper hand, and we use that time to slip through their fingers."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoyZiPgS2rL
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMXS41QLUGT
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuaAn63GIqX
Woonjae, who had been standing a little farther back, stepped forward with a hard expression, his voice cutting through the tension. "What about Sunghoon? He barely made it out. How do we know they didn't follow him here? If they're that close, can we even trust that our location's still safe?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeSzBsUXViF
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡasaN1fNgOZ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbMr6Yb0PMp
Kain paused, eyes narrowing slightly. He was about to speak, but Beom interrupted him, his tone unusually sharp.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqt80cZCUen
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVKWsU3vXgu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1KrTLzeBbw
"Wait, Kain," Beom said, raising a hand to stop the conversation. "Before you answer Woonjae's question, there's something else we need to figure out. Are we sure Sunghoon was even followed here? I mean, he might have just been shaken up from running. If they're really closing in on us, how do we know this place isn't compromised already? What if they've been tracking us for days, and we're just walking into a trap?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhmuQSnaYm7
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtH8dDWoJCE
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIrXVmjILqe
Kain's expression darkened, and for a brief moment, it seemed as though he might hesitate. But then his features hardened, and his voice dropped to a dangerous level. "That's exactly why we need to move now, Beom. No more waiting around. Sunghoon might have shaken them for a while, but I trust his instincts. We're not safe here long-term, but we are safe for now. If we waste time second-guessing, we'll be dead before we get the chance to act."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnvTdNAwnFV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2AR8lArt6l
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAMZFj2vRoy
Byung-seok, who had been silent for most of the conversation, suddenly spoke up in a low, even tone. "So what's the priority, Kain? Are we going underground, or are we hitting back? Because if we're going to disappear, we need to move fast, and we need to get our gear ready. If we're not prepared to fight, then we need to disappear—and we need to do it now."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh8G8S3G5BT
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlEk6Z3H9Gm
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhZhDZuPO2r
The room went still again as everyone looked to Kain for the final word. His eyes swept over the squad, his gaze colder than ever.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf6HdgyaYD9
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpiWj9qB6wn
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaTunVG989X
"Get your gear ready. We're not running away—we're going underground," Kain said, his voice steady and unyielding. "This isn't about revenge, it's about survival. And we'll fight when the time is right. For now, we stay out of sight, stay smart, and we wait. But don't mistake this for a retreat. This is just the beginning."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMc9YTNlzfu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1llaQIr7Xw
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsiyyTLYorb
The squad exchanged looks, some more confident than others, but each of them understood the stakes. Kain had spoken, and when Kain spoke, there was no room for argument.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSj2I4vStK1
Jason stepped forward, already assessing the situation in his mind. "So, what's the plan?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8M3cUda0Fd
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVmk5PfEP3B
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbNKIT24YPt
Kain's voice remained cold, but his words were sharp and direct. "We go underground. I'll make sure all comms are wiped and encrypted. We'll split up for now—keep a low profile, don't make contact unless it's absolutely necessary. Jason, you'll lead one team. Yuki, you take another. I'll keep a watchful eye from here. I'll provide updates as needed."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnmUNcQ1IfJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRr7RZ1pzOu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZHrccZ5Vy3
Jason nodded, his expression hardening. "Understood. We'll stay out of sight."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoF3RZn3LLm
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD05UybLrP8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpwCp4Dq8Mk
Kain's gaze swept over the squad once more, his eyes narrowing with a quiet, deadly intensity. "And remember this: if they find us, it won't be just our heads on the line. The squad stays tight. We survive, or we all go down together."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhbrVFUcVkk
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5HTkFZtkSN
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBiPDcWo2m0
There was a brief pause as everyone processed the gravity of the situation. Jason's jaw clenched, but he knew that Kain's words were a harsh truth. The team had always been in danger, but now, the threat was far more personal—and far more immediate.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKuEgnVxDcZ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcpX18cnDLv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiKVPuwpHKI
"Any questions?" Kain asked, his tone suggesting he expected none.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCVxvdF4Xda
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB0MFvOBXJJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMDOssJTI0e
No one spoke. The silence in the room was heavy, but there was also an unspoken understanding. This was no longer just about missions and training. It was about survival.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0F92wcfY5H
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvFez2svjxg
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJR3HChDSjD
"Good," Kain muttered, his tone still unwavering. "Get moving. We have a lot of work to do, and not much time to do it."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡreQ6JLQmyP
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh5dmc2olFY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTiyYCwdVH6
As the squad scattered, preparing for what lay ahead, Kain remained behind. He stared at the screen, the faces of Si-woo and the CEO's henchmen flashing briefly on the monitor before they were replaced by a map of the city. His fingers hovered over the controls for a moment, but then he simply leaned back, the weight of leadership settling back on his shoulders. This was the game they played—and Kain was determined to make sure they were the ones who walked away victorious.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCALmfginNN
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZzdlv44gCn
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwJOOZwCCDg
The squad had barely begun to settle into their new orders when the door to the gym slammed open with a deafening crash. Everyone immediately turned, weapons instinctively drawn or hands poised to defend themselves. But the figure in the doorway was unmistakable—Sunghoon, one of their own, looking completely out of breath and visibly agitated. His clothes were torn, his hair matted with sweat, and his usually calm demeanor was replaced by a frantic energy that caught everyone off guard.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQksLZIce3R
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeZbsvn2xgv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqGyIFDcqp1
Jason's eyes narrowed in concern and was taken aback. "Sunghoon?! What the hell happened?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcOTRg24U8P
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9oX6NiSmwj
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDNQ84882QE
Sunghoon staggered inside, pressing a hand against the doorframe to steady himself. His breath came in ragged gasps, his chest heaving as he tried to regain control. For a moment, he didn't speak—his eyes scanning the room, his mind racing, no doubt considering what he was about to say.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9LN6wVbGS2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv1I75sfZvb
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡieVG7tubfJ
"Sunghoon?" Kain's voice was sharp now, his usual calm demeanor giving way to a flicker of unease. "What's going on?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZB3n4QbJcv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh37dhN4XGN
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVfiVh27Izd
He straightened up slowly, wiping a trickle of blood from his lip. His expression was grim, more serious than anyone had ever seen him. He took in a deep breath, then finally spoke, each word heavy with urgency.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ17C8rIufOy
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtFVJmRQlkY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2M27PCfeLO
"They're coming," Sunghoon said, his voice strained but forceful. "The CEO's people... they're already here. They've got eyes everywhere."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpHnHI2LDvx
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiku58cGhuI
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSge6K4hlBJ
Jason's jaw tightened. "What do you mean? You're saying they've found us?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSg9K5Qi4An
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGcI4L1gR3O
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuftuGpC39u
Sunghoon nodded, shaking his head in disbelief. "I barely made it out. They've got surveillance teams sweeping the city. I tried to shake them, but I lost them for only a few minutes before they started closing in again. They've set up shop in key locations around the city, pulling strings, watching us... and now they know everything."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjoQiICDhPX
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTBu18lCd3c
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsxatXDdxgu
He wiped the sweat from his brow, his face a mix of frustration and fear. "I saw some of them outside the building I was hiding in. They had these... high-tech drones. They've upgraded their operations. It's not just ground agents anymore, they've got tech that's tracking us."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6IKyOu8hiK
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOUriuqz6OB
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjhhQXb3JG9
Kain's eyes narrowed dangerously. "So we've been compromised again. This is what I feared. Si-woo's not playing around anymore."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSHt9vAQlc9
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMmnnBY9wJk
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8QuamQxGI9
Sunghoon took a slow, deliberate step forward, his voice low but firm. "It's worse than that. They've got information. Not just on us—but on you, Kain. The CEO knows everything about the operation, and they're coming for you specifically." He glanced at the squad, his gaze locking on each of them in turn. "We need to move. Now."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡySKOjwXD2A
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1DlgIHDvdz
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDuaattwt5B
The air in the room thickened with tension. Jason exchanged a look with Sarah, his hand still on his weapon but his mind working to assess their options. He turned back to Sunghoon, his voice low but urgent. "How much time do we have? What's our next move?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeUoVUWB2No
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDOl0wBafp5
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0P7v94iT3L
Sunghoon's eyes flicked nervously toward the door, as if he could already hear the footsteps of their pursuers closing in. "Not much. They're mobilizing fast. I tried to lead them off, but they're too well-organized. They've already infiltrated some of the city's grids—they could be tracking our every move. We need to disappear and regroup, or we'll be caught in a trap."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxVl9Kia9BB
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHnv43tuj7k
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVFpnD0bfrk
Kain's gaze was steady as he regarded Sunghoon, his expression unreadable. But there was an unmistakable flicker of calculation in his eyes as he processed the new information. "How many are we talking about, Sunghoon? How many agents?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV9N7lSZkbK
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAXP6CgYJzA
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcOXxilH7z5
"Too many," Sunghoon replied, frustration creeping into his voice. "It's not just about numbers anymore. They've got high-level operatives—mercenaries, tech specialists, you name it. They're ready for a fight. And they know we're dangerous."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYvc8Vb1KQf
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7PXLr7ZQW0
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDH1WHquSOa
Jason's fists clenched, his jaw tight with frustration. "So we go dark, then?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAAN1fC3R2C
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbHB1WRsDZi
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡubToR91vIl
"Exactly," Sunghoon confirmed, still trying to catch his breath. "We need to disappear off their radar, but quickly. We can't afford to be careless. I'll give you all the details I know about their movements and the sectors they've been targeting. But we need to move fast. The moment they pinpoint us, it'll be over."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhSHCugpUmp
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5qsjB3caVH
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHQ90LDjXAg
Kain's voice cut through the tension like a knife. "Get ready. We split up immediately. We're not giving them a chance to corner us. Jason, you take half the squad. Sunghoon, you stay with me. We're going underground."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Nto5kPjLF
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE9nDj0tgOj
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOz2RoNUyc9
"Understood," Jason replied immediately, his eyes already scanning the room, thinking ahead to how best to divide the team.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSx1VJhtq62
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHMAtP0jfP3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPzWX8GkbR4
Sunghoon wiped his forehead again, glancing around at the squad. He wasn't usually one to show signs of panic, but the gravity of the situation was starting to weigh heavily on him. The look in his eyes now was one of a man who knew the stakes—and knew they were dangerously high.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQUNdxIBBSQ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLbqZhn7wrm
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMSXRKIIo0V
"We've always been one step ahead of them," Sunghoon said quietly, meeting Kain's gaze. "But if we don't act now, we won't get a second chance."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhQ5iOLzBLV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0mJ8eWEjl4
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXeZiSsiouf
Kain nodded once, his voice cold and commanding. "Then let's not waste it."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKe5LSptv1o
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtIjtfaCK4z
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2UcGq9ydPQ
As the squad swiftly mobilized into action, Sunghoon took a step back, his mind still racing through the details of what he had seen. They were no longer just on the defensive. They were being hunted—and the only way out was to outsmart their enemies before it was too late.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaDnv4kvrpZ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAtWT9q4gKU
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEw6Yd3uMuA
... 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvd8NE08GGY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBdx2zI2h8W
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbkdqTNRlLz
The trio, consisting of Bryan, Sally, and Ava, had come together with a shared goal: to focus on their respective work tasks and complete the jobs at hand. They were methodical in their approach, each contributing their unique skills and strengths to get the job done efficiently. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2K83PIVpiW
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3SapinMxBd
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqdnXpzKlAq
Bryan, known for his meticulous attention to detail, tackled the more technical aspects of the tasks. Sally, the creative one, brought fresh ideas and innovative solutions to the table, ensuring the work was both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Ava, with her strong organizational skills, kept everyone on track and ensured that deadlines were met, all while maintaining a sense of harmony among the group. Together, they formed a well-balanced and effective team, steadily advancing toward their objectives.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtnFwQ4rodi
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGg8GWAnpFu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQmUq3XWKch
Meanwhile, K-East, a popular boy group, was off to a different kind of challenge. They attended interviews at KBS, one of South Korea's largest broadcasting stations, where they answered questions, shared insights into their music, and engaged with the media in a charismatic and professional manner. The atmosphere was electric, as fans eagerly followed the event. After the interviews, K-East performed their songs live, showcasing their impressive vocal and dance abilities. The performance was nothing short of spectacular, with high-energy choreography, emotional delivery, and seamless harmony, further cementing their status as rising stars in the music industry. While Bryan, Sally, and Ava focused on their tasks, K-East was shining in the entertainment spotlight, each group excelling in their respective pursuits.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDnDUmiHBa9
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV264wnhvq6
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzicQsgqwVy
After the whirlwind of interviews and live performances, the members of K-East, along with Jiyoo, gathered in their lounge area backstage. They were winding down, exchanging stories from the day, when the conversation turned to a curious encounter they had witnessed earlier.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8qvjXGDDKG
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo2OYfSvb6c
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0fj46Fx9uW
Jaesang, always the observant one, was the first to bring it up. "Any sign of that girl on the motorcycle?" He asked, leaning forward with a mix of curiosity and amusement in her eyes.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCvojfK7tSa
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3U1uDFE4tB
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyWy4cEz5Ei
The K-East members, still buzzing with excitement from their performance, paused and exchanged glances. "So far, there's barely any trace of her. She really caused that flat tire on one of our cars," Ryung, the group's leader, said. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKHw77StAek
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeqInaVRAnU
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX3hXVeYFIe
"Yeah, that was crazy," Min-jun replied, a smile tugging at his lips. "She looked like she was in a rush, but there was something cool about her. Like, she didn't care about anyone or anything around her."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpkdB8pCsR2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7UBAP8Xy6t
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJFIeKZWUDp
"Right?" Jaesang added, chuckling. "She was going way too fast. Almost like she had some secret mission."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVb08vLom26
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIglWlQX6H1
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiznZYU1k4b
"She definitely had the vibe of someone who wasn't afraid of anything," Hwan chimed in. "But, I don't know... I couldn't help but think there was a little mystery behind her."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcU1sPAyiFp
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl8PLQZwEo8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLospr0V2SQ
"Yeah..." Jiyoo agreed, her tone taking on a more thoughtful quality. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyf66dRiKmy
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx1ZShsX1zJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuP557Www6J
"I bet she's probably a rebel type," Min-jun mused, leaning back in his chair. "You know, the kind who doesn't follow the rules, lives on her own terms. I'm kind of curious if we'll ever cross paths with her again."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm7rfutt2YU
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnq9mCcbnKs
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRcA1oonDm9
"Maybe she's an undercover agent or something," Hwan jokes, leaning forward with a grin. "Imagine her showing up at one of our concerts in disguise."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbPD7Ynj7Ax
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE3vEMVd55v
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpZwnaCeIP3
"Or maybe she's just really into motorcycles," Jaesang said with a shrug. "But honestly, she made an impression. I don't think any of us will forget her anytime soon."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6H1V0zCDxY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd0UE1JFwzE
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg5aJekMx4H
Jiyoo smiled at the playful banter but seemed lost in thought. "Who knows? Maybe we'll run into her again. It's funny how some people just have that kind of presence. She wasn't just passing through; she left an impression. Maybe she's someone special."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0hwswcMmee
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCXQ4GjWUsa
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAn5GABACF5
The group laughed together, but Jiyoo's lingering curiosity seemed to fuel their collective fascination with the mysterious girl. His lips faltered into a frown at the thought of her, not knowing how they are able to deal with her by the time they see her. The conversation drifted to other topics, but the image of the girl on the motorcycle stayed with them, lingering like an unsolved puzzle—one that would perhaps remain in their minds for much longer than they'd expected.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiFhoqiihYz
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUAx7ITSgrG
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtLD8Ab9kfC
As the group relaxed after the interviews and performances, the conversation shifted to memories from their past. Jiyoo was casually scrolling through his phone, checking messages, when Taeyun, who had been quietly lost in thought as well, suddenly looked up at him with a hint of uncertainty in his eyes.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgSmRE36b7E
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd3TTfQoCF4
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnIAj2Xhhx9
"Hey, Jiyoo," Taeyun began, rubbing the back of his neck in that familiar way he always did when he was trying to remember something. "Do you... do you ever think about our old high school friend? The one who used to hang out with us all the time? I... I can't seem to remember her name, and it's bugging me."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ81ck8zUV7E
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLjDRFGfJ8x
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD1fg6pwqR8
Jiyoo paused and looked up, his brow furrowing slightly. He wasn't sure where he was going with this, but he nodded in recognition. "Yeah, I remember her. She was always so cheerful, always got us into trouble with her wild ideas, right?" she said with a nostalgic smile, leaning back in her chair.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZJwQQvxxj3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXxYvuwvWud
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBLtRlr2oTr
Taeyun's eyes lit up, slightly relieved that Jiyoo shared his memory. "Exactly! She was the one who dragged us into that crazy camping trip where we ended up staying out all night. Remember how we almost got caught by the teachers because we snuck out?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLBQa57JYFt
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzTqriTqQdH
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCOX5VMEqAn
Jiyoo chuckled faintly at the memory, clearly evoking fondness. "How could I forget? She made us promise to keep it a secret, and we almost failed miserably when you accidentally spilled the beans to Mr. Dong. But the name... you're right. It's on the tip of my tongue. It's like I can see her face, but the name is just slipping away. What was it again?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLVsFgh2cOW
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjh3urF2qRg
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjlxcUx6LRS
Taeyun tapped his fingers on his knee, trying to jog his memory. "I can picture her too—her laugh, her messy hair, those ridiculous neon-colored sneakers she used to wear—but the name's just not coming to me."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVIBd2N3XFI
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs2IQBWNDu2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSGJthArELe
Jiyoo tilted his head with his thoughtful expression. "It's strange, isn't it? You spend so much time with someone, and then it's like their name just vanishes one day. I feel like if I heard it, it'd come rushing back."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMRB4XFerZT
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlB1IBY07CZ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9SS1Sj6rrX
For a moment, the two of them sat in silence, each mentally sifting through the haze of their high school days. Then, Taeyun suddenly snapped his fingers, his eyes widening. "Wait, wait! I think I got it! Wasn't it... Hana? Yeah, Hana! That was her name."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIl9zt4DRVO
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLZcCxkwD7J
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ225OYQRQ5O
Jiyoo's face broke into a smile as if a door had just been unlocked, but he was beginning to doubt a little and sighed. "I guess so. She was such a big part of our group. I wonder what she's up to now. Do you think she's still around?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy9rfEHw5c8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7d2SShraB0
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXqHtbBvjj5
Taeyun leaned back with a contented sigh, clearly relieved that he'd finally solved the puzzle. "I hope so. She was always so full of energy. I bet she's off doing something amazing. Maybe one day we'll run into her again. Wouldn't that be wild?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn99qGGa861
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwNtq7PfDQX
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg2KkuYFhhI
Jiyoo nodded, her eyes sparkling with a mix of nostalgia and curiosity. "It would be so good to catch up with her. If we ever find her again, we need to make sure we don't let her drag us into another one of her crazy schemes."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdPBVOdL6BV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYlQudSJ84g
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAK6cttXjeW
The two of them shared a laugh, the memory of Hana and their high school days bringing a sense of warmth and camaraderie. For a brief moment, it felt as though no time had passed at all, as if they could simply pick up where they left off, no matter how much had changed since then.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHxWvTW1yHR
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFjN1bxvtqU
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUDtkmGiNPk
Curiosity still lingering from their conversation about their former high school friend, Jiyoo and the others decided to take matters into their own hands. They weren't about to let the mystery of Hana's whereabouts go unsolved. After all, it had been years since they last saw her, but the memory of her vivacious personality was still fresh in their minds.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1AAN7i1Anc
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwYAZ7I8Z4T
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9Xds2bGjRG
"Alright," Jiyoo said, tapping his phone screen and turning it toward the group. "Let's see if we can find any trace of her online. Maybe there's a picture or something. I bet if we Google her name, we'll find something."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp5k5UWAv0U
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe5haJcRl7V
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3IsCazQpPm
Taeyun, still looking thoughtful, grabbed his own phone. "I'll help too. I remember Hana was pretty active on social media back then. If she's still around, maybe we can find her profile or an old post."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3UTKH5VgrY
Hwan leaned in, his curiosity piqued. "I feel like we should search for some of her old interests too. Remember how obsessed she was with music, art, and writing? Maybe those hobbies are still part of her life."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyBX8DLJvAi
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUyTEwFSBMT
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpKYL3q5m7V
As they began searching, typing in various combinations of her name, past school activities, and hobbies, the group fell into a quiet rhythm. Each of them scanning their screens for any leads. After a few minutes of fruitless searching, Hwan suddenly gasped.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO6jp4uWRIR
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtA5ZAJekUM
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡruxBwTDvsu
"Wait, hold on! I think I found something..." he said, his voice rising with excitement. The others crowded around, peering over his shoulder at the screen. A photo appeared—an old group shot from high school, with their faces obscured by time, but there she was. Hana. Her hair was in a messy ponytail, her signature neon sneakers visible beneath her faded jeans with her eyeglasses on.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm5Y4FaArdK
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeDgK6bpQ6D
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmqXb2TawWg
"That's definitely her!" Jiyoo exclaimed. "I can't believe it, this is like a time capsule."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX3P9sV9DuY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡervUjmhpO0
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRoRnxo6Vno
"But this is just an old picture," Taeyun said, furrowing his brows. "Let's see if there's anything more recent."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9phLvkRADL
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7eaXfKQaDt
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7dvrjohJEy
After more searching, Jiyoo's eyes widened as he came across an article that seemed a bit out of place. It was about a recent award ceremony where a mysterious figure had taken the spotlight, receiving the "Platinum" award from Big Prime, an influential and high-profile company in the music and entertainment industry. The headline immediately caught his eye: "The Imposter Who Took Big Prime's Platinum Award by Storm."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtlRXYKZ6p3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwtRPpEdd79
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡveyb3nYruh
As the group huddled around Jiyoo's phone, examining the article about the mysterious imposter and the "Platinum" award, a sudden thought struck Jiyoo—something that had been lingering at the back of his mind ever since their earlier conversation about the girl on the motorcycle. With a small smirk playing on his lips, he reached into his bag, pulling out a small, unassuming device.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN2DKaqYxJo
The group turned to look at him in puzzlement.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAHfqlNl808
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLo1IbaZBRV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXBiPkUWQSe
"What's that?" Ryung asked, his eyebrows furrowing as he eyed the object curiously.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEGUrF7g3nY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQSLwwMh5Ct
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzxDp4RshSA
Jiyoo held it up, letting it glint under the dim backstage lights. "It's a mini dot tracking device. I might have accidentally planted it on the motorcycle earlier today," he said, his tone playful but also a little mischievous. "I figured, why not? If this girl on the motorcycle was really as interesting as we thought, maybe we'd get lucky and track down where she went."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpB1wpNkALQ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkXcT1K5yLV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBvRt8331Mb
The rest of the group stared at her in stunned silence for a moment, before laughter erupted around the room.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEv9wAClY6Q
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4Shp5BW0yu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqEeevj9xqD
"Wait, you what?" Taeyun asked, shaking his head in disbelief. "You threw a tracker on her motorcycle without telling us? And you're just telling us now?!"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWbsbnY5TEb
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdwGpLj9ihw
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcPWlgRxkUh
Jiyoo shrugged nonchalantly. "I mean, I had a feeling there was more to her than just being some random biker. I figured if we were gonna find out anything, we needed to follow the trail. Plus, I didn't think anyone would notice."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNxJlL7lvaU
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvAJCeKTo4g
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMtFC1drMw6
Jaesang's eyes widened as he leaned closer to the device in her hand. "That's... that's actually really clever. But are you sure it's even still there? She could've figured it out by now."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHvrNHqmbpY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEk7tndI9xf
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjn8XbNUtAv
Jiyoo sighed, holding up his phone. "I checked earlier, and it's still working perfectly. It's connected to this app. We should be able to track her exact location. Honestly, I didn't expect it to be this easy. I mean, what's the worst that could happen? Either we track her to her destination, or we just chalk it up."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡytGRBdQtY4
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDMbX9jod4T
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwwABmo5SnI
Hwan shook his head, still trying to process the situation. "I can't believe you actually did this. It's a little... over the top, don't you think? I mean, tracking someone like that... it's kind of borderline creepy."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMShGaeXN43
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTEztI2iBMR
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTRVkC5hMsg
"I wasn't tracking her for no reason," Jiyoo quickly defended. "I just wanted to understand who she is. After all, she was an interesting part of our day. I mean, come on, she was acting like she had something to prove—or maybe she was running away from something. Either way, it's worth investigating."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU05hLNfyH2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfEWxwmgLTI
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZlLiaTHNCZ
"Besides, we are already involved in this situation, so we might as well just get on with this," Taeyun said in agreement with his best friend.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeGIG28Rk1Q
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5POgXJJcII
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP7xybETayk
"Right," Min-jun muttered with a nod.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwehbIdxM2N
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUSg8oKQuQv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqqf0dqdoq0
The group fell quiet as they stared at the small device, which blinks steadily on Jiyoo's phone, showing the motorcycle's movement across the map. It was a few streets away from the broadcasting station, and the device had been tracking her for the past few hours. The blip on the map seemed to stop near an unfamiliar area—a part of the city none of them recognized.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAJ9NhnSPHj
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSHzLCmaG0k
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8KDjxW53pB
"Look," Jiyoo said, zooming in on the map, "it looks like she's stopped near this warehouse area. That's... strange, right? It's not exactly a place where people usually hang out."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡngz935i42l
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnByqw90eK6
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq8cpeoc3Ff
"I've heard of that part of town," Taeyun said slowly, narrowing his eyes. "It's kind of off the beaten path. A lot of shady stuff happens around there. Maybe she's just keeping it low?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzrUXpNphTL
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgma22lCwWJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo48C2vQoQq
"Maybe," Jiyoo said, his voice trailing off. "But I don't think that's it. Something about this feels intentional. And if Hana is also somehow involved in all of this, it might be exactly where we need to go."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDOhWV8peN4
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmFe6HprVD6
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSOOvlGPRVV
Joon-woo leaned back, clearly intrigued, though a little uneasy. "So, we're actually going to check this place out? After everything we've been talking about? What if this is all a huge coincidence?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCRAZ8HB3rG
"Or maybe," Ryung said thoughtfully. "We've just stumbled on something bigger than we expected. We won't know unless we take the chance."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE5Tl9wWQC6
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkUWxNkFLfL
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsbEeW1nXJs
The tension in the room was palpable as they all exchanged looks, uncertainty hanging in the air. The device on Jiyoo's phone blinked again, confirming that the motorcycle was still there, stationary. The warehouse district was dark and quiet on the map, giving the group an eerie feeling.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGBqowq4jfG
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7eEs8gx4ku
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVC8wOxdhFH
"Alright," Jiyoo finally said, his voice firm with resolve. "We're doing this. We've come this far, and if this is really connected to Hana—or whatever she's become now—we need to know. Let's go."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRVXCCHrqr8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNMTFPX3lFG
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKYrIX6IYwi
"Wait," Hwan said, hesitating for a moment. "You're not seriously suggesting we follow her, right? I mean, what if we're walking right into something dangerous? This could be a trap."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmzFsRZQdOb
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡro0Ka3lV3g
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCWvGIwG0RE
"I didn't think it through," Jiyoo admitted with a slight wince. "But we can't just sit here wondering. I don't know about you guys, but I've got a gut feeling this might be the clue we've been waiting for. Besides, we've faced worse things before. Let's just stick together and be careful."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCYfDyklE0i
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGcnff9t0Mh
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDMwVMVaEHF
With that being said, the group stood up from their seats as their minds continued to race with possibilities. They prepared to leave the comfort of their backstage lounge.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtZdU8ZbbBu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1TcT754pAI
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRTN7oIfDqh
Jiyoo, holding the tracking device in his hand, felt the pulse of excitement and uncertainty surge through him. Whatever was waiting for them at the warehouse, they would soon find out together.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfUSU9CM0wB
It was already past 11 pm and the air was already thick with anticipation, just when the K-East members quietly slipped out of the Prime building area. They knew the next steps in their plan wouldn't be easy, but they were committed. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGKKKtkV5zY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdhi3gLY3I9
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQDzGsHWyTx
With Jiyoo and the others planning to investigate the mysterious location from the tracking device, K-East's role was clear; they needed to cause a distraction. The security guards who patrolled the perimeter of the building were sharp, and if they wanted to make it out unnoticed, they'd have to act fast.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6vSD60FDWM
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQpgnff6Zm3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡava36xwu2d
Ryung glanced at the others and nodded. "Alright, here's the deal," he whispered, his voice low but confident. "We need to keep the guards occupied while the others head out. We'll create a diversion on the east side of the building to pull them away. The fewer eyes on the exits, the better."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlKzf985PUs
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡssfXJaYC0b
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ12uDhVLVLm
Hwan always up for some action, grinned. "I've got an idea. I'll set off some of the alarms in the parking garage. That should get their attention."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDeJpX8jZaq
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2wbR8zRxLo
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr89sKIysUP
"Perfect," Jaesang added, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Once they're distracted by that, we can slip out through the loading dock. If we time it right, they won't even know we've gone."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrFbz7mJbGk
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAeA751PUXq
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF5MHpBToqx
The plan was simple, but it required precision. Taeyun, who had been keeping watch, gave a quick nod. "There's a guard near the back entrance. I'll make sure he's busy. If anything goes wrong, I'll handle it."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUSmVuEUVoB
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZzni9Xd7TA
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWYbwXnQydG
The group split into their roles, moving swiftly through the building's hallways, each member walking with the practiced confidence of those who knew how to blend in. Hwan and Joon-woo slipped down the corridor toward the service elevators, their steps light and quiet.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWVzf5hyy8B
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHGHBTLwZfy
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8wNzsTnhzD
Meanwhile, Jiyoo and Taeyun headed toward the underground parking garage. Jaesang, already with a gleam in his eyes, pushed open a door that led to a dimly lit stairwell. "Here's where the fun begins," he muttered. As they descended to the lower levels, the sound of muffled conversations and the low hum of machinery echoed off the concrete walls. Ryung's eyes darted to a panel near the garage's entrance—a series of security alarms that could be easily triggered if one knew what they were doing.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCVXjTy4LG4
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM87CgYSswM
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvPDuMtVaOE
"I'll hit the button," Ryung said, pulling his hood lower over his head as he neared the panel. "This'll get them running in circles."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlJEnks83Gc
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYU99aQRw64
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmAJbf5oNJ4
Taeyun kept watch with his eyes trained on the hallway to ensure they weren't spotted. "Make it quick," he urged, his voice tense but controlled.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf2z44bPByi
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLfEv5JAisX
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrUUd0LF0xx
Ryung's fingers went flying over the panel. The alarms blared to life—loud, piercing, and sharp. The sound reverberated through the entire parking structure, instantly alerting every security guard in the area. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgYwfxZPIxD
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfqxJJxgWMX
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLL4DNkuG3D
In an instant, the place was in chaos. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEDEbHOP0Rr
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjitlRpneVy
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLTF7Myr9mi
All the guards went scrambling to identify the cause of the disturbance, shouting to each other as they dashed through the garage.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9SIORthraH
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2RIlvkRTO0
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ99AAo7Eiqo
With the alarms ringing in the distance, the tension among the K-East members mounted. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy4IGqepUmi
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxBKlMzXNQm
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwIoBZWu66m
Hwan and Joon-woo, now in position by the loading dock, watched as the guards, confused by the sudden noise, moved toward the parking garage. "This is our window," Hwan said under his breath, glancing at Joon-woo, who nodded in agreement. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJfr5XDCsaX
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ89ltl3q0z9
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdvBgsAQC1X
They took a few quick steps toward the exit, the sound of the alarms masking their movements.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnYJ4gcdbGj
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0UzLSWTLyU
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvUZxYnmMBy
As the guards were preoccupied, the group moved with fluidity, their actions quick and decisive. They crossed the parking lot unnoticed, slipping out of the building through a side door that led into an alley. The quiet of the night felt like a breath of relief after the chaos they had just set in motion.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3f5u4QimY3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoiJjCQLMDn
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqDIjVv1dlP
"Let's go," Hwan said, a hint of excitement in his voice. "We've got just enough time to follow the others before anyone realizes we've left."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgrbztdXdwu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpuZsAyeZUT
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAOGniVGEYI
They moved swiftly through the back streets, their steps light as they made their way toward the rendezvous point. The security disturbance had worked exactly as planned, and now they were on their way to join Jiyoo and the rest, ready to uncover the truth behind the mystery of the girl on the motorcycle and the enigmatic "Platinum" imposter, which is now known to be the suspect. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI1qSphDktu
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuiv5SIhLE3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7oJM84XGS0
An hour later, K-East had been navigating a labyrinth of confusion and uncertainty since the first tracking alert pinged from Jiyoo's phone. They knew they were getting closer to finding out the identity of the mysterious figures who had been making their lives increasingly difficult, but every new piece of information only seemed to raise more questions.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIxDhIQ0DFM
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCJorSFfAia
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaalC4XTRZU
Ryung's knuckles gripped the steering wheel of his car as he maneuvered through the streets. His mind was racing, trying to piece together the puzzle. The suspect, who had been leaving cryptic traces all around, was now heading to another location—likely to hide, possibly to meet someone else.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaUk7CxvIYw
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv7g2IfYzms
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1xNyoWJkiT
"Do you think it's all the same person?" Joon-woo asked, breaking the silence in the car. His voice was quiet but intense, reflecting the unease they were both feeling.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxjUIE3tro0
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4RQ5bbPpwM
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8BsK02lGnV
Hwan's gaze stayed focused on the road ahead. "I don't know, but it doesn't make sense that we're dealing with three different people. Everything lines up too perfectly, almost like they're one step ahead of us." His words were laced with doubt, and yet, deep down, he felt something more sinister was at play—someone pulling the strings.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5kzsHEnTjT
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgzNnQS1HMj
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnTDe6QZm2O
Joon-woo nodded, tapping his fingers against the dashboard. "The 'Platinum' imposter, the girl on the motorcycle, and the other person—if they're all the same person, we're dealing with someone incredibly dangerous, someone who knows how to manipulate everyone around them."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgo2eYwxOL5
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUDBtXYQwsB
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb1INwaJIKf
Hwan frowned. "But if it's one person, how do you explain the different personalities? Different skill sets? It doesn't add up."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW6WXmDqGXt
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdD82Cz6aLr
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYxlb1FwaKm
Joon-woo sighed, leaning back in his seat. "That's the part that scares me. We're not just chasing a person anymore. We might be chasing an entire identity, a fake life."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpNhEUlHaQI
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP1pOiyrzh2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8akPmRMnY1
Concurrently, Min-jun, Jiyoo, and Jaesang were in Taeyun's car, equally tense but determined. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡawDzFmpvW1
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsgvHmaLBt7
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1TQps57OHI
Jiyoo kept his eyes trained on the phone, watching the tracking signal pulse on the screen. "The suspect just exited the warehouse," he said, his voice steady but tinged with worry. "We need to move fast."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWw9vd3lGt8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf7M3gAmh7w
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡagclPmY7vC
Jaesang, who was sitting behind him, couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. "What if it's not just one person? What if there are multiple imposters working together?" He had been vocal about his suspicions since the beginning, always hinting at the possibility of a larger conspiracy.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUpYfe4i0kt
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxTgSdaAsRw
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGdvJzhpQRv
Min-jun's eyes narrowed as he analyzed the data Jiyoo had just relayed. "We can't assume that. If it's multiple people, we're not just dealing with an imposter—this is a coordinated effort. We need to figure out if we're chasing a single person or if we're up against a bigger web of deception."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn1xm4xqcqL
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTvNQpVMqgA
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVCdDTBujt4
Jiyoo exchanged a glance with Taeyun, who was focused on driving but visibly tense. "Do you think the girl on the motorcycle could be one of them?" He asked, already knowing the answer but wanting to hear it aloud.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1LXomv92L0
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGdzgTTaGV6
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUEWfMTzIAy
"I don't think she's connected to the Platinum imposter directly," he said, his tone calm but firm. "But it's possible she's working with them—or at least knows something about them. If she's involved, it's more than just a coincidence. She might be the key to uncovering the entire operation."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHsaKfDLWPo
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrbycKq8nWk
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5IQu7CZTa9
Jaesang leaned forward and said suspiciously. "What if there's no 'Platinum' imposter? What if we're seeing the same person in different forms? A master of disguise?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsYX8tEoCXS
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnueVhSCelp
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDYhBU461Pa
Jiyoo shook his head and said. "Then, we're dealing with a genius."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGtszGZU4GR
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxBvYpMWqx1
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo6uKA2sV44
They all knew the stakes. The mystery of the Platinum imposter, Hyun-Aera's imposter, and the girl on the motorcycle that leaves warehouse traces was far bigger than any of them had anticipated.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHY4EsobED4
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy83dl34muT
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrkYKTz0ro0
The decision was clear now that the group had split up, agreeing that staying together would only increase the risk of being detected. They would have to rely on their individual skills, knowledge, and instincts to track down the mysterious figures. The distance between them felt like it could be a death sentence, but it was the only way forward.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe1p4qCYezl
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡteY0EZCMme
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMpSNCRlqrN
Hwan and Joon-woo kept their eyes peeled for any sign of the suspect's next move, hoping the trail would lead them to the imposter's true identity. Along with Min-jun, Jiyoo, Taeyun, and Jaesang, they were on a parallel track, hoping to catch any clues that would tie the motorcycle girl to the Platinum imposter—or reveal that they were the same person all along.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3xdQ62hQAS
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ26v4bRt0lQ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv6kyadT73c
The tension was palpable in both cars as they sped through the night, each member wondering the same thing: Who was behind all of this?94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyWnH5r2FZh
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYLV9wihGO1
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy00juTv56V
They all had just begun to process the information they had gathered when Jiyoo's phone buzzed, signaling another new tracking alert. The notification was a sharp jolt to their already heightened senses. His eyes quickly scanned the message, and he immediately relayed the news to the others, his voice calm but with a trace of urgency. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC2DRxQcQQz
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn149vR1IcI
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEII4EigggX
"The suspect just exited the warehouse. They're on the move again. Heading to another location—likely somewhere in hiding," Jiyoo announced, his tone firm as his fingers hovered over the screen, zooming in on the map that showed the suspect's next possible destination.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYvyiV9KYFs
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4iXxBNa6iH
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjBvu88tQ66
Min-jun was quick to lean forward, his brows furrowed with concern. "Another place? This person's been on the move all night. How long are we going to keep chasing shadows?" His frustration was palpable, but his voice never wavered. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8zP6CXfDG2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS1Gq1EMDPZ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqqQgdKIxKB
Jaesang, sitting behind Jiyoo in the backseat, gave a slight shake of his head. "We can't assume it's just one person anymore. How do they keep getting away? The fact they're using different locations to hide only proves they know we're onto them. We might be dealing with someone who's more than just an imposter."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPsU6AITOp3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU4TtCHP4xN
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWBhfOdfuPR
Taeyun, focused on the road ahead, threw a quick glance toward the rearview mirror at the others. "We can't afford to second-guess now. We have one chance to catch up to them before they disappear again. No more hesitation."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQXO6MCz6Bh
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL13Yfz9xfY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi8yN0qgoJo
Jiyoo nodded and glanced back at his phone, fingers quickly typing out a message to Ryung and the others in the other car. "We need to move fast. Hyungs, you're not far from the next location. Stay sharp." 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKH0lQljl9d
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlT6YebU1si
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpO0B4RKEO9
The silence in the car was thick as they all processed the weight of the moment. It was clear that this wasn't just about finding an imposter anymore—it was about uncovering the tangled web of deception that had been carefully spun around them. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ24RSEkm2bB
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDln5gY3xir
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvbsWh9zG9c
Jiyoo exhaled sharply. "Do you think it's all connected? The two imposters and the girl on the motorcycle... Is it the same person doing all of this?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLrKmISa17E
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡugUITUKcUC
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhvvaGWUBrX
Min-jun's lips tightened as he thought for a moment. "I can't say for sure, but whoever they are, they're trying to lead us in circles. I'd bet anything they're expecting us to make a mistake, and we can't let that happen." He paused, his expression hardening. "If it's the same person, they're playing us like puppets."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUl2Id9RzLv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0LvTeDymi5
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3BXBsodzsx
Jaesang added. "It could be three different people, but at this point, I don't think we can rule anything out. One thing's for sure—whoever this is, they're dangerous."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiQIz6tk8aF
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzEi0tgIsxf
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOyhMSIulH9
Taeyun nodded, keeping his eyes on the road. "We split up. They won't expect that. We'll each head to different points and try to surround the suspect."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFIkvHLzwP2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDOwzPt1Fg8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSBJzadjtaX
The car sped toward the next location as the weight of the chase hung over them. The suspect was slipping through their fingers yet again, but they couldn't afford to lose track of them now. They needed to know who was behind this, and why they were being hunted. The answers felt just out of reach, but the team was determined to get them—no matter what it took.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ80PJL7C8QV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxSnUy7kTgb
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIDbDIvSjbv
As the K-East members drew closer to their destination, they all knew the time for subtlety was over. The moment had come for them to close in on the suspect, and they had no intention of letting anyone escape.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaxHo69bzwm
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCh5eRwrUB4
After a quick exchange of messages, they decided to split their efforts further to ensure that no one would escape unnoticed. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4x3qWxo1LL
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyqferjOWjv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrpkftShTVe
Hwan, Joon-woo, and Ryung's car took up position at the first exit, their eyes scanning the surrounding area with acute focus. The parking garage they were positioned near had only two exits, and they knew the suspect would need to leave through one of them. With their car parked in a narrow lane, they blocked the path without drawing attention. The faint hum of the engine was the only sound that accompanied their tense silence. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ70OLwFDRGg
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjhi1tRDhY6
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCtnrwWaNlJ
Ryung kept his gaze locked on the exit, every instinct telling him that this would be the moment the suspect would make their move. "We can't let them get away this time," he muttered under his breath, gripping the steering wheel. His voice was low, but determination radiated from him. Joon-woo, sitting in the passenger seat, nodded grimly. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwMAFuhGHTN
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0nKnGGKT2J
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQge69ITCPC
"If they try to leave this way, we're stopping them—no hesitation," Ryung glanced in the rearview mirror, his eyes constantly scanning for movement, hoping that the others on the other side had set up their block too.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRecHcnDK1L
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvJq3DZiboq
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGYI4Wu9SWd
On the other side of the building, Min-jun, Taeyun, and Jaesang were ready to execute their own part of the plan. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR5msmvFXnU
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdADhzjrCqb
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfKJNSeo5jV
Their car was parked at the second exit, hidden in the shadows of a nearby building, giving them a clear view of anyone who might attempt to leave. They'd been waiting for what felt like an eternity, but now the final pieces were in place. Min-jun was the first to speak, his voice steady despite the tension in the air. "This is it. No one leaves through here without us knowing. We've got this side covered."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSF5qAVjX05
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZLmqM08K2s
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4hYavcQC4X
Jaesang gave a quick nod and peered out of the window, scanning for any sign of movement. "We've got a clear line of sight. If they try to sneak out, we'll be right on them." His voice was confident, but there was an edge of urgency in it. They knew they couldn't afford any mistakes. Taeyun, always the calm presence in the group, checked his watch before speaking up. "Stay alert. They'll be expecting something, and we need to catch them off guard. If they get away, we're back to square one."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0Pc3KagIJc
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJtHcomPj5p
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr6luWwPUVp
The minutes had passed and the team was now in position, silently waiting. Each member is aware of the immense pressure to act swiftly and decisively. The exits were covered, and there would be no way for the imposters to escape without facing one of them.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpcuiDdB0O6
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhF1CVhujyo
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXbaVmYoVEV
Jiyoo sat in the backseat of Taeyun's car, his eyes focused on the tracking device in his hand. The steady beeping of the signal was the only sound breaking the tense silence among the team. His mind raced, trying to make sense of the next move. The imposters were close, but they had yet to make any decisive moves. His fingers gently gripped the device as he looked up at the team.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTFqGW9WCik
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9h0lueLjPo
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡecVWD0NEo3
"I'll go," Jiyoo said, his voice calm but unwavering. It was a decision he had made at that moment, knowing the urgency of their situation. His gaze flickered to each of his teammates, his eyes hardening with resolve. "I'm the one who can track them down. With this device, I can follow their trail without being detected."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0TJ5ztExwv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSdPSN8F1xO
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡju4Qdbm4Up
Taeyun, who had been silent up until then, turned to look at him, his expression both concerned and approving. "Are you sure? It's risky. We don't know what we're walking into."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQUKaAlPS4M
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn12KxPWgpo
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRHcpYV2eG0
Jiyoo gave a small nod, his confidence in his skills shining through despite the stakes. "I'm sure. I can handle it. Besides, it's the best shot we've got." He met Taeyun's gaze firmly, making it clear that this was the right move.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHD8BCJkCd1
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW5ZKQIIQfX
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrF9FGFsB7V
Min-jun, sitting beside Jaesang, leaned in forward and his brow furrowed. "We trust you, Jiyoo. Just... be careful. If anything feels off, you come back immediately."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoR8folcoeb
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe0EWjZWdgv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFxv2qvfHwq
Jiyoo's eyes softened, a flicker of gratitude passing through them. "I will. I'll stay in touch. Just keep the exits covered, okay?"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEvTt68SmcJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoAqBH8HLn4
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnIYwo1mLUo
With a final look of determination, Jiyoo opened the car door and stepped out into the night air. His team's voices faded as he moved, the sound of the tracking device in his hand now the only constant. The darkness around him felt almost suffocating, but he was used to the shadows. He had always preferred them. With each step, he became more focused on the mission at hand.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9GIkEL8eTC
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiroB9RQRrn
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYmdWrmbEqH
He carefully made his way through the tall grass and the wind rustling softly around him near the building. His mind racing as the beeping from the tracking device guided him closer to the target. The device vibrates slightly, a signal that they were nearing the source. Jiyoo's eyes narrowed as he approached a massive, seemingly abandoned building up ahead. It looked like an old crack house—abandoned, with no signs of recent activity. But the device was pulsing stronger now. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrKqpQup517
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡatoKgAXTrV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB13GmbELNX
"This is it," he muttered to himself, his voice barely audible above the wind. The crack house stood like a dark sentinel, its walls cracked and covered in grime. The windows were boarded up, and the heavy door hung half open, as if inviting him to step inside. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0Ml0f6cOOx
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBpjp7ffAqI
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXRuzsQtzdH
Jiyoo hesitated for a moment, the hairs on the back of his neck standing on end. Something felt off about this place, but his instincts told him this was where he needed to be. He glanced back at the car, reassuring himself that his team was covering the exits. He had no time to waste.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbYl0bBqACY
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIbeDUYkSpB
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo8r80UGtzc
With a final, quiet breath, Jiyoo took a step forward, making his way toward the entrance of the crack house. He was closing in on the truth, and nothing was going to stop him now.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1En4pxqCIP
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIzR3mWC7fM
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiV40IeU39n
The weight of the mission pressed on him, but he was ready. He had always been the one to track and follow the clues, and now, more than ever, he knew that finding the imposters—and exposing their true identities—was a task that fell squarely on his shoulders.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmdF85AKESy
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1I1tOXS4Ej
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDFd7RMuAIx
His footsteps were measured, deliberate, each one bringing him closer to the mysterious building ahead. The structure loomed ominously, a large, abandoned crack house standing like a forgotten relic from a bygone era. There was an unsettling silence around it, the kind that made the hairs on the back of his neck stand up. His tracking device in hand continued to beep, signaling that the suspect was nearby, yet there was something off about this place. It didn't feel right.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIbgPpbuGnm
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEXDIGevTgQ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIA0XpMFM5R
Jiyoo took a deep breath, steeling himself before moving closer to the cracked door. With a quiet push, he entered, slipping into the shadows without a sound. His footsteps echoed lightly on the floorboards, but he moved with purpose, his eyes scanning the dimly lit interior. Dust particles floated in the air, creating an eerie stillness as if the building hadn't been disturbed in years. It was a strange place to find the truth, but his gut told him that this was where the imposters had been hiding.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyPXdGJsVMc
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnIQfFG2CsB
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfLfKHOEX6A
He made his way deeper into the building, moving cautiously through the rooms. Each step was deliberate, his breathing quiet and controlled as he searched for any sign of life—or any clue that would bring him closer to unraveling the mystery. His heart beat steadily in his chest, but the air was thick with tension, making every creak of the floorboards feel magnified.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoHiyMvR3Uj
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyQ5EknVjGT
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGFPbfm1G13
As he entered a narrow hallway, his foot nudged something small and metallic. It rolled with a soft clink, echoing through the room. Jiyoo froze, his eyes darting toward the sound. A small tin can, old and worn, had moved slightly across the floor. He narrowed his eyes and took a careful step forward, unsure of what he had just triggered. But before he could make another move, the can tipped over, spilling a few small contents as it rolled. Then, without warning, it let out a faint hiss as a haze of smoke began to pour from it. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq2GWNvkSjD
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvbLkVykI3K
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjNlnDVoPOF
Jiyoo's instincts flared, and he took a sharp breath, eyes widening in realization. *A trap.* He had no time to think. The smoke filled the room quickly, swirling and thickening around him, making it hard to see. He stumbled backward, coughing, his heart racing. The air was heavy, almost suffocating, and the smoke seemed to distort everything around him. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVmFBBf4NPE
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBbPikBegnJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlhC0lVwopa
"Damn it!" Jiyoo muttered under his breath, his voice strained as he covered his mouth, trying to hold his breath. He had walked straight into a carefully laid trap. Panic surged briefly, but he shook it off, focusing on the mission. He had to stay calm.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8SfQf83yGM
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCB5SPQ7Nva
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgemx3xBZSg
The smoke swirled and thickened, reducing visibility to nearly nothing, but Jiyoo was trained for situations like this. He pulled out a small flashlight from his pocket, flicking it on and cutting through the haze. His eyes scanned the room in the dim light, trying to find any clue, any trace of the imposters—anything that could lead him to their true identity.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxGxBd1eZ8q
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCTvhjVZT1H
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ01v1ZOm48U
"Stay calm, Jiyoo," he whispered to himself, his voice steadier now. "Focus. This is just another obstacle." He stepped forward cautiously, trying to make his way deeper into the house, his flashlight scanning the dark corners. The smoke seemed to be everywhere, growing thicker with every passing second. His fingers tightened around the flashlight, determined not to let the trap defeat him. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzODN6G39BJ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6TeasX60A3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYtl3dLD1nt
Then, as the smoke began to clear, Jiyoo's instincts screamed at him—something wasn't right. The building was still silent, but the air felt wrong. He took a slow, deliberate step forward, keeping his eyes peeled for any sign of movement. His hand slid to his side, readying for whatever came next.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDDYhsmBmj9
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR34TBroJvQ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFrbRRX89oL
The mystery of the imposters was about to get even more dangerous.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTlbIbPjwim
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKu1Vj0Vqu1
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMUwVMIWD0J
Jiyoo's lungs burned as the smoke thickened around him, forcing him to cough violently. His hand shot up to cover his nose, but it didn't help much. The air was dense, and his vision blurred, the flashlight's beam slicing through the haze but revealing little. His mind raced, trying to make sense of what was happening. He had fallen right into their trap, but he couldn't let panic take over. *Stay focused. You're close. Don't let them get away.*94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBSjx8qe017
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgZjBHIeRZv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2dp6q7RDel
Just as he took another step forward, his head was suddenly struck hard from behind. The force sent a shock of pain through his skull, and his vision blurred for a split second. He stumbled, the impact dizzying him for a moment. But before he could react further, his training kicked in—his body responding instinctively. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE3AasSLNu8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy2cplJkBfD
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2udLU1NFoA
He spun around sharply, his muscles tense and ready. In one smooth motion, he delivered a spinning kick, his leg slicing through the air with precision. The kick landed solidly, connecting with the chest of his attacker. The force sent the imposter crashing to the floor with a heavy thud. Jiyoo's heart raced, his breath coming in quick bursts, but he didn't stop. He quickly moved into a defensive stance, his eyes scanning the area, searching for any more threats. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZvY6I4E9B2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmAMoCAUdZ6
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGQyB6wN6MJ
The figure on the ground groaned, dazed but still conscious. Jiyoo stood over them, his breath steady despite the adrenaline coursing through his veins. The person was dressed in black, their face partially hidden beneath a dark mask, making it hard to tell who they were. The smoke still lingered in the air, but Jiyoo's focus was sharp now, honed in on his fallen attacker.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPzAqjViWcD
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzvR3Dr9fsT
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDLjyhYhYCp
"Who are you?!" Jiyoo demanded, his voice cold as he moved closer, eyes narrowing. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3t8Rar77e4
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxh2Fipl4MF
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm0stR9In0k
The imposter groaned again, but didn't respond, their body still twitching slightly from the impact. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNZq70E87H3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ48Ww7dwmNy
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡClkXRlwqA2
Jiyoo's mind continued to race. This wasn't just some random trap—this was the person he had been chasing. He had them now, and he wasn't about to let them slip away, but something didn't sit right. The smoke, the ambush, and the eerie silence of the crack house—everything felt too staged, too deliberate. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0z0JeMMqnW
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ1Di12H58L
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa7Zl5D2gFr
He knelt down, his hand hovering over the imposter's mask. "If you won't talk, I'll make you," he muttered under his breath, his fingers twitching in anticipation. But before he could pull the mask away, the sound of footsteps echoed in the distance—someone else was coming.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6WM9EykW9G
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMA6mPfhHBb
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD9iChj4yN9
Jiyoo's grip tightened, and his mind snapped back into focus. He wasn't alone anymore.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdOkXEp8KMq
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfkqUfbLFM4
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdNEMoreJ9H
The imposter, still on the ground, managed to regain their bearings faster than Jiyoo had anticipated. In an instant, they lunged at him with their hands grabbing for the Platinum object. They were now locked in a desperate struggle as their bodies twisting and turning as they fought for control of the object. The room around them seemed to spin in a chaotic blur of motion, the thick smoke only adding to the confusion.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDggJIrrQyc
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4KLgSxFAWT
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwUwOZo99xv
Jiyoo's breath came in sharp gasps as he struggled to keep the suspect pinned down. They were stronger than he expected, especially their movements fueled by a fierce determination. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOVcC1bLj17
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcK5EBDwRFv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0dyU4azF6U
The sound of their struggle echoed throughout the crack house as their bodies crashed into walls. The floor shook beneath them as they tangled. He could feel the cold, hard object slipping through his fingers, but he wasn't about to give up that easily. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVzNDoZe7O2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDWOW2FECQH
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwTSVAQBFvN
"Let go of it!" Jiyoo growled, trying to wrench the Platinum object free from their grip, but they weren't having it. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcNjARvlwHv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiPzHxAZZR2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVzGmkhH7Os
They kicked him by sending him stumbling back, but he quickly regained his stance, stepping forward to wrestle her down once more. The object continued to slide between their hands, rolling off their bodies with every shift and struggle.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIspoBgcjTU
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBUrFhRsZYD
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRtyZINZII7
In the heat of the battle, the two of them collided with the wall in the corner of the room. The force of the impact rattled the nearby furniture, and the Platinum object was sent flying, landing with a heavy thud against the ground. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQkxsxOCsqD
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMtqvILBPY8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH2aXPV0AZR
Both of them stopped for a split second, eyes flicking toward the object, but neither made a move to grab it. The tension in the room was palpable, the fight far from over.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgQErzW3ghL
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkgWUf3ilrM
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd4omlhtcBw
With a swift motion, Jiyoo toppled over her, his body pinning hers to the floor. She squirmed underneath him, her hands clawing at his chest as she fought with everything she had. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxn5btoFcaa
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy2wRTAEpaL
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWNfYuZq6wu
As they struggled, something unexpected happened. The helmet that had been so securely fastened to their head slipped free, tumbling off and revealing her face.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4HKB9Qbxdi
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkZRjUi0KVD
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz7CJcwxBiM
Jiyoo froze for a brief moment, eyes widening in bewilderment and disbelief. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH5aVstcB7P
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB4fiFNcwee
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVQd43Z6yRy
Underneath the mask was a woman that he recognized as she stared back at him, full of alarm, timidity, and defiance. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZw5btxwibB
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ42sp7suDoP
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8UajxE2wSp
The mystery was thickening and the same person he had been expecting, but the situation didn't allow him time to process it. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKF82BYwnP1
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfByn28xpVN
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXjX461NzsT
Jiyoo's eyes grew wider at the person that revealed herself, which shook him to the point that he had seen a ghost. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuRrRoI7cQi
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡArfHZpLVS5
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUQkAPBx74F
"You are...!"94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH4kTAPJpoz
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQv8kDsDigb
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJOSdjCwhmt
She glistened back and forth at him in astonishment for about a few seconds, then bolted upright by backing away. Her hair swiftly tossed behind her just as she held her gun directly at him before she clicked it and commanded him firmly. 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0FCqZvtUt6
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVyidNjY8kl
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSfabYwHdKz
"Stop! Don't come any closer..."94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDyXaD9iBcm
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG35X5Vbokr
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpTioFtQ80m
Jiyoo halted on his tracks, so he then glowered at the sight of her bracelet that struck him to a realization by saying slowly. "Valerie.... After all this time..." 94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIoE3a4ElTX
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq65KnWIvw7
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUEBypjNuSW
She made no response to him whatsoever since she kept her impassive gaze at him fiercely.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhiFf5RM5S4
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI7xjaVGBpV
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbuQYSXaH8b
"Your name isn't Hana, nor is it Hyun-Aera... it's Yon-hae..." Jiyoo enunciated carefully and repeated in a daze.94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTjQP72ibsL
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwAIhGrP5RM
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDv5RidfBq8
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSJJQnY92Lt
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnMpLi2Ve2f
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpuSNK9AihL
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs3y5rz7oBn
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzYdsktkALQ
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnrJUoiUof2
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwspFBgxwRq
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9Krycz2xyt
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ05qCXQoLWI
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYJbed9m31D
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9x7mqtOLRT
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrJzhFjb4D3
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbwsP1LRHqS
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTz4KpKbLsX
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ94tt2YYudb
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXiFF63VXyD
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpm5hcOR64H
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4Hr0AAAuW4
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcUlZq9oy20
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6IGVi80IBv
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNiRtRXuvZA
94Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdS61a9VfcK
"Yon-hae Lockhart..."
ns3.17.76.168da2
