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.
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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.
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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?"
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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."
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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."
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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."
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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.
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"You?" Tracer asked, his voice edged with surprise. "You're the one who's been pulling the strings behind the scenes?"
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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.
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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."
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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.
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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."
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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."
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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.
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"Any information?" Tracer repeated, his voice quiet but edged with curiosity.
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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."
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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."
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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.
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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."
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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."
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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.
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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.
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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.
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"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."
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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."
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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."
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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."
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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.
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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."
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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?"
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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."
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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."
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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."
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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."
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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.
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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."
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The room hummed with agreement, as everyone understood the importance of balance in the intense world of K-pop.
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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."
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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."
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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.
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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.
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"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."
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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."
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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.
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When he reached the door to the main office, he knocked lightly, and upon hearing the soft words.
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"Come in," The CEO said as soon as Jiyoo stepped inside.
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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.
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"Jiyoo," Si-woo greeted him in a smooth and friendly tone. "Have a seat."
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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."
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Jiyoo raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "The future? What do you mean?"
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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."
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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.
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"Have you found them?"
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Jiyoo looked up at him, blinking in startlement. "Huh? Sorry, I don't get what you mean."
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"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?"
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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."
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"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."
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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.
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"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.
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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.
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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."
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Jiyoo gulped and stood up from his chair, facing his back. Then, he stopped in his own tracks when he listened to him.
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"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.
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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.
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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."
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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."
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"Anytime, Jiyoo. Anytime," Si-woo said with a friendly nod and his smile was still present.
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Once Jiyoo left the office, the door clicking softly behind him, he felt a sense of reassurance that hadn't been there before.
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There was still much work ahead, but now, with Si-woo's words in his mind, he knew he wasn't carrying it alone.
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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.
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"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!"
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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."
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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.
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"Yes?" Kain's deep voice rumbled as it creaked open.
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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.
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"Sir, any word on Valerie? Has she decided whether or not to join the squad officially?"
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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.
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"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."
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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."
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The officer nodded, understanding the gravity of Kain's words. "Do you want me to encourage her, sir?"
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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."
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There was a brief pause before the officer spoke again, his voice tinged with uncertainty.
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"Do you think she'll join, sir?"
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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."
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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.
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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.
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"We'll start by doing roundhouse kick exercises. Luke Wong, you're up first," Jason commanded lightly.
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Luke nodded silently in obedience and positioned himself to kick the dummy bag.
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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.
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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.
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"Gather up," Kain ordered in his deep, controlled voice.
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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.
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"This training session will be cut short," Kain began, his voice even but laced with a certain finality. "We've got bigger problems."
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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.
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"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."
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The room tensed, but Jason was the first to speak up in question.
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"Si-woo again? Damn it, I thought we'd shaken him off after the last mission."
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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."
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A sense of unease spread through the group, but Kain's voice cut through the tension, firm and commanding.
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"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."
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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?"
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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."
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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.
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"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?"
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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."
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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."
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"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."
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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?"
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"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."
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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?"
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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."
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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?"
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Kain paused, eyes narrowing slightly. He was about to speak, but Beom interrupted him, his tone unusually sharp.
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"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?"
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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."
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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."
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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.
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"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."
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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?"
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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."
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Jason nodded, his expression hardening. "Understood. We'll stay out of sight."
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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."
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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.
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"Any questions?" Kain asked, his tone suggesting he expected none.
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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.
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"Good," Kain muttered, his tone still unwavering. "Get moving. We have a lot of work to do, and not much time to do it."
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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.
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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.
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Jason's eyes narrowed in concern and was taken aback. "Sunghoon?! What the hell happened?"
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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.
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"Sunghoon?" Kain's voice was sharp now, his usual calm demeanor giving way to a flicker of unease. "What's going on?"
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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.
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"They're coming," Sunghoon said, his voice strained but forceful. "The CEO's people... they're already here. They've got eyes everywhere."
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Jason's jaw tightened. "What do you mean? You're saying they've found us?"
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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."
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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."
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Kain's eyes narrowed dangerously. "So we've been compromised again. This is what I feared. Si-woo's not playing around anymore."
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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."
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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?"
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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."
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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?"
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"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."
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Jason's fists clenched, his jaw tight with frustration. "So we go dark, then?"
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"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."
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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."
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"Understood," Jason replied immediately, his eyes already scanning the room, thinking ahead to how best to divide the team.
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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.
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"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."
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Kain nodded once, his voice cold and commanding. "Then let's not waste it."
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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.
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...
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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"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."
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"Right?" Jaesang added, chuckling. "She was going way too fast. Almost like she had some secret mission."
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"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."
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"Yeah..." Jiyoo agreed, her tone taking on a more thoughtful quality.
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"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."
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"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."
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"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."
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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."
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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.
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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.
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"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."
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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.
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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?"
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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?"
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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."
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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."
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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."
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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?"
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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?"
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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."
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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.
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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.
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"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."
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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."
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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.
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"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.
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"That's definitely her!" Jiyoo exclaimed. "I can't believe it, this is like a time capsule."
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"But this is just an old picture," Taeyun said, furrowing his brows. "Let's see if there's anything more recent."
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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."
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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.
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"What's that?" Ryung asked, his eyebrows furrowing as he eyed the object curiously.
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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."
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The rest of the group stared at her in stunned silence for a moment, before laughter erupted around the room.
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"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?!"
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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."
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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."
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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."
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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."
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"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."
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"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.
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"Right," Min-jun muttered with a nod.
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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.
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"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."
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"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?"
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"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."
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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."
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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.
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"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."
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"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."
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"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."
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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."
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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."
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"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."
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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."
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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.
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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.
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"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."
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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.
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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.
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In an instant, the place was in chaos.
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All the guards went scrambling to identify the cause of the disturbance, shouting to each other as they dashed through the garage.
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With the alarms ringing in the distance, the tension among the K-East members mounted.
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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.
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They took a few quick steps toward the exit, the sound of the alarms masking their movements.
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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.
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"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."
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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.
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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.
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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.
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"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.
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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.
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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."
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Hwan frowned. "But if it's one person, how do you explain the different personalities? Different skill sets? It doesn't add up."
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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."
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Concurrently, Min-jun, Jiyoo, and Jaesang were in Taeyun's car, equally tense but determined.
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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."
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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.
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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."
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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.
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"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."
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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?"
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Jiyoo shook his head and said. "Then, we're dealing with a genius."
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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?
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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.
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"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.
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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.
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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."
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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."
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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."
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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.
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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?"
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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."
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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."
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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."
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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"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.
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On the other side of the building, Min-jun, Taeyun, and Jaesang were ready to execute their own part of the plan.
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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."
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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."
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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.
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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.
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"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."
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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."
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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.
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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."
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Jiyoo's eyes softened, a flicker of gratitude passing through them. "I will. I'll stay in touch. Just keep the exits covered, okay?"
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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.
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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.
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"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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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"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.
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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.
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"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.
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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.
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The mystery of the imposters was about to get even more dangerous.
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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.*
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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.
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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.
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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.
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"Who are you?!" Jiyoo demanded, his voice cold as he moved closer, eyes narrowing.
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The imposter groaned again, but didn't respond, their body still twitching slightly from the impact.
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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.
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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.
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Jiyoo's grip tightened, and his mind snapped back into focus. He wasn't alone anymore.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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"Let go of it!" Jiyoo growled, trying to wrench the Platinum object free from their grip, but they weren't having it.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Jiyoo froze for a brief moment, eyes widening in bewilderment and disbelief.
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Underneath the mask was a woman that he recognized as she stared back at him, full of alarm, timidity, and defiance.
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The mystery was thickening and the same person he had been expecting, but the situation didn't allow him time to process it.
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Jiyoo's eyes grew wider at the person that revealed herself, which shook him to the point that he had seen a ghost.
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"You are...!"
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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.
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"Stop! Don't come any closer..."
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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..."
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She made no response to him whatsoever since she kept her impassive gaze at him fiercely.
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"Your name isn't Hana, nor is it Hyun-Aera... it's Yon-hae..." Jiyoo enunciated carefully and repeated in a daze.
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"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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyDjdIouiGB
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNTTPbxgnrh
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfZOR2SKBgq
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqWW7HtTNWA
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdhBhLoEugG
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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4sfZ1EgnpF
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwQKoZe7vEk
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH8GUAYCGYU
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"You?" Tracer asked, his voice edged with surprise. "You're the one who's been pulling the strings behind the scenes?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ320Px97x8d
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpbEocMELb0
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8vAnLQEOK1
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPfxxJu3QH3
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwirqHzB87t
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTy6ViMYZ7f
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs29GM5RLpk
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"Any information?" Tracer repeated, his voice quiet but edged with curiosity. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1luPdea3z1
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJXncMYRVyq
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVLDKOQaX5P
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2gIouz9MQg
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEezjAYmtY1
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK374kRUzI5
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMJuUo20bEY
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAZ1bDthWUc
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsvG4RuQZ1T
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr88NKy2Gz7
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFtIKVSiNka
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwDMrlUjE2Q
"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoZHMItDvYM
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4pZ41uPs13
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3LMShZNwFw
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSudouGxz7Z
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZxaCD3QcmP
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxLKRWTXgrF
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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn7Qlj7pcwL
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa5lxIDsT0l
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡniZO2znvb0
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGDPWOiDLg7
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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPGGq7wW9aU
"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgzMxFyLDxk
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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCub7MMRUtl
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrM6utQ5JZf
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbzCrYhA4w6
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The room hummed with agreement, as everyone understood the importance of balance in the intense world of K-pop.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy9Vr0Tp8wX
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAU7uwXOxyr
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA9LgkrfzlN
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnYytOONPmo
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQTrTLIzhMd
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkujZZ0rkRu
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO4o6QE8QF4
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNa5WefQ3H1
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0LrjZCmVs6
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRHLKUa68QY
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJPXAD3yODe
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When he reached the door to the main office, he knocked lightly, and upon hearing the soft words. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvZy1LVFPAe
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"Come in," The CEO said as soon as Jiyoo stepped inside. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLi5wZJNVXA
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbl7CE998op
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"Jiyoo," Si-woo greeted him in a smooth and friendly tone. "Have a seat."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxaS3AsaVKf
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs8ObUBWyDh
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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpCoXUJbiMA
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Jiyoo raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "The future? What do you mean?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJLdoVSuTMg
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP57Mhu99zb
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWOg2lSdiNl
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"Have you found them?" 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBjbOailtqh
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Jiyoo looked up at him, blinking in startlement. "Huh? Sorry, I don't get what you mean."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUHJJnsMMfV
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"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?" 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx4tSnBVgF5
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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." 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx1G4mlyozo
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqMwPtjiA5k
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSFhjPwQQ6G
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"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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH1W3o9FxTZ
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwgC7xNa6ku
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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE8SrDbKcHO
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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." 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡArLtEWnLN3
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Jiyoo gulped and stood up from his chair, facing his back. Then, he stopped in his own tracks when he listened to him. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCh5k71VuLi
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"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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6nursY00bQ
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡODKFC2Itoo
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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." 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3v1Z6ZzinD
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAHDp5NNX21
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"Anytime, Jiyoo. Anytime," Si-woo said with a friendly nod and his smile was still present.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYBTXm0EDzO
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Once Jiyoo left the office, the door clicking softly behind him, he felt a sense of reassurance that hadn't been there before. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgUyAz9jlsf
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There was still much work ahead, but now, with Si-woo's words in his mind, he knew he wasn't carrying it alone.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM6t7FAt9yH
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqW7QE0NToy
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"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!"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK3x5IW131v
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡul6qiHMNql
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZZ5JPG3Pr5
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"Yes?" Kain's deep voice rumbled as it creaked open.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXeoTZWjqBg
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeN5J2EOsVe
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"Sir, any word on Valerie? Has she decided whether or not to join the squad officially?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtvCVa4RMNE
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjfIVVasX7d
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBVZUblMCAK
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFsS4O7KlpD
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The officer nodded, understanding the gravity of Kain's words. "Do you want me to encourage her, sir?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡotx7zdWNZp
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpfL2nypaTz
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There was a brief pause before the officer spoke again, his voice tinged with uncertainty.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmxFFj2WL4Y
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"Do you think she'll join, sir?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW87yYy9a4O
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqPyBypbC4p
"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHRjaiHEXew
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1JzQ8FFTot
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJexw7Ipk5A
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"We'll start by doing roundhouse kick exercises. Luke Wong, you're up first," Jason commanded lightly.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiixpnKetux
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Luke nodded silently in obedience and positioned himself to kick the dummy bag. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6ZN0LWmKgv
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvCR2Hq86GZ
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4u8OHmg6Nd
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"Gather up," Kain ordered in his deep, controlled voice.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJpKMVal1IT
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgt1z3KxnZD
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"This training session will be cut short," Kain began, his voice even but laced with a certain finality. "We've got bigger problems."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡki7XpCG49N
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpakB2NgmBK
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRLKuATdju0
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The room tensed, but Jason was the first to speak up in question.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJn6IrD1IKI
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"Si-woo again? Damn it, I thought we'd shaken him off after the last mission."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2lXK2bNXNd
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKUDCWqMaQd
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A sense of unease spread through the group, but Kain's voice cut through the tension, firm and commanding.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA7nl5f7vG4
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRUVY2032BL
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs0ZpGUGlYr
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoSFUTRBASH
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCzRmZ4HBPh
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"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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZaYDU8OPTP
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTYYY4GKORP
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtsk8JFTWsk
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx0D4n1x3OS
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIb2DVO8K7Z
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKeYx6E7kN5
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2VB8FEDNwp
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX88UnSve7Q
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWMB4evRyuG
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Kain paused, eyes narrowing slightly. He was about to speak, but Beom interrupted him, his tone unusually sharp.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX9oA2yclLX
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"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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs1az03T88P
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlCeLAc8vMn
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrYhgVE9qU6
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPWHVESXFcy
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpZCikO2d3z
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi8cBX4yzvL
Jason stepped forward, already assessing the situation in his mind. "So, what's the plan?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTGUMSNR3HY
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL9TLIFGUkJ
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Jason nodded, his expression hardening. "Understood. We'll stay out of sight."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrcOwU4mj90
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbynukFML4z
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtJ6MvyGXTr
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"Any questions?" Kain asked, his tone suggesting he expected none.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsjQsTkxibA
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9atjAQmwE9
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"Good," Kain muttered, his tone still unwavering. "Get moving. We have a lot of work to do, and not much time to do it."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡci2KPRGnex
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhSAdbAGUDx
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSZxcwcRC9Y
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Jason's eyes narrowed in concern and was taken aback. "Sunghoon?! What the hell happened?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3Qd08vHnzV
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkkELKr7BZQ
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"Sunghoon?" Kain's voice was sharp now, his usual calm demeanor giving way to a flicker of unease. "What's going on?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL2X6KtzjyI
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0DO26VvrBA
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"They're coming," Sunghoon said, his voice strained but forceful. "The CEO's people... they're already here. They've got eyes everywhere."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCvAxhl3HIr
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Jason's jaw tightened. "What do you mean? You're saying they've found us?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOc9vU2vvCy
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHDrMl7ZNeP
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡucaR7YrcOp
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Kain's eyes narrowed dangerously. "So we've been compromised again. This is what I feared. Si-woo's not playing around anymore."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKQkiezRMw2
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRilMxQuzlm
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo8Xv1rVKja
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5dwdxuGTAQ
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhJ3Lc1alIx
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9xrGCnaZUf
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Jason's fists clenched, his jaw tight with frustration. "So we go dark, then?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWws1PZMhyx
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjHIULCDAOp
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrdXakKRZUG
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"Understood," Jason replied immediately, his eyes already scanning the room, thinking ahead to how best to divide the team.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfCsiGsGInZ
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhUVMY4yL3h
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiyWvrCPg9S
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Kain nodded once, his voice cold and commanding. "Then let's not waste it."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ09Ano01xGH
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ65fNUFKohE
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... 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyrQBTKMom8
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ24FCxsgbUZ
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTecU4SVLCL
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvmGiHyVBK0
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP12Zqktx0r
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl3N412lY65
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5ScX5VaWzl
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJqQGWCY6Tf
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"Right?" Jaesang added, chuckling. "She was going way too fast. Almost like she had some secret mission."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCH217UGKSM
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1W6GX1ME2y
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"Yeah..." Jiyoo agreed, her tone taking on a more thoughtful quality. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm604ztYvl0
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWnIYXNjbxb
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3EXOgER0CF
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlwWhOC2RUo
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1LxV6GojiK
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzOZScUOmiG
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgm22xwDRoc
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcKNPeEgpep
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaPs2XCQVUU
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlxACz8GuJC
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDDREyxxFuK
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr2s6NDjmAj
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf7fi4K0kcG
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkJdnSvRjxa
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU3Yl3NsRV8
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiAzyUIdith
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9T4zY4qUs3
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0tb4qmU6sh
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDHKOFBWjOO
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡio6la31MZk
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgp4CKT4gWS
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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl5gRhaLd4k
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2KljpzgobE
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"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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvZA4L503W8
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"That's definitely her!" Jiyoo exclaimed. "I can't believe it, this is like a time capsule."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ95WAPvKTdv
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"But this is just an old picture," Taeyun said, furrowing his brows. "Let's see if there's anything more recent."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7sgJC2tmaN
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡydXUwzMmdy
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYs7fOYfw2s
The group turned to look at him in puzzlement.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5ZVW698CcP
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"What's that?" Ryung asked, his eyebrows furrowing as he eyed the object curiously.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHGeWKpIhQc
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbvTzLNvn5U
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The rest of the group stared at her in stunned silence for a moment, before laughter erupted around the room.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFH9jS1b4E7
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"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?!"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFFn6LttRx2
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpQ9ViQ65Qv
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZgZi35wJD9
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUrAkwHoVZN
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBp006NJFHe
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvuo2ZzjLgv
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"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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIIlHP4dtwM
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"Right," Min-jun muttered with a nod.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpiJJapYZeU
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKBlmOxbj5J
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz9VkVOlxGv
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"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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpHQaDG7Nwe
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUD4iBbqxtc
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0jN8YHJEmb
"Or maybe," Ryung said thoughtfully. "We've just stumbled on something bigger than we expected. We won't know unless we take the chance."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnVofy3xfTs
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCFMC8vUuEK
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGD5LTa9A3c
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkrtq8qOZ5A
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1QSeh9BbKQ
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEKV09VBr0A
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4cVhCc5Sg8
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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsC0oeRvCrM
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOPwkftpRWB
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDo9mQ1pH7C
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtV39w7q15G
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2M96yFC7n7
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoL3JVaB29P
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡREOfOU2eey
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHTwGQcfU3a
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDMaRwwHTEG
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNs1PU1xXrz
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCGsMUHLcfE
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In an instant, the place was in chaos. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyA67dWgMI3
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All the guards went scrambling to identify the cause of the disturbance, shouting to each other as they dashed through the garage.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvWDIjo5RRT
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With the alarms ringing in the distance, the tension among the K-East members mounted. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVD2uRWcudA
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6RBgS61jgU
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They took a few quick steps toward the exit, the sound of the alarms masking their movements.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLoteOg7Kno
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuLigdsdNoo
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzXQofvu5tV
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFaDFk9Ktoo
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkSfxvK98u3
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdufuKIJ5Po
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"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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhymvF2xd3v
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXDWWA3pXpz
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdsx4RMGMX6
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Hwan frowned. "But if it's one person, how do you explain the different personalities? Different skill sets? It doesn't add up."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfHXMHM1Gvh
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbPq4yWOmdL
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Concurrently, Min-jun, Jiyoo, and Jaesang were in Taeyun's car, equally tense but determined. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7aqTboeWbw
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8FljZgIxMN
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwU30lOKmCB
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFWnKjErPVm
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUsJGDGIeGm
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQeGCiJfvcj
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ266vilkyPW
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Jiyoo shook his head and said. "Then, we're dealing with a genius."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuZ2PcysSTt
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkK4r5Tryw9
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIWKMG8SKwx
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIbpGu3TPQ6
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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?42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7ZmSv85cfN
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtWsIBaPC7k
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"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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCY1fYQ9xWS
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBq9C0y44Ba
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPScUZWhwao
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSxkjYQ0eIF
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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." 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMmD6qCcjSn
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMGcCNWtqWX
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSNulKT9Atm
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCXGKDaHIuA
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrY9iUCSqLY
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNEVGgsCcw7
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2lstC3V3BX
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuaXknQ7Dfs
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After a quick exchange of messages, they decided to split their efforts further to ensure that no one would escape unnoticed. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx0W4wOMhPy
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRbcfxL8OIg
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH4XST2oOYG
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"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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi4eiNMHoe3
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On the other side of the building, Min-jun, Taeyun, and Jaesang were ready to execute their own part of the plan. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd8EIS5FhYh
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkh7lJG33A0
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0XrfgRijI5
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPwiNBImDaJ
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiOvu62JmUh
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ80gCUPryL
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9xgk3hfEeE
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxakcdyea9D
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSqiIBQugS1
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Jiyoo's eyes softened, a flicker of gratitude passing through them. "I will. I'll stay in touch. Just keep the exits covered, okay?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLkm8xeXigc
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEZnPjaO4wA
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHeAbKKwVrV
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"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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf7xwlSDBd8
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOtMcIx2yvV
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2Vr6GrL0Cy
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOFRjz180uy
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDRdYn5fInI
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW3iXs36Xnv
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡob0oEekv4D
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7tjNyyHxzN
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡefK7Zmr7Qy
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"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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWucBlMQUrW
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGlMGPt4VWc
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"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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9UNW6PWs9x
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdsP9C19lAc
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The mystery of the imposters was about to get even more dangerous.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlWOkNzKsdu
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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.*42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMHKg3R3M1O
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW7D2KZobJu
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡckRkPlFHRl
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuSKS29NbyY
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"Who are you?!" Jiyoo demanded, his voice cold as he moved closer, eyes narrowing. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Lu4yL1eh2
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The imposter groaned again, but didn't respond, their body still twitching slightly from the impact. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5EycBVBJsL
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeZHGDIGNUY
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbIrKwLVEti
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Jiyoo's grip tightened, and his mind snapped back into focus. He wasn't alone anymore.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhWklpKU7I8
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEM7EZZKftO
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2GYZR0reYh
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJBCpHp68dU
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"Let go of it!" Jiyoo growled, trying to wrench the Platinum object free from their grip, but they weren't having it. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjejOpYBEWB
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCQbFZWocg7
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRuH4xhAY0b
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVCqq4EUemo
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq9fULOC6Zc
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmJlfSA7fDF
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Jiyoo froze for a brief moment, eyes widening in bewilderment and disbelief. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNX0bpTHCdi
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Underneath the mask was a woman that he recognized as she stared back at him, full of alarm, timidity, and defiance. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZTqzvAwBLg
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The mystery was thickening and the same person he had been expecting, but the situation didn't allow him time to process it. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjrfroFMOK4
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Jiyoo's eyes grew wider at the person that revealed herself, which shook him to the point that he had seen a ghost. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsIb0iyhHhp
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"You are...!"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLqTzbwHiZg
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJCdB1XH2w5
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"Stop! Don't come any closer..."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYaVf6Am6kW
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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..." 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUAbLComDD8
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She made no response to him whatsoever since she kept her impassive gaze at him fiercely.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdjYgDVgF0m
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"Your name isn't Hana, nor is it Hyun-Aera... it's Yon-hae..." Jiyoo enunciated carefully and repeated in a daze.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQj0O9m4zNN
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"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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoISh6CUe2B
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbv4cRVU5ZD
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZUkjnSneKB
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5WgVlOVNAG
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8GnPB5WKfr
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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjreJuNyALa
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHxoUCcQWG9
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqszSZd50x3
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"You?" Tracer asked, his voice edged with surprise. "You're the one who's been pulling the strings behind the scenes?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaEx1pvWScb
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMiwVH2t3Jp
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa1zsGSiyKA
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKbm2a6Stot
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJwDQ0wKzgt
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUTzphvGe9f
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2vdxsHNSd8
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"Any information?" Tracer repeated, his voice quiet but edged with curiosity. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2IsfimjYfX
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvXp3xslGBM
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnKITYonqMV
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYOZ538NIyp
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyBqIWyZJVf
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaHKVbv9gL5
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2VjuZqPGHj
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYK89mbHsAX
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjO5L902n7Q
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAIxsUoBww3
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEpYLO3Wbq6
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG7WcsWvRL4
"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlx8ZQjFYMU
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwFDph8hqTv
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgER4P9mc79
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa7SL0nvQaO
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX2EBUMAkLd
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLaYffvEIpx
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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1v16DzSsJW
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsuas3br3ay
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkpbftrHuaE
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0k0CG1DVHG
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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAqxht6mR4U
"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEIjaSEgG1Z
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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBSKVybIDo6
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaLKI6BTfxY
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbQVmkIfZw6
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The room hummed with agreement, as everyone understood the importance of balance in the intense world of K-pop.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0VKWy6nHlX
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJCbU245Wxh
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRqnUGqJFcG
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeZAH1rktbp
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8oPcIv4rqU
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNo402Ozttj
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdXp75tLUgF
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVCp79yaUhA
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr0emxXwSKc
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8gE0lDQNqH
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyh2jKy3qg8
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When he reached the door to the main office, he knocked lightly, and upon hearing the soft words. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHt4qB4FuUG
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"Come in," The CEO said as soon as Jiyoo stepped inside. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4GTlLC83LU
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6NPhBwmdS2
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"Jiyoo," Si-woo greeted him in a smooth and friendly tone. "Have a seat."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAtKht7dXCp
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRoc2yPSAAO
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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvmqCqjps1l
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Jiyoo raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "The future? What do you mean?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE2GNov1naT
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaN5X4yOYt5
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiFd3Gd3vh9
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"Have you found them?" 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3AGQ6hn9fc
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Jiyoo looked up at him, blinking in startlement. "Huh? Sorry, I don't get what you mean."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNruGf2zt0m
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"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?" 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbeQh4jJ2PL
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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." 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5xUphfUj5v
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtunLQSJ9Mq
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8QzAqJotH1
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"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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMUUpccbZTH
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVI1ZSX9hgM
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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyn6sAjpew4
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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." 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlOTW6tAK6q
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Jiyoo gulped and stood up from his chair, facing his back. Then, he stopped in his own tracks when he listened to him. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIi4a90T02j
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"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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ87hu5snovq
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUAwAoMfh1R
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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." 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3lRHSgQm1x
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBPFE59Iq0R
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"Anytime, Jiyoo. Anytime," Si-woo said with a friendly nod and his smile was still present.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAC3GOpntLB
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Once Jiyoo left the office, the door clicking softly behind him, he felt a sense of reassurance that hadn't been there before. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPZtBQTvYXR
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There was still much work ahead, but now, with Si-woo's words in his mind, he knew he wasn't carrying it alone.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHb26b0nY3q
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo6PjWkwYRF
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"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!"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhrgXw2jwpA
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTeq8Gb86i4
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5pdhqpY4F3
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"Yes?" Kain's deep voice rumbled as it creaked open.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0TazIkt1Hp
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGKe5N5s2Rb
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"Sir, any word on Valerie? Has she decided whether or not to join the squad officially?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5H5ama1F88
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtX6S92Gnfc
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuYoViLRxp3
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2dLfKs4uta
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The officer nodded, understanding the gravity of Kain's words. "Do you want me to encourage her, sir?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjJEb9l85XJ
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT7NyKnFlKx
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There was a brief pause before the officer spoke again, his voice tinged with uncertainty.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3tvROQmOAR
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"Do you think she'll join, sir?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdHIkyKZYad
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1HVTrwwE5q
"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV0UHzpLe4o
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaevJQgSgNb
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAaIhWIDlBh
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"We'll start by doing roundhouse kick exercises. Luke Wong, you're up first," Jason commanded lightly.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsWLbtqiKAn
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Luke nodded silently in obedience and positioned himself to kick the dummy bag. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjg4smzWCtQ
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC9q30vkx4O
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5aNOO0shz2
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"Gather up," Kain ordered in his deep, controlled voice.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfJ1ZsJW3sh
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi2W7AjbFvv
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"This training session will be cut short," Kain began, his voice even but laced with a certain finality. "We've got bigger problems."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDfjlRu3Q5w
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTGkVYcOBAS
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡelFP0uLUVD
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The room tensed, but Jason was the first to speak up in question.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJXhqdAy2hV
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"Si-woo again? Damn it, I thought we'd shaken him off after the last mission."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdw23OKgHlL
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwHWFZ7wMA7
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A sense of unease spread through the group, but Kain's voice cut through the tension, firm and commanding.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWhIfvXfnua
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzYZJubeLcc
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzgYeCyRm6e
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡou44QQiH0I
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkJa92wEjHh
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"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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡviiH6s25GP
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRQQs6lLnjU
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOrL8PPbeDZ
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0Ah2QMnOsY
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXsf8IRXOhr
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlMrCXTbOgq
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡriPqt6GYtI
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb9hXqmkVvG
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaxhNl83FTg
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Kain paused, eyes narrowing slightly. He was about to speak, but Beom interrupted him, his tone unusually sharp.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfu6PLen8K8
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"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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ71yQz1w5Fk
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYoPv4nj4s7
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6KMc1qFqRA
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWXcQQMgbeI
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡulb7cS5Rcp
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa9pKeUm494
Jason stepped forward, already assessing the situation in his mind. "So, what's the plan?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDKiHyDkIgQ
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFihOnBv3zi
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Jason nodded, his expression hardening. "Understood. We'll stay out of sight."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ97woaKGDQ3
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcCgbkx5y8L
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgY99iPBadm
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"Any questions?" Kain asked, his tone suggesting he expected none.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHN6TCO8MYD
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ37hC3hhpEI
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"Good," Kain muttered, his tone still unwavering. "Get moving. We have a lot of work to do, and not much time to do it."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA0oxk3WYS5
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvsUvM9iGFX
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzk9t3Mvx2Y
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Jason's eyes narrowed in concern and was taken aback. "Sunghoon?! What the hell happened?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIH5xz1BDjW
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWtgHI4WlG2
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"Sunghoon?" Kain's voice was sharp now, his usual calm demeanor giving way to a flicker of unease. "What's going on?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPDPzkFrWza
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlRFTeTzqLN
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"They're coming," Sunghoon said, his voice strained but forceful. "The CEO's people... they're already here. They've got eyes everywhere."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3U9VtccQDz
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Jason's jaw tightened. "What do you mean? You're saying they've found us?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwvNGb0BF0b
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIB2zazOfiA
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqnG2lX4bzl
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Kain's eyes narrowed dangerously. "So we've been compromised again. This is what I feared. Si-woo's not playing around anymore."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8ViomLMRDI
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡobJVEfOGBd
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaXEe8kvCb9
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6fzrL2jxT3
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRq5TT0HU6b
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJBCJH6T8SM
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Jason's fists clenched, his jaw tight with frustration. "So we go dark, then?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9ipcICdgpC
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8jPip5WTfB
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc9nd9n5fSd
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"Understood," Jason replied immediately, his eyes already scanning the room, thinking ahead to how best to divide the team.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP9CgLQSrZN
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvd34GzDxda
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNvH2IE6LqB
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Kain nodded once, his voice cold and commanding. "Then let's not waste it."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcsAbIaFmlb
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS5KTOQa2nZ
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCyROBv4pbU
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8OIEchYN1a
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB6vCfdp90F
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0PbCHWm70n
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUSP8W8RJy7
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0NCO4fYFKg
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGkijpNFFw7
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"Right?" Jaesang added, chuckling. "She was going way too fast. Almost like she had some secret mission."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeoFAxTEPN2
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡer77jNdyFL
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"Yeah..." Jiyoo agreed, her tone taking on a more thoughtful quality. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnooMJ2taCN
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ47J8IcbJtD
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSj0v895xFp
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVwZLflFfy6
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzPoHAOKCZB
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuY59OMWU4B
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwmiLli0f7Z
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcjilQR0Kql
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7MwLb9LhJG
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡughMqoSHFi
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ27dMFBlX5w
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjQd8V1DnUT
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDCFLMOcFgd
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9gfud8pkLu
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd05eMZLO7O
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcK0HMb3YbR
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIlXN9hBm3B
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVNo5vrg4kc
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7iai7reemA
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0llzH6AETw
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxRs3uJbrbf
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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhikKsQMPxY
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuavrje1rT6
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"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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLNPl1Jnd6s
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"That's definitely her!" Jiyoo exclaimed. "I can't believe it, this is like a time capsule."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI8YcpkjDxt
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"But this is just an old picture," Taeyun said, furrowing his brows. "Let's see if there's anything more recent."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeZrCXEnyH6
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3Ti5M89wuh
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbFg7KnfMzy
The group turned to look at him in puzzlement.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1jt0ETkXxk
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"What's that?" Ryung asked, his eyebrows furrowing as he eyed the object curiously.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWpfFcedMSY
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYOkPtAc59g
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The rest of the group stared at her in stunned silence for a moment, before laughter erupted around the room.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxkv8DNzYIt
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"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?!"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSwi6uqcn9X
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVXCvTwI1Xp
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT0Dq7vjmlY
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHUivgyLvKS
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4IFMq3VJUo
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLiPc4rvayK
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"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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp0jVn1rR6t
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"Right," Min-jun muttered with a nod.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhP8pmFP4yH
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡla3JA0ZLT3
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWItYItYTaL
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"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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0ulD6nfVyc
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8KbLRL8Nxz
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgHWnif29uP
"Or maybe," Ryung said thoughtfully. "We've just stumbled on something bigger than we expected. We won't know unless we take the chance."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVLzknA2buQ
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXwb9iNiK8h
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡienr64bOP8
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTsRNAtVF92
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡegDvQ674xo
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYni4Kb5xx2
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrmL84KJsDF
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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ06xl9xmZQG
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO9bvUdODza
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2KaKAqtKZC
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrzfNL73bx7
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1lFxqBU6Pv
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2e2gQPtDpw
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvstxExBRN1
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGnXospU5KN
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqF4DnX0xZZ
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ31eyE2joK5
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZQr3eLPRue
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In an instant, the place was in chaos. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWebCvru9yT
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All the guards went scrambling to identify the cause of the disturbance, shouting to each other as they dashed through the garage.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy3n4MDhgPl
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With the alarms ringing in the distance, the tension among the K-East members mounted. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡirAICE97Mo
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnT75W6nsEt
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They took a few quick steps toward the exit, the sound of the alarms masking their movements.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOAoCCv1h2S
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6rjh8nAmvd
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwHebzOzkU7
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7rYfvYKYqt
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvDHzuJyJmJ
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8neIOTOVxd
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"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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6lsGDzh8kx
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDxg31nb0KX
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCME39Wbl2Z
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Hwan frowned. "But if it's one person, how do you explain the different personalities? Different skill sets? It doesn't add up."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfKvbhm6hJe
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeueWzHSTfS
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Concurrently, Min-jun, Jiyoo, and Jaesang were in Taeyun's car, equally tense but determined. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0kSyrLJwHo
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvpHDaTDGON
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjJrC4jIRwb
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTwhQKxQasz
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNfWxeuIRPl
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOAQMIQBWjA
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHJtqIVWLAi
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Jiyoo shook his head and said. "Then, we're dealing with a genius."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCWNvfUQiDr
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoG7ugxkI1M
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCgL7RHCHJo
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDqfXHE1wop
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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?42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFZ7kDZOX4p
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNxejsMJ4fn
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"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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8M2Y5lxOou
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcEJpUwtD4d
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTItPaxkOqd
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKGtumP8Wn6
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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." 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9HCtXHukhq
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRGYGrpphSK
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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?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZU0k6ZnXQE
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCWZoyb4nuK
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8x9M5gze50
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiKH3tmHU7n
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡflgxZNgcGZ
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvNougQO3Dw
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After a quick exchange of messages, they decided to split their efforts further to ensure that no one would escape unnoticed. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwlue1I1Cx1
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsHtnnzKV5U
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkDqC3VT1HH
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"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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVT01QEEw8o
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On the other side of the building, Min-jun, Taeyun, and Jaesang were ready to execute their own part of the plan. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmtEi0jbCzH
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbtdMknDIlL
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ18A3d3scij
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOFJ20VjGhT
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeZ6gqfbppp
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"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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa95LnF4VWR
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpbtlTmKY0x
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTxziA1PbxA
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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."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2HnPaUKSAu
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Jiyoo's eyes softened, a flicker of gratitude passing through them. "I will. I'll stay in touch. Just keep the exits covered, okay?"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcrT7gXhJut
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxs17z8KqWq
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK0tMttf4wj
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"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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEI1V07VxWH
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNUHPa04NVz
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡETetuuNugA
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXldhsSg8Ay
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTSDUXGP6JU
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSE4ShELKE6
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSaRu76iHNp
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHYkVO5NjY6
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIlIKzvWPpx
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"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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrXCbOjex13
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhpiiolWJv5
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"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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1lIYbATtyu
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSnCYOExYoe
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The mystery of the imposters was about to get even more dangerous.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhh4UZzCc51
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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.*42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGWGeMQSaJw
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvF7LubkQu1
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgiccC6kpdC
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaI7Kum1P1e
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"Who are you?!" Jiyoo demanded, his voice cold as he moved closer, eyes narrowing. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh2gXU2E6fG
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The imposter groaned again, but didn't respond, their body still twitching slightly from the impact. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcyE0Bk1uy5
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKggN7jiM09
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKE7wxSQnkq
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Jiyoo's grip tightened, and his mind snapped back into focus. He wasn't alone anymore.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRFfxcZ9wOx
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH0YEXRzj1R
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOZ5LsPA9qH
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzUTCOh4bVz
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"Let go of it!" Jiyoo growled, trying to wrench the Platinum object free from their grip, but they weren't having it. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ98QlZIr3kX
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg93PJsdkmc
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU6DGQQEo2c
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyuVdkLnu7U
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI4q4evwGyE
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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.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0PpLsLplvz
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Jiyoo froze for a brief moment, eyes widening in bewilderment and disbelief. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPuR995sCFU
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Underneath the mask was a woman that he recognized as she stared back at him, full of alarm, timidity, and defiance. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ95f8BNNFqV
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The mystery was thickening and the same person he had been expecting, but the situation didn't allow him time to process it. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFsCpETpw3C
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Jiyoo's eyes grew wider at the person that revealed herself, which shook him to the point that he had seen a ghost. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9u5nd0ieBQ
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"You are...!"42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdau8lDoJum
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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. 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd9lUoZfLtu
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"Stop! Don't come any closer..."42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYhx1kGMJ8X
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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..." 42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxcd5sHJbtr
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She made no response to him whatsoever since she kept her impassive gaze at him fiercely.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡntNSjYxd8m
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"Your name isn't Hana, nor is it Hyun-Aera... it's Yon-hae..." Jiyoo enunciated carefully and repeated in a daze.42Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn8tHZkagdz
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"Yon-hae Lockhart..."
ns 15.158.61.42da2
