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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzk9SzKtuPI
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkDOVPkD251
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiqaXjpFkNZ
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYBi6SNoiR8
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡScUpl9LGzH
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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOwZlgXRiJW
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9fr24X7Uzd
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFla6Ces5KM
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3rNbqjXFV2
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsPjeGDcfQW
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJrxzH7no4W
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy2rKNFM366
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9jtTo93rgm
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLPl5J82Wwp
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ151CMtK8rA
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"Any information?" Tracer repeated, his voice quiet but edged with curiosity. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ38yp2dFfyb
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjlqTDKcg0n
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFA3DkUsLH8
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWP306dOO5h
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡApCYF4EYHO
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyQ2wf3VO5L
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhup8raTEvM
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO5OMjdMN5g
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS4H6mEMdpl
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXLkV65jjNr
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0lDEsPeJex
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn1OFUw5M12
"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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc6ybjwXKJJ
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrIFmcERlOE
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu7lVDAuWQt
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJbj14j84WX
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0gKpYRh7Xg
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9mVCpcSPoz
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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs89j7QS7b9
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7BRgmJU94E
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9MFH5RbewE
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoLCHn02JRq
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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBGLFUA9VyH
"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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1PGJkWG4SE
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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY3dvxHJ9jN
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW3kHxFKktD
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBGziPxy6ST
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The room hummed with agreement, as everyone understood the importance of balance in the intense world of K-pop.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡalHAsx47LZ
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNjCUSj28vr
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo2kxZiGpX9
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLwCvns93g4
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjbSWZWtJr0
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhtp6AqG3KQ
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcPRxsF4Xjy
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvN0i80zZsF
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcWfS3gRFaQ
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbh0pQXX16I
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1wAuWMYFue
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When he reached the door to the main office, he knocked lightly, and upon hearing the soft words. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMoAMOCCAEX
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"Come in," The CEO said as soon as Jiyoo stepped inside. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1EhOGWuUkx
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwLvxFTMnUH
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"Jiyoo," Si-woo greeted him in a smooth and friendly tone. "Have a seat."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJm8yP9W4on
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpD7tTw3taI
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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtqWto3B6vn
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Jiyoo raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "The future? What do you mean?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlA5vCI6871
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2cIeEhre3i
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAlWXI68G39
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"Have you found them?" 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd7eSTXe2Yz
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Jiyoo looked up at him, blinking in startlement. "Huh? Sorry, I don't get what you mean."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFdzVdUXedW
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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?" 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpncZRVk2yd
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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." 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX0L2k8ri0K
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzUANQKQa2Q
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡctkyC8lKTL
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU3ituJh7hb
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFGlSUffvq7
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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8ZgIlWXpyE
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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." 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfrtxSzHcO2
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdyZZrQDJuV
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqTujKU5sjV
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTI56nXhkhZ
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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." 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOovGt4FsM1
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFWqKtUqFIm
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"Anytime, Jiyoo. Anytime," Si-woo said with a friendly nod and his smile was still present.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSvD8qt1Mxm
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu3Doy3jAcs
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZS5JnAbTvh
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn74YhEVqkw
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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!"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbP4EId4DnB
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzMeTu3DPdb
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8NDu95iSvI
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"Yes?" Kain's deep voice rumbled as it creaked open.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡExdPEoH0lP
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnuzaUPVpRs
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"Sir, any word on Valerie? Has she decided whether or not to join the squad officially?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuDIehzFaAG
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO5D8Cp0gPW
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8p7cyzLtWQ
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj1NTGxEjRz
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The officer nodded, understanding the gravity of Kain's words. "Do you want me to encourage her, sir?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1pPG41SGve
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTZNE5UROKw
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There was a brief pause before the officer spoke again, his voice tinged with uncertainty.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCKQchymbEp
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"Do you think she'll join, sir?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX9QrbBKV3o
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrphOU2brDv
"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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpmu6vmIdI4
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmsvY9INOTR
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBOm2tlgnkk
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"We'll start by doing roundhouse kick exercises. Luke Wong, you're up first," Jason commanded lightly.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ004a7TEJX0
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Luke nodded silently in obedience and positioned himself to kick the dummy bag. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmh5oDXtfPr
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnHQubqP2ef
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxpIErgIpTZ
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"Gather up," Kain ordered in his deep, controlled voice.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw0NfkLzFiL
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡedO22LdTZt
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEtA2PRF5ye
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS0bhFp4UBY
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvsCMgxhcwV
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The room tensed, but Jason was the first to speak up in question.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ63bL17lMsA
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"Si-woo again? Damn it, I thought we'd shaken him off after the last mission."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY7j1CenpFd
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiOrWZgTFUi
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A sense of unease spread through the group, but Kain's voice cut through the tension, firm and commanding.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0f0SRMt7EC
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCm3kZ6QekY
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfWiP6ChQk8
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8mmQdsdWfd
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLTcZ8HBr7V
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡymEh6tvv9F
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMUPEZnSG6V
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtfkTCaMs4A
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlBFJ46WxYR
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFhOIR30MuW
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYas19YtYZ4
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVzrTXozpQ2
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqxYl9DyybO
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoTGZNSN9ee
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Kain paused, eyes narrowing slightly. He was about to speak, but Beom interrupted him, his tone unusually sharp.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgIketPzZvG
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSDmnUi8ncM
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkoNBR3A6n0
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOCcM78ODyt
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiTYEMTE7KC
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9smdInknm8
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdfYGNsgUtC
Jason stepped forward, already assessing the situation in his mind. "So, what's the plan?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkuFscAwAOg
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwFa59TDqDW
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Jason nodded, his expression hardening. "Understood. We'll stay out of sight."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdMaAFiL5wN
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSmdbG5CmgH
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpqACa7tMAH
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"Any questions?" Kain asked, his tone suggesting he expected none.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn7DtYpJj5d
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkWZ2hb6MPo
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdIp67a4fbq
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaCHIPLfqDn
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡro035Nya4A
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Jason's eyes narrowed in concern and was taken aback. "Sunghoon?! What the hell happened?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7j3tqFPw2W
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlhMYUf7bKR
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMfEe6IyR4J
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzoUKV7RDLQ
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwJZr57Js3q
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Jason's jaw tightened. "What do you mean? You're saying they've found us?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8ESGcWVxGT
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4XIGMk2lvR
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz28wM2Ytoc
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnbZdhP5f6L
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQY6jWenMwr
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUrpChPnCvs
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡghzuxOQii4
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3fNQn7AOrA
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ54cpdpEhPk
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Jason's fists clenched, his jaw tight with frustration. "So we go dark, then?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGBAYDZS2Ro
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkstPEc5ITd
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxjQstJFal6
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"Understood," Jason replied immediately, his eyes already scanning the room, thinking ahead to how best to divide the team.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1FhEHGDKqh
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj4dlBRctbd
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIhKUaRytBr
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Kain nodded once, his voice cold and commanding. "Then let's not waste it."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5zGMYb3Vmx
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡks5jwATEor
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo34ZZgZIPR
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUo0dURVE9f
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9B38DfkOYg
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdMEAjwNJvR
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDQfVvNxuz3
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzBhToRCmnP
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtc05txgkFJ
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"Right?" Jaesang added, chuckling. "She was going way too fast. Almost like she had some secret mission."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdij8eVt2Ae
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc65UC5myO3
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"Yeah..." Jiyoo agreed, her tone taking on a more thoughtful quality. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1CGJ5YbHKK
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcQX1t3JeEJ
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRtOrBdyQJh
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡamQ0Kp9YeF
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq1rCUhIfTh
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3gPwpUe28L
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4G38MGbh7L
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4hrmoCI2GQ
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNfNgDhg4RB
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDAbJqP5y3q
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyI3fly3yiT
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡojGlugF12K
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmrVtyWYmWe
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuL9DlrLQio
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCg2UlPqi8B
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC9YgG9DAro
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPCdAIy26EV
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDo4kGfGN80
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡofD3gdr9ir
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIBWaYBbU6N
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDTlIMBmhXY
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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVHHinRkEZT
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpcDxPMdKk0
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKSKP1FbXVS
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"That's definitely her!" Jiyoo exclaimed. "I can't believe it, this is like a time capsule."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3gl4BEx9Ia
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpNNAnMxUli
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYbis68z7cQ
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHB5Beri56B
The group turned to look at him in puzzlement.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP9op4zwSNP
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"What's that?" Ryung asked, his eyebrows furrowing as he eyed the object curiously.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡACvYXNDI3e
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRQqE0g6ElK
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The rest of the group stared at her in stunned silence for a moment, before laughter erupted around the room.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGGTZacSSK2
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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?!"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3qJLJgCnG0
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡogx8FZO8di
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlHF95e06LG
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9riB0qQN8L
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1NGYy3reaP
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVStgBtcuNm
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEJrLDHzxrB
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"Right," Min-jun muttered with a nod.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjcI4WrEuEA
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmpRFbUSuP8
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTyc7yOArRF
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu7352iGFiG
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡitfITeizPK
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg6fECW53zY
"Or maybe," Ryung said thoughtfully. "We've just stumbled on something bigger than we expected. We won't know unless we take the chance."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX4UuQBPgFt
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDj29yJd4nm
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNfzImoukjz
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3zb13GInDG
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrIOEYyL27p
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr42V0q8PIJ
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP3FB9z8zUo
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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNfUbUZ360h
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE7n6qcPcfM
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1WwSxp2NoF
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKn7xbNNl7B
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyLNjCaxcBX
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKzkO10Idu1
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2vvBXYFnHh
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhDD1F54OPQ
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWRGBa75mq4
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa1YoFdIfys
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtTVxQJv7cv
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In an instant, the place was in chaos. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlpTsqU18rF
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUEVWVA5c57
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With the alarms ringing in the distance, the tension among the K-East members mounted. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLlBVZwQFpS
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6kk9Bqzk3n
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They took a few quick steps toward the exit, the sound of the alarms masking their movements.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj50ke4L2W2
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx3kNtUpSdl
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxbYp1yXdOb
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2nRHy1NgES
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9LtBfROkb1
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoreXr54CyU
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8IKFJSzDzh
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrjUUIMUyvr
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡioYCKfYCwe
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvYbq6EAVLV
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpcKmAdIhI3
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Concurrently, Min-jun, Jiyoo, and Jaesang were in Taeyun's car, equally tense but determined. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeHakCwJRCZ
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeOqCjvrLZU
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9zPb89nipD
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP0ASbA4Zrq
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡol9qnYhJ47
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc8xh7UT6gy
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcmRoeXK2rt
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Jiyoo shook his head and said. "Then, we're dealing with a genius."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUbHpg4fEbn
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5StRjsGCyX
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxTNOvGt7Gm
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUTsDmiEZwB
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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?19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHrTw1JBYs3
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuGppRdoxRS
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5umg3NqKms
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBxyg1SCoMa
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu8LtWcMAg6
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUOBlyvCKlH
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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." 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ68GrsNJqps
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3j6JxMQa7u
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP0y2K4kDmq
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvTgJjZUixJ
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCFHqs2U4nB
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ35YGv2pfFK
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Mn6ub077t
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj3NBiKHDwh
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHzWsq4NkRB
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡerun0GYDmP
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUiO5OCj0D7
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVS8NY1fh02
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡahxSH1JYfa
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOcPSRdiSkd
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO0XDnPHDgw
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3uQTi8ipLP
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW5hDRK4NxY
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbMCl7Wk6Hd
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8AH0zUOaAc
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBPY5vhCewE
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFxMfOv28S4
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡep3neJly22
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOmH27Qe9kH
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVArtTz1JdY
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJTheDe4evx
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNIXOwSkBax
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR7SU88FQ4W
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8MSIit0C75
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYDTOdZlrhL
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt8XRVyyGRE
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxArvhIKNWz
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa9ItCFwHcv
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9likReDnnP
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5hX4YRqS7s
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyer8L4GVSw
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLGJIHp98iM
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR86Xg3Unlq
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The mystery of the imposters was about to get even more dangerous.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo0XvxwCgZL
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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.*19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAZvGNZgzWU
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbq03Z8JZHO
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFdmj2dT7UC
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFyxyri37bu
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"Who are you?!" Jiyoo demanded, his voice cold as he moved closer, eyes narrowing. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7fOMq05io8
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The imposter groaned again, but didn't respond, their body still twitching slightly from the impact. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSo7Y8xdkLw
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNFhlc0V3kv
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQwNyGXMupL
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Jiyoo's grip tightened, and his mind snapped back into focus. He wasn't alone anymore.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZYcqxw0kQd
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzPZgzydeK6
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNpvBnR5XVO
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Mq2kYexqK
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡklmjHSPqWu
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ92ozoMiS3r
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡreFqVZmXpt
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgONCAp5mzO
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgcYY9NdFJ1
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFAG1w1Yecy
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Jiyoo froze for a brief moment, eyes widening in bewilderment and disbelief. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr5osLsjYaS
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHtTcrYUYJ6
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPfYPDduBOy
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZXyAt3uWdn
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"You are...!"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwXiNzyioKC
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3l5H2c5fvg
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"Stop! Don't come any closer..."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjMJc5MCQo2
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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..." 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTWhbVbEEl1
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She made no response to him whatsoever since she kept her impassive gaze at him fiercely.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaKQ39g23b3
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvx36zjrgMw
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡirwsIek2n8
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT5UvXFlzH0
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2l6wDbL6kl
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhE3AdLxcHK
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpZbcZU3LzZ
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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgu0S8Rmw68
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfQS69kLM8s
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMgxlgXkDRE
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyPj8bAbOYo
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ7Feb3YiSY
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGWTgm8ggQZ
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwVlcRMPLYr
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAC1L7NHb89
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHgtZzzSSIx
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAChy1zIV8G
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"Any information?" Tracer repeated, his voice quiet but edged with curiosity. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb6cY7AX4i2
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlh1ggPCy62
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmqFnx5hywB
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzJPv72X8Ma
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8PxsgNBypw
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSeR53jHwu0
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc9GEVAiTJr
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFwfx1fvTfe
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp7g03NE6oD
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNBowI6sLI5
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXsABFnlcPz
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFBffMnghQ0
"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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtmgMMxVRT4
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYvuMB4kM5e
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcEOiDfWWnK
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKGcmmjucQQ
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCReIR72DBw
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZr589dQ0Oe
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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnZPKfHMJG6
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOR0VI6Qpp9
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUfYp8umYAs
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKo2RDIL8Rx
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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHaudP8BV97
"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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTyvb88mMZ4
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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHLGMsgpXOH
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnovXZjDny4
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHbqOfMBmRe
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The room hummed with agreement, as everyone understood the importance of balance in the intense world of K-pop.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoRnPPLb41r
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHbj2gaoxO6
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0w8NZsGqtP
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoX39UhiRZJ
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOE3w6m1rId
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWdYwOjXp6Y
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6bsOt587Ew
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaAc6E9ma5l
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdF7iScN5E1
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0IACchuUB4
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ27LRbCQuR
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When he reached the door to the main office, he knocked lightly, and upon hearing the soft words. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWQtNyqFmbk
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"Come in," The CEO said as soon as Jiyoo stepped inside. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjR1Gvy66Bt
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGrNtwtqXy0
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"Jiyoo," Si-woo greeted him in a smooth and friendly tone. "Have a seat."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGUEs466wT8
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRulgU5VAzV
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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcRUi4I3m7O
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Jiyoo raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "The future? What do you mean?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9I78IlFrXK
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE6BT3u36VT
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0RKcvCR873
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"Have you found them?" 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpVfAR7qNuk
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Jiyoo looked up at him, blinking in startlement. "Huh? Sorry, I don't get what you mean."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAohBsf2NzS
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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?" 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDBhRD01zmK
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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." 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCxP63TIa9L
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgQv6i5b8Js
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKIOZ6wLnlU
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOvuRNcwowC
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBHL8JziDE9
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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKQ4dW9p6F1
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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." 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQc1fzGEubq
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2IMSgOGxWK
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2tjF82v8sS
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfCrDOX7TmH
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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." 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0QGQ444FtO
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnPFSP5kqBD
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"Anytime, Jiyoo. Anytime," Si-woo said with a friendly nod and his smile was still present.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIEbir1KRmN
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ01Rke9M51S
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQt6hrtDzUh
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsYt9lIRQ2y
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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!"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG1gGHuWwLS
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaVms9XwnJC
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEbVlUro7wK
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"Yes?" Kain's deep voice rumbled as it creaked open.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYXxyLht0Fk
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYXsuKYuXf6
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"Sir, any word on Valerie? Has she decided whether or not to join the squad officially?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDOqDCRL8lF
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm73Ckyq5Ue
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZCtp8mnnLI
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7RZmKS4DUy
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The officer nodded, understanding the gravity of Kain's words. "Do you want me to encourage her, sir?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYr4RbsUaQF
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡffSzCPl6bz
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There was a brief pause before the officer spoke again, his voice tinged with uncertainty.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAYFRyjJoOt
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"Do you think she'll join, sir?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJCqkRDOPR8
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIJan9TCnTQ
"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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8jeyCc3rDs
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡldq3dnh7ZL
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡytRi7K0dl9
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"We'll start by doing roundhouse kick exercises. Luke Wong, you're up first," Jason commanded lightly.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbrdtK18S3q
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Luke nodded silently in obedience and positioned himself to kick the dummy bag. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzpWQLJS1j0
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw5D7r399qk
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡITVw7XdOoT
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"Gather up," Kain ordered in his deep, controlled voice.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhsFw9hoBPM
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRTbY6k3v23
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeDTqtZxPTK
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhlXHoWjvs1
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJBrYefzH50
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The room tensed, but Jason was the first to speak up in question.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFEAhwF20lE
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"Si-woo again? Damn it, I thought we'd shaken him off after the last mission."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1mUF5kHKTS
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoQhaALu8nR
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A sense of unease spread through the group, but Kain's voice cut through the tension, firm and commanding.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgIqkmWTevc
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxf69MCureA
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJZwBIEOvYK
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFd8Oo0DLfs
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrBARXjFbKD
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNgc15PnrNn
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe6Fowkf5uE
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOYEXczhRgK
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXzfAzIZOQk
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbuvnzTtoHu
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyliw92JRkE
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOMpHRB16My
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEAUVhtrkW9
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiNm8R8XX2M
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Kain paused, eyes narrowing slightly. He was about to speak, but Beom interrupted him, his tone unusually sharp.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡibUkYHUmqD
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfXQDoxgc2h
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡalry4dep2J
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOWSyBHrb3H
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyvrCmFlUq7
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzTGVjMDAmg
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKaLI9Yu7zM
Jason stepped forward, already assessing the situation in his mind. "So, what's the plan?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbFAhBo2frG
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡldRstrIR2w
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Jason nodded, his expression hardening. "Understood. We'll stay out of sight."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTNnFBBEw4t
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqGMr2TOhDN
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWKrrGDD3ym
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"Any questions?" Kain asked, his tone suggesting he expected none.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdKXKqo6ez4
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMiTz8HQ0vz
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKae3Fi9HLX
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8pcDOi6MXh
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9BG1Vf2net
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Jason's eyes narrowed in concern and was taken aback. "Sunghoon?! What the hell happened?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7fRRLZDHsU
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1DopwsjnUG
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsUfn2GtkeF
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9JQnsfCBoE
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoEUt6Qnalh
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Jason's jaw tightened. "What do you mean? You're saying they've found us?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGoDArg0uAy
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1gDs0FI953
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡufCRuezcfW
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxDVlhqfwUc
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgNMpNc4nqG
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRFLCIFNgVJ
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEfTb6tbPEG
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu6qSg9Rp2f
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVCmKd8bfIA
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Jason's fists clenched, his jaw tight with frustration. "So we go dark, then?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrem1oiXJHj
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWBScQTnahe
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPJIhQk7KIJ
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"Understood," Jason replied immediately, his eyes already scanning the room, thinking ahead to how best to divide the team.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn4tmeCj0aZ
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMH608rh13i
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡShliH58160
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Kain nodded once, his voice cold and commanding. "Then let's not waste it."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvrkhGDfpEj
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsl555nuAlG
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoMyUxIRItv
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyrRA4yOgBN
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgjB0kUfMWF
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsdi4WiyYnm
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpXj0ij45PP
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4pXVFME82t
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlPLxBAJG5F
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"Right?" Jaesang added, chuckling. "She was going way too fast. Almost like she had some secret mission."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Bvv5ay1US
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQWRn54RAYZ
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"Yeah..." Jiyoo agreed, her tone taking on a more thoughtful quality. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbQJea6R2Rw
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm7Q3rYkbLc
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVcOpbv5aN6
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5f5Lovrliz
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOdGUgvp5qE
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQWY7ut1eUS
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5YoYYgDKjM
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtaxEjWUmLS
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡixPIPQX5ru
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUjUbrfa4pY
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOLQLL30PJ2
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR85QA8HylF
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXSBO7KGDap
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ31TS0qLGjI
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeeHdiBMyoO
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDw1zdSeyCj
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBdOm0ljVQ8
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtKk8YL7TuP
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuVAZoJ5nD4
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGGjpALkJzn
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq66efeaEzr
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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9S2Y9iwk8G
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYRPvRDDf3d
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUqLGRNa1LO
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"That's definitely her!" Jiyoo exclaimed. "I can't believe it, this is like a time capsule."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsP6EG7HdnK
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwIVCfoevbd
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Feh7yC555
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrBi4w3vJC2
The group turned to look at him in puzzlement.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsyDyyhCxJ4
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"What's that?" Ryung asked, his eyebrows furrowing as he eyed the object curiously.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf87Jfa9XqL
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRgNoFkHRCt
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The rest of the group stared at her in stunned silence for a moment, before laughter erupted around the room.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvGAYZFL53Z
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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?!"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXZCoNwLTIm
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRJu6SMAK4o
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYmAa6ZaJrr
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqbrTZCht1m
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHf9T4DgTs7
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXxwyuAg7Yj
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6ad0zQnd4m
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"Right," Min-jun muttered with a nod.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYVwvh6ssr2
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs5oYP2ox4x
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqCeWa8cl3g
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg1HxGwiuei
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfOqJJLw7yE
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF8xZI9BS5O
"Or maybe," Ryung said thoughtfully. "We've just stumbled on something bigger than we expected. We won't know unless we take the chance."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu7Io5OtGvH
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHtDujnvIx1
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbNs3f7Tajp
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi3TI2003dn
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK8SUOItGRK
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK3nYwfftnk
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3eFPFceI6n
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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6733EIOXn3
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZcj5AFOthY
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqXGeBGN1m2
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4oDZHQSyjO
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiCb6QMsxel
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoY2fZYSH1P
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM2rlRfnAXl
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAYajrbojw3
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW6SFyG7hHx
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1ZHgFQQ1dB
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWoz5dekONH
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In an instant, the place was in chaos. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjKtswXVfFC
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHjdE6MiEtC
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With the alarms ringing in the distance, the tension among the K-East members mounted. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb7X87aaTrg
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgHNzYHNYnO
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They took a few quick steps toward the exit, the sound of the alarms masking their movements.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrd7RljPfTN
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYEi28YCgNn
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjf41cr0ePV
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3GQYpfPbCh
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpk0Tnjbgs0
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqXFeOUg7Oa
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfPzgp2LbzL
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfJEGGbQC8U
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaAHuBuarOA
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3TuFukjtyJ
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrYIPkqnqd4
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Concurrently, Min-jun, Jiyoo, and Jaesang were in Taeyun's car, equally tense but determined. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkolg5SfdL9
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFDRcZu9DXf
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlhwsW5v4j4
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMcdjqCOARy
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIqC1PeVcRb
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡStTUgwY7kJ
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiFImHflYSu
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Jiyoo shook his head and said. "Then, we're dealing with a genius."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH58z258HZt
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUaSCZkbSlA
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsCATyvkaqm
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEcDaBfJKBU
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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?19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5hTHNzsVzk
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPnqKxI0StP
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwCQknW8BVP
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAOGQcA3U7D
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF8hTXktdun
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRDY5M9nlT2
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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." 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoGMjYFMu3I
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡesKMV00S3y
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0Dc6OjAt3A
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7EHe3PFOlx
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDht4Racd0H
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb21HKtTuc5
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyh5PWpvAA2
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU73bXzeE4y
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTta8RMEsbT
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡebNH7LATv0
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy7PTX4xQBu
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqpVoKLH5l2
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEsixNxRsJU
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡURxZqYYClr
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx0dotJR5zm
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLYLpkbDsL5
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQaOPuMn98V
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡacsoUwvxDu
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhVaJaQNlOK
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAd2RSoCvpA
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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."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPanI7RYYjB
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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?"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2wpFr1KpGb
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyf9TzAHnWv
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5EAEo5R9VN
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZOi63gPggF
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIUK0SwfXHI
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9AAMifzoiK
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJgd5CrTdCN
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf5iv42RmmO
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvDZGFan3lZ
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3C80aTetPw
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGCWzwuUiB3
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWNSpV5jf7p
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWJtV6fA9UI
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe1DrPS5KTM
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZe5aG7bEM5
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Cl8BjqTN2
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The mystery of the imposters was about to get even more dangerous.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVwfBMdd7Kb
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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.*19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxpwbAggNjs
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwAbbRS3fqk
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDy7F6ZGwA4
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqOLAkdut4X
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"Who are you?!" Jiyoo demanded, his voice cold as he moved closer, eyes narrowing. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs3SUGWZ9Wi
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The imposter groaned again, but didn't respond, their body still twitching slightly from the impact. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1OEjJHEflk
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXY1meL2Nh4
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGcxkUO3xF5
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Jiyoo's grip tightened, and his mind snapped back into focus. He wasn't alone anymore.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUmyk2ED7li
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy8PY2DxIKW
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0pSFHpgZla
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGnPmD6nLyc
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeYEduykpyu
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgVaI4rFh2r
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ3MLQ3EqY0
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1nCYj781OI
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp1jcgO9NxC
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9ZoBv5Zu0q
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Jiyoo froze for a brief moment, eyes widening in bewilderment and disbelief. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0bbGhcSPqy
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp7z9OpyJWX
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD7PtT1hKRe
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjdYXzVEOOM
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"You are...!"19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2oHh4qKN1o
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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. 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU7YWjwYWcf
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"Stop! Don't come any closer..."19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEcbpg5Ag6L
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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..." 19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFfKsmoNkLK
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She made no response to him whatsoever since she kept her impassive gaze at him fiercely.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjUWINHwicp
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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.19Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgH9jIxQrDf
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"Yon-hae Lockhart..."
ns 15.158.61.46da2
