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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr0fsjdf6Kw
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl2H4iV5rla
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN69BLyC7mh
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL0pJT6V9B0
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF3HKM9luwl
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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7S37DOfqQr
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmFls3P5cnB
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5By4ywlFJT
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡInutemwNAD
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm55FK9bRWQ
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaTT7LZC80y
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlY8CPWXRhW
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSjs2AzFBhe
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU70pf6QOj9
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjwgYRDJev5
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"Any information?" Tracer repeated, his voice quiet but edged with curiosity. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx4DRwxSUF2
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpG0EkbsUbr
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv6aDweeHCh
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOlM4FxoDoI
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7ETelypBNN
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSJ1rQZVkkf
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLNy3fyV0pA
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡilClFENBsb
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoXEDdwOXnG
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsvHcMjIfjS
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYPqQll9yOq
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3537PcIACY
"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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzrZt2IHpK5
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlvNOBsnpJy
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8EnYjyXjfi
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ13FEOLBoao
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTXLrBE1TZE
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1k7mFGhcpj
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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡISFV4vDUs1
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRaeJNbwp3L
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0xC2EqJdYJ
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVozva96zg8
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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPqiF8q6qn6
"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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡItBCoQKJyp
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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUVHByjcM9X
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKDIkJuF61h
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6jKEUUKQig
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The room hummed with agreement, as everyone understood the importance of balance in the intense world of K-pop.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuKGHE8LXsT
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3LJcV2FkeH
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcEA6Otcp01
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0zLLJ40yfE
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyG2ugWOO6C
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRY1WONmmfT
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCByRo4R1xb
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡem1fs1NFRw
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRYzefMq0uo
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhoYenRv9QZ
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSxiwukYHe5
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When he reached the door to the main office, he knocked lightly, and upon hearing the soft words. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdFyP3R8OIB
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"Come in," The CEO said as soon as Jiyoo stepped inside. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhbtj75R6Q2
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡolzyZiMbZ0
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"Jiyoo," Si-woo greeted him in a smooth and friendly tone. "Have a seat."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWCgca5prpZ
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM2ayRJlnfQ
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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX4FNVpmCmW
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Jiyoo raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "The future? What do you mean?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0Bi9lzAHij
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl8lp4jDYcC
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh6F1weTE87
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"Have you found them?" 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGqirCnKjyw
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Jiyoo looked up at him, blinking in startlement. "Huh? Sorry, I don't get what you mean."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAqms1RxWD4
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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?" 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJhvOmh9kjz
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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." 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP3hxdEVwQ6
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9h1EZ4JMXB
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNMmWQq3R6n
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5jM0Wqh22e
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw4dIJuaohP
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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRkdUiR2wJR
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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." 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡApGqFmOYYa
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2I0LgQSEFh
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrgpLjWbsW9
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI08d9cZ5S5
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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." 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡglll1fjtHu
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHVr54Y0IGT
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"Anytime, Jiyoo. Anytime," Si-woo said with a friendly nod and his smile was still present.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI1h4M1QQnk
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsOBSl4An9D
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQkewCaw61f
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLXKIRuZdyq
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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!"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLevPo7pUqX
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡayiYNXnPYa
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ78h9DAHXbA
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"Yes?" Kain's deep voice rumbled as it creaked open.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRmvwLkZtSS
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1JzhJ0gSWG
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"Sir, any word on Valerie? Has she decided whether or not to join the squad officially?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ72cl54tHGp
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF2XBGc3YrK
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwl2a5eY8t2
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIKJ13LcmEl
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The officer nodded, understanding the gravity of Kain's words. "Do you want me to encourage her, sir?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe74oDMD5tA
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuwrfk75sjc
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There was a brief pause before the officer spoke again, his voice tinged with uncertainty.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡapZdUlyWzm
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"Do you think she'll join, sir?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7gBpTPovfG
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgbho26vzcB
"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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh8aIgiBORQ
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVVzafWjzaz
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡArSIwHj9Ex
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"We'll start by doing roundhouse kick exercises. Luke Wong, you're up first," Jason commanded lightly.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzNXrudgXZu
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Luke nodded silently in obedience and positioned himself to kick the dummy bag. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkhLvgUE8wo
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLOyi9hnwic
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2YN810qmOd
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"Gather up," Kain ordered in his deep, controlled voice.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnX9gX9UNQt
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjCu2Nm5QiO
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg3VNS03sBP
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2bBZcuy8ru
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRztIQvxzGQ
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The room tensed, but Jason was the first to speak up in question.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsXUnaVFnXZ
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"Si-woo again? Damn it, I thought we'd shaken him off after the last mission."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmfvsh2FbAE
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnZulgZ7DIw
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A sense of unease spread through the group, but Kain's voice cut through the tension, firm and commanding.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIaSaVFdllV
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZJN5QsX7Lp
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSYy2HmZa1c
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZOMPEoisPx
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgZObPCR4lb
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnthIZt3Cra
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8qSWY5v59t
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpdCtsF8ukH
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlJKjDXfG8X
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKbLpZFTdiA
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡomZccSuJIM
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjOMpPzD5Jn
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvWFaxcDobN
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt80ErUKSWn
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Kain paused, eyes narrowing slightly. He was about to speak, but Beom interrupted him, his tone unusually sharp.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJR8NzJS76n
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9KbvGSDN3I
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEpoBPlH14N
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIszHwDdim1
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTZxw9VDrHw
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZlDb4CM0ar
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXaIVOGZtSQ
Jason stepped forward, already assessing the situation in his mind. "So, what's the plan?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfEtiSB6DDO
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWO8zIdIs07
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Jason nodded, his expression hardening. "Understood. We'll stay out of sight."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxRlAUes6UX
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrTGEttVjFM
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMiML5unYl1
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"Any questions?" Kain asked, his tone suggesting he expected none.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPbz7MYPHlb
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKZHeLbN55f
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn1aH456cw1
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtageiAXdEm
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzZZ1vKhEIA
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Jason's eyes narrowed in concern and was taken aback. "Sunghoon?! What the hell happened?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ7dWNQYK6b
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMw8o5EPUKT
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlMrIPuCHdP
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU0lHdSEiSi
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTZ4ZxQgrqU
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Jason's jaw tightened. "What do you mean? You're saying they've found us?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxwgF1vIjfg
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH0bUI6X8ln
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJCCrpJmOu5
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkDMxvCQBYD
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOw8EKsSwnJ
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlv3fynCtO8
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡATeWglSUyO
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWrsUJoBEsa
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0jPrvEzuji
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Jason's fists clenched, his jaw tight with frustration. "So we go dark, then?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLNtvHxpl09
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEvwdyf8rwM
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS9yEexfV2G
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"Understood," Jason replied immediately, his eyes already scanning the room, thinking ahead to how best to divide the team.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaxklbm4JiS
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR5hnUC8Rnn
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOpTNXHac2Q
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Kain nodded once, his voice cold and commanding. "Then let's not waste it."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaqTPs519Bg
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ81z7pIQndY
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYp35uttVEb
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyP5Zjji23A
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw9G8YfFif1
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyhcMd6LKJ4
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnbfIk2Sw5P
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡORLeogNOl6
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNsXZoWWYHf
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"Right?" Jaesang added, chuckling. "She was going way too fast. Almost like she had some secret mission."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXfBDTxDiAl
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr9hoh9GvSp
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"Yeah..." Jiyoo agreed, her tone taking on a more thoughtful quality. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3yH394X8ja
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2elQR6VhGv
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfFBY0rbNSd
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMTenSxTQiH
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyaUwEHo6It
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGIpDo4tLZD
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv1kpM9dvwg
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLHM6OQrcU6
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ91tkHC8WLH
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK80HXVbq7i
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIoFPueymqM
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo3BDxiFMGO
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEtHllyvNyB
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9OMqYniocT
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5ccpqohAWE
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8EDP9sPwBD
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI4uPxbdGFM
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ418LaQYWg2
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsXe0MzWsXT
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRNIzRhuO4A
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5OuXtICpSR
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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0XwXLSEFAA
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc4W7ip239S
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9q14krYkkE
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"That's definitely her!" Jiyoo exclaimed. "I can't believe it, this is like a time capsule."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCCDYutTpTg
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB57j4EYYAC
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNIOXkKjANn
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY0pCvmGKK0
The group turned to look at him in puzzlement.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeL8xjiGz5L
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"What's that?" Ryung asked, his eyebrows furrowing as he eyed the object curiously.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡygxDnhpDGK
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI4TwmfXvuJ
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The rest of the group stared at her in stunned silence for a moment, before laughter erupted around the room.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7pSz2AH4bw
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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?!"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXKuw6wLXsw
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr0o6tky0Zo
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6HhiU1IBHI
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡryWekj8J91
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCcKVxIzzpx
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡisj4WNSH5D
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡekERUULrE4
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"Right," Min-jun muttered with a nod.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0pMOcVC9i9
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3TE2bkj6zM
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMUt1dWDrQ6
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGSNZp6HyKb
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5JcznpVlcY
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRx0sOiNThK
"Or maybe," Ryung said thoughtfully. "We've just stumbled on something bigger than we expected. We won't know unless we take the chance."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW8XsAjXC6m
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6yWBf6xbfP
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfKNA8giMj6
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu8HH7kgvBO
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqgy2BsYrbA
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVbushrMEPm
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZujsiAcEUm
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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJCL61HzrWP
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc5Mj3ng0Bo
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkg5Zs5hVXR
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ29SRLDacDu
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuXYCqYx51x
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs8msFdnyEz
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe153RAZ63s
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh7YcsiHEQg
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbGHAHpKVAx
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz2cy8HhXvx
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrwkIzmUIXs
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In an instant, the place was in chaos. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPTVl5PWy9j
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeYurEzOH4V
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With the alarms ringing in the distance, the tension among the K-East members mounted. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOQ92GXSB92
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd9nTPdjKHG
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They took a few quick steps toward the exit, the sound of the alarms masking their movements.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHencR8wA5t
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1eEjMw5Er5
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDUO99Q5VY5
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnjGAYyqqXI
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3kOJVY5sRY
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYhKmExnOEP
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMGBQe87LaO
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2y07P7OQRt
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0dLancG9Vw
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡruIyKUlHUe
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkx9sKHFG95
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Concurrently, Min-jun, Jiyoo, and Jaesang were in Taeyun's car, equally tense but determined. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEMJ1ifl9qV
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSgveMQ7Ys3
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYQHv8LocLd
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjkxnincH8e
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYdReEG98AR
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsyvC4D4b2B
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVQc2idyJQb
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Jiyoo shook his head and said. "Then, we're dealing with a genius."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF0tcMjirZq
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV7BeiRBMic
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ902riNptw
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡza9y3gKI8C
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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?22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡed206G0FmO
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡclzcaxFrg9
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6pNf2uQxgK
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7CHz33t7GI
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtzB6PhoNQt
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBKIMHkfR6U
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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." 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyO2ZwrWviq
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3NVeslrCO8
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKo5Y85DNdd
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1ZB7IDw7aw
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡehvHB2DM8I
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzKGIXrbISg
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6pau0BZoWP
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAHa1W1Vew4
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJw6aH73hrV
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbGRVMVnKkT
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO2X2UBwew1
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3EFGXTOzgs
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRDAk13ZBlJ
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnf3jAKJoxz
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyYSNdYJqWw
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpwZHL9wG7s
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEVLtaCtYw6
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeCHCsuaGF6
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpmnWUuIwaS
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHpMEDX6n00
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfpyKRk4TyB
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJY6vGhME90
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWDQxmwxHyl
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa82mqvjmgh
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ35qJeXH0lr
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiMWBfyzAzu
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbVlOnDTml6
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZVXoCK0bPm
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNRDauOH0Ox
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡysvajIES45
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyVq7O3GtG4
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVVSenOvqTJ
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNBoaWv4oDn
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQfsK3PGfP1
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCIsHef1FJt
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC9qIqmeBbZ
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHrRSUh84w5
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The mystery of the imposters was about to get even more dangerous.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdRInIsVL8Z
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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.*22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7XdbNpd6sb
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKBb5CW4axC
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ3fNkl25F6
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdzf3K1pyNj
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"Who are you?!" Jiyoo demanded, his voice cold as he moved closer, eyes narrowing. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcJi90jE7YK
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The imposter groaned again, but didn't respond, their body still twitching slightly from the impact. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7AzcmUwZmC
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEXnrBcyaR7
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8GaP416VKZ
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Jiyoo's grip tightened, and his mind snapped back into focus. He wasn't alone anymore.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa49Eeh00Gj
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9BeTNX6m9s
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0Roc9dVpVH
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqbpWYMYVF2
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcmRasdUQRi
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ90vSAs1S9v
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHUc20YyIq5
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3I5Jvcr4Qi
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwLX6GHDJ3g
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ01eHnJNHwn
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Jiyoo froze for a brief moment, eyes widening in bewilderment and disbelief. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKXWf7zxRCn
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIsPI9sxzZv
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡReQOawv3du
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwaXYHV9pVo
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"You are...!"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVKG4JIO5lp
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjjHboWngLK
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"Stop! Don't come any closer..."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmo8wv0kpwr
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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..." 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnBIOV2bA4v
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She made no response to him whatsoever since she kept her impassive gaze at him fiercely.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEZhGhlo6sT
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpsShjXjWpe
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtFObonV3zf
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdWcQGlZT1l
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeCmCVVaCNY
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr1L5XsQ5wd
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEGvtlgpDze
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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxVsj6ogMeo
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa99xVBHkfK
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlXijT8DBhV
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjk7srTA0ue
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw6eUzoDbH9
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNRq6Y0AStC
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPfyr6XPs1d
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG7dIXXuFwq
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtJWUECaC1O
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdoFFvSeDxY
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"Any information?" Tracer repeated, his voice quiet but edged with curiosity. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2nZT6nZNeF
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjEiQN5ssu9
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsspZVQuT3h
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBlB2GUekOo
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgslcSq7LiZ
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrXpfWMB5YS
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQXvJqBsgvn
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlPsDV170dh
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNddLKbB3j7
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrAiauOJLkT
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5K7yBNb3Q3
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWbwi10CqYz
"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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFlqOEIOdst
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmSgJD1MqaR
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFVzy8bY798
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhFIaKW0RwR
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNeAqULjD2D
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKj7yRJmRvu
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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5BOHLmBBCM
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡunSMoYAYCb
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxWBdtyJHvC
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhUqUJb8Esy
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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE9I72Z9hYw
"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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOwdy8Z6vAH
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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7aSJLNM5WT
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBegTYFhsBt
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8ZyivdvooF
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The room hummed with agreement, as everyone understood the importance of balance in the intense world of K-pop.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlaNRAsueIi
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe7FWBsZbcj
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr64G3yHPqA
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwMKpSnnIPk
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb2ScAmxm7e
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡepmIGfw88b
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjkEO5OLw94
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ65SgOVffF5
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxPto4jgTbU
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMP8JtEtfCl
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXx2q2LzmRI
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When he reached the door to the main office, he knocked lightly, and upon hearing the soft words. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3ZMzM7xoyx
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"Come in," The CEO said as soon as Jiyoo stepped inside. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBcX3UUNCXP
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVCaxPNW1RY
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"Jiyoo," Si-woo greeted him in a smooth and friendly tone. "Have a seat."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZh8f4FRq29
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWywxA59kTn
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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq9eWqdJUiu
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Jiyoo raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "The future? What do you mean?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN9jFZyKZi3
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvUINmbaFQb
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8lLaQ1OaZU
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"Have you found them?" 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8pIEAuPqEw
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Jiyoo looked up at him, blinking in startlement. "Huh? Sorry, I don't get what you mean."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTXBROXCpBs
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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?" 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDbSfmYi8Tk
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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." 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpjArZHIJsq
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWGdMdl994q
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnbCw3t1Udo
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0xtPxUwr6R
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhLQeG1THN0
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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYPgKmoMVLi
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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." 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Xjs18krNs
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsFZheqMHJg
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ48oLn3EgTN
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPUJMgM6kZM
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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." 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpKgOxX8ISR
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpa6TBvcUdg
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"Anytime, Jiyoo. Anytime," Si-woo said with a friendly nod and his smile was still present.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNdPMUkp4bX
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJNO1VPB8xk
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmIVuVa9l5R
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlSMG4pniuj
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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!"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyVKAkTvdLZ
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh66XTjvWR9
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6lCYPv5FO9
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"Yes?" Kain's deep voice rumbled as it creaked open.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡArfiOSkeab
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFZpF5Lz9Qu
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"Sir, any word on Valerie? Has she decided whether or not to join the squad officially?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnJPNHq5G9C
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm2NTpaIF2J
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiko391AjhO
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMN0x7iFEoW
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The officer nodded, understanding the gravity of Kain's words. "Do you want me to encourage her, sir?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoNVjgHWZUB
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhk07S1xouA
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There was a brief pause before the officer spoke again, his voice tinged with uncertainty.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAVFYQg0tOB
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"Do you think she'll join, sir?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxbz7vdwwdA
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAa0GPM8iQ8
"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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBkcWfNJ1c3
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq9nqaMbqen
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvqzc4w5Kwy
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"We'll start by doing roundhouse kick exercises. Luke Wong, you're up first," Jason commanded lightly.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9ckoalSXBG
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Luke nodded silently in obedience and positioned himself to kick the dummy bag. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGqeSMfjcgC
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwHovXxmGLM
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL4cWFEOTdE
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"Gather up," Kain ordered in his deep, controlled voice.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvT9D93kNpH
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb61LhQjjW1
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡatO1ELo8jF
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBtZuPl9KJU
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFiveudnC1D
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The room tensed, but Jason was the first to speak up in question.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ33yqOQw78a
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"Si-woo again? Damn it, I thought we'd shaken him off after the last mission."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEGTPse5tDr
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvFH4Y5Ym78
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A sense of unease spread through the group, but Kain's voice cut through the tension, firm and commanding.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOXpguroxRD
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb78JdCZp9x
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE6Ul0hjrgw
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7H1qJHel5X
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWv65QDHcuX
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡreNBIOBdV3
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3refUGN0q1
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmiNlnEK6iM
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvdDUFsflOK
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNB2BKO25if
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk8k2xHBAKX
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfKZXkxlQiv
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvSfD9k4ppx
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9PCGSXV4gf
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Kain paused, eyes narrowing slightly. He was about to speak, but Beom interrupted him, his tone unusually sharp.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlkooxf7Psz
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl0LGU4weCv
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYlqrwNqOiS
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXTo6Sn7F8R
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3OpSZcholO
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtUwLPwzpyT
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvnbEuscgyn
Jason stepped forward, already assessing the situation in his mind. "So, what's the plan?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOiFESQ4e9o
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv9CwM3TUZW
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Jason nodded, his expression hardening. "Understood. We'll stay out of sight."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNHStNoGuRN
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt2HdcZhHZm
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3GutkH3gl4
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"Any questions?" Kain asked, his tone suggesting he expected none.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfyVWDDN2MW
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYyIvH3rz5e
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡef3x9ChjZX
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHTFsBJZYEf
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcLfAMLav5Y
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Jason's eyes narrowed in concern and was taken aback. "Sunghoon?! What the hell happened?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9hxTyhHrX2
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMvK2KghvEU
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRynszS0ii9
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOFv8XRVyEa
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUJbELfGIKq
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Jason's jaw tightened. "What do you mean? You're saying they've found us?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlwsHiYxtIm
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkEfgcFANfJ
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR5Es4TRR44
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEkB1KVAZqN
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡudAEjPgS3z
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdcJZH5eDuN
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfVWL5BEf1p
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr4cpWI7LoN
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU2r69ooa98
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Jason's fists clenched, his jaw tight with frustration. "So we go dark, then?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE5N9HUPuWA
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxrlxRq1aqL
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPAT7jWpISS
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"Understood," Jason replied immediately, his eyes already scanning the room, thinking ahead to how best to divide the team.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYDNFH0XRah
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEnlnazGUcs
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡByLwFCkTo9
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Kain nodded once, his voice cold and commanding. "Then let's not waste it."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAsZS7s2oVq
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxnxAksNg9D
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgtsvFaOseA
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm29OzbynIU
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0XgOjFyzRc
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJE3XgU7tU9
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhm2Z14dYEn
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡumyJn66grV
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4EpkHctTu9
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"Right?" Jaesang added, chuckling. "She was going way too fast. Almost like she had some secret mission."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡld9sPnJtaP
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPjnCnlXC4v
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"Yeah..." Jiyoo agreed, her tone taking on a more thoughtful quality. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN5zpUhYirc
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeoYYOfCTif
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHzmz55yzB1
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPytqXWfd8W
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkN5AtqHsOS
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbmdiZRO3nf
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBZ4A5jJIaU
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡawkh6yYOzI
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2djvzFjlbX
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnR2Y87sgrf
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsB5hvzevWE
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXqWpXMPUn4
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbfhpHr4Fdi
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmYeJSA6aLp
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqxoKSd4eGn
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSJBmRk0Q6A
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHgCG2nRiry
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkL1SQ3hDtZ
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmj6RSr6CSp
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq3kcnkc4Ro
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlaMnghDIXo
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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpPwmcpCeDL
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL4DV1DV4vU
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJo6DqUimvv
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"That's definitely her!" Jiyoo exclaimed. "I can't believe it, this is like a time capsule."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1PwHxbkFtt
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLnq5iKcSQG
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvJLOkHHQAx
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVL9zxJaLil
The group turned to look at him in puzzlement.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡseLtVa1v1I
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"What's that?" Ryung asked, his eyebrows furrowing as he eyed the object curiously.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvqiqoV2RKZ
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKMk5Pgs4au
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The rest of the group stared at her in stunned silence for a moment, before laughter erupted around the room.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcnYYRy6Yol
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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?!"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7FazbPYyO0
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt7WNZvcv2V
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLiuex1IHdP
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡybbRgZ1Nl2
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdGafqHdyyJ
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMbM0diecu9
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPK7Yphlc4p
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"Right," Min-jun muttered with a nod.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYCb5TQ0cy4
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqM9z02JCko
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEFNOPreI8U
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjTzrsPH9Cb
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx5NHS1EBSh
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN1DurB5iGs
"Or maybe," Ryung said thoughtfully. "We've just stumbled on something bigger than we expected. We won't know unless we take the chance."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEoyWY53gKb
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZSlw3Yt4St
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWog6FXBybA
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnO3yA7i0xw
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2kmNgAv9SA
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtFrZiTTAoD
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeiOWyJX0U7
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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF9ivsJcLox
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcGGuz4lpF9
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ3O4Hh0Ej8
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWyatJo6Yie
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwCOVtqzLmQ
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBz0bL0LILK
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyyeJIjJIZf
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGR51h2pgmG
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6wSktFQYiM
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrNwxxkKxYs
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGSVULzg7Jy
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In an instant, the place was in chaos. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMJ5Eb7mVxU
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcFXFQynWqg
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With the alarms ringing in the distance, the tension among the K-East members mounted. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuVtVm7uhIp
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡudrIfxdE18
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They took a few quick steps toward the exit, the sound of the alarms masking their movements.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcEZkLN211K
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBOpl55WeB5
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnPCgrNyEic
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhbCzAje2hb
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpZl4bZNkWE
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi9fsHzlAZY
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoNKT8aejVE
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡehNOgYGCOu
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSHejiuX7TN
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuZJYF9wTqK
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHf95nXBWDB
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Concurrently, Min-jun, Jiyoo, and Jaesang were in Taeyun's car, equally tense but determined. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD4relQ2F4b
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1Z20oYdLZe
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWDI6frtHwN
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcuNSmWNUla
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcjTifOTjHW
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0HCIc49pVa
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNddJnnK9FJ
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Jiyoo shook his head and said. "Then, we're dealing with a genius."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡknGOxKkRDh
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZGwedld1UH
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGJuMlpmjNU
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZz8WCxabfg
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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?22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZXcj4Ucvt7
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHVDCnLIayZ
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJuSGrKkp2n
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoUBUqGliqK
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsYTnRhPEH3
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwjzy0nKn2f
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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." 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgQOl6IprSi
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡReEiLsR9HI
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAYbpkakBxD
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPNk8POMpsN
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmC26Om5LzH
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeFGtRqhhqu
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWkS8bKDhIL
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT6xZL0d7rf
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡitCp0K0AQw
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwwaeSfoX7t
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ057XEDsKIW
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4QOToFF578
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdIccBP9rYK
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdnlKHKGVDD
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj5fgqVXc41
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKRpURJgeoB
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ24RAx9G9xm
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDo9iLxk0Cg
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5Tga4pwYhR
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8c03670vvD
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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."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQae5jXm5QO
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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?"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4CYEfhNGCI
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMvhfKVhY7B
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv3lFDHREmB
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCIsDsrs3YK
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡquY6z5ssSh
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnglLAMQCym
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIJBsfrFg9z
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbVfJYnTbqW
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrF3Ie7wpjW
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWog2YhrUD4
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡykmOB64u5l
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRLuhI5vAkr
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNbdKRFFzDw
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL82XXD3TTP
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcaW5E35kEY
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfyq0poL5Kq
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The mystery of the imposters was about to get even more dangerous.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTg0KlD36by
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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.*22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNC10OPUlbV
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWXPEiTamBj
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvtM1Kj8FZb
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQUtXGT9uMR
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"Who are you?!" Jiyoo demanded, his voice cold as he moved closer, eyes narrowing. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfKRwo7ANuG
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The imposter groaned again, but didn't respond, their body still twitching slightly from the impact. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3Pw9DWAF45
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNCoboo3mz6
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU1oa6ywA2g
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Jiyoo's grip tightened, and his mind snapped back into focus. He wasn't alone anymore.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNqppk2dh9h
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHzXgp2H6tb
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQwL5zue2zI
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡipr4JZaiCB
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0Y9NgTi7Ao
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHOnCecTMri
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6aIi7ONTZN
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt1OpY9Nq1V
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQFSJI1bCeP
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjxw3jRxHez
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Jiyoo froze for a brief moment, eyes widening in bewilderment and disbelief. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZqw8graYPS
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjDHuVUkXLt
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHITUoLwnb1
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxHPBPcHLaB
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"You are...!"22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZlk3oSJNXJ
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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. 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvemK1KFvT5
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"Stop! Don't come any closer..."22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfmf3nNVMFV
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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..." 22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvU7ddDZPxL
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She made no response to him whatsoever since she kept her impassive gaze at him fiercely.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqFquHvt5cy
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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.22Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNZBLFTXBi6
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"Yon-hae Lockhart..."
ns 15.158.61.6da2
