The tension in the training ground had changed.
Before, the recruits had been watching the fights with curiosity, treating them like tests. But after Areum's match, after the shock of how far she had almost taken it, everyone understood.
These weren't just sparring sessions.
These were survival lessons.
Jin let the energy settle for a few seconds, then swept his gaze over the remaining recruits.
He didn't hesitate.
"Haeun. Daehyun."
Haeun grinned as she stretched her arms above her head, shaking out the lingering stiffness in her shoulders. "Finally," she muttered. "Was wondering when I'd get my turn."
Daehyun didn't say anything at first. He just exhaled slowly, rolling his shoulders, casual but focused.
Then, he cracked a smirk. "Hope you're not afraid of getting hit."
Haeun's grin widened. "Hope you're not afraid of hitting the wrong thing."
Jin raised his hand.
"Start."
Haeun moved instantly.
In a blur of motion, three more of her appeared. Then four.
