[134] "Silence"

[A few hours later]

[Meeting Room]

Miyoung, Inhyuk, Seongha, Suhan, Giwook and Chul were sitting around a rectangular table, their faces shadowed and a deep silence enveloping them.

Seconds faded into minutes, and the silence persisted, until Giwook decided to intervene. "How are his injuries, not serious?"

Inhyuk shook his head before answering. "All four are in fairly critical condition, but none are life-threatening."

Those present frowned at Inhyuk's words, but opted for silence, waiting to get the full information.

"Gangseok suffered severe damage. The bones of his right arm, as well as his shoulder and collarbone, are shattered into countless fragments. And the bones of his upper body are fractured," Inhyuk continued. "The truth is, I don't understand how he managed to stay conscious while watching the other three clashes."

"Sucheon's condition is equally serious. His internal organs are badly damaged and his body has severe burns and cuts," he continued.

"Subin, meanwhile, has severe burns and cuts all over his body. And lastly, Jisuk suffered superficial cuts and his organs have been affected by his opponent's poison," Inhyuk completed.

Suhan observed seriously before commenting. "They have suffered great damage."

The rest of those present nodded in agreement.

Seongha sighed before speaking. "Let's hope these results don't discourage them. They have had extremely difficult opponents."

"They might be the strongest young men of their generation in the whole world," Miyoung stated with solemnity in his voice.

"They are not mentally weak. They will pass this test and emerge much stronger," Giwook declared with confidence.

Inhyuk expressed his agreement with Giwook's words. "We should be proud of them. They stood as equals against the heirs of the most powerful families in the world."

Chul scratched his head and hunched over, trying to remain unnoticed.

"We have to prepare for what's to come," Inhyuk concluded, plunging the group into another heavy silence.

....

[Director's Office]

Sitting in his chair, Han Seongik gazed out the window at the island. His thoughts flowed and occupied his mind. 'Soon we'll be back to normal...' or so he hoped.

'The chaos has not yet faded and we have already fallen into another one. The world is now aware of the existence of Kayden's other disciple, a few rumors were enough to attract numerous powerful Awakened Ones to the country.'

'With the leak to the world about the confrontation between Ares and Jurion, the whole world will be reeling. What's more, the fact that Ares has challenged all the successors of the top 10 world ranking members, with none of them accepting, will bring instability to them.'

'The connection between Jiwoo and Jiyoung, now compromised, could attract enemies of great power to Shinhwa. However, the proposal still in place by Jurion could provide them with some protection, but it also means that he is an enemy of a top 10.'

'In turn, this new organization under the name Illuminati, with apparently close ties to Kayden and Ares. However, I find it highly unlikely that they have any affiliation with such an entity, no organization will let its members go around gaining enemies for every step they take.'

'And then there's Lisa... a woman whose power resembles that of the world's top ten. Her presence will undoubtedly introduce instability into the world.'

....

[Where Garrith]

Garrith remained standing in the room, immersed in thought with a relaxed and carefree attitude. 'We should go back soon. Staying here any longer won't bring us any benefits,' he mused.

'Just when I was thinking of retiring from the leadership of the World Academy, all these things happen.... Ares infiltrates, three of the top ten World Academy juniors are defeated, and a new mysterious organization emerges,' he continued as he sighed and sat down in a chair to continue analyzing.

'Anyway, I'll let the World Awakened Association take care of that,' he commented with some resignation.

Observing the situation, he continued, 'This will certainly tarnish the reputation of the World Academy and generate more conflict.'

'The future is so uncertain...', his thoughts drifted into the unknown.

'Will it be wise to extend an invitation to the World Academy? If those two were to accompany him, it would be necessary to turn the academy into a fortress, ensuring that there is no room for the unexpected."

With an audible sigh, he concluded, 'Anyway, I'll address that once we hold the meeting.'

....

[In one of the guest rooms.]

Andrea sat, her hands resting on her knees, as her legs shook in an obvious show of nervousness.

"How could this happen? Duke lost on two occasions, and both times to different young men. Mr. Schnauder will explode with fury when he learns these facts," he mused quietly.

'Illuminati... Illuminati... Illuminati... Illuminati... No matter how many times I repeat that name, I can't remember any organization by that name in the whole world,' she muttered in frustration.

'How did he manage to slip through unnoticed, does Frame not even know about this? 'I must inform the higher-ups, this information must reach them as soon as possible,' she thought, convinced of the importance of communicating what had happened.

She pulled a phone out of her pocket and dialed a number as she pondered. 'No one must be aware of this, despite the high security surrounding the place... this phone cannot be detected.'

....

Duke was on the edge of the bed, his hands resting on his knee as he held the phone against his ear, his heart pounding anxiously.

"Duke Grane," boomed an imposing voice on the other end of the phone, soon adopting a serious tone, "Kayden's newly welcomed disciple is with you?" The transformation in the voice was palpable, like a shadow looming over the conversation. "You have suffered two defeats. First, to Kayden's disciple, and then against a young stranger," he chided harshly.

"Master..." escaped in a trembling mumble from Duke's lips, as his mind swarmed with countless solutions in search of an escape route.

"How dare you lose..." interrupted Schnauzer in a stern voice.

"Master, it's not as it seems.... I've had a series of confrontations in a very short span, I haven't had enough time to fully recover," Duke hastened to explain.

"Don't talk nonsense... A disciple of mine dares to make such excuses?" exclaimed Schnauder angrily, his voice ringing with fury. Then, forcefully, he continued. "Do you think you will always engage in one-on-one duels? Are you so naive? You should know our world thoroughly."

A shiver ran through Duke's body.

"You had a week to recover and be ready to face Kayden's disciple, and then several days to deal with the other young man. Despite that, you didn't manage to beat them.... Do you really think you must be in a constant state of readiness and in peak condition to overcome a simple challenge?" questioned Schnauder sternly.

"You will be coming here soon. You will train with me to prevent this from happening again, even if the world does not know that you are my disciple.... You are not allowed to lose again," he continued in an icy and final tone after a silence. "I do not allow you to lose again, or.... you will be dead."

Duke shivered, a cold sweat pearling his forehead as he looked at his phone and noticed that the call had ended. Clenching his fist tightly, his eyes hardened, emanating anger, rage and an intense yearning for revenge.

....

[Jiwoo's room]

"Finally I can find some peace of mind," commented Kartein.

"Tranquility?" said Ares wryly, then continued, "This is just beginning. The real chaos will come soon."

"The world will descend upon us," Kayden said casually.

Ares and Kayden exchanged glances and let out a sinister laugh.

Kartein sighed and spoke in an annoyed voice, "They should be worried, instead of excited. You're a basket case."

"You should focus on recovering as quickly as possible," Ares told Kayden.

Kayden nodded and replied, "I know. For the last month, while we were at Illuminati headquarters, I focused on dissipating as much of those bastards' energy as possible."

"Trouble will come at us from all directions" he concluded.

....

[One day later]

[In the infirmary]

Subin, Gangseok, Sucheon and Jisuk are lying on their beds with their bodies completely bandaged.

In the room there was a silence, each of the young men were wrapped in their own thoughts, recreating and analyzing the fight they had, the serious face on them was evident and their dissatisfaction with their performance.

....

[Another day later]

[In the harbor of the South Korean academy].

In front of an opulent ship stood Andrea, the other teacher and the six young men of the WAA, with Garrith a step ahead of them.

In front of them, with their backs to the facility, lined up the six KAA teachers, with Han Seongik also a step ahead.

"We're pulling out... My stay here turned out to be more fascinating than I initially anticipated, and I must admit I was pleasantly surprised," Garrith commented.

A smile came across Han Seongik's face as he said. "The doors will always be open to you, whenever you wish."

"It is somewhat distant. Perhaps you will consider the option of joining the World Academy," Garrith suggested.

Garrith's words caused Han Seongik and the other teachers to frown.

Without pausing to wait for a response, Garrith turned and began walking toward the ship with determination, leaving these words hanging in the air. "It's time to leave."

....

[One hour later]

In another corner of the island, Jiwoo was walking in the company of Lisa, Samantha, James, Teresa and Emily.

However, the atmosphere was charged with discomfort, and silence dominated the group.

Sensing the heaviness of the atmosphere, Lisa turned her gaze towards Jiwoo and broke the silence by saying. "It's still hard for me to get used to your personality, compared to that of your teacher and brother."

Jiwoo, slightly embarrassed, scratched his head and replied. "That's something I hear every day..."

Lisa continued, trying to ease the awkward atmosphere. "It's natural to worry about your friends. Injuries in combat are part of combat."

A smile broke out on Jiwoo's face as he replied. "I understand, it's just... I didn't want them to be on bad terms after the defeat to you. It affected you guys a lot."

Lisa nodded, understanding the situation. "That's understandable. As far as I know, they were always considered geniuses, even among geniuses. That was intensified when they faced those young men from influential families. However, when they encountered even more exceptional geniuses, their pride was wounded. That reaction comes from a fragile mentality. They have been sheltered and have not experienced the cruelty of the world. When they finally experience it, they will experience a profound change."

Lisa's words left Jiwoo pondering, filling his mind with deep thoughts. "Do they really lack that harshness of the world?" he repeated doubtfully, and his classmates, Samantha, James, Teresa and Emily, nodded earnestly, leaving Jiwoo impressed.

"That's right. You experienced something like that during that conflict in Korea. However, you handled it admirably. That's the mentality that sets you apart," Lisa commented, plunging Jiwoo further into his reflection.

"You must understand the weight of your position in this world, especially now that everyone knows you are Kayden's disciple and Ares' younger brother," warned Lisa seriously.

Jiwoo nodded, beaming with confidence. "I'm ready for whatever comes."

Lisa's smile widened and she added. "I don't think you quite understand me. Be prepared for challenges, some of which you won't be able to avoid. This is what awaits you at the World Academy if you go there."

Lisa's words left Jiwoo perplexed. "Why?" he asked, searching for answers.

"You'll know when your brother decides to tell you," Lisa replied, pausing.

Nodding without pressing further, Jiwoo accepted the answer, and Lisa concluded. "Here we say goodbye. I wish you luck in all that is to come."

"I thank you very much," Jiwoo replied, sketching a sincere smile.

With a final gesture, Jiwoo, Samantha, Emily, Teresa and James said their goodbyes before Jiwoo took a few steps back. He watched as the five of them were enveloped by a white flash, gradually fading away until they disappeared completely.

....

[In Han Seongik's office]

Han Seongik and Jiyoung were sitting in individual leather armchairs, staring at each other.

"So you're leaving..." commented Han Seongik in a thoughtful tone.

Jiyoung nodded earnestly and added. "I stayed longer than I had anticipated. I was worried about the boys."

Han Seongik nodded in understanding and added. "I understand. We have faced many surprises lately, and each one more shocking than the last."

A brief silence took over the atmosphere before Han Seongik continued. "The times ahead will be difficult for you."

Jiyoung kept his face impassive as he replied. "I am prepared."

Jiyoung, and continued. "Conflicts in our nation are on the rise, while our power is on the decline. As the number one Awakened One in Korea, you carry on your shoulders a great responsibility."

"Our recovery must be swift, or I am not sure how long we will be able to stand," Han Seongik continued, with a tinge of concern in his voice.

Han Seongik's words echoed in the air, and Jiyoung responded with determination. "Indeed, what we need most is time, and that is precisely what we have the least of."

A sudden aura flooded the space, attracting the attention of both of them. Their gazes instinctively turned to the window, where they witnessed a white lightning bolt descend from the sky in an astonishing spectacle.

....

[In the night]

Jiwoo trotted along the shore of the beach, inhaling deeply as beads of sweat slid down his forehead. Unexpectedly, a dark shadow materialized a few feet away, leaving him stunned and raising his alertness level to its highest.[A few hours later]

[Meeting Room]

Miyoung, Inhyuk, Seongha, Suhan, Giwook and Chul were sitting around a rectangular table, their faces shadowed and a deep silence enveloping them.

Seconds faded into minutes, and the silence persisted, until Giwook decided to intervene. "How are his injuries, not serious?"

Inhyuk shook his head before answering. "All four are in fairly critical condition, but none are life-threatening."

Those present frowned at Inhyuk's words, but opted for silence, waiting to get the full information.

"Gangseok suffered severe damage. The bones of his right arm, as well as his shoulder and collarbone, are shattered into countless fragments. And the bones of his upper body are fractured," Inhyuk continued. "The truth is, I don't understand how he managed to stay conscious while watching the other three clashes."

"Sucheon's condition is equally serious. His internal organs are badly damaged, and his body has severe burns and cuts," he continued.

"Subin, meanwhile, has severe burns and cuts all over his body. And lastly, Jisuk suffered superficial cuts and his organs have been affected by his opponent's poison," Inhyuk completed.

Suhan observed seriously before commenting. "They have suffered great damage."

The rest of those present nodded in agreement.

Seongha sighed before speaking. "Let's hope these results don't discourage them. They have had extremely difficult opponents."

"They might be the strongest young men of their generation in the whole world," Miyoung stated with solemnity in his voice.

"They are not mentally weak. They will pass this test and emerge much stronger," Giwook declared with confidence.

Inhyuk expressed his agreement with Giwook's words. "We should be proud of them. They stood as equals against the heirs of the most powerful families in the world."

Chul scratched his head and hunched over, trying to remain unnoticed.

"We have to prepare for what's to come," Inhyuk concluded, plunging the group into another heavy silence.

....

[Director's Office]

Sitting in his chair, Han Seongik gazed out the window at the island. His thoughts flowed and occupied his mind. 'Soon we'll be back to normal...' or so he hoped.

'The chaos has not yet faded, and we have already fallen into another one. The world is now aware of the existence of Kayden's other disciple, a few rumors were enough to attract numerous powerful Awakened Ones to the country.'

'With the leak to the world about the confrontation between Ares and Jurion, the whole world will be reeling. What's more, the fact that Ares has challenged all the successors of the top 10 world ranking members, with none of them accepting, will bring instability to them.'

'The connection between Jiwoo and Jiyoung, now compromised, could attract enemies of great power to Shinhwa. However, the proposal still in place by Jurion could provide them with some protection, but it also means that he is an enemy of a top 10.'

'In turn, this new organization under the name Illuminati, with apparently close ties to Kayden and Ares. However, I find it highly unlikely that they have any affiliation with such an entity, no organization will let its members go around gaining enemies for every step they take.'

'And then there's Lisa... a woman whose power resembles that of the world's top ten. Her presence will undoubtedly introduce instability into the world.'

....

[Where Garrith]

Garrith remained standing in the room, immersed in thought, with a relaxed and carefree attitude. 'We should go back soon. Staying here any longer won't bring us any benefits,' he mused.

'Just when I was thinking of retiring from the leadership of the World Academy, all these things happen.... Ares infiltrates, three of the top ten World Academy juniors are defeated, and a new mysterious organization emerges,' he continued as he sighed and sat down in a chair to continue analyzing.

'Anyway, I'll let the World Awakened Association take care of that,' he commented with some resignation.

Observing the situation, he continued, 'This will certainly tarnish the reputation of the World Academy and generate more conflict.'

'The future is so uncertain...', his thoughts drifted into the unknown.

'Will it be wise to extend an invitation to the World Academy? If those two were to accompany him, it would be necessary to turn the academy into a fortress, ensuring that there is no room for the unexpected."

With an audible sigh, he concluded, 'Anyway, I'll address that once we hold the meeting.'

....

[In one of the guest rooms.]

Andrea sat, her hands resting on her knees, as her legs shook in an obvious show of nervousness.

"How could this happen? Duke lost on two occasions, and both times to different young men. Mr. Schnauder will explode with fury when he learns these facts," he mused quietly.

'Illuminati... Illuminati... Illuminati... Illuminati... No matter how many times I repeat that name, I can't remember any organization by that name in the whole world,' she muttered in frustration.

'How did he manage to slip through unnoticed, does Frame not even know about this? 'I must inform the higher-ups, this information must reach them as soon as possible,' she thought, convinced of the importance of communicating what had happened.

She pulled a phone out of her pocket and dialed a number as she pondered. 'No one must be aware of this, despite the high security surrounding the place... this phone cannot be detected.'

....

Duke was on the edge of the bed, his hands resting on his knee as he held the phone against his ear, his heart pounding anxiously.

"Duke Grane," boomed an imposing voice on the other end of the phone, soon adopting a serious tone, "Kayden's newly welcomed disciple is with you?" The transformation in the voice was palpable, like a shadow looming over the conversation. "You have suffered two defeats. First, to Kayden's disciple, and then against a young stranger," he chided harshly.

"Master..." escaped in a trembling mumble from Duke's lips, as his mind swarmed with countless solutions searching for an escape route.

"How dare you lose..." interrupted Schnauzer in a stern voice.

"Master, it's not as it seems.... I've had a series of confrontations in a very short span, I haven't had enough time to fully recover," Duke hastened to explain.

"Don't talk nonsense... A disciple of mine dares to make such excuses?" exclaimed Schnauder angrily, his voice ringing with fury. Then, forcefully, he continued. "Do you think you will always engage in one-on-one duels? Are you so naive? You should know our world thoroughly."

A shiver ran through Duke's body.

"You had a week to recover and be ready to face Kayden's disciple, and then several days to deal with the other young man. Despite that, you didn't manage to beat them.... Do you really think you must be in a constant state of readiness and in peak condition to overcome a simple challenge?" questioned Schnauder sternly.

"You will be coming here soon. You will train with me to prevent this from happening again, even if the world does not know that you are my disciple.... You are not allowed to lose again," he continued in an icy and final tone after a silence. "I do not allow you to lose again, or.... you will be dead."

Duke shivered, a cold sweat pearling his forehead as he looked at his phone and noticed that the call had ended. Clenching his fist tightly, his eyes hardened, emanating anger, rage and an intense yearning for revenge.

....

[Jiwoo's room]

"Finally, I can find some peace of mind," commented Kartein.

"Tranquility?" said Ares wryly, then continued, "This is just beginning. The real chaos will come soon."

"The world will descend upon us," Kayden said casually.

Ares and Kayden exchanged glances and let out a sinister laugh.

Kartein sighed and spoke in an annoyed voice, "They should be worried, instead of excited. You're a basket case."

"You should focus on recovering as quickly as possible," Ares told Kayden.

Kayden nodded and replied, "I know. For the last month, while we were at Illuminati headquarters, I focused on dissipating as much of those bastards' energy as possible."

"Trouble will come at us from all directions" he concluded.

....

[One day later]

[In the infirmary]

Subin, Gangseok, Sucheon and Jisuk are lying on their beds with their bodies completely bandaged.

In the room there was a silence, each of the young men were wrapped in their own thoughts, recreating and analyzing the fight they had, the serious faces on them was evident and their dissatisfaction with their performance.

....

[Another day later]

[In the harbor of the South Korean academy].

In front of an opulent ship stood Andrea, the other teacher and the six young men of the WAA, with Garrith a step ahead of them.

In front of them, with their backs to the facility, lined up the six KAA teachers, with Han Seongik also a step ahead.

"We're pulling out... My stay here turned out to be more fascinating than I initially anticipated, and I must admit I was pleasantly surprised," Garrith commented.

A smile came across Han Seongik's face as he said. "The doors will always be open to you, whenever you wish."

"It is somewhat distant. Perhaps you will consider the option of joining the World Academy," Garrith suggested.

Garrith's words caused Han Seongik and the other teachers to frown.

Without pausing to wait for a response, Garrith turned and began walking toward the ship with determination, leaving these words hanging in the air. "It's time to leave."

....

[One hour later]

In another corner of the island, Jiwoo was walking in the company of Lisa, Samantha, James, Teresa and Emily.

However, the atmosphere was charged with discomfort, and silence dominated the group.

Sensing the heaviness of the atmosphere, Lisa turned her gaze towards Jiwoo and broke the silence by saying. "It's still hard for me to get used to your personality, compared to that of your teacher and brother."

Jiwoo, slightly embarrassed, scratched his head and replied. "That's something I hear every day..."

Lisa continued, trying to ease the awkward atmosphere. "It's natural to worry about your friends. Injuries in combat are part of combat."

A smile broke out on Jiwoo's face as he replied. "I understand, it's just... I didn't want them to be on bad terms after the defeat to you. It affected you guys a lot."

Lisa nodded, understanding the situation. "That's understandable. As far as I know, they were always considered geniuses, even among geniuses. That was intensified when they faced those young men from influential families. However, when they encountered even more exceptional geniuses, their pride was wounded. That reaction comes from a fragile mentality. They have been sheltered and have not experienced the cruelty of the world. When they finally experience it, they will experience a profound change."

Lisa's words left Jiwoo pondering, filling his mind with deep thoughts. "Do they really lack that harshness of the world?" he repeated doubtfully, and his classmates, Samantha, James, Teresa and Emily, nodded earnestly, leaving Jiwoo impressed.

"That's right. You experienced something like that during that conflict in Korea. However, you handled it admirably. That's the mentality that sets you apart," Lisa commented, plunging Jiwoo further into his reflection.

"You must understand the weight of your position in this world, especially now that everyone knows you are Kayden's disciple and Ares' younger brother," warned Lisa seriously.

Jiwoo nodded, beaming with confidence. "I'm ready for whatever comes."

Lisa's smile widened and she added. "I don't think you quite understand me. Be prepared for challenges, some of which you won't be able to avoid. This is what awaits you at the World Academy if you go there."

Lisa's words left Jiwoo perplexed. "Why?" he asked, searching for answers.

"You'll know when your brother decides to tell you," Lisa replied, pausing.

Nodding without pressing further, Jiwoo accepted the answer, and Lisa concluded. "Here we say goodbye. I wish you luck in all that is to come."

"I thank you very much," Jiwoo replied, sketching a sincere smile.

With a final gesture, Jiwoo, Samantha, Emily, Teresa and James said their goodbyes before Jiwoo took a few steps back. He watched as the five of them were enveloped by a white flash, gradually fading away until they disappeared completely.

....

[In Han Seongik's office]

Han Seongik and Jiyoung were sitting in individual leather armchairs, staring at each other.

"So you're leaving..." commented Han Seongik in a thoughtful tone.

Jiyoung nodded earnestly and added. "I stayed longer than I had anticipated. I was worried about the boys."

Han Seongik nodded in understanding and added. "I understand. We have faced many surprises lately, and each one more shocking than the last."

A brief silence took over the atmosphere before Han Seongik continued. "The times ahead will be difficult for you."

Jiyoung kept his face impassive as he replied. "I am prepared."

Jiyoung, and continued. "Conflicts in our nation are on the rise, while our power is on the decline. As the number one Awakened One in Korea, you carry on your shoulders a great responsibility."

"Our recovery must be swift, or I am not sure how long we will be able to stand," Han Seongik continued, with a tinge of concern in his voice.

Han Seongik's words echoed in the air, and Jiyoung responded with determination. "Indeed, what we need most is time, and that is precisely what we have the least of."

A sudden aura flooded the space, attracting the attention of both of them. Their gazes instinctively turned to the window, where they witnessed a white lightning bolt descend from the sky in an astonishing spectacle.

....

[At night]

Jiwoo trotted along the shore of the beach, inhaling deeply as beads of sweat slid down his forehead. Unexpectedly, a dark shadow materialized a few feet away, leaving him stunned and raising his alertness level to its highest.

.....

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