Whispers buzzed as Jang Hamin took his seat.
> "That's the transfer student…?" "He doesn't talk? Is he mute or just arrogant?" "He sat next to her? Brave."
Kang Hojin scoffed from across the room, arms crossed.
> "Tch. Another quiet type. Bet he folds after one good hit."
The teacher cleared his throat.
> "Now, everyone. We'll begin with the Initial Evaluation Test tomorrow. Combat, physical, and strategic assessments. Your rankings will be public."
The class groaned, except for a few confident faces—Kyungho among them.
Areum glanced at Hamin, voice low but sharp.
> "Don't disappoint me."
He didn't reply.
---
Lunch Break – Rooftop
Hamin stood alone, overlooking the city. Footsteps approached—heavy and fast.
Lee Daehyun.
> "You really came here... after all this time."
Hamin looked at him, expression unreadable.
> "Still chasing after Areum?"
Daehyun stiffened, face coloring.
> "That's not why I—... Look. I owe you. But don't think I'll go easy on you just because of the past."
Hamin: "I wouldn't want you to."
They stared, tension unspoken.
---
End of Day – After Class
Kang Hojin blocked Hamin at the gates, flanked by two gang members.
> "Listen, transfer. This school has a food chain. And you? You're bottom of it. Until you prove something."
Hamin calmly tilted his head. "Then bite me."
Hojin's eyes twitched.
Kyungho stepped forward, smiling like a predator.
> "Tomorrow… we'll see what you're really made of."
---